REI

Stop playing with my daughter on our recent trip to St. Louis. We jumped in the store and were greeted by one of the workers. We headed to the back right corner so we could check out the resupply section. They had a lot of really good deals there. It was raining so we decided to walk around the store for a little. This REI is not the biggest one that I’ve ever seen, but they do have a good selection. The first floor primarily has gear. You could find a backpack, something for biking, a canoe, or something for rock climbing. We moved up to the top floor and that is where we primarily found clothing and shoes. The restrooms were also located on the top floor. The staff was great and the store was super clean.

Aarin in shoes was amazing. He took time to answer my million questions and was very knowledgeable. He also helped several others. You could tell he wants to help people find the right shoe for them. I then watched the two ladies in backpacks fit individuals and answer my questions. They suggest I bring back my backpack and they will help me ensure I have it fitted properly. Awesome store and will be back.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I had such a great experience at REI thanks to Paul! I stopped in without an appointment, just looking to buy a replacement cord for my tent poles, but Paul went above and beyond. Not only did he replace my tent poles cord quickly and affordably while I shopped, but he also took the time to teach me a few tricks for future repairs. He was super kind, patient, and incredibly knowledgeable. The whole experience was seamless, and I left feeling more confident about my gear. If you ever need help with your outdoor equipment, Paul is the best! 🙌🏼🏕️

What a great shop! I wish I had more time to explore, but my partner and I were on a mission: She had purchased a new kayak that has been shipped there, and we went to pick it up. She had purchased a roof rack for her small sedan without rails, and had set it all up in the days leading up to the pickup... Upon arrival, we were greeted immediately, and she completed the administrative tasks. Two female associates showed her how to properly and safely lift and carry the sit-in kayak, and have some pointers on how to load it onto the J-rack. After we loaded it onto the car and strapped it down, one of the associates even came back out checked our rigging and offered friendly feedback and hints. The only (minor) issue was merely logistical - there is no "official" loading area. Fortunately, there happened to be a vacant parking space next to a "curbside pickup" space, so it worked out nicely. Thanks for making this such a great experience!

I was in the market for a Thule roof box, but dreading the purchase and installation. After installing crossbars on the SUV, I headed to REI ready for what I thought was an inevitable headache. I had a friend on standby to come help if needed. Instead, the folks at REI made the process super easy. Peter at REI in Brentwood explained how the box worked, helped me carried the already cardboard free box out to the car, and helped me hoist it up. He then gave me tips about use, the keys, and install. The REI crew throughout the store was super helpful and friendly, and Peter went above and beyond. Instead of a headache, it was a five star experience!

Pros - Staff members were friendly and helpful, especially Taylor, Dayna, CC, and Aspen. - Store was organized and clean - Restroom: 2nd floor, clean - Check out line was short and quick Notes (some details may vary depending on location, so double check with your local store) - Upcoming sales: 1) Gear Up Get Out Sale event 2022: 11/12- 11/21 2) Cyber Monday 2022: 11/26-12/5 - Trade-in section (to buy need membership): on 1st floor, all the way back on the right side - Current promotion (as of 10/26/22) 1) $30 bonus (basically covers the life time membership fee) with purchase of $50 worth of items 2) 10% off full price socks if purchase 3 pairs

Absolutely a great experience. Everyone seemed very helpful and friendly. Bought a pair of altra running shoes and a pair of Topo running shoes. Will definitely be back to check out the rest of the store.

Mike at the bike shop is beyond helpful and runs an amazing shop. You can tell his passion for his craft and it shows in all he does! He ensured my new bike got expertly set up while answering any of my trivial beginner MTB questions, I know I’ll be coming back to him for any issues

My wife and I are going hiking and camping soon. We went to look around for day packs, etc. ended up finding a Camelback day pack for $49.95! They had a good selection of steel liquid containers which we were also looking for. Service was pretty good. The sales people on the floor were attentive. There were not quite enough people to check everyone out though as there was quite a long line and we were there 17 minutes after they opened.

