I love this REI store! I went there today needing to restring my tent poles. I had watched the videos, but felt very apprehensive to do it on my own. Andre showed me how to do it and helped me when I got stuck. I feel so empowered having mostly done it by myself (with a lot of help and encouragement from Andre). Thank you! read more

15+ year REI member, and I've never been treated so poorly by a retailer. I walked in 10 minutes before closing and was immediately made to feel like I was an inconvenience. Three or four employees made it abundantly clear that I needed to find what I wanted and get out. I left with what I came for, but honestly, I walked out wondering what the hell just happened. REI used to treat members like family. Apparently, that's changed. After 15+ years of loyalty, I'll take my business directly to Patagonia and other brands from now on. REI: If you don't want customers in your store before closing, change your hours. Treat your members better. read more

Well, I can NOT believe this is how REI is, especially in the times we face today. Pretty morning....Just perfect. I was cycling up as I usually do into Biltmore Plaza and I come up through the back. I had some trash with me I needed to toss, and so I went to the bins and to my surprise there was a really nice camping chair! TOSSED!! WOW! But no. Agased, I couldn't believe that this chair, a good chair, had been sliced up before getting tossed to the trash. SERIOUSLY! Is REI so Snot nosed- high brow-self righteous-full of themselves that they lack any sense of compassion, thoughtfulness to man, are a desire to be different and kind for maybe, on the off chance(which is unlikely around here), that some soul(not an addict or psychologically retraine), stump upon a find that truly made their day. At the VERY LEAST!!!!.....Donate it. People need some help right now. Not the store of the Privledged self inflated-egotistical-my sh$t dont stink- "who cares about anyone not in the club"-Channel and Versace disregard for simple, kind gestures. Im sooo disappointed in you REI! I Belived you stood better! read more

REI - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Asheville, North Carolina

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Horrible company. If someone makes a fraudulent purchase with your bank information and you notify the company and your bank right away, but no one is willing to give me my money back. I have reported them to BBB and I am warning people in case you come up against the same problem. ( I have also never made a purchase from this store before.) read more

Is there a "DON'T FORGET TO BE RUDE AND UNHELPFUL TO CUSTOMERS!" reminder on the break room bulletin board? 3 stars cause the company/management is great, but this location has consistently hired angry, unpleasant, socially inept people the last couple years. Been to many other REIs and received nothing but smiles and welcoming attitudes...something stinks at the AVL location. How hard is it to just be nice to strangers? read more

love this place! Highly recommend. I bought some hiking shoes here and they were very friendly.

Good store but sloooow checkout. Staff is too chatty with customers and I've currently been standing in line for 10 minutes. The line is continuing to grow. read more

Super helpful team Everytime! Stewart spent so much time with us getting backpacks and was so kind!

Several years ago, I used to avoid shopping at REI because the prices were higher than what I could get elsewhere. Ah, how naive I was. I do almost all of my outdoor shopping at REI now. The #1 reason for this is that they have the best return policy. I think the only place better is Costco (which obviously has very limited outdoor gear). You have an entire year to return everything and you can return it used! I don't mean just slightly used, I mean shoes covered in mud used. I wouldn't return a product at the end of its life, but it's so nice to be able to actually wear shoes on the trail before committing to them. Plus it's nice that you can usually find an REI wherever you're traveling so you can trade in your shoes mid-trip when you realize you bought the wrong pair (like I did at this store). Beyond that, they sell high quality stuff. If you shop the REI brand, it's usually a bit cheaper too. If you pay $20 (one time fee) to become a member, you get 10% cash back and at least 4 20% off coupons per year. The customer service is always great. They make good recommendations and it's easy to return stuff because they just look it up on your account. You will rarely find me buying outdoor gear elsewhere anymore. read more

We were visiting Asheville with our son, and he was looking to buy a new pair of hiking boots so we stopped at REI. I really liked the layout of the store. There were two levels and when standing on the second floor, you could easily see all the departments and know exactly where to go. I also really liked the workshops that they offered and wished that I lived in the area. Fortunately, a store just opened near where we live. Two disappointing things were that parking was horrible. We luckily found a place on the street. And the other disappointment was that the prices were kinda high. But regardless of this, my son really has enjoyed his hiking boots. He even wore them when he visited New York City. read more

