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December 2023 by Olivia J.
Selection:I'm happy to share my wonderful experience at REI, which is my go-to shop for all my outdoor adventures. This store is an absolute paradise for outdoor enthusiasts like myself, it offers a vast selection of high-quality gear for every kind of outdoor activity, including backpacking, biking, rock climbing, hiking, and camping.Service:I had the pleasure of working with Troy, who helped me pick out the right backpack for my height. He was patient, informative, and I learned not all hiking packs are created equal. It was so easy to make a decision after Troy added weights to the backpacks and I walked around the store to simulate a fully loaded pack.Value:This location also has a pre-owned section where I can save on expensive gear.Overall:I highly recommend the REI store for all your outdoor adventure needs. With their friendly service, a large selection of outdoor gear, a pre-owned section, and a satisfaction guarantee, you can't go wrong with this store.*Sign up for the REI CO-OP FOR EXTRA SAVINGS and rewards.
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October 2023 by Jeff Zillmer
I bought a new bike and rode to the store. I had a question about hitching a trailer to the bike for towing my kids, the employee found a technician who came outside and examined the bike and made a suggestion for attaching the trailer. Great customer service with friendly people who actually want to help!
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October 2023 by Edrika G.
All of the associates that assisted me were knowledgeable, courteous, and IMO went above and beyond to meet my needs and/or answer my questions!I came in to get my feet measured and make sure my 'boot plan' for trekking Mount Kilimanjaro was a good one. The gentleman in the shoe department looked at the boots I had (I brought them in), gave his suggestions, and pointed out the various categories of boots. He also suggested several marino wool sock options (thin vs thick). I appreciated his cheerful assistance.Next, I needed a jacket. A WARM jacket for summit night. I'm talking 800-fill, down warm. Adrian suggest several options to include one (Big Agnus) I was looking at on-line that they did not have in the store. Being in the store was helpful for sizing references. Which also came in useful for the rain pants I needed. I ended up purchasing in-store versus a pair I saw on-line that fit better and had the zipper option up the side of the leg. That'll definitely come in handy for putting them on when I'm already dressed, to get over my boots.Lastly, I needed a duffel bag. The one the porters will be carrying up the mountain with my sleeping gear and extra clothes. The store associate who helped with this decision was extremely helpful. He said, 'If you get a bigger bag you'll just fill it because you have the room', which is so true. So, we'll see if everything fits in this smaller version. What's so great about REI is the fact that you have an entire year to return. That's CLUTCH! I had a question about air mattresses and was given a tutorial and the several brands available at REI, the R rating, the wide and warm, etc. I tell you what, these people really know their stuff! I guess if I loved to camp, fish, etc., I'd probably want a job here as well. Some of their items are a bit more than I care to spend, but in the end I believe it's all worth it. This is a good store.
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August 2023 by Amy E.
Good variety. All on one level. A little smaller than some REI stores, but I like that because everything is so easy to find!! Wish I lived closer to this store...
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June 2023 by Ashley P.
Great service!! The person who helped us was very informative when it comes to bikes and helpful.
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April 2023 by Karin M.
Drove way out of our way to stop in and pickup a few items for our upcoming trip, including a swim vest for our pup who accompanied us on the outing. Management swooped in to tell us Finn, our 15 lb Border Terrier, wasn't welcome. Go figure - an outdoor store that sells pet products doesn't allow them in?? He visited the REI a month or so ago in DC and was welcomed with open arms. I called the north Bethesda REI and they said "Please, bring him!! We LOVE dogs!!! Columbia - u really suck. We will not be back.
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July 2022 by L Jean T.
This place has the worst customer service. People standing around and when you ask about an item you looking for they point in the direction. Then this little girl said" Oh you need sun protection"....I wanted an SPF shirt. DO NOT GO IN THIS STORE.....They would rather help someone with less Color. I was walking around in circles. They really need a diversity and where everything in the store is training.
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May 2022 by Courtney K.
Bottom Line: Large and organized recreation gear store with knowledgeable employees but a tad pricey.I'm a big fan of the REI store in Columbia for several reasons. First, I like the location because its in a low-traffic strip mall so parking is easy and the lot isn't too nutty like so many shopping centers in the area. Also, the store seems to have a good selection and it is well organized. Its easy to find what you need but if you need some assistance the staff is really helpful in talking through features of gear. I also like that they carry quality brands in addition to their own brand. As many other reviews have mentioned, REI is not inexpensive and often the same items can be found elsewhere for less. REI offers a $30 lifetime membership where you can earn money back on your purchases but I think the membership is more about a sense of belonging versus saving money. To give a sense of what they carry, today's purchases were a Black Diamond headlamp, men'sPatagonia puffy coat and women's Athleta joggers but I also spent a good bit of time looking at DarnTough socks, Hydroflask drink wear and Osprey luggage. My husband was lost in a sea of kayaks, bike accessories and tents. My only regret is that I didn't pick up the Sasquatch Field Guide! Drats, next time.
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April 2022 by Mark B.
I find REI to be overpriced. The quality of their products is fine, but there seems to be a premium required once you enter their store.
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December 2021 by jhjonesjr2
Great service at the bike department. Very professional staff.
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December 2021 by Moody Blues
George and David in the bike shop are super caring, friendly & hardworking employees! Wonderful bike service!
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July 2021 by Joan L.
Outdoor gear, cold weather clothing, worth out clothing, pet toys, lawn chairs...you name it, you can find it at REI! Stopped here to get 16 year old some clothes for school in Connecticut. Thus REI is smaller than others I have been to. However, the staff was super friendly and helpful. Two staff members spent lots of time helping us find the perfect medium weather winter coat. I joined the REI club to get cash back on purchases. Even the checkout person knowledgeable and helpful. Looking forward to trying the S FL location.
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December 2020 by Mr King. Big Daddy Reviews
I honestly would have to say this place is awesome the customer service not judging people when they walk in the store not necessarily based on race the based on what kind of bikes people bring to their attention the staff was very friendly positive help me all out a lot they have my business especially and compared to the local stores surrounding them I'd recommend everyone go here 1st
