Sporting Goods Stores in Helsinki: Best Places for Active Wear
When you’re in Helsinki and looking to gear up for sports, the city center has many shops waiting for you. Whether you’re after new running shoes or the latest in sportswear, you’re covered.
Let’s take a quick tour of the best spots to find sports apparel and gear right in the heart of Helsinki.
The Best Places to Buy Sportswear in Helsinki
1. XXL Kluuvi
In Helsinki, you won’t find Decathlon, a staple in many of Europe’s larger cities.
XXL comes closest in offering a similar range under one roof. It provides everything for sports and outdoor activities under one roof.
Whether it’s sports equipment, clothing, shoes, or even gear for hiking, hunting, and fishing, XXL has it all.
This chain has nearly 100 stores in the Nordics with a wide range of well-known brands at competitive prices.
- Website
- Address: Aleksanterinkatu 9
- Location: Google Maps
2. Stadium
Next up, check out Stadium at either the Forum or Kamppi shopping centers. It has a mix of trendy and technical sportswear, shoes, and equipment suitable for kids and adults.
Expect affordable prices and big sales, with last season’s products sometimes going for 40-50% off.
This Swedish chain can be found in almost every major shopping center, making it a convenient stop for your sportswear needs.
- Website
- Address: Mannerheimintie 20 (Forum) / Urho Kekkosen katu 1 (Kamppi)
- Location: Google Maps (Forum) / Google Maps (Kamppi)
3. Intersport Forum
Intersport in Forum shopping center is another excellent spot for sporty clothes and shoes for leisure and exercise.
Their selection is built around well-known quality brands like Nike, Asics, Columbia, and New Balance, alongside Intersport’s own range of products.
Look out for their seasonal sales, where discounts can reach 40-50%.
Intersport is part of an international network and offers a familiar shopping experience with a local twist.
- Website
- Address: Mannerheimintie 20
- Location: Google Maps
4. Björn Borg Forum
For those who appreciate the legacy of legendary tennis player Björn Borg, there is a Björn Borg store in the Forum shopping center.
This Swedish brand offers a selection of sports and leisure wear, accessories, shoes, and underwear for adults and kids.
While primarily known for underwear, sportswear, and bags, it’s a great place to find stylish and comfortable items that stand out.
- Website
- Address: Mannerheimintie 14-20
- Location: Google Maps
5. Karhu Concept Store
Karhu, a legendary Finnish sports brand with over 100 years of history, is one of the oldest sneaker brands in the world.
Before Adidas adopted its iconic three stripes, Karhu used them, eventually selling the rights to Adidas founder Adi Dassler during the 1952 Helsinki Olympics.
The Karhu Concept Store focuses on running shoes and apparel, including the stylish Karhu Originals leisure collection.
It’s a haven for sneaker enthusiasts and collectors alike, offering designs that get you noticed.
- Website
- Address: Mannerheimintie 22
- Location: Google Maps
6. Partioaitta
If you visit Helsinki during winter, Partioaitta is the go-to place for warm merino wool undergarments and socks needed in the cold winter months.
The store offers a wide range of outdoor clothing and gear, from jackets and raincoats suited for wet conditions to equipment for hiking and camping.
You can also find gear like daypacks, thermoses, and even travel towels and other small travel items for your travel needs.
Popular brands like Patagonia, Marmot, Canada Goose, and The North Face can be found here, ensuring quality and durability.
It was founded in 1928 and initially owned by the Finnish Scout Association.
- Website
- Address: Yrjönkatu 36
- Location: Google Maps
7. Scandinavian Outdoor Forum
Right next to Partioaitta on the upper floor of the Forum shopping center, Scandinavian Outdoor caters to all your outdoor needs.
Established in 1970, this Finnish specialty store stocks outdoor and hiking apparel, footwear, and equipment from renowned brands like Marmot, Osprey, and Haglöfs.
Whether looking for gear for your next hiking trip or warm winter clothing and shoes, Scandinavian Outdoor offers a comprehensive selection to explore alongside Partioaitta.
- Website
- Address: Yrjönkatu 29
- Location: Google Maps
8. Stockmann Department Store
Although not a dedicated sports store, the sports department on the 4th floor of the Stockmann department store in downtown Helsinki offers a solid selection of athletic wear and equipment.
Its central location makes it easy to find, and the department serves as a one-stop shop for top-tier brands. Whether you need new workout clothes or specialized gear, Stockmann’s sports section might be worth a visit for its variety and quality offerings.
- Website
- Address: Aleksanterinkatu 52
- Location: Google Maps
The Bottom Line
The changing seasons in Finland are reflected in the sports stores’ product selections and discounts: you can often find significant discounts as the season changes.
In Helsinki, this seasonal variety allows locals and visitors to enjoy activities like hiking, running, cycling, swimming, ice dipping, sledding, skiing, and skating, depending on the season.