REI - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Asheville, North Carolina

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REI is great for clothes, shoes and snowboard edging & waxing but not boots. I had found several snowboarding boots on their website showing as in stock in the Asheville location however the employee I asked looked confused and said they really don't sell them and those must have been returns. read more

I try to stay away from "big box shops" but due to covid gear has been limited everywhere and sometimes ya need something for an adventure. If REI doesnt have it, they'll order it. And they are pretty friendly about it too. This isn't the first or only location I've been too but I have to say it is one of my favorites. I'll even stop in just to check out their displays and see if there's any new gadgets out. They always have treats for my pup Lucy so that a big plus too. We've been coming since she was a tinie puppy and I think it's really helped with her socialization. So like any other dog friendly place, please dont bring your fur baby if they don't do well in social settings. You're most likely to bump noses with a few nature loving pups here. No the biggest REI location, but they have everything you need. Usually. Of course now its a bit wonky because of covid. But hang in there. They get shipments all the time! read more

We are always amazed at the expertise of the staff in so many different areas. Today, Jim helped educate us about electric bikes. He was very knowledgeable about the bicycles, and patiently put effort into comparing the different options and analyzing which would best meet our wants and needs. There was absolutely no pressure to buy. Jim even stayed a little after he shift ended to be sure that our potential purchase would be processed correctly. We are very appreciative! read more

Huge rei fan and this one is pretty solid. A pain to get to (lots of traffic and a bit out of the way) but pretty easy to find parking. They do not have a ton of sale stuff- Im usually more successful online anyway- but you can find a thing or two. The normal priced things are pretty fair and always well stocked. The staff really shine at this (and most) Reis. They hustle and get you taken care of quickly. They are also very happy and energetic about the area and their equipment read more

This location is one of my favorite stores even though I only occasionally buy something. I love looking at all of their merchandise and the employees are friendly and helpful. Whenever I need to make outdoors related purchases, I try to buy things here or from REI online. read more

I spent a couple days looking for a specific bike. I was told the bike was sold out in many places and the supplier had run out. Fortunately, I found out online that REI had some in stock so I ordered the bike online. It only took a few days for the bike to be shipped to REI in Asheville. I was greeted by several friendly staff; once kassandra knew I was Deaf, she started using sign language with me - the little bit she had learned from her ASL class in college. I was immediately impressed and felt welcome in the store. Kassandra introduced me to Joe, the bike mechanic who would be making adjustments to my new bike. Joe was awesome and recommended products for the bike when I asked. I definitely will be coming back soon for my free tune up. I recommend REI in Asheville. They are friendly and knowledgeable about their products read more

REI - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Asheville, North Carolina

Bike guys were able to fix my derailleur super quick and provide THE BEST trail recommendations! Thanks to them, my partner and I had an incredible time on our mountain biking trip. THANK YOU SO MUCH!! read more

Great place to spend time and money! I would recommend even if you just shop for fashion. Excellent backpack selection.

Recreational equipment Inc. is a fantastic co-op that has a large selection of outdoor gear, travel gear, bicycles and bike gear, and of course, clothing. You earn a rebate on all of your purchases if you are a member. So become a member! read more

REI - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Asheville, North Carolina

Preface: Never been an outdoors person. Never been to an REI. Seriously. Can't say enough about this place. This is what a five-star business should be. I love not only the store, but the attitudes of the employees. Just good, genuine people ready to help you get whatever you need to get out and enjoy. These people really know their stuff. One was able to educate me on clothing technology (who knew wool wasn't just for grandma's sweaters anymore), and I completely changed my gear strategy for an upcoming trip. Another schooled me on the nuances of some shoes, and steered me towards a great fit. Their knowledge and love for the outdoors really shines. Their return policy is excellent, and while I have not returned anything wildly used (an online purchase that wasn't as expected, a pair of shoes that hurt my feet), they have accepted them without issue. Some folks say the prices are high (I have little reference point), but I think the value is represented well. The products are great quality, the store is reputable, and the customer service is excellent. read more

