Walking into Toby's Sports 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 selection—it's how this store understands the soul of sports. That Filipino basketball quote we often hear, "Naglalaro kami nang maayos, at trabaho naming 'to, parte ng basketball ang matalo" (We play properly, and this is our job, losing is part of basketball), perfectly captures the mindset this place cultivates. It's not just about selling equipment; it's about serving athletes who respect the game's integrity.
The moment you enter, you're greeted by neatly organized sections spanning approximately 2,500 square feet of retail space. I particularly appreciate their basketball department where you'll find everything from premium Nike Jordan sneakers to local brands like Spalding. Last month, I counted at least 47 different basketball shoe models—an impressive variety for a provincial store. Their staff members are actual sports enthusiasts who can explain the technical differences between cushioning systems or help you choose the right ball for your playing style. I've had several conversations with their basketball specialist Mark, who once spent twenty minutes explaining why the Molten BG 3800 (priced at ₱3,850) outperforms cheaper alternatives for competitive play.
What sets Toby's apart is how they've created a community hub rather than just a retail space. Every Saturday, you'll see local coaches and players gathering near the tennis section, discussing equipment while sharing stories. I've personally witnessed how their "test before you buy" policy for rackets and basketballs has helped numerous customers make better choices. Their running shoe wall features at least 68 different models from brands like Asics, New Balance, and Under Armour, with price points ranging from ₱2,500 to ₱8,900. I'm particularly fond of their seasonal promotions—during last year's Christmas sale, I managed to get a ₱6,000 badminton racket for just ₱3,800, saving me a solid 37% off the regular price.
The store's layout strategically guides you through different sports categories, with basketball occupying the prime real estate near the entrance—a smart move considering approximately 60% of their customers are basketball enthusiasts. I've noticed they stock about 15% more basketball inventory during the Palarong Pambansa season, showing their understanding of local sports rhythms. Their apparel section has expanded significantly over the past year, now offering at least 120 different jersey designs and performance wear. I'm slightly biased toward their compression gear collection—the Under Armour HeatGear shirts have become my absolute favorite for our humid Tacloban weather.
What truly makes Toby's special is how they embody that sportsmanship philosophy from the opening quote. The staff doesn't just push sales; they educate customers about proper equipment maintenance and ethical sports practices. I recall one instance where a young player was considering skipping knee pads to save money, and the salesperson actually demonstrated how proper gear could prevent injuries that might cost ₱15,000-₱20,000 in medical bills later. This commitment to athlete welfare beyond mere transactions is why I keep recommending this place to fellow players.
After numerous visits and conversations with both staff and fellow athletes, I've come to see Toby's as more than a store—it's where Tacloban's sports culture gets equipped and energized. They've maintained consistent quality while adapting to local needs, whether it's stocking more futsal shoes as the sport gains popularity or expanding their swimming section during summer months. For anyone serious about sports in Eastern Visayas, this isn't just a shopping destination; it's an essential partner in your athletic journey, embodying that perfect balance between competitive spirit and sportsmanship that makes Philippine sports truly special.