Ok I'd like to state all the employees were extremely nice however they only had one register and the clerk was going over a membership while 5 people waited in line. Me and my group had easily over 300$ worth of stuff however after waiting in line for 15 minutes because they're trying to sell a 30$ membership with only one clerk we decided to put are stuff back and leave. So very nice employees but you can chose if you're willing to wait and listen to a membership instead of just getting in and out of the store

I absolutely LOVE this REI! The staff is so helpful, and they know everything about, well everything outdoors! I typically hate going into stores to shop, but I love coming in here, if even just to buy a pair of sunglasses, I still like to peruse the whole store, just to see what new gear is out, and I'm often tempted to leave with more than I intended to get...like Target, lol...go in there for one thing, leave with spending way more than intended, so be careful! They also love my doggy, and even announce when I bring her into the store to the other store associates! They're the best! I'm so happy to have them so close to home!

A child literally screamed in my face! It made my experience at the store awful. The children in there were running around and screaming. Someone's child just screamed in my face. Safe to say i'll be ordering from online now or shopping elsewhere.

I can't believe I haven't reviewed REI yet but I rave about them all the time & recommend anyone looking to buy a pack go there. I went for myself and was fitted, the staff spent 30 min recommending packs, having me try them on, fill them with weights, etc. It was so helpful I took my kids back the next time to get fitted and had a great experience with that, too! They take their time to explain products from packs to coolers to sleeping pads, and it doesn't feel sales pitchy to me at all.

Flat rear tire...NO PROBLEM. Simply took it to the original StL REI and Nick (Manager) and his fantastic Team put in a new tube while I waited. But, they didn't just put in a new tube...they inspected and made an adjustment to inside the rim that should help prevent flats in the future. Nick and his Team always go the extra mile...with a smile on their face and the expertise to fix any bike issue...large or small. The StL REI Original store is simply THE BEST BIKE SHOP IN ST LOUIS. Period. Also want to say... CONGRATULATIONS SUSIE...for being named the Manager of the REI Bike Shop in West County StL. With Susie in charge, I've no doubt the new location will be as friendly, professional, swift and excellent as the original location. Great choice REI...well done Susie!!!! John B

This place. WOW. First off, don't bother trying on any of the merchandise, at least not in the women's fitting room, because the lighting is awful. Is there a lightbulb shortage? It's literally so dark in there you can barely see what you have on. If you come out of the fitting room trying to see how it looks/fits there is only one small thin mirror on the other side of the door. Secondly, the store has too much merchandise crammed into a building that is too small so the racks are all on top of each other and difficult to browse. As if all that wasn't bad enough I get to the register to pay for everything and she informs me they aren't giving people bags anymore and asks if I want a box. I replied "you don't use bags anymore but you uses boxes? She responded "we are using the small boxes the merchandise comes in, would you like one?" I said, no, I'm not at Costco, I just spent $600. so it would be nice to have a bag to carry my things out to the car." She just gave me a dead behind the eyes look. For anyone who's ever shopped here, you know it's pricey... at the very least they should be giving customers a damn bag. I have been to REI's all over the country and this one is the worst. The whole thing was a very unpleasant experience. I won't be back.

I love just walking around REI. I want to buy every single item in the store . . . until I see the price tag. REI has top of the line camping, hiking, and general outdoor gear. I have bought backpacks, clothes, shoes and everything you can think of from the store in Brentwood. However I normally wait until they have a sale to do so. I also want to point out that they have semi-regular garage sales where they sell outdated or returned merchandise at severely discounted prices. If you go you can get some great deals, but you need to get in line by 6am or so (for a 9am opening). The staff is always helpful, and I really think it is a well run company. The store is clean and easy to navigate. REI also offers a selection of classes that you can attend. Some are free if you are a Co-Op member ($20 one time fee), and others cost a nominal fee. The Co-op membership is great. 10% back on full priced items and regular coupons. I also got the REI credit card which is another 5% back at REI and 2% on groceries (1% all other).

I have been to Many REI's across the country and have never met a more UNFRIENDLY staff. I felt like I was not wanted in the store at all. In my experience if everyone on the staff is this unfriendly it's a MANAGERIAL PROBLEM, so I will not put any of the regular employees on blast. I am ex-military and it literally felt I was in bootcamp again where everyone is just being an A** Hole for no reason. I am coming back here within the week to return something and if it's the same vibe I will do another review under this one.

