REI

In 2009, my girlfriend gifted me the REI Flash backpack, which after a test run in the Linville Gorge Wilderness, just didn’t feel quite right. I discovered it was from a store called REI, and their return policy at the time was incredibly generous—a lifetime return for any reason. Skeptical but hopeful, I went to the store. The friendly staff helped me exchange it, not once, but twice, until I found my perfect fit: the Osprey Exos 48, which I still cherish today. Their patience and genuine desire to help me find the right gear made a lasting impression.

Gear Selection and Quality

REI is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts. They stock all the major brands across various recreational sports, with a strong emphasis on camping and backpacking. What’s great is that each store caters to its local environment. For instance, the Denver store, with its focus big mountain sports like, backpacking, skiing and climbing, offers gear rentals that helped me when I needed a Bear Vault on the Four Pass Loop. Meanwhile, the Charlotte store’s inventory reflects the terrain of North Carolina. This tailored approach ensures you find gear relevant to your adventures.

Knowledgeable and Helpful Staff

The heart of REI lies in its staff. They’re passionate about the outdoors and dedicated to helping you find the right gear. Despite the typical retail pay, their enthusiasm shines through. They patiently answer questions, help you load up backpacks, and encourage you to test them out in-store. This level of personalized service is invaluable, especially when investing in long-lasting gear.

The REI Co-op Membership

Initially, I was wary of the membership pitch, but it’s genuinely worthwhile. For a one-time $30 fee, you get:

An annual dividend of 10% on full-price purchases.

Member-exclusive discounts, including 20% off during special events.

Discounts on in-store services, like bike repairs.

A generous one-year return policy, even on used items.

Access to REI’s legendary Garage Sales.

Garage Sales

Imagine a neighborhood garage sale, but with high-quality outdoor gear at incredible discounts. These sales feature returned items, heavily discounted based on their condition. I’ve scored some fantastic deals, like lightly used La Sportiva Wildcat trail runners and an Exped Mega Mat at a significant markdown.

REI’s Commitment to the Outdoors

Beyond selling gear, REI demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. They actively promote sustainability through their business practices, aiming to reduce their environmental footprint. REI also supports numerous conservation initiatives, advocating for the protection of public lands and natural spaces. This commitment resonates with hikers who value preserving the landscapes they explore.

REI Adventures: Exploring the World

For those seeking guided outdoor experiences, REI Adventures offers a diverse range of travel programs. From hiking and trekking to cycling and kayaking, these trips cater to various interests and skill levels. REI Adventures provides expertly planned itineraries, knowledgeable guides, and opportunities to explore iconic destinations around the world. It’s a fantastic option for hikers looking for organized adventures with the assurance of REI’s quality and expertise.

Why I Keep Coming Back

Yes, you might find gear cheaper elsewhere. But REI offers more than just products; they offer an experience. The combination of expert staff, a customer-friendly return policy, the benefits of the co-op membership, their dedication to conservation, and their travel opportunities make it my go-to store. I wholeheartedly recommend REI to any outdoor enthusiast.