It doens't have that "local to Asheville" vibe, but you can get pretty much everything you need to go have a great time outdoors. This 2 level monstrosity in the Biltmore area, south of Asheville, has everything the outdoorsman could need. The first floor has all your kayaking, backpacking, biking, and other needs, while the second level has everything from yoga clothes to high end hiking boots. Plenty to choose from. A little pricey but quality stuff. Membership has its privileges, I get a dividend/rebate check every year. read more

Nope. I've been an REI member for over 12 years and I cannot believe what I experienced at this location. The staff was abusive. My young son asked me why "that man talked to you that way", and I was just so shocked I said something like, "because he has no manners and wants us to leave. Let's go." My children were sad that we didn't stay longer as we'd just gotten inside, and we were there to shop for a number of items, but I wasn't going to be treated like that, particularly in front of my children. Very disappointed REI. Might be my last visit. read more

I wish I could rate the store zero stars. The young brunette girl in the shoe department was condescending, refused to listen to what I wanted and she could not multitask. I needed a pair of hiking shoes but she kept insisting that I must wear a size 10.5 shoe when mine are a 9.5 and fit perfectly. We were the third couple to walkout within 15 minutes of working with her. She is absolutely the worst salesperson I ever met. We will never return to REI. After walking out, we drove 30 minutes to buy what I wanted at another shoe store. The salesman at Mast General agreed I needed either a 9.5 and not a 10.0. Bottom line go to Mass General avoid REI Her demeanor and inability to listen and multitask is costing REI a lot of money due to her poor attitude and customer service. read more

REI is a good idea because you can become a member and earn dividends, plus receive coupons in your email. They have super "upgrade your gear" sales at least once a year. Great layout, large store, easy to shop by department, super helpful staff, great customer service, a lot of clearance items as well, clearly marked sales. Parking can be challenging. read more

There's an REI 3.5 miles down the road from me in Raleigh, but the one in Asheville is the first I visited. REI is like a specialty version of Dick's Sporting Goods. While DSG has everything on all sports known to mankind, REI seems to be geared more towards just biking, running and hiking. They had a nice selection of warm clothing in those sports. My friend said they have nice "yard sales" occasionally where she has scored some goodies, like a nice bike rack for her 4Runner for only $120 (regularly $250). I'll visit the local REI to see what they have, but I'm not a big spender -- I'd be more apt to get ideas here, then look for a lower price somewhere else. read more

Great Outdoor Outfitter!!! Selection is great, The REI brand offers a lot of value for the money. Wonderful bike shop with an outstanding selection!! The staff has always been very informed and helpful. There hours are great as well for the normal "working" guy. I'm glad you brought your store to Asheville, it is always a positive experience shopping with you!!!!!! read more

Love this REI, the staff are always welcoming and very helpful if you ever need any help! If you're looking for a new backpack or bike repair, the staff are happy to help you! I always get in trouble with myself when I walk in here, just because I never leave empty handed. They also provide great workshops for many different activities. read more

So I've never been to an REI. Not gonna lie. So glad I visited this one. My friend and I were looking at backpacks, trying to get ready for our trip to hike the Camino. One of the workers, Claude, came over, and he spent a lot of time explaining the different brands and features to me. First, he measured me, so I knew what size pack to get. Then, he picked three of the best sellers, explained their features, and loaded them up so I could walk around the store with them. Most importantly, he showed me how to simply put on and take off the pack! Ha I was instructed on how to tighten the pack, as well as how to adjust the weight when climbing up and down hill, which I could try out on the stairs. I'm very glad I was able to visit this REI and receive such great information. Definitely stop by here if you're in need of outdoor gear! read more

This is a top notch outfitter shop, and if you haven't already visited an REI before, I suggest checking it out. I've been to their flagship store in Seattle (huge!) and while the Asheville store seems tiny by comparison, they still offer a great variety of gear. Great place to shop if you enjoy: * camping * biking * hiking * climbing * kayaking * staying warm in cold weather * talking to employees who are passionate about the outdoors read more

So having grown up in this area...and shopping at great establishments like BlackDome....REI....unfortunately like ANY big box...is the "new normal" providing in 1 place what use to be handled by several small businesses *sign*. They sell camping gear They sell hiking gear They sell climbing gear They sell Kayaking and Canoeing gear They sell Road and Mountain biking gear They sell clothing (yoga, running, outdoors, and casual) They have classes on all of the above. They...............well..............do it all...........and honestly a VERY good job. Add in getting a membership and you money back every year based on purchases that allow you to discount future purchases. The staff are great.....and very "standardized".....some clothes....same engagement levels......all part of the big great corporate machines..........I can write that because I work for an even bigger one *wink* An excellent addition to an "outdoor town!!" read more

