Best of Boston

2003 Best Sporting Goods

Thunder

Thunder calls itself the Sports Source. We call that truth in advertising. Trust us: This fast-growing suburban chain, which has now opened an outpost in Cambridge, has the gear you need for any sport you can imagine—everything from batting gloves to masks and snorkels, plus a decent selection of shoes and apparel from the likes of Nike, the North Face, Columbia, New Balance, and K-Swiss. The vast and deep inventory is paired with friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable service, unlike at those faceless, clueless box stores.

CambridgeSide Galleria, Cambridge, 617-577-0076,