A familiar face is bringing a fresh wave to Newport’s retail scene.
Jay Lasky, a longtime Thames Street retailer and local entrepreneur, has launched Big Weather Gear—a new adventure apparel shop inspired by his decades-long passion for the outdoors and marine lifestyle.
Located at 154 Thames Street, the same spot where Lasky ran the flagship Helly Hansen store for nearly 30 years, Big Weather Gear offers a curated mix of top performance and lifestyle brands. From marine gear to mountain-ready wear, the store caters to locals, boaters, and adventurers alike.
“Retail’s not for the faint of heart, but I love it,” Lasky said. “You learn to ride the tides—high and low—and keep your compass pointed forward.”
Lasky first entered the retail world in 1985, working in his father’s shop. He added Helly Hansen to his line in 1994, eventually opening the first Helly Hansen retail store in North America. That shop became the brand’s top-performing global location and helped shape Newport’s reputation as a destination for outdoor gear.
Big Weather Gear now carries trusted names like Musto, The North Face, Huk, Grundéns, Stio, Prana, Outdoor Research, and Helly Hansen Workwear, alongside women’s resort brands including Cabana Life, Smith & Quinn, and Debbie Katz.
To celebrate the launch, the store hosted a VIP grand opening with longtime customers, friends, and family. And just in time for Memorial Day Weekend, Big Weather Gear is holding a massive storewide sale through May 26—everything is 20–50% off.
Big Weather Gear is also set to exhibit at the entrance of the Newport International Boat Show this September.
For more information, visit bigweathergear.com or stop by the store, open daily on Thames Street.
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