Sexism at the LBS

[lph]

Ok, I'll admit it.

When asked for advice on climbing helmets I would always say "get the one that makes you look really awesome. They're equally safe. But when you pull out the photos to brag you're going to be wearing it in every single shot, and you don't want to look dorky."

But I did say that to both men and women

[ridebikeme]

I would definitely VOICE your opinion to the shop owner,and like some others, wonder if this was an attempt at flirting as well. Now,that doesn't mean that I condone those actions regardless of how they were intended. But I will say this, we have the upper hand in how we deal with situations like these, and that is to voice your opinion and SPEND your money ELSEWHERE. From a shop owners perspective, the thing that truly gets through is the bottom line... and perhaps the cash register ringing a few less times will have a much larger impact!!

[ny biker]

Ok, I'll admit it.

When asked for advice on climbing helmets I would always say "get the one that makes you look really awesome. They're equally safe. But when you pull out the photos to brag you're going to be wearing it in every single shot, and you don't want to look dorky."

But I did say that to both men and women

I expect to look dorky in pretty much any helmet I wear.

However I do take them into the fitting room when I try them on so I can use the mirror. It's one way to know if the helmet fits well.

[Irulan]

I don't really get the vehement "take your money else where" replies. Sure the guy was out of line, but the way I see it is to go up a level (manager, owner)see how you are treated, and then decide to take your money elsewhere, or not. I get voting with the wallet, but if small business owners do not know why you are taking your money elsewhere, it kind of misses the point. If a store in consistently offensive in the treatment of customers- sure take your business elsewhere. I'm all for cutting a little slack until you find out if this is business as usual, a new guy who didn't know any better, one certain employee to avoid or.... whatever. I own a small business. I would much rather know if something is isn't right and if it's correctable, than to have customers just go away and bad mouth me.

I.