Rich P.
Yelp
A little while ago I decided that I wasn't going to wear costumes anymore, and since then I've spent a lot of time shopping at REI. I guess I do this so that I can get semi-technical clothing that I can also wear casually - let's me get multiple uses out of my wardrobe.
REI is an excellent website, and this store in East Hanover is a great store.
Be advised, this is one of their medium-sized stores. So, you're not gonna find nearly as much merchandise as you would on their website, in one of their large stores, or at Campmor, for example.
Their selection of packs is somewhat limited. No Lowe Alpine. A few Ospreys, Deuter, Gregory, and REI brand packs.
I picked up an Osprey this past summer. Turned out to be terrible fit. Returned it, no questions asked, full refund.
So, I guess what I use this store for is last minute gear, deals, and apparel. I also tend to get a lot of gifts here. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. They always have good input if I have a question about gear. What I like about REI is that they have an amazing return policy, they carry top of line gear, their website is easy to use and I really trust their extensive bank of reviews, and it just seems like the gear they carry is more technical than you would find at LL Bean.
They also have a bike shop, cross country ski gear, not sure about AT setups and telemark setups, They also have a decent book section, and some climbing gear.
Reduced from 5 to 4 stars because I know their larger stores are better, and 5 is for as good as it gets. Discerning shoppers may find the gear selection limited.