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Online Sports Review

Tuesday, March 19th

2024 Sporting Goods Store Reviews

Online Sports Review 1.5 Star Rating

Online Sports

1.5 Star Rating
  • Prices from $7.38 to $11,001.33
  • Thousands of items on sale
  • Kids' and adults' gear
  • Casual and pro gear
  • Unique items and paraphernalia
  • Price match guarantee
  • 90-days for returns
  • "A+" rating from the BBB

Online Sports claims to have one of the oldest online platforms for selling sports equipment in the online market. Based out of California, the company has been around since 1995.

Scan through the suppliers

The company offers a wide variety of items for sale, but it's a little different than other sites in this review. Instead of offering all new stock, the company is designed to work more like a database. Suppliers list their offerings, and you can easily compare prices, specifications, and business terms (such as shipping and warranties) for similar products from different suppliers. There are even items that look like old heirlooms or family trinkets related to sports that seem to be sold almost auction-style, though the site isn't super clear on where the different paraphernalia come from.

Site is confusing and hard to shop

One of the most intriguing aspects of this store is both its strength and its challenge: it presents you with sports-related products you might not have known you wanted or needed. However, for those who come with specific items in mind, the eclectic assortment of sporting goods may present a more challenging shopping experience as it's difficult to hunt down precisely what you need on this site. Exploring product categories on the Online Sports website can be akin to embarking on a treasure hunt through an antique shop. When you click on a category, be prepared to encounter tons of products, even those only peripherally related to the sport in question. For instance, selecting "golf" may yield results ranging from clubs and golf apparel to golf ball-shaped coffee mugs or keychains. In general, the site strikes us as confusing and difficult to use, which isn't ideal for customers who know what they want right away.

Best Sporting Goods Stores

Good variety but better for fans

Online Sports offers a diverse and extensive collection of sports apparel, paraphernalia, and equipment, making it a true treasure trove for sports enthusiasts. However, due to the confusing interface and the large number of items that are only loosely related to the sport you search for, it's harder to find pro gear or sometimes even gear you can play the sport with. In general, the site seems to cater more to fans than to sports players. For example, you have the option to search by specific sports teams, unveiling an eclectic collection of merchandise dedicated to your favorite team. This expansive range includes jerseys, rugs, balls, display cases, and an array of other sports-related collectibles.

Huge price range due to practice gear

Online Sports has a wide range of items, but it's hard to say how well all of them relate to a sport specifically. However, using the sports categories on the site we checked out the pricing to give you a ballpark idea of what items at Online Sports might cost.

  • First, we checked out football items. There were 3,075 items in the site inventory when we checked. The prices ran from $7.38 for a pair of sweatpants to $11,001.33 for a set of bleachers.
  • For golf, there were 803 total items and the prices ranged from $7.38 for a women's golf shirt to $3,081.33 for a net cage for practicing golf.
  • Finally, for soccer, we found there were 1,059 items in stock and the prices ranged from $7.38 for the same pair of sweatpants that showed up in the football section to $11,001.33 for the same bleachers too. So, on top of items being all over the place, you may find repeats in different sections where things only partially connect to a particular sport.

90-day returns for any reason

Online Sports demonstrates a commitment to customer satisfaction through its generous 3-month return policy, which allows customers to complete exchanges and full refunds. This 90-day guarantee is a no-questions-asked policy which is one of the better return options in this review.

Best Sporting Goods Stores

Price match guarantee option

Furthermore, they stand behind their products with a price match promise. Basically, Online Sports pledges to match or beat competitors' offerings. If you require assistance with returns or price matching, Online Sports notes that you can call them or use their online contact form and live chat.

Reviews warn of scams

In terms of reputation, Online Sports has mixed reviews. According to its page on the Better Business Bureau, Online Sports has a top-notch "A+" rating from the BBB. However, when we dug into reviews we found the polar opposite reputation from customers. One review site only showed a 1 star out of 5 average while others had a more balanced (but still somewhat low) 3.4 star average out of 5. Multiple reviews from recent years use the word "scammer" which is a huge red flag. You might want to skip shopping here, just to stay safe.

Not safe for sports

Online Sports has been around for a while, but it isn't one of the top contenders. With a confusing online interface, and difficulty finding particular items or gear, Online Sports isn't a great place for shoppers who need something specific or want to find something fast. While the 90-day return policy and price matching are good features, there are other more trustworthy sites that also offer those benefits. Plus, with customers warning of scams in verified reviews, we don't feel great about recommending Online Sports to you. So, check out one of our more highly-rated options and keep to the safer sporting goods side of the internet.

Where is the Best Place to Buy Sporting Goods Online Today?

