Key Policy Highlights

• Returns: Returns must be shipped back within 30 days of delivery to qualify for a refund, or within 60 days of delivery to qualify for an exchange or store credit. These timeframes apply regardless of when a return request is submitted. Returns not shipped within the applicable timeframe will be considered closed and ineligible for return.

• Item Condition: Eligible return items must be unused and in resalable condition, including all original packaging, tags, manuals, accessories, and components. Opening, activating, installing, mounting, or using certain products may make them ineligible for return as outlined in our Non-Returnable Items section. Returns that do not meet these requirements may be handled according to the Ineligible or Unresolved Returns section.

• Return Exclusions: Certain items are not eligible for return, including safety equipment, hygiene-sensitive items (such as underwear, base layers, and other intimate apparel), opened or activated electronics, and products that have been installed, mounted, or used. These exclusions apply regardless of condition, packaging, or whether tags are still attached.

• Shipping Costs on Returns: For returns that are not the result of an error on our part, a verified product defect, or an approved Shipping Protection claim, the actual outbound shipping cost incurred by us and any applicable return shipping costs will be deducted from the refund, even if the order originally qualified for free shipping.

Order Processing

Orders are typically processed within 1–3 business days, unless otherwise stated on the product page.

For order processing, business days are Monday through Friday and exclude holidays. While we may process and ship orders on Saturdays, Saturday processing is not guaranteed and does not count as a business day.

Processing time refers to the time required to prepare an order and hand it over to the carrier. Processing time does not include carrier transit time or delivery time.

For fraud prevention, payment verification, and order accuracy, we may review certain orders before shipment. Orders requiring additional verification may be delayed, cancelled, or refunded if verification cannot be completed.

Once an order has entered into the fulfillment process, cancellation requests may not be possible.

Shipping Information

Orders over $100 qualify for free economy ground shipping within the continental United States for standard-size items.

Important: Free shipping is a promotional shipping benefit provided on completed purchases. If an order is returned for reasons other than an error on our part, a verified product defect, or an approved claim under a purchased Shipping Protection plan, the actual outbound shipping cost incurred by us will be deducted from the refund. Customers are also responsible for applicable return shipping costs.

Free shipping excludes oversized, bulky, or specialty items that exceed standard carrier size limits or require special handling.

Orders under $100 within the contiguous United States for standard-size items are subject to a flat $9.95 shipping charge.
Orders shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. territories, or international destinations may incur additional shipping charges based on destination, package size, weight, carrier rates, and applicable surcharges.

Some products may require adjusted shipping charges due to packaging requirements, size, weight, quantity, or carrier limitations.

Shipping Carrier & Delivery

Customers may select an available shipping method at checkout. If no shipping method is selected or available, we may choose the carrier and service level based on availability, destination, package requirements, and other shipping considerations.

Once an order has been shipped and transferred to the carrier, delivery timelines are controlled by the carrier. We are not responsible for carrier delays, missed delivery estimates, weather-related delays, or other delays outside of our control.

Expedited shipping services (such as Next Day Air or 2-Day shipping) apply to carrier transit time only and do not shorten order processing time. Selecting an expedited shipping method does not guarantee same-day shipment or delivery by a specific date.

Delivery Confirmation & Missing Packages

Packages marked as delivered by the shipping carrier are considered delivered according to the carrier's tracking records.

Customers are responsible for providing an accurate shipping address and ensuring a secure delivery location is available for incoming shipments.

Customers are also responsible for ensuring shipments can be successfully received. If an order is returned to us due to an incorrect address, incomplete address, refused delivery, unsuccessful delivery attempts, failure to retrieve a package, or any other reason attributable to the customer, the customer is responsible for all shipping costs incurred, including original outbound shipping charges and return shipping charges. Any applicable shipping costs will be deducted from refunds or store credits issued for the returned order.

If a package is marked delivered but cannot be located, customers should first check with household members, neighbors, building management (if applicable), and the delivery location. Customers should also contact the shipping carrier for additional delivery details or assistance.

