The Shangri-la of gear for those who spend their time rock-climbing, backpacking, cycling and finding other ways to conquer nature.

by Contributor

In Short
The largest co-op in the nation, REI sells everything needed to survive in the outdoors to members and non-members alike: sleeping bags for below-zero temperatures, GPS units, climbing gear, rations and more. For the more casual outdoor enthusiast, the store also sells tents, kayaks, bicycles, snowboards, skis, luggage, footwear and outdoors-oriented clothing for men, women and children.

The Shangri-la of gear for those who spend their time rock-climbing, backpacking, cycling and finding other ways to conquer nature.

by Contributor

In Short
The largest co-op in the nation, REI sells everything needed to survive in the outdoors to members and non-members alike: sleeping bags for below-zero temperatures, GPS units, climbing gear, rations and more. For the more casual outdoor enthusiast, the store also sells tents, kayaks, bicycles, snowboards, skis, luggage, footwear and outdoors-oriented clothing for men, women and children.

01/14/03

Everything on My Wishlist!

by laugikal

This REI is simply the best outdoor store for an outdoor equipment junkie like myself. You can always buy a brand name tent or a sleeping bag at another retailer or even an online store. What separates REI from them is their consistent expertise in the merchandise they sell. They guys and gals who you talk to in the store are probably using the stuff you're thinking about buying. And they do it for the love of outdoors.

So, you can make a one-stop shopping to a place where they'll insure that you get properly equipped, if you ask. If you don't get a satisfactory answer from a staff member, there is a good chance that there is a senior staff member who can assist you with your question. Their inventory of the best of the brand name and their own equipment is vast and priced reasonably.

• Pros: selection, expertise advise, customer service
• Cons: no competition