My 1st time in an REI for some reason. Pretty much what I expected. You have to really be into some of this outdoors hiking, biking, camping stuff to need a lot of the things they sell. I'm fine with the Wal-Mart crap. I just needed some Velcro thingamabobs for my bike on my cheapo Wal-Mart bike carrier. I can now say I've seen a $3,000 mountain bike though! read more

I had a great experience at this REI location. While it was a little out of the way for me - I decided to check it out anyways. I ended up getting some awesome help finding some really good deals on some hiking gear. The staff went all out in making sure I got the best possible price. This location isn't going to compare to Denver or Seattle, but I think it suits Asheville very well. I won't hesitate coming back to this location. read more

I carry a lot on my back every day - stuff for the gym, work, and school. And my school backpack was killing my back. So I wanted to see if a daypack could make my life easier. Perry (I think that was his name!) fit me for a backpack and took the time to load three different packs up with weights and taught me how properly to wear a pack. He was even patient with me when I needed some time to think it over. He then explained the benefits of becoming an REI member. Perry was incredibly helpful and not at all pushy. I ended up getting a 28-liter pack that feels amazing on my back. Thank you! read more

Like my local outfitters better but was surprised at really great service. A chain...yes...but the gotta lot!

I need to preface this saying, I think it's super weird to be reviewing REI and I never thought of writing a review for them, but something amazing happened to me there so I need to let everyone know! I went in for my first pair of Chacos. I knew exactly what I wanted, I was just unsure of the size. I scope out the shoe and a customer service person, Maggie, sees me gives me a little nods as she is finishing up with her current customer and is on her way over to me. Maggie comes over, wide-eyed and bushy tailed ready to help me. I inform her of my situation, give her two Chaos and she runs back to get a size 9 (if you are a half size they need to size up). Maggie is asking me what I will be using the shoes for, how much hiking I will be doing, if I've worn a pair before, etc. Everything she asked allowed me to make the best and most informed decision that I could when buying these shoes. The interaction that I had with Maggie was phenomenal. I feel that you don't find genuine customer service anymore, and Maggie really knocked it out of the park. I wish REI employees receive commission for their sales, because she needs credit for all the hard work she is putting in! Aside from all of the amazing employees, this store is set up awesome. If you are looking for something you know exactly where to go the moment you walk through the doors. read more

I just love this store. Every time I visit Asheville, I come spend hours in this store. Very good quality supplies to look at and try on. I am still enjoying my cold weather sleeping bag and my thermal camping mattress that I purchased 7 years ago. I've never been disappointed with anything I've purchased over the years. And when the zipper of my rain jacket rusted, years later, they gave me a full credit for it, so that I could purchase a new one. Amazing service. Thank you! read more

Having ben a member of REI for many, many years I've typically found sales staff cheerful and helpful. Today my experience was extraordinary. Simply needing some shock cord to replace all the cord in two tents I went to buy some cord and give it a try when I got home. Not only was Andy at the Asheville store eager to help me identify the proper cord, but he offered to actually replace the cord for me. He genuinely wanted to go the extra mile to make sure I accomplished what I came in to do. REI can tell their employees to "value customers" till the cows come home but few have made an impression on me like Andy did. Kudos to his work ethic and exceeding the expectations of a longstanding customer. read more

Best store in the Biltmore Town Square facility. Super friendly, knowledgeable employees who go the extra " mile" to help the customers. In my case, a pedometer and a cute REI mid weight top in a beautiful color. Shout out to Aaron who was very helpful. read more

I'm now in my fifth pair of Altra's - the best shoe I've ever had for both walking and running. I love the zero drop, cushioning support and foot-shaped toe. My go to model has been the Altra Torin and I now also own a pair of Altra Paradigm's. I can't say enough good things about these shoes and the responsible company behind them. REI stocks the newest models and I recommend trying on before buying as you may want to buy one half size up depending on your toe box feel. read more

Lots of selection. Lots of assistance. Will be back. Love this store. Better than EMS