Coming from the Bay Area where there are 4 REIs all within driving distance, this store actually has everything all of those stores have except for skis and snowboards. I come here almost every week to browse and also see what deals are going on for my camping and backpacking adventures. The staff is always friendly and I have never been disappointed in any of the gear from here. The compass and navigation workshop (formally class) was also really hands on and informative which was great. My instructor was Nick and he was very resourceful and patient with the class of around 5 of us. One of the employees, Matt, even helped us out with figuring out where we were on the map too. I recommend all the classes as I have also been to several at the Berkeley, California location as well. If I could afford to buy everything in the store, I probably would!

When I am in the market for gear this is one of my go-to places. They may not have everything I need but they are extremely helpful when I have questions. I spent a of time going over energy sources for a bike ride. Another time on bike pumps, and other times with shoes, clothing, and camping gear. They seem to hire people who know and use the products. I always enjoy going to this store.

As a former Boy Scout and current secret spy, I love browsing REI for camping equipment and survival gear. It's top of the line stuff so expect it to be a little pricey. I wish I was on a hike right now!

Awesome customer service. Had an order that shipped late and they were super helpful in resolving it.

I'm surprised this does not have a better yelp score. I thought the selection was great, the service was on point, and the location itself was neat and organized/easy to navigate. I am a big fan of REI, I wish I could buy everything in the store. When I lived in Denver, they had a huge REI location, but I actually preferred this location over that one. The staff here was friendly and helpful, which are a big part of the reason I shop at REI when I am back in the states.

I was very impressed with the friendliness of the staff at REI. My friend was searching for a compass and the salesperson went above and beyond helping him find the right product for him, he learned more about compass that he ever needy to know. I wondered around the store. I could not believe all of the choices for hiking, I feel like I could survive years in the woods with all of the dehydrated food packages. I checked out the paddleboards. Not many to choose from but all fun options. I am in need of a new bike helmet, they only had two helmets. I did find one that I liked but it was $70, yes I would like to keep my brain intact, but I thought that was a little steep. Luckily, when my friend checked out he got a $20 off coupon and passed it along to me.... I will be back to get the helmet. Thank you REI.

For those of you who do not know what REI stands for it is, Real Expensive Inventory. It may be expensive, but you will get what you pay for and that is quality. Since it is so expensive, I do not think I have ever paid full price for anything here, I patiently wait for that magical word, "CLEARANCE" to appear on top of the various racks and those are the only racks I allow myself to shop. REI was part of our search for yoga socks, don't know why we called a outdoor, camping and biking store for yoga stuff, but we did and to our surprise they had them. Well at least the person who answered the phone said they did, when we got there we found out otherwise. Terminology is very important in retail, all five toe socks are not yoga socks. (We did find out later, REI only has yoga socks on line) Explaining what we needed and wanted, the sales professional in shoes introduced us to Vibram Five Finger shoes. These are some wicked shoes, each toe has it's very own slot to slide in, making them weird looking and not a good fashion statement. May not be fashionable, but they will help us keep that New Years Resolution of living a healthier life style. The shoes he showed us were pricey and not on sale. Not wanting to spend the $$'s, he suggested that we go home and check the clearance section at REI.com and perhaps we'd find a pair there. We are so glad he did, because looking at the ones on line we discovered TheShoeMart. com and they had a pair for a 1/3 of the cost at REI was charging. REI may have lost the sale, but he offered up some good customer service. Since I haven't reviewed REI before, I do want to give them a couple of good shout outs. I bought my sailing jacket here and love it. It is lightweight, hooded, keeps me dry in the rain and is perfect for late in the season late night boating on the Mississippi with the family. Also, my job requires me to be outside at times and with winter winds, the silk long underwear from REI is the best I have found. Who'd have thought silk would keep you warm and toasty. I may not be the typical REI customer, but when I need their products, I do love them and love them more when they are on sale.