Claims for packages reported missing after carrier delivery confirmation may be denied. We may assist with carrier inquiries, when possible, but assistance with a carrier investigation does not guarantee recovery, replacement, refund, or other compensation.

Shipping Protection

Shipping Protection is optional and must be purchased at checkout. Shipping Protection provides coverage only for eligible loss or damage that occurs during carrier transit. Shipping Protection does not cover theft, loss, or damage after delivery confirmation.

Once your return is approved, you will receive a Return Authorization (RA) and instructions for returning the item.

Customers are responsible for the cost of shipping the item back to us as well as any original outbound shipping costs incurred by us for customer-initiated returns, even if the order originally qualified for free shipping. These shipping costs do not apply when the return is due to an error on our part, a verified product defect, or an approved Shipping Protection claim.

Refund Processing

Refunds are issued to the original method of payment unless store credit is requested or required.

Refunds are processed after the returned item has been received, inspected, and approved according to this return policy.

If the original payment method cannot be refunded (for example, an expired or cancelled card), store credit will be issued as a gift card.

Refunds to credit or debit cards typically appear within 5–10 business days after processing, depending on the financial institution.

Ineligible or Unresolved Returns

Returned items are inspected upon receipt. If a returned item is determined to be ineligible for return, including but not limited to items that are used, worn, damaged, missing components, outside the return window, not in resalable condition, or otherwise excluded under this policy, we will contact the customer using the contact information associated with the order.

If an item is returned that was not purchased from us, we will make reasonable efforts to contact the customer and provide instructions for resolving the issue.

Customers are responsible for monitoring the email address associated with their order and ensuring that communications from us can be received. This includes checking spam, junk, promotions, or other filtered folders. We are not responsible for delays caused by missed emails, spam filters, incorrect contact information, full inboxes, or other issues outside of our control.

If we do not receive a response within 60 days of our first attempt to contact the customer, the returned item will be considered abandoned. After this period, we may dispose of, donate, recycle, or otherwise handle the item at our discretion. The customer waives any claim to the returned item, refund, replacement, store credit, or other compensation related to the item after this period.

Return Timeframes

• Within 30 days of delivery: Eligible for refund to original payment method

• 31–60 days from delivery: Eligible for exchange or store credit only

• After 60 days: Returns are not accepted

Important: Returns must be shipped back (dropped off with the carrier) within the applicable return window. A return request, approval, return authorization, or shipping label does not extend the deadline. The return must be physically handed to the carrier within the applicable timeframe to remain eligible.

Customers are responsible for monitoring the email address associated with their order and responding to return-related communications in a timely manner. We are not responsible for delays caused by missed emails, spam filters, incorrect contact information, or other issues outside of our control. Returns that are not shipped within the applicable timeframe remain ineligible.

Return eligibility is determined based on the carrier-confirmed delivery date, not the purchase date.

Once the applicable return window has passed without the item being shipped, the return request is considered closed, and the item is no longer eligible for return. Returns received after the deadline or returns that do not meet eligibility requirements remain subject to this policy.

All returns remain subject to item eligibility requirements outlined in our Non-Returnable Items section.

Return Condition Requirements

Eligible return items must be unused and in resalable condition.

Resalable conditions require the product to be returned with all original packaging, tags attached to the product (when provided), manuals, accessories, components, and included materials. The presence of tags, packaging, or accessories alone does not determine return eligibility. Items must also meet the unused and resalable condition requirements outlined in this policy.

Items that show use, washing, installation, assembly, modification, damage, odor, dirt, wear, or conditions beyond normal inspection are not eligible for return.

Returns missing original packaging, tags, accessories, components, or included materials may be refused or handled according to the Ineligible or Unresolved Returns section.

New & Unused Items

Items must remain new and unused, except for normal inspection as necessary to confirm the item is the correct product and meets the customer's expectations.

Products showing outdoor use, wear, dirt, odor, washing, installation, assembly, modification, damage, or use beyond normal inspection are considered used and are not eligible for return.

