I'd give at least 4 stars for REI overall - I've been patronizing them for over 10 years and been a member of their co-op almost as long. I like their online store (and outlet!) and buy from there often. I like getting my annual dividend/rebate to spend. I've appreciated the local efforts REI has contributed in sweat and dollars to local causes, including great trailwork events, etc. I guess I can't say anything bad about their business overall or company policies. But shopping in the new renovated store has been no better than a 3-star experience. I might even go so far to say my experiences were better in the old, pre-expanded store. Problems? Not really a marked increase in selection (and stocking of sizes) with the larger floor space (online much better), cold and somewhat harsh warehouse-like environment, and customer service issues. And LONG LINES - seems like when I go, there's like 2 checkout staff and one online-pickup/returns staff. I've really waited more than ten minutes to pay/pickup/return pretty much every visit. They really need better training and more managers. One time, an REI person at the register was scanning thru ALL the Acorn socks online in order to determine the proper "code" to enter - WTF!? Staff on the floor have still been kinda helpful, but aren't always that knowledgeable about the gear. Maybe the bigger store has just magnified some of the previous issues and they'll eventually make adjustments; hope so. Also, in Boulder, there are a plethora of better specialized places to get the gear of your choice: running stores for trail runners, ski/board shops for snowsports (Ski Deals, Christy's, Divas), all kinds of bike shops (Full Cycle, University, Sports Garage, The Fix, Bicycle Village), and Neptunes, TNF, Mont-Bell for mountaineering & climbing & hiking & camping. And all the gear choices we have online? Well, fughetaboutit! So REI plays the common denominator route, selling mostly basics like rain jackets, nalgene bottles (now sigg too), camelbaks, hiking shoes, and ends up a store full of weekend warriors, newbies and some tourists. I guess it's the Whole Foods or Target of outdoor gear. Hey, couple times of year they have pretty good sales/clearance - that's when you'll find me scouring the back racks. It's true, you can't beat their 100% satisfaction guaranteed policy, but they don't price adjust or match, which stinks if you buy something & it goes on sale the next day. But you can always return it! Oh, and why can't we bring our non-service dogs in anymore? that would be a cool Boulder thing read more

This store is a poor showing for REI. As an REI member for years, this was the most poorly-organized, poorly-stocked store with poorly-informed employees. I was looking for trail running shoes and they were out of 4 pairs I wanted to try on in both men's and women's sizes. When I asked the employee about the difference between two similar pairs of Merrill shoes, she looked at the shoes for a bit and seemed to make up an answer on the spot. Now I used to sell running shoes, so I can tell when people BS about them. Then when I asked why they were out of stock of so many shoe options she answered, "This is Boulder...everyone comes here." I stared at her blankly in an effort to not belittle the messenger, but is that really an excuse REI? I live in Portland, OR...also an adventure capital, but because of that fact they have a decent stock of inventory! Gross bathrooms and its position in an outdated strip mall rounded out this unfortunate REI experience. I'm glad this is not my home store, but I feel bad for the patrons who spend loads of money to live in this outdoor enthusiast town and don't have a more sophisticated outdoor go-to store. read more

I can't speak to the bike repair services.. although I would never show up to any bike shop and expect 1) immediate help 2) free tools and instructions and supplies. I also have the wherewithal to CALL the store before going to look for something in particular. Even if they do carry it, they could be out of stock. So "Alden C" and "I know B," the bad reviews for this place are WAY off base. You guys need to call ahead. Kings you are not. REI carries a TON of brands. You can get lost in selection madness here. I don't think they focus well on any one thing, but for a broad focus of outdoors activities they do a great job. Service is never far away if you have a good attitude or look confused. : ) One place of superior focus is performance foods/dehydrated foods. They don't carry everything, they have A LOT! I will also say that REI has better selection and buys on TNF brands than TNF stores. read more