I think we all know what REI is all about, its a co-op type retail for the active/outdoorsie types. they offer dividend at the end of the year and believe me the dividend and discounts you get once a year are for real. It's very much worth signing up for them and there is minimal if any SPAM. This particular outlet is well run, clean and staffed with very helpful and knowledgable people. They are as cheerful and attentive for a return as they are for a sale. In my recent visit here I had 20% off coupon and a credit from my annual dividend and only knew I wanted some kind of foot ware. Jill in shoes was terrific, helpful without treating me like the clueless dolt I actually was. If you need real advice about well made outdoor gear this is the place. Also worth mentioning some of the best warranty policies in the business.

I've been an REI co-op member forever. I can't say I shop there all that often recently though. No particular reason why. I had a disappointing visit to Nordstrom Rack looking for gloves so I went over to REI because I knew they'd have something I would want. I settled on a pair of black Mountain Hardwear gloves. The gloves feature stretch-fleece fabric embedded with touch-screen compatibility. It's not just the finger tips! So great! I love my new gloves and I always end up back at REI! Service is always friendly and the cashier thanked me for being a member.

Love this store. Everything you could possibly need to enjoy the great outdoors. Staff is always helpful and friendly

Great selection overall. I called in advance as I was looking for a specific yoga mat and they located and told me color selection and prices. I was able to go in to buy it and staff were very helpful, large selection of outdoor gear, clothes, accessories, etc. Parking - plenty of spots and easy to find this store Prices - standard for REI, I used my dividends this time to purchase. FYI - sign up to be a member if you're not, worth it if you shop here more than a couple times.

I absolutely love REI! We go hiking almost every weekend. Whether it is in the summer heat or winter chill. PRO: Friendly and helpful staff. Variety of outdoor equipment. Decent variety of inventory. CON: Everything is quite expensive.

I have really mixed feelings for REI. Their stuff is quality stuff...so I don't mind paying premium price for it...most of the time. Sometimes I cheat and stand there with my phone to see if I can get it cheaper somewhere else. But you know, when you're outdoors away from civilization and cell phone service, you don't want your gear to fail on you (I'm not talking about being at Castlewood). So I pony up the dollars to make sure that my gear is not going to be my cause of death. However, their sales force is just so hit and miss, which makes me subtract that other star. I've never been asked if I needed help, but when I've asked for it, it's friendly, but not always knowledgeable. Good thing I am best friends with Dr. Google; he answers everything for me. And the employees do like to chat with each other more than work the floor. Last time I was there shopping for Christmas, three of them were talking to each other about handicaps, and I overheard the girl say to the two guys: "I'd love to have a wheelchair. It'd be easier than walking.". There are so many things wrong with that comment...I am still trying to get over it! In REI no less! Even more ironically, when I approached the trio about finding some pants in a different size, she was the only one who was enthused about helping me while the two guys studied the floor intensely. REI also does classes, some of them free; it's worth checking out. New to me are their local hikes which is very neat! .

Rei has everything from the outdoor enthusiasts to a random need for a spontaneous camping trip or adventure. My husband is a rock climber and loves going to take advantage of any sale or points he may have on his account. If you love camping, traveling, and cycling, check it out. Also great for winter coats and accessories.

I've been going to REI in Brentwood for years for biking, hiking, camping needs and more. The employees have always been super helpful. Today was no exception. I don't wear hats, but my dermatologist told me recently I should start to always wear a hat to avoid too much sun exposure when doing outside activities. My dermatologist is a smart guy so off I go to my favorite outdoor store to see what hats they have. They have a good selection. I try some on and find one I like (the REI Wombat). Problem is, they have medium and XL but no large. Medium felt like it fit okay, but as I got to the register I was wondering how a large would feel. I asked the cashier what she thought. She was super helpful and said "that looks a little tight, lets see if we can find you a large". She looks it up in their system and it shows they have a couple in inventory. She goes to the back and a few minutes later comes out with a large and it fits perfect! Super helpful! I should've gotten her name so I could thank her here, but I didn't think of it at the time. My email receipt says "Employee #: 145041". So thank you employee #145041, you rock!!! One other thing about REI: You can of course drop serious amounts of $$$ there. I mean they have some of the best of the best outdoor equipment, mountaineering equipment, etc, etc that is pro quality. And that's cool - there's a place for that type of high end quality - yes, a pro cyclist does need a 10 lb bike to get whatever edge they can possibly get when the average enthusiast doesn't. But don't think you're always going to have to pay insane amounts for things. For example, the REI line is *very* reasonably priced in my opinion and in my experience has always been high quality. Example: Looking at their website right now I see you can get a 2 person REI brand dome tent for $100 normal price (keep in mind, they frequently have 20% coupons and if you're a member you get a purchase percent back so you're never paying retail). Looking at Walmart's website you can get a 2 person dome tent for $32. I *guarantee* you the quality between the two will be a day and night difference. Say you use that REI tent 20 times. At the end of those 20 times you'll still have a quality tent in *very* good condition that will continue to serve you well dozens more times. I doubt you'll be able to say the same thing about the cheap Walmart tent. Just sayin'...

