What is it about the urban Grand Avenue in St. Paul that makes retailers think hiking, skiing, outdoorsy apparel? I'm still campaigning for Anthropologie in that sorry space between Pottery Barn and J. Crew. But this week, I'll settle for North Face, which opens Friday, April 24 at 799 Grand (where Smith & Hawken used to be) – effectively bookending the avenue with Patagonia at 1648 Grand. No buzz about it, but then, there's already a North Face in Uptown. The company stores feature more than outerwear – clothing for men and women, shoes and bags.

Seems fitting that North Face opened its first Twin Cities store on a blustery, snowy day. Located next to Urban Outfitters and the new Victoria’s Secret at 3008 Hennepin Ave., the store is a good get for Uptown, which hasn’t given us a lot of reasons to shop in recent months. Of course, North Face isn’t exactly an exclusive brand anymore, but don’t let that deter you. The company store features the full line of North Face apparel for women, men and children, plus shoes, sandals and even quilted tote bags that don’t look the least bit outdoorsy. The shop is bright and spacious, but just one level and with none of the circus-like attractions we’ve come to expect at recreational gear stores. The merchandise speaks for itself. The staff, however, needs to work up some enthusiasm. Two associates stood by the door on opening day when I stopped in, yet neither welcomed, or even acknowledged, me. Good thing the jackets are warm.