It began with the search for an ice ax to be used for mountaineering and resulted in 23 enthusiasts coming together to create a co-op for outdoor gear. The search and successful discovery of an Austrian ax that cost only $3.50 with shipping, caused the group to come together to try to offer other outdoorsman and women the essential tools of the trade they always seemed to be looking for. What began in Seattle, quickly spread and ended up leading to the company that REI is today.
This company is quite unique in that it still runs as a co-op retailer and returns a large percentage of the profits to its members. The bottom line is that this outfit still is more concerned with providing outdoor enthusiasts with the tools they need to enjoy the great outdoors than just turning a profit.
In fact, REI is about more than selling products; it is also about providing information for the members. Not only that but this is also a great way to connect with others and find out about company sponsored camping or outdoor excursions. Customers can also be sure that when they shop with REI, they can get expert advice from the staff who are also knowledgeable on all things outdoor related.
Those who love to take advantage of outdoor adventures can find all things related to these types of activities when you shop REI Outlets.
- Camping
- Climbing
- Cycling
- Hiking
- Trail walking
- Paddling and other water sports
- Skiing and other snow sports
- Outdoor travel
If you have never checked out REI before, now is a good time to give it a try. If you are interested in outdoor activities, there are so many good reasons to love REI and the products they offer their customers and members. Check out one of the REI Outlets in your neck of the woods and then get out and explore your neck of the woods.
Top Sellers for a Top Notch Brand
REI sells a wide variety of products for a wide variety of outdoor activities. Instead of trying to divide up top sellers in each of the numerous divisions of what REI sells, here is a look at some of their popular items regardless of category.
- Gregory Baltoro 75 Pack – For any hiker or avid camper the backpack is an important and essential tool, and finding the right one is a difficult task to accomplish. Many outdoor enthusiasts swear by this pack. The EVA foam padding and lumbar pad are just two things that make this a great choice. If you are looking to store all your gear without being weighed down, this could be the perfect pack for you.
- Black Diamond Storm Headlamp – One reason so many people love this product is that it can hold up to the most extreme conditions, which is crucial as that is often when you need it the most. This version also has a dimmer switch as well as some other features that make it such a best seller.
- La Sportiva Nago Rock Shoes – All climbing shoes with Vibram have become popular, but this version by REI for both men and women is a top seller in the industry. These are ideal for Alpine climbs that require endurance. You get the ultimate in both performance as well as comfort.
- BOB Revolution SE Stroller – This is perfect for parents on the go and those who like the option of jogging with baby. It’s known for being durable as well as a best seller because of the front wheel tracking that helps you stay on course easier and more accurately. Parents also love the multi-position canopy feature of the BOB Revolution SE Stroller.
- NRS Maverick Paddling Gloves – If you want comfort as well as control when it comes to your paddling gloves, this could be the best pair for you. These gloves are also well known and respected for the ability to retain heat, which makes paddling on cold or windy days that much more bearable. Users also love the easy “roll on” approach to putting them on.
Shopping for Steals & Deals
REI works hard to keep prices competitive and low for customers shopping its traditional retail locations. For that reason you may want to look for a location in your area, but can still shop the unique online “outlet” store through REI. A few of the most popular, newest retail locations are:
- REI Soho in The Puck Building on Lafayette Street in New York, New York
- REI Dublin on Amador Plaza Road in Dublin, California
- REI Greenville on Woodruff Road in Greenville, South Carolina
- REI Santa Barbara located on Anacapa Street in Santa Barbara, California
- REI Castleton found on Castleton Corner Drive in Indianapolis, Indiana
All throughout the East Coast, West Coast and Mid West, plenty of REI locations can be found to get your outdoor adventure gear. For those who are not near an REI store or who want to look for even better deals on merchandise from this brand, shopping online for retail or REI Outlets merchandise is a great option. When it comes to getting the best of the best in outdoor equipment and apparel, few brands come close to offering the quality and high level of performance of REI.