It's medium-sized as an REI goes (has 2 story layout). Parking can be tight due to sharing a lot with Whole Foods, but if you avoid peak grocery shopping and/or meal times, it's usually not too bad. There are never enough salespeople, particularly cashiers, at this location. Since there aren't any other REIs in Missouri (at least the last time I checked), I suppose people may not realize that other REIs do much better on this front or if they do know, it's not like they have any other options. This lack of staff is mainly why this location gets only 3 stars.

Mixed feelings on this place. First, it is indeed pricey but watch for clearance deals online or special sales in shop. Membership is totally worth it; you pay a 1-time up-front fee and just make a purchase annually and you get killer discounts and access to special sales as well as getting money back based on how much you spend. Those discounts also apply to trips. I haven't taken one yet but we're talking like $1800 off sometimes so check it out. Now that I've talked up the chain, let's talk about the Brentwood store. First, can I say anymore about how I hate all Brentwood parking lots? Apparently I can because this one is still horrible. Next, first floor staff is distant but helpful if they see you. Second floor staff needs to get it together. The shoe area is really what I have to mention. Twice now I've gone in and looked at shoes in that "I'm super serious about this pair, let's get it done" kind of way, attempted to talk to a clerk only to be ignored or to literally have one walk past me and help another guy who kept insisting he was just looking. He went and grabbed that guy 4 pairs that he didn't even try on while I tried to wait patiently. The minute my husband tries to flag him down, he immediately wants to help...then he learns it is for me. I get it, my husband wears flannel and has a lumberjack beard and I made the mistake of showering that day but do not give me attitude when I ask to try on 2 pairs I have researched. Yes, I do indeed know how boots are sized. Yes, I have indeed hiked before and plan to again if only I can get a new pair of shoes since I wore my last pair out. When I needed socks, the clerk in that area immediately spoke to me, assessed my skill level and goals for the next 6 months and helped me select a new liner to try. She said if I liked them I should come back just after Christmas as they are usually part of their sale then. Helpful and treated me like a person. If only the shoe section could get it together like that.

A large store with a small tent/shelter section but an impressive bike section. They also have a lot of paddling gear AND a rock-climbing spire. (Open Tu/Th/Fr evenings and Sat. daytime.) Unlike most REI's I've visited, this one only allows service animals, not all dogs.

I have a membership here and use the coupons quite frequently. Allot of things are overpriced but I think for the selection and quality of Knowledge and service you get sometimes paying more seems not so bad. I always get my shoes here and I will find something I like and get 2 pairs so I don't have to go searching all over to find the shoe I like. I love the rock they have in the shoe area so you can test the shoes or boots you are getting on something similar to what you might be climbing on. I also have been picking up some bike gear when I need it in a hurry. I like that they have things out so you can mess with them, like the bike lights. Coupons and my dividend are a freakin awesome deal. Usually 20% off on the coupons and 10% back on most items. I also love the 100% satisfaction guaranty. I had some shoes that I wore for about 3 months and they started ripping in a none stressed part of the shoe and they took them back and gave me full credit. Who else does that I mean seriously. Found a different shoe and I was on my way. Love it.

