Taking Union to New Heights
Published February 2026
Since the 2025 opening of Summit Bound Outfitter, Colin Maneval—an avid climber himself—has been bringing outdoor adventure to Union Square. In addition to climbing equipment and outdoor gear for all uses, Summit Bound brings folks together with yoga, movie nights, and other interactive events.
Tell us a little bit about Summit Bound!
Summit Bound Outfitter is an outdoor retail store specializing in rock climbing. We bring together a large selection of climbing shoes, hiking footwear, climbing gear, and apparel. Our passionate and knowledgeable staff can get you the perfect fit for all your adventures.
What inspired you to start a business? How did this feeling grow once you actually started your business?
Climbing shoes and gear are very specialized and tough to buy online or from big box stores so I wanted to create a better way for the Boston community to access gear. A year into business, we’ve sold over 1,700 pairs of climbing shoes. From customers just getting into climbing at the gym to long time experts, we have been getting a great response to the service and products we offer.
What aspect of your business makes you most proud to be a business leader in our community?
Getting to know the local community (climbers and everyone else that comes through our doors) has been a great pleasure. There are so many kind, passionate, and fascinating folks in our community.
How do you #LoveUnionSquare?
I will gladly die on the hill of supporting small and local businesses. One reason we ended up in Union was because of the density of small businesses in our neighborhood and the support that the community provides. It gives Union a wonderful character that is rare in 2026 America.
If you were to plan the perfect outing in Union Square, where would you go and what would you do?
I could spend all day shopping, eating, and drinking (mostly eating and drinking!) in Union Square. From Mike and Patty's, Neighborhood, and Vinal Bakery for breakfast, to lunch at Machu Chicken, Nagomi Bento, and Viet Citron, to dinner at The Eaves, Himalayan Kitchen, and June Bug, to drinks at Rebel Rebel and Back Bar—you've got your hands full. And those are just a small selection of personal favorites!
Do you have any “behind the scenes” info that a customer might not know?
We are connected to loads of gyms, guides, and organizations in the area. If you are looking to try any type of climbing or are interested in meet up groups for people of color, adaptive climbing or more, just reach out and we'd love to connect you to the right groups! Climbing is for everyone!
Is there anything else you think a Square customer would like to know?
Even if you don't climb, stop in and say hi! We love to get to know our neighbors!
Shop Summit Bound Outfitter at 348 Somerville Ave Monday through Saturday 10am-8pm
& Sunday 10am-6pm.
Follow Summit Bound on Instagram for easy access to upcoming events, sales, and climbing content.
