The Geartrade Story

GearTrade was founded in 2012 in Okotoks, Alberta by an outdoor enthusiast and entrepreneur who saw a need for an outdoor gear marketplace. Jesse and Michelle took over the reigns in 2018, and haven't looked back!

Over the years, this local business has flourished with online sales throughout North America. However, it is still the little touches, customer service, and professional advice that matter most to the Geartrade team. They strive to take the time needed to make sure their customers walk away with the right product for their next adventure.
 
With a degree in Eco Tourism and Outdoor Leadership, Co-Owner and operator Jesse Hebenton, has an extensive background in the outdoor field both in retail and as a guide and outdoor facilitator. But at the end of the day let’s face it, he’s a big time gear junkie. Jesse's wife, Michelle, had been doing the bookkeeping while on maternity leave for their two kids, and joined the business full-time in the summer of 2022! She brings her background in business and love of adventure along with her- but she is a rookie when it comes to gear knowledge, so leave those hard questions to Jesse!
 
Together their mission has been and continues to be simple, they want to provide outdoor enthusiasts with the best marketplace to buy brand name, high quality gear.
 
 
Here's a little run down of where we started and where we are going:
 
The business started out basement and garage.
 
Jesse taking a little break with Rigs, who's employee of the month, every month. Originally we ran the business from our house, and this was a little peak at the basement. 
 
 
A little snap shot from 2019 of our second location which was operated from the garage. Soon after moving in we had another member join the team. 
 
  
 
In 2020, we outgrew the garage and  moved into a small shop space on a acreage. 
 
After yet another few years of growth, we have moved into a full retail location, thriving in the heart of Okotoks.  Despite this exciting growth and change, our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional customer service remains steadfast. We have a deep-rooted dedication to making every customer experience a memorable one. We believe our approach is what sets our business apart.
 
To all of the customers we have already had the pleasure of meeting, thank you for the support and continuing to trust us with gear advice for your upcoming adventure. And to those who are new to our shop, we can't wait to meet you or chat about your next trip. 
 
From the Hebenton Family,
 
Jesse, Michelle, Heyden, Lily, and our shop dog- Rigs