REI is a great catch-all spot when you're lookin' for some outdoorsy/athletic stuff. I actually popped by this one just to look around and what they had and see if I could find a gift for a friend. I ended up settling on a gift card (the best gift, right?) but the customer service was great! The staff were super helpful and answered any questions I had. Not too shabby!

I have been continually impressed with this location's customer service. Every time I walk in, I am greeted warmly and not bothered too much as I shop. However, there are always friendly sales people around to ask questions and they have perfected the art of timing when they approach me to ask if I need help to be precisely when I run into a question. Don't know how they do it. Recently, I went to buy something I saw that they had online. Their inventory wasn't correct so they weren't able to find exactly what I wanted in the color I wanted even though their inventory devices said there was one in the store. Understandable. My customer service rep was super helpful though. After looking throughout all of the store and having his manager help look and check in the back and all around, we concluded that it wasn't in-store so they ordered it online for me. Pick up in store from an online order is free so I did that. They send you three emails and in-store pickup option doesn't get you tracking, but the estimated arrival date was correct, and the final third email notified me correctly when it arrived in store. So overall, I had a great experience shopping there.

We love REI! While it is a smaller version of REI (you should see some of the ones in Salt Lake City), this is THE only REI store in Missouri, so we're lucky to have one. This is a co-op store, and we bought our membership for almost nothing. For that one-time fee, we get dividends (money back) each year that we can use toward purchases plus we get to take part in sales that the general public don't get access to. They have outstanding bicycles and bicycle service here and lots of canoeing/kayaking, and camping gear downstairs among other items. The entire upstairs is full of quality apparel, such as Marmot and North Face. There is a 2-story climbing wall in the front window as well, and the kids always love that.

I came here to buy some spinning shoes and cleats. I am not knowledgeable about spinning shoes AT ALL. The employees there were very helpful, and took me through the entire process without trying to push anything on me. Once I bought my spinning shoes and cleats, the friendly guy in the bike maintenance shop installed the cleats for me (for free!) Very nice. However, minus one star for the membership card they try to shove down your throat.

REI is a cool place for the extreme outdoorsy folks. I do not think I would ever purchase anything here for myself, but could see why it is is so popular. I had fun looking at all the fun little devices for surviving a week long camping trip. You looking for a portable shower? They've got it! The customer service was wonderful. I am not sure if these people work for commission, but the younger guy working in the hiking boot department was very helpful. They also sell the Vibram shoe line, which are hard to find. I was surprised that they did not have a larger selection of ski/snow jackets. I would definitely choose somewhere else when looking for a quality jacket that won't cost you over $200.

Outstanding place to get your outdoor gear. Really takes care of their customers. Credit to the community.

Yeah, I'm gonna need you to pay a lot extra at this place. Unfortunately, that is the solid truth. BUT...you are paying for what you get, which is high quality, unique, outdoorsy fun things. After all, It is in that somewhat snooty shopping center...next to Arhaus, Whole Foods, and other random stores I could care less about. I like Whole Foods...at times. I go here for specific things that are hard to come by without ordering online....not that ordering online is bad. Ordering from REI outlet online = GOOD! They have a lot of neat toys that cater to your every outdoor needs - cycling, running, hiking, kayaking, camping, etc, etc, etc. I go mostly for cycling but love looking at all the other items. It's a fun place to browse and dream. I found some super deals on bike gear via REI Outlet online too so be sure to check that out from time to time. They also have a cool member deal that actually pays you back depending on your purchase amounts...not to mention access to deals and coupons! If you have money to spend - then have a field day here. If not, then focus on the specifics and look for clearance and outlet deals. I am a fan but also chose to only utilize REI as needed primarily because of cost.

