Blacks

Further to previous review: Blacks & Millets are one and the same — both are owned by the same parent company which is why you will see similar stuff in both.
What is it with the ‘greeting’ as you walk in the door? I’ve yet to meet one person who enjoys someone standing at the door issuing a disneyesque greeting with an inane smile to every person entering (and leaving) the Store!
The range of gear is average at best — has the potential to be Oxfords premier outdoor Store but tries to be too many many things in too small a space. The range of brands is biased toward own brand including Als & Technicals.
The casual outdoor person will find stuff here to interest them — anyone else will head for Gooutdoors or Cotswolds depending on their budget

Blacks is the higher quality version of Millets and the Oxford store is gloriously spacious and pretty well-​stocked. It specialises in outdoor clothing and equipment, but lots of the clothes look nice for everyday wear, and there’s something very satisfying about snuggling up in their cosy fleeces while wandering around town on a cold day. There’s a good range of rucksacks, ranging from laptop carriers/​school bags to full on expedition beasts. The same applies to shoes: you can get normal casual trainers, or walking the dog shoes, or good quality boots that will get you up mountains. There are lots of little gadgets like drinking pouches, camping stoves, torches and camping food, so it’s a good all-​round place for your camping and outdoor needs, or for buying presents for outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re a keen walker or climber, it may not provide all the specialist equipment you need, but it’s great for the basics and stocks some higher spec brands like Berghaus, as well as the less technical Regatta and Craghoppers.