Convenience of Online Shopping Costing You the "Try Before You Buy" Experience?
- Umiak Outdoor Outfitters
- Jul 24
- 3 min read
In today's fast-paced world, online shopping has seamlessly integrated into our lives. With just a few clicks, you can explore countless products, compare prices, and get your orders delivered right to your doorstep. While this convenience is appealing, have you thought about what you might miss out on by skipping the "try before you buy" experience?
The Loss of Tactile Interaction
Online shopping misses out on the valuable sensory experience of in-person shopping. For instance, think of how you shop for a kayak, canoe, or standup paddleboard at our physical store. You can feel the weight, check the material, test the comfort level, and even test paddle it on the water. These important tactile experiences influence your purchasing decisions significantly. This interaction helps ensure that the product fits your needs perfectly.
The Human Element of Expert Advice
While online retailers provide extensive selections, they often lack the personal interaction and expert guidance found in physical stores. Visiting a brick-and-mortar location allows you to ask questions and receive tailored advice, helping you discover features or options you might miss online. For instance, when comparing different brands of life jackets, a knowledgeable sales associate can explain the differences in fit, features, and performance, greatly enhancing your decision-making process. At Umiak, our staff is not only certified and trained by the American Canoe Association (ACA), but they also personally try and test all equipment, ensuring they can provide you with first-hand, expert insights to help you make the best choice.
Immediate Gratification vs. Anticipation
Another advantage of in-store shopping is the immediate satisfaction of taking home your new gear. Online purchases often require patience. Research shows that more than 30% of consumers experience buyer's remorse because they feel disappointed when their product doesn't meet their expectations. The instant gratification from an in-person purchase contributes to a positive shopping experience. When you leave the store with your new equipment, satisfaction kicks in right away instead of after several days of waiting.
The Risks of Relying on Reviews
The most common resource for online shoppers, product reviews, can be misleading. Consumers often encounter fake reviews that do not reflect the actual experiences with products. Visiting a traditional outfitter allows you to interact with other customers and staff, gathering diverse perspectives that lead to well-informed choices.
Mindful Shopping for Better Decisions
Many consumers are drawn to the ease of online shopping, resulting in impulse buys. This can fill your closet or house with items that are not entirely suitable for your needs. Many online shoppers regret their impulse purchases. In-store trials help ensure that your selections will be practical and appreciated.
Finding the Right Balance
So, how do you strike a balance in your shopping habits? You can use online shopping for items you already know and trust to enjoy convenience, but for new products—especially those involving performance, like outdoor gear—visiting a local store is essential. Plus, shopping locally not only helps sustain small businesses and local jobs but also fosters personal relationships and access to expert advice that online stores often lack. Supporting local companies strengthens your community and ensures you have access to quality, personalized service. Shop in-store to ensure you can try, fit, and evaluate items firsthand, leading to better decisions!