Camp! Climb! Cycle! Paddle! These verbs describe the main foci of Missouri's only REI outlet (Recreational Equipment, Inc.). When you're tired of inferior equipment, this is a good place to search for high-quality stuff. Best boots I've ever owned are REI, tested on the artificial rocks in the fitting area, and proven in the wilderness on backcountry trips with a 50 lb. pack -- no blisters! Packs, water filters, stoves, freeze-dried food, sleeping pads, bags, and tents that compare well with anything else you'll find in the STL area. Of course, you'll pay a premium price for the gear here, pain you can ameliorate by signing up for lifetime membership in the co-op, using your regular purchase dividends (payable annually), and getting on the e-mail distribution list for frequent sales. This may even be a fun browsing spot for your non-outdoorsy significant other, with lots of trendy outdoor clothing on the second floor of an open two-story design. Preventing a four-star rating is my impression that sometimes the staff seems unenthusiastic about interacting with customers, and unknowledgeable about the topic of inquiry. For the price paid, I expect someone who at least ACTS interested in helping me.

REI is one of my favorite places for outdoor gear. I first started shopping here a few years ago when I made my first serious run at getting fit. I was on the hunt for running shoes, and had heard they were carrying the Vibram Toe Shoes which were gaining popularity at the time. I was given a great amount of assistance from the staff, had lots of questions answered, and even had a few people come up and tell me their pros and cons on different types of running shoes. That experience was a great first impression. Since that visit, I've been back several times for heart rate monitor watches, (lost one, bought a second one) clothing, and other stuff. Today I stopped in to get a new watch band for my Polar watch, to no avail. These bands are a bit trickier than I had thought, and will probably need to contact the company to get mine fixed. My second intended purchase was a blu-tooth monitor to pair with my iPhone, which they were out of. Regardless of the let down in being out of stock on this item, and not carrying the other, the staff was very helpful and gave me some options on how to get the stuff I need. They even gave me the stock info for the monitor so I could go to the website and find the exact one I need. I will warn that REI does tend to be on the high side in price. I've shopped other retailers for stuff in the past, primarily my Polar watch, and found better pricing elsewhere. However, I'm a bit of a geek when it comes to rewarding retailers who employ knowledgeable people, so despite higher prices, I've tried to buy from REI as often as possible. I hate the idea of rewarding crappy service just to save 10%, not to mention having to drive across town just to save a few bucks.

They really do push the hell out of the membership card, but I don't mind since I already have one. It really is a do-everything place for the outdoor enthusiast. I sometimes think their gear is a little over-priced, but still of a better than average quality and the convenience is enough for me given that they are a couple blocks away. Their bike shop is solid. Nothing fantastic, but solid. I will continue to take my girlfriend's bike here for yearly tune-ups and maintenance, but I will prefer to take my Trek to the Trek store out in Ballwin. We have had tremendous service here over the past year and plenty of help when we were looking for a hitch-mounted bike rack which we knew nothing about.

REI is one of my favorite places to get my outdoor gear. Whether it's for camping, biking, whitewater rafting or for a nice pair of hiking shoes. They have excellent customer service and are always willing to take a return or exchange. This location in particular is a little on the small side. Obviously, not their fault, but they do not have the choices to which I am accustomed. I use to visit the downtown Denver location quite regularly when I lived there. That place is amazing! I get it though, this isn't Denver and the choices for outdoor activities here in The Lou are much more limited than CO. My reason for not giving five-star rating: There have been a couple of times, while shopping for hiking shoes, that I've been treated a little less than perfect. It seems there is always just one employee in the shoe department and that seems to always be the busiest department. I understand it can be difficult for one person to service several, but I am not a demanding person and can see when someone is clearly overwhelmed by the number of customers. What I don't like is being treated as though I'm the one being troublesome. I'm always very friendly and willing to wait the extra few minutes to allow someone else to be helped, but when I do get my chance I like to have the respect and general politeness that I have given. I always say, if you don't like your job then find another one. I've had bad jobs and I've found others. Being unhappy at your work doesn't help the situation. If you purchase a lot of equipment such as camping, climbing, etc. it's a good idea to join their rewards program. If you're just getting some gloves or the occasional jacket it may not be worth it. Check into it .

Footwear staff was nice but not informative. Gear is top notch. Customer service was not there at the check out. Came in to use my dividend, spent an hour in the store and tried on about eight pairs of shoes. when I arrived at the register I was told my dividend coupon was expired and could not be used. I did not and will not purchase anything at this Brentwood REI ever again. I will take my money to local shops like alpine shop or Gander Mountain in Fenton, Mo where they give great customer service. When you are about to lose a sale you take care of the customer....in this case they lost a customer because of it.