Went in to get my chain fixed really quick (around 7pm)--thought a 5 minute repair would be simple enough to pass by--NOPE. #1. Got completely snubbed when I asked if the bike mechanic would come by and give me a second opinion on how to unhinge my stuck chain--the answer I got to that was "sorry man, the lady working on bikes is super swamped, here's the tools--good luck" #2 Asked for a pair of gloves as to not blacken my hands with chain grease--the reply I got was, "pfft, everyone gets their hands dirty here, just roll with it" ...turns out they had a stack of gloves near the hand washing sink in repair shop. ...so the power link on my chain bent, and the thing wouldn't connect 100%. If the mechanic had helped me for literally 45 seconds of her time, then I would have had some concise instructions to follow. Instead, I attempted to futz with my chain to get some sort of a result as 2-3 shop employees stood idly by and watched to make sure I wouldn't steal the tools they lent me. Chain wouldn't link, and I had to ride home (all bike shops closed at this point)...so I couldn't just give up and save it for another day. Yanked hard on the chain with a tool, and ended up slicing my finger--chain grease, blood and all! JOY! I rushed back to the shop sink to wash out my cut, when I looked up and saw the LARGE boxed stacks of mostly un-used plastic shop gloves that's seen at ANY bike shop across planet Earth. Had to call out the BS at this point, let the dude know how I was feeling at that precise moment, and walked out with a busted chain. ...all the while, the 'swamped' bikesmith in the back was at the mouth of the shop door watching intently at my exchange with the desk employee--looks like she didn't have 45 seconds for my chain, but had spare minutes for what I had to say to the front desk goon. Thanks for reading my negative experience at REI--I hope you decide on a more local spot to buy your gear from such as 'The Pros closet', 'Boulder sports recyclers' or the 'Boulder Army store'! These people back the gear they sell, ENOUGH SAID ...as for the bike shop aspect of REI, ya gotta be joking with yourself if you think REI would do a better job then an actual store FOCUSED on bicycles. Deal with people that know what they sell--not some goon crew who's scraping by to pay off college loans read more

The renovation is complete. Now I'm not a long-time Boulder resident, and I've only been to 3 or 4 other locations, so take my opinion with a grain of salt. That said, the Boulder store is QUITE adequate. Boulder Population (2006): 91,685 Boulder REI Population: Awesome Ok, that was goofy. I'll get serious. Let's assume you don't know REI. It's an outdoor sporting goods store where you can get stuff for mountain climbing, skiing, snowboarding, cycling, running, hiking, camping, triathlon, and basically anything else you can do under the sun, on land, water, or snow. There are even a few things you can do in the sky. Go to their website to see all the awesome (and sometimes crummy) products that they carry. Their prices are often comparable to the major discount chains. And the stuff that costs more is generally harder to find and worth the extra coin. Take the entire Arc'teryx line, for example. You'll pay out the butt for that stuff, but when you need it, I mean really need it, you'll be glad you did. The thing that kills me about REI is their return policy. It's like the girl you knew in high school who dated all the jerks. They just WANT to be abused. It doesn't make sense, and it's really sad, but they seem ok with it. It's like ... it's all they know. And you can't change them until they're ready. There's nothing to do but watch it happen and try not to let it get to you. Seriously, I've seen 5-year old, ratty hiking shoes returned because a lace broke. What the ... ?? They accepted that? Yes, in fact, they did. Now that's a ridiculous example, but what you can take away from it is that if you have a problem with your product, REI has got your back. Totally got it. Completely. More than you realize. And that comfort is worth a lot. Even with their already ENTIRELY reasonable prices, they have GREAT sales. So go to REI. Get a Membership. And buy stuff. As for the Boulder store ... well it's small. But it's very, very, very well organized. And they have a LOT of stuff packed into that area, including a great meeting area where they regularly host classes, talks, and things like that. You can check the calendar on their site. It's entirely wind-powered. The storefront is beautiful. I have been several times and it is Always very well staffed. If you're confused and can