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Let's face it: Outfitting yourself for a variety of adventures can get expensive fast. Especially if you're just starting out in an activity, and aren't sure of your needs or desires, buying used or cheaper gear can make a lot of sense. Here are a few choices in the Twin Cities:

Repair Lair, 3304 East Lake St., Minneapolis: Besides offering repair services, Repair Lair offers a selection of used gear in good condition.

Thrifty Outfitters, 309 Cedar Ave. South, Minneapolis (part of Midwest Mountaineering):  Closeouts and sales rep samples that can save you big bucks.

REI (Maple Grove, Roseville and Bloomington) has regular "garage sale" events that feature returned merchandise, sometimes barely used, for pennies on the dollar.

(This is part of the Big List here)

JEFF MORAVEC