Footwear may be tried on indoors only, on a clean surface, until fit is confirmed. Footwear showing sole wear, dirt, scuffing, trail use, or any signs of outdoor use is considered used and is not eligible for return.

Additional restrictions apply to certain products where opening, activation, installation, mounting, or use affects return eligibility, including but not limited to electronic devices (such as Garmin, Coros, Lowrance, Humminbird, and comparable products whether specifically listed or not), climbing equipment, avalanche equipment, safety equipment, hygiene products, and other restricted categories outlined in this policy.

Non-Returnable Items

The following items are not eligible for return or exchange once they meet the conditions outlined below. These restrictions apply regardless of whether the customer requests a refund, exchange, replacement, or store credit.

Safety-Critical Equipment

Certain climbing, mountaineering, rescue, and avalanche safety equipment is not eligible for return or exchange once shipped, regardless of condition.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Climbing ropes 

• Harnesses 

• Helmets 

• Carabiners, quickdraws, and other climbing hardware 

• Protection equipment including cams, nuts, and other protective devices 

• Slings, runners, personal anchor systems, and similar safety equipment 

• Belay, rappel, and other life-safety devices 

• Avalanche equipment, including beacons/transceivers, airbags, probes, and shovels 

Due to safety, liability, and product integrity considerations, these items cannot be returned, exchanged, resold, or redistributed after leaving our facility.

Other climbing and mountaineering equipment, including items such as ice axes and crampons, may be eligible for return or exchange only if they remain completely unused, in new condition, with original tags attached, original packaging, and all included components.

Items showing any signs of use, wear, field exposure, modification, or missing components are not eligible for return or exchange.

Electronics and Wearable Devices

Electronics and wearable devices are only eligible for return or exchange if they remain in new, unused condition with all original packaging, inserts, accessories, and components intact and in the original condition and configuration.

For these products, inspection is limited to verifying the external packaging and included contents without opening, activating, registering, pairing, configuring, or using the device.

Items that have been opened, removed from packaging, activated, registered, paired, configured, used, or returned with packaging that is damaged, incomplete, or not in its original condition and configuration are not eligible for return or exchange.

This includes Garmin, Coros, Wahoo, Lowrance, Humminbird, Shokz, and similar devices.

Headphones and Audio Wearables

Headphones, earbuds, and wearable audio devices are not eligible for return or exchange once opened.

Inspection is limited to external packaging only. Opening the product packaging or removing the product from sealed packaging constitutes acceptance of the item.

Due to hygiene and safety considerations, these products cannot be resold once opened.

Hygiene and Personal-Use Items

Items intended for personal use or worn against the body (including underwear, base layers, and similar apparel) are not eligible for return or exchange once worn, used, washed, or tried directly against the body.

To be eligible for return or exchange, these items must remain completely unworn, unwashed, free from odors (including perfume, fragrance, smoke, detergent, body odor, or other scents), and in original condition with tags attached to the product and all original packaging included.

Due to hygiene, safety, and resale standards, these items cannot be resold once used, worn, or exposed to conditions that affect their original condition.

Installed or Assembled Items

Items are not eligible for return or exchange once installed, mounted, assembled, modified, or altered in any way.

This includes vehicle rack systems and products requiring installation or mounting. Items must be unused, uninstalled, and complete with all original components to be eligible for return or exchange.

Additional Conditions

• Modified, customized, or altered items are not eligible for return or exchange.

• Products showing signs of use, wear, damage, odor, washing, or alteration are not eligible for return or exchange.

This list is not exhaustive. Additional products may be restricted based on safety, hygiene, manufacturer requirements, or resale limitations.

If a non-returnable or non-exchangeable item is shipped back to us, we are not required to accept the return or provide a refund, exchange, or store credit. Any shipping costs associated with returning the item remain the customer's responsibility.

Items reported as defective after use, installation, activation, or modification may be subject to manufacturer warranty service or repair processes rather than a store return or exchange.

