AVID Soccer worked with a number of soccer equipment retailers in 2007.  We ran the gamut from pure on-line purveyors like Amazon, to catalog based shops like Eurosport to brick and mortar stores like Soccer Locker.  Each had its advantages and each had weaknesses.

We continue to believe that there will always be a place the local soccer shop.  As such, we give additional weight to these retailers.  Our local shop, Niky's Sports, still receives regular visits from us but they just can't compete on the scale of this year's nominees.

Without further adieu, here is how they rated:

• Amazon really is the best place for books.  If you know what you want, you can probably find it here, but don't expect any comparisons or useful information.  Pricing is fair, but not spectacular.  Selection is good.
• Sator Soccer has a good selection of low cost and mid-tier equipment.  This is a good source for coaching gear.  Most of the "sale" prices are in line with the regular price at larger retailers.  Their customer service was very good and we have been pleased with each interaction.
• Soccer Locker is our only Brick and Mortar nominee this year.  Based in Florida, we were unable to visit them directly.  We did contact them and order a number of items.  Customer service was outstanding and order fulfillment was very quick.  We are giving an Honorable Mention to Soccer Locker this year.  Unfortunately, they could not compete on the scale of the juggernaut that is our winner.

"... and the winner is..."

• Following up on last year's unsuccessful nomination, Eurosport (soccer.com) has improved almost every aspect of their business.  There is still room for improvement on the site navigation, but the catalog is second only to Pro-Direct Soccer.  The customer service issues we experienced in 2006 were replaced with quick friendly responses in 2007.  The selection of products continues to go to one of the largest on the net.  Prices are good across the board.