Best Camera, Video, Photofinishing Store AND Best Custom Framing
Mike’s Camera
Mike’s Camera, a full-service imaging shop, has you covered from your initial purchase of the camera to education programs that can help you grow as a photographer and get the best results from your equipment. “Our customers really love our hands on service experience,” says Mike Dobson, sales manager. “They love being able to compare products side-by-side and speak with my expert staff on how one camera is going to perform for them over another based on their own personal style of photography,” he says. Once you capture your perfect image, you can work with imaging specialists to decide how to best turn it into a one-of-a-kind piece of art. Plus, Mike’s Camera offers education programs and will be offering more multi-day excursions. 2500 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.443.1715, mikescamera.com.
Runner Up for Best Custom Framing: Mercury Framing, 4692 Broadway, Boulder, 303.938.0123, mercuryframing.com.
Best Bicycle Shop
University Bicycles
A mantra at University Bicycles? Provide “unrelenting friendliness” to every customer, every time, says Tim Graczyk, the general manager of University Bikes.“It doesn’t matter if you’re a hardy year round commuter, a beginner gravel rider, an experienced mountain biker or an Olympic athlete we always give everyone the same level amazing service,” he says. Beyond the friendly employees, customers are impressed with the fast turnaround of the service department and the shops huge inventory of new bikes, clothing selection, accessories, plus the variety of rental bike choices. Plus, did you know that the store doubles as a museum? University Bicycles has antique bikes and collectible memorabilia from around the world, with many pieces more than 100 years old. 839 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.444.4196, ubikes.com.
Runner Up: Full Cycle, 1211 13th St., Boulder, 303.440.7771; 1795 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.440.1002, fullcyclebikes.com.
Best Locally Owned Camping Store AND Best Locally Owned Outdoor Rec AND Sports AND Best Mountaineering Store
Neptune Mountaineering
Neptune scores a very rare Boulder County Gold triple crown! “Our customers really value that they can always find what they need or want because we have a huge selection of gear and clothing spanning a wide variety of outdoor activities and we’re always bringing in new, innovative stuff you can’t find everywhere,” says Co-Owner Shelley Dunbar. “We also get rave reviews about how friendly, approachable and helpful our staff is.” Neptune has for decades been Boulder’s go-to for canyoneering, camping, rock climbing, ice climbing, hiking, skiing and mountaineering gear, but there is a lot more to it than that! “With the added attraction of the Neptune Museum, the Neptune Café where [our customers] can have coffee or a beer with friends, plus the weekly presentations and happy hour events we host, Neptune is quite simply far more than just a place to buy stuff. It’s the hub of Boulder’s outdoor community,” says Dunbar. 633 S. Broadway, Boulder, 303.499.8866, neptunemountaineering.com.
Runner Up for Best Locally Owned Camping Store: Boulder Sports Recycler, 4949 Broadway, Boulder; 303.786.9940, bouldersportsrecycler.com.
Runner Up for Best Locally Owned Outdoor Rec and Sports: Boulder Sports Recycler, 4949 Broadway, Boulder, 303.786.9940, bouldersportsrecycler.com.
Runner Up for Best Mountaineering Store: REI, 1789 28th St., Boulder, 303.583.9970, rei.com.
Best Fishing Supply Store
Front Range Anglers
Front Range Anglers is a premium fly fishing shop with an impressive inventory that will delight outdoor enthusiasts. “We pride ourselves in offering a welcoming environment for all levels of anglers,” says Madalaine McLaughlin, chief operating officer and vice president at Front Range Anglers. “In addition, they are thrilled with the extensive inventory we have available and in stock.” But, beyond that, the supply store has established itself as a trusted authority in the sport – publishing fishing reports for the region, including Boulder Creek, the Big Thompson River, Rocky Mountain National Park and other spots. Plus, Front Range Anglers guides trout fishing expeditions along the Front Range and has a popular adventure travel program that hosts and books anglers to bucket list destinations like Christmas Island, New Zealand, Iceland, British Columbia, Alaska, Belize and other destinations. 2344 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.494.1375, frontrangeanglers.com.
Runner Up: Rocky Mountain Anglers, 1904 Arapahoe Ave., Boulder, 303.447.2400, rockymtanglers.com.
Best Running Store
Boulder Running Company
Running is a big deal in Boulder and there are numerous options for buying running gear. The folks at the Boulder Running Company know that winning Best Running Store is no small feat in a town like Boulder. “We have incredible product assortments to meet all running types and needs, coupled with our very knowledgeable staff and emphasis on creating an environment that embraces everyone — these things are all commitments that we make to the community day in and out,” says Jess Gillman, national community and corporate relationship manager. “Whether you’re an elite, long-time runner or just wanting to get out and move, you’re welcome at the Boulder Running Company and we’re excited to support our customers in achieving their fitness goals.” 2775 Pearl St., Boulder, 303.786.9255, jackrabbit.com.
Runner Up: Runners Roost, 629 S. Broadway Suite E, Boulder, 303.554.7837, runnersroost.com.