"I’ve been shopping at STP for about 20 years.
And yes, it half-way **** now when it didn’t used to **** at all. I used to tell everyone about it. Now I never recommend it because I can see how it’s not a great experience for new customers. Selection aside, their web server is DREADFUL. It’s ridiculous really. Bring you patience when using their website.
You have to know exactly what you are looking for and how to find it.
They still offer good gear and clothing at great prices. You have to know when the 25%/free shipping coupons come out, and you have to get lucky to get the really great outdoors stuff because it sells quickly. You can still consistently score some super killer deals on stuff, better than on most other websites (comparing to sale sites of REI, Backcountry, MooseJaw, etc). Pair it with the cash back discount from a site like Gear Obession, and you have a major score.
They are no longer an outdoors store. They sell all sorts of junk now, but do still carry outdoors gear.
Also, yes, their order prep and shipping speed is lacking. Also, worst taped shipping boxes in the industry. They always come crushed and the box lid virtually open and separated from the tape.
If you can deal with the bad, you can find some gems. This is a commentary on the gear selection, but the way the company is run is less than mediocre."