Adam L.
Yelp
I cannot say enough great things about my recent experience at REI Plano. As someone new to backpacking, I walked in feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer number of options and the level of expertise required to make informed decisions about gear. I knew I needed a sleeping mat that was comfortable, lightweight, and suitable for backpacking trips, but I wasn't sure where to start. That's when Caleb stepped in and completely changed my shopping experience.
From the moment Caleb approached me, I could tell he was genuinely passionate about outdoor gear and helping customers find what works best for them. He didn't just ask me what I was looking for--he took the time to ask about my backpacking plans, the type of terrain I'd be on, and what kind of sleeper I was (side, back, etc.). His thoughtful approach immediately put me at ease.
What stood out most was Caleb's depth of knowledge. He explained the different types of sleeping mats REI carries, highlighting the pros and cons of foam, self-inflating, and inflatable mats. He broke down technical details like R-value (which I had no idea was so important for insulation) and how it affects warmth on colder nights. It was clear that he wasn't just trying to sell me something; he was educating me so I could make the best decision for my needs.
Caleb also went the extra mile by showing me how to properly set up and deflate the mats, which I really appreciated since I'd never used an inflatable mat before. He even pulled out a few mats and let me test them right there in the store! Lying down on the different options while Caleb pointed out their unique features made all the difference in helping me choose the perfect one.
I ended up selecting a mat that met all of my criteria: lightweight for backpacking, compact for easy packing, and insulated enough to handle cooler nights in the backcountry. I couldn't be happier with my choice, and I wouldn't have been able to make such an informed decision without Caleb's help.
But Caleb's exceptional service didn't stop there. He also recommended a few accessories that I hadn't considered, like a repair kit for the mat in case of punctures and a small pump sack to make inflating it easier. His recommendations were thoughtful and practical, not pushy or sales-driven, which I really appreciated.
The store itself is also worth mentioning. The Plano REI is incredibly well-organized and stocked with a wide variety of high-quality outdoor gear. It's clear that REI takes pride in maintaining a clean and inviting environment, and the staff's expertise and friendliness set this location apart.
Thanks to Caleb's guidance, I left feeling confident and excited about my upcoming backpacking trip. It's rare to find customer service this outstanding, and Caleb truly went above and beyond to ensure I had a positive experience. I'll definitely be returning to REI Plano for any future gear needs, and I hope Caleb is there to help me again!
If you're looking for outdoor gear or just need expert advice from someone who genuinely cares about your adventure, I highly recommend stopping by REI Plano. Be sure to ask for Caleb--he's an absolute rock star and a shining example of what customer service should be!
Another thing to note that i'm happy about is the Value that the co-op program provides. It's actually amazing and you can return anything for a full year if you don't like it. That blows my mind and this is the main reason i'll buy all my gear from here versus other department stores.