Love REI. Nice place. Great service. Shop here all the time!

The staff that was walking around the store were very friendly... It was the cashiers that were imposing I join their membership or what have you. I know they are required to ask but when I declined to do so both times I have been belittled and made to feel stupid for not taking on the savings... I know this is partly because they are expected to sign so many people on... But it definitely has left a bad taste.

I am an avid REI shopper. They have the best selection of Smart Wool socks and they usually run sales on them, which is awesome since they are a bit pricey! I have purchased coats, and boots and backpacks and gear from this REI and never had an issue. They have an unbelievable return policy and if you are part of their membership you get discounts sent to you and perks yearly. The people at this REI are always friendly and helpful. I have experienced this type of customer service at all the REI's I have shopped at. They value their customers and in return the customers stay loyal to shopping here. I know the prices can be a bit steep but I would buy from REI in a heart beat than any other store because of the customer service and return policy.

There are things about REI that I love: -their unlimited return policy (I can buy hiking boots, do a 10-mile hike in them, realize they kill my feel, and return them without any questions from the store) -the look and feel of the store -their selection -their dividends program -tent sales and other co-op member incentives There are some things I don't like quite as much: -Prices As much as I'd like to buy from them, there are times when I'll try things on their for sizing and order what I need from other, less expensive places. Granted, many of the brands they carry are just expensive brands (North Face, Patagonia, etc.) -Service Whether you get great service is 100% dependent on who helps you. There have been times when I've not been able find a salesperson at all, and other times when there seem to be more sales staff than customers. There are times when I've talked with friendly, knowledgeable staff and times when the staff have seemed bored by me or uninterested in helping me. I give the St. Louis store four stars because if you're an outdoors woman, REI and Alpine Shop are the go-to stores in St. Louis to get the gear you need. I love the concept, and I've had mostly good experiences. If they can provide reliably strong service, they'll get five star from me.

Well I just love all REIs so I am biased because they simply have great product with a better guarantee. This store is small but the only one in STL.

I have always been a fan of stores like REI, especially when they're located to be a male safe haven. The employees are knowledgeable and friendly. While the products are more middle-of-the-road to please a bigger crowd, you'll probably find what you're looking for. My Advice: If you're looking for something for your next endeavor-- whether that be camping, running, kayaking, cycling, climbing, backpacking, or just a fun day with your dog--head on over to REI. Also, if you're looking to get in on the fun for the first time, the employees won't make you feel like an idiot.

It's a big box store which specializes in outdoor goods. It may make you feel better to shop at REI rather than Bass Pro or Cabellas, but I have to think they are all about the same speed. The prices are high but the gear is more specialized. The staff truly does look the part but Im not sure about experts there. The place has guest speakers and claases available to the public which is great. The rewards club does pay off at the end of each year. For those more inclined, they offer REI vacations. The indoor rock climbing wall looks cool but I've never seen anyone climb it. Nice community events wall on the second floor.

I love REI, especially for someone who doesn't really do all that REI inspires me to want to do (I could so be a rock climber!). But, I was there getting some goodies for a trip to Borneo/Sumatra and couldn't find a salesperson to save my life. I was having a rain jacket meltdown. But luckily Jennifer came to my rescue. Not only did she show me all the ratings and such for my choices of rain jacket, she got the one I needed shipped to me... for FREE! Now I will shake my fist at REI for not having enough staff and for what I think are crazy high prices and somewhat odd stock. But as long as they can find what I'm looking for on-line and ship it to me, who am I to complain?

Outdoor Gear please! This is a great one stop shop to get outfitted with any and all outdoor gear your life style may need. I was very impressed with the wide selection of sizes and colors of everything you would want to purchase for any activity your heart may desire. I love outdoor gear and I couldn't have been anymore impressed by what REI had to offer. Selection was awesome, downside the staff wasn't super friendly or helpful. I wasn't asked once the entire time if I needed help with finding anything, I am a pretty easy going shopper. I don't need much help, I typically can find what I need, but at least great someone.