After over 20-years writing about life in Ottawa, we think we have a pretty good idea of the best of what this city has to offer. In this weekly series, we share our picks with you — our top spots for takeout, live music venues, local brews, bands and more. Check, share and discuss #OLMBest every week!
Kunstad Sports
Four locations: Kanata, Glebe, Bank St., Chelsea
A family owned shop that sells new and used equipment, Kundstad has been a destination for families and athletes since 1993 (established 1988). Head there for bikes, skis, tennis equipment and keep going back because of their service. The stores are all currently closed but the staff are working behind the scenes preparing orders for curbside pickup and repairing bikes.
Photo: Kundstad.com
Trailhead Paddle Shack
2148 Carling Avenue, Fairlawn Plaza, Ottawa
The name insinuates water-based activities but Trailhead is oh, so much more. Step inside and you will be overwhelmed by the amount of kayaks, paddle boards, footwear, camping gear, snowshoes, crosscountry skis, and clothing. The store also operates a demo centre in Carp with weekly demo nights.
Photo: Trailhead Paddle Shack
Aquasport
2730 Iris Street, Ottawa
This small store pack a lot of plunge. With a full range of suits, goggle, paddles, fins and training equipment. They have gear for swimmers, water aerobics and water polo players. Aquasport is open for curbside pickup during the lockdown.
Photo: OLM Staff
Vélofix
Mobile bike repair shop
Now that the nice weather is here, Vélofix makes it so easy for you to hit the streets and trails. If you have a bike in need of repair but are home during the province wide stay-home order, call 1855 VELOFIX or book online www.velofix.com. With three mobile full-service shops serving the Ottawa area, they will come to you.
Photo: OLM Staff
Bushtukah
203 Richmond Road, Ottawa and 5607 Hazeldean Rd, Stittsville
Wether it be snowboarding, skiing, biking, golf, paddle boarding or just a walking the neighbourhood, Bushtukah has made it their mission to help people get out and enjoy the great outdoors. Their staff is friendly and knowledgeable. During the lockdown, visit their website to book your bike maintenance appointment.
Photo: OLM Staff
Bike Dump
407 Catherine St., Ottawa
It might be a sight for sore eyes but the Bike Dump is a great place to find parts for your bike or to buy well-priced second hand bike. Most minor repair will be done while you wait. We've also heard from a good source that this is the place to go to upgrade your existing bike to an e-bike.
Photo: OLM Staff
Fresh Air Experience
1291 Wellington St. W, Ottawa
Located in Ottawa's Westboro neigbourhood Fresh Air Experience is the place for cross-country skis in the winter and bikes in the spring and summer. A family business, Fresh Air has been serving the community since 1969 and are the the official retailer of the Canadian National Cross-Country Ski Team. During the lockdown, they are open for curbside pickup and bike repairs appointments can be made online.
Photo: OLM Staff
Houle Sports Excellence
2055 Tenth Line Road, Orléans
If you are sporty and live in Orleans then you have certainly visited Houle Sports Excellence. Owned and operated by longtime community residents, Houle is your go-to store for hockey, soccer, baseball and bikes. During the stay-at-home order, Houle is open daily from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. for curbside pickup.
Photo: Houle Sports Excellence
Disalvo Sports
1625 Bank Street, Ottawa
The go-to location for Ottawa soccer players, Disalvo sells everything and anything related to soccer. They have an impressive selection of soccer cleats, soccer balls, goalie equipment, training equipment and tucked in with all the rest, you can also find squash and badminton equipment. They even have a second floor mini pitch where they run after school and other skill development programs. Plenty of parking around back for curbside pickup!
Photo:OLM Staff
Cyclery
1115 Bank Street, Ottawa
The Cyclery is the destination for serious cyclists. They carry high end bikes, cross country skis and accessories. During the lockdown they are taking phone, email and online orders while the service department remains open for tune-ups and repairs.
Photo: OLM Staff