Refunds

For eligible customer-initiated returns that are not due to an error on our part, a verified product defect, or an approved Shipping Protection claim:

• Any original outbound shipping cost incurred by us will be deducted from the refund amount, even if the order originally qualified for free shipping. 

• Customers are responsible for return shipping costs.

• If a prepaid return shipping label is requested, the cost of the return label will be deducted from the refund amount. 

• If the total applicable shipping costs exceed the refundable merchandise value, we may require payment of the shipping difference before issuing a prepaid return label. The item will still be subject to inspection and approval according to this return policy before any refund is issued. 

• Customers may alternatively arrange and pay for return shipping directly using a carrier of their choice after receiving return authorization instructions. 

Shipping deductions do not apply when the return is due to an error on our part, a verified product defect, or an approved Shipping Protection claim.

Refunds may take 5–10 business days to appear after processing, depending on the financial institution.

Order Cancellations

Cancellation requests must be submitted as soon as possible and are not guaranteed until confirmed by the store.

Orders may be cancelled only if the request is received and processed before the order has entered the fulfillment or shipping process.

Once an order has been processed, picked, packed, or shipped, cancellation may no longer be possible, even if the customer submitted a cancellation request before receiving shipping confirmation.

If we are unable to cancel an order before it enters the fulfillment or shipping process, the order will proceed as originally placed. Any refused delivery, declined package, or returned shipment will be treated as a standard customer-initiated return and will be subject to all applicable return requirements, including responsibility for return shipping costs and any original outbound shipping costs incurred.

Gift Returns

Gift returns require proof of purchase, such as an order number, gift receipt, or other purchase details that allow us to verify the transaction.

Gift returns are subject to the same return eligibility requirements, return timeframes, product condition requirements, shipping deductions, and non-returnable item restrictions outlined in this policy.

If the original payment method cannot be refunded, store credit will be issued as a gift card, which does not expire.

If proof of purchase is unavailable, we may attempt to locate the transaction using available purchase information; however, we cannot guarantee that a return can be processed without sufficient proof of purchase.

In-Store Transactions

In-store returns and exchanges may be available at our retail locations and are subject to the same eligibility requirements, return timeframes, product restrictions, and conditions outlined in this policy.

Used gear buy-backs, where available, are separate transactions and are evaluated independently based on product condition, market value, and store discretion.

Warranty & Manufacturer Claims

Warranty claims are not eligible for coverage for items showing misuse, abuse, accidents, improper care, modification, damage caused after purchase, or normal wear and tear.

Products that develop issues after use, installation, activation, modification, or field exposure may be eligible for evaluation under the manufacturer's warranty process rather than a store return.

Manufacturing defects must be reported within the applicable manufacturer's warranty period and are subject to the manufacturer's warranty terms, conditions, and approval process.

The store may assist with submitting warranty claims or communicating with the manufacturer when appropriate; however, warranty decisions, repairs, replacements, or approvals are ultimately determined by the manufacturer.

A manufacturer's warranty claim, carrier claim, or product evaluation does not guarantee a refund, replacement, or other compensation unless approved through the applicable process.

Proof of Purchase

• All returns, exchanges, refunds, and store credit requests require proof of purchase, such as a receipt, order number, or gift receipt.

• Proof of purchase is required to verify the transaction, purchase details, eligibility, and applicable return timeframe.

• Returns or exchanges without valid proof of purchase may be declined.

How to Initiate a Return

• Reply to your order confirmation email

• Email CustomerService@ascentoutdoors.com with your order number and details.

• Submit the return form on our website

• Return in person during store hours

To initiate a return or exchange, you're welcome to reply to your original order confirmation email, email us at mailto:CustomerService@ascentoutdoors.com with your order number and details, or complete the form to the right. Our team is here to help and will guide you through the next steps.

We kindly ask that you review our return policy before submitting your request, as it contains important details. Exchanges and returns for store credit are always free. For returns issued back to the original method of payment, return shipping costs are the customer's responsibility and will be deducted from the refund once processed.