REI

Tim Brown

Thrice now I've gotten conflicting or plain wrong information from an associate on the floor and/or an associate at the register. 1) The return of an item purchased prior to my membership that was new and unworn with tags--was told on the floor they'd take the return, was then refused at the register. 2) The pricing of an item that was missing parts. I couldn't figure out what the buckles on a duffel bag were for when the floor associate informed me that the bag was supposed to have backpack straps, which it was missing, and told me I should speak to the front about adjusting the price. When I was ready to check out, the cashier called a manager who told me they couldn't adjust the price because they use a "set pricing matrix", so now I have a bag missing parts for the same price as a bag that's not missing parts. I'm hoping the manufacturer will sell me a new pair of straps, but I'm not holding my breath. 3) When asking for MSR IsoPro fuel to use with my MSR Stove, an associate pointed me toward the GSI fuel and insisted it was the same thing. It's not. MSR IsoPro is 20% propane and 80% isobutane. GSI fuel is 25% propane, 70% isobutane, and 5% butane. MSR stoves are specifically designed for the 20:80 mix. When it comes to highly flammable and combustible fuel, I'm going to trust the manufacturer.

Jen Jaynes

I love REI and am a member. I was excited to visit a much larger store than my home St Louis store. This was a huge disappointment. I don't know what they're doing with all their space, but its definitely not backpacking gear. Poor selection of inflatable sleeping pads. Somehow had far less clothing than my smaller REI. The cashier misdirected me upstairs for their used gear, turns out they put a (very) small used section in each department. Probably much more useful for bikers and rock climbers, but as a backpacker, I was disappointed.

Mark Lind

I have been coming here since they opened, decades ago. Before that I went to the Berkeley store. The customer service has a feel of a co-op, and I love getting dividends for the purchases I make during the year. They have everything someone who likes being outdoors would want or need.

Kevin Sutter

Today Kent, at REI in Concord, was super-helpful in fitting me for a new backpack. I knew it was time for a new pack and he led me to the ideal choice. When I’m looking up toward Mount Ritter again, I’ll be thanking him!