Walking into Toby's Sports at Robinsons Tacloban always feels like stepping into an athlete's sanctuary. I've been shopping here for over three years, and what keeps me coming back isn't just the impressive collection of sports equipment—it's the palpable understanding of what sports truly mean to us Filipinos. Remember that powerful statement from our local basketball community: "Naglalaro kami nang maayos, at trabaho naming 'to, parte ng basketball ang matalo." This philosophy resonates deeply with me, and I find it reflected in how Toby's Sports curates their products. They understand that sports aren't just about winning; they're about character, resilience, and playing with integrity.
The basketball section alone occupies about 40% of the store's floor space, which speaks volumes about our national obsession. I typically spend my first 15 minutes testing their latest Nike or Adidas basketball shoes—the cushioning technology has improved dramatically since 2020. Last month, I counted 23 different basketball models priced between ₱2,500 to ₱8,900, with the Nike Giannis Immortality 3 becoming my personal favorite for its perfect balance of ankle support and court feel. What really impresses me is their staff's expertise. Unlike other sports stores where employees just point you to aisles, here they'll actually discuss proper shooting form or demonstrate how different ball textures affect dribble control.
Moving beyond basketball, their running section features at least 50 shoe models from brands like Asics, New Balance, and Under Armour. I recently purchased the Asics Gel-Kayano 30 here for ₱7,995, and it's been revolutionary for my marathon training. Their fitness equipment selection has expanded by approximately 35% since 2022, with their adjustable dumbbell sets becoming particularly popular among home gym enthusiasts. I've noticed they've started carrying more specialized badminton gear too—Yonex rackets ranging from ₱3,000 to ₱15,000, with the Nanoflare 770 proving exceptionally responsive during my weekend games.
What sets Toby's Sports apart is their understanding that quality gear supports athletic integrity. When that basketball quote mentions not tolerating poor sportsmanship, it mirrors how this store doesn't tolerate subpar products. Their staff once talked me out of buying expensive carbon fiber plates for casual play, saving me ₱4,000 and potential injury. This honest approach is rare in retail sports. Their seasonal sales are legendary—last December, I snagged a ₱12,000 Jordan jersey for ₱6,500, and their loyalty program has saved me roughly ₱15,000 over two years.
The store's layout cleverly guides you through different sports zones while maintaining an open, inviting atmosphere. I appreciate how they've positioned their apparel section near the entrance, featuring moisture-wicking fabrics that actually work in Tacloban's humid climate. Their compression wear prices have dropped about 20% since more local brands entered the market, making quality gear more accessible to aspiring athletes. I always check their clearance rack in the back corner, where I've found gems like last season's Puma football cleats for 60% off.
Having visited numerous sports retailers across Visayas, I can confidently say Toby's Sports Robinsons Tacloban maintains the perfect balance between premium international brands and affordable local options. They've created more than just a store—they've built a community hub where athletes can find equipment that matches their dedication and values. Whether you're a serious competitor or weekend warrior, this place understands that having the right gear matters, but maintaining the right spirit matters more. That's why after all these years, it remains my first choice for sports equipment in Eastern Visayas.