Ace your gift-giving game this holiday season by getting that special fitness fanatic on your list something that’ll make them sweet for sweat. Start at Pedigree Ski Shop in White Plains and Bedford Hills — don’t let the name fool you: The 50-year-old retailer offers a massive selection of sports gear for all seasons, including tennis rackets, skis, even Speedos. Buyer Wilma Riedel says the secret to their brick-and-mortar success in the Amazon era is Pedigree’s “unique boutique experience.” Another local favorite for tennis and soccer gear is Sportech in the Rye Ridge Shopping Center, where outdoor sports enthusiasts have been flocking for great deals and advice since 1991. While at Rye Ridge, head downstairs to Lv2Bfit, a fitness boutique where women who love to look good while they exercise trust founder Patty Palmieri to source the latest in fashion-forward athleisure designs.
Or, try Peloton, which has a gleaming showroom at The Westchester where you can test-drive the hippest stationary bicycles for home use.
For the outdoorsman (or woman) on your list, head up county to Armonk’s Hickory & Tweed, a bastion of bespoke ski-and-snow equipment, where owner Skip Beitzel is as much a part of the store as the excellent selection of winter-sports gear. Meanwhile, Charlie George and his team have been reeling devoted clients in to Cross River’s The Bedford Sportsman for almost 40 years, where top-notch customer service ensures every angler has the right fly, spin, and tackle to snag the big one. And to gift those planning to spend a night in the great outdoors, family-owned Epstein’s Dry Goods has been outfitting backpackers from their Tuckahoe location since 1933.
If a runner is among those you need to impress, the staff at Westchester Road Runner in White Plains will race you in the right direction. They offer everything you need to make sure your favorite runner hits the pavement with the best pair of sneakers. Or, JackRabbit’s Rye location offers gait analysis, fitting, and even nutrition advice alongside an impressive selection of running shoes.