Sports, a significant part of our culture, come in various forms, appealing to a wide range of enthusiasts. These activities have produced iconic athletes who've left their mark on the sporting world, inspiring countless individuals. Over the years, sports have garnered immense popularity, with millions participating either as players or passionate supporters.

Thanks to the convenience of online shopping, acquiring the perfect sporting goods has become more accessible than ever before. Numerous online retailers offer not only convenience but also access to the latest and most innovative sports gear and apparel, empowering athletes to perform at their peak levels. Furthermore, customers sometimes have the option to customize items like equipment, providing a personalized touch to their sporting experience.

The Best Sporting Goods Stores Compare Sporting Goods Stores Compare Sporting Goods Store Reviews What are the best Sporting Goods Stores Best Sporting Goods Store Reviews

Sporting Goods Store FAQ

That's easy: if you need it to play or practice a sport, it's considered "sporting goods" ! Think of it as all the equipment involved in activities like baseball, lacrosse, or even yoga, from bats and balls to protective gear and uniforms.
Selection, availability and pricing. You'll have a hard time finding a local retailer that can beat online stores in all three of those aspects. Especially at the peak of the season, when inventory near you is at an all-time low, shopping online makes it easy to get what you need.
Choose a store that has what you need in stock and that has a great reputation for quality and customer service. You can also look for customer-friendly perks like a rewards program, free shipping, or frequent promotions and discounts. You may want to consider buying from a retailer that has a brick-and-mortar store near you, for simple returns and the ability to order online and get same-day pickup.
Many stores will give you free shipping on orders that meet a minimum amount (like $50). Given how spendy sporting goods can be, you should be able to qualify with most purchases.
If you're in a rush, you might have the option of paying for expedited shipping to get next-day or 2-day delivery. Otherwise, expect your order to take about a week to arrive.
Most online sporting goods stores offer a 30-day return policy on new, unused items. Some retailers go the extra mile and let you return your purchase with no time limit, as long as you have the receipt. Be aware that returns may incur a restocking fee and/or shipping fees to send the items back to the store.
Yes! Some sporting goods stores will give you a generous discount if you're buying equipment for a team. Look for that information in the links at the bottom of the retailers' websites, or reach out to their customer service team before placing an order.
Sometimes. You can usually see those options after you add an item to your cart (e.g. monogramming), or you may need to work with a customer service rep to place a manual order (e.g. putting team logos on shirts).
Compare the Best Reviews

Continued from above...

However, not every retailer has the same stuff. Whether you're looking for gear to spruce up your pro game, or if you're just getting into a new sport and need the essentials, different retailers focus on different types of players (or even some for just fans). There are even retailers that focus more on one sport than the other, which is why there are so many retailers out there in the modern marketplace. But this can also be a good thing. It means there's a sporting goods store out there for everyone.

From casual neighborhood games to professional leagues, there's a sport for everyone. According to data from the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), approximately 9.6 million children aged 6 to 17 and around 12.5 million adults aged 18 and above engage in sports each year. From youth leagues to collegiate competitions and national leagues, sports cater to people of all ages.

Whether you're a parent supporting a youth league, a member of a local sports team, or someone aspiring to excel professionally, you recognize that athletes require more than just skill and dedication - they need top-quality equipment tailored to their chosen sport. A well-crafted set of gear, from the appropriate sporting equipment to the right apparel, plays a crucial role in enhancing a player's confidence and performance.

With the abundance of online options for sporting goods, it can be overwhelming to make a decision. If you're unsure where to begin, we've got you covered. Here are some key considerations to help you determine the best online sporting goods store for your needs:

  • Price: Comparing prices across retailers ensures you're getting the best value for your money. Some sites offer price matching, while others offer rebates or sales. So, keeping your budget in mind and which sites cater to that budget can help you make the best decision for sports gear.
  • Returns: Most companies have completely different return policies. Keeping in mind how long you want to be able to decide on new sporting goods or whether you can try out items before returning them can help you narrow down options for those that best serve your sporting needs.
  • Selection: A wide range of options is a winning strategy when looking for a sporting goods retailer. Options that offer inventory for casual players, fans, and pros are ideal. Or, if you're looking for specialized practice equipment, that might change where you need to look.
  • Reputation: Finally, check out the customer reviews if you're still not sure where to shop. Scores from the Better Business Bureau and verified reviews from customers just like you can help you stay in the know about which retailers best service sports players and fans just like you.

To enhance your sporting experience, Top Consumer Reviews has evaluated and rated the best options for purchasing sporting goods today. Our aim is to simplify your online shopping journey, allowing you to focus on enjoying your favorite sports activities to the fullest!

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