REI is no longer a store we shop at after 20 years. I wanted to buy a canoe at the San Diego store and was asked to not come in with my small Laos Aapso NO DOGS ALOWED!!! I asked do you server... More

REI is no longer a store we shop at after 20 years. I wanted to buy a canoe at the San Diego store and was asked to not come in with my small Laos Aapso NO DOGS ALOWED!!! I asked do you server food? No! No Dogs Allowed the kid at the door said. Okay see you. We will not be back ever. Pros: None Cons: No Dogs
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I have been an REI customer for 30 years, and have shopped at sporting goods stores all over the planet. True, if you are looking for cheap, army-surplus type goods here, you won't find 'em, and... More

I have been an REI customer for 30 years, and have shopped at sporting goods stores all over the planet. True, if you are looking for cheap, army-surplus type goods here, you won't find 'em, and true if you are a gearhead looking for only the rarest and most esoteric specialty equipment, you won't find it here. They do have very good, well-tested equipment, outdoor clothing and supplies. On busy weekends you will have to wait for service, esp. where you need a fit like boots or skis. The staff is generally friendly and knowlegable and willing to refer you to another store in town if they don't have what you need. Overall, a first-class operation.
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Mixed feelings...not sure whether to give three or four stars. I know its their flagship store, a wide swathe of the best in outdoors gear, and certainly the staff are great. But it is a little... More

Mixed feelings...not sure whether to give three or four stars. I know its their flagship store, a wide swathe of the best in outdoors gear, and certainly the staff are great. But it is a little too much like a department store for outdoors enthusiasts. I have to admit that I found the best pair of sandals (Chaco) anywhere--and I looked for quite a while at some pretty awful brands like Dr. Martens (good if you have rhinoceros-type feet and ankles), Birkenstock (not built for heavy-duty wear), Columbia (crummy), as well as Teva (the next best), Clark's (the most comfortable), etc. Really do like the way it has been designed to accommodate the waterfall and boulders and shrubs outside. Also a nice location in Cascadia near I-5 away from the Pike-Pine corridor. Flooded with people all the time... In some ways, though liked the old Capitol Hill store, less glitz, less of a one huge warehouse on five or so levels ("Pacific Place" for the outdoors crowd"?). Definitely appreciate that it's a consumer co-op, not just a mega commercial sporting goods retailer. No pushy store clerks, everyone seems genuinely helpful. Pricey, but they carry only top-quality (not the "top") brands. No junk (think of Big-Five Sporting Goods) to stumble upon, walk out the door with, and throw out in the dumpster a month or two later. Also, there are frequent sales and mark-downs.
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This is a store I keep going back to for shoes, coats, rain jackets, camping stuff, and gifts. Can always find a knickknack of some sort for anyone of any age. Pros: Very cool store, love going... More

This is a store I keep going back to for shoes, coats, rain jackets, camping stuff, and gifts. Can always find a knickknack of some sort for anyone of any age. Pros: Very cool store, love going inside, service Cons: None
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they have a great selection and friendly staff---lots to see and a great room for maps! they also have a little food cafe that works out well.

they have a great selection and friendly staff---lots to see and a great room for maps! they also have a little food cafe that works out well.
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Rei is a top notch store. They have everything that you could ever think of for the outdoors. The people are kind and knowledgeable. If something doesn't work out they will definitely take care of... More

Rei is a top notch store. They have everything that you could ever think of for the outdoors. The people are kind and knowledgeable. If something doesn't work out they will definitely take care of you.
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I'm a hiker and this is where I get my food, equipment, boots, and whatever else I need for a trip. They carry everything one could possibly need in a store that is decorated for the outdoors lover.

I'm a hiker and this is where I get my food, equipment, boots, and whatever else I need for a trip. They carry everything one could possibly need in a store that is decorated for the outdoors lover.
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If your looking for anything outdoors REI is it. Not just camping and hiking, but bikes, skis and more. They have their own brand as well and quality is the best.

If your looking for anything outdoors REI is it. Not just camping and hiking, but bikes, skis and more. They have their own brand as well and quality is the best.
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REI is the best for outdoor gear and they have great customer service. They are extremely knowledgeable and never pressure you to buy. We have been pleased with everything we have gotten there.

REI is the best for outdoor gear and they have great customer service. They are extremely knowledgeable and never pressure you to buy. We have been pleased with everything we have gotten there.
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REI is a great place to go for any of your outdoor needs. The staff is very helpful and gives great advice on anything that you need to buy. We have never had any problems with anything that we... More

REI is a great place to go for any of your outdoor needs. The staff is very helpful and gives great advice on anything that you need to buy. We have never had any problems with anything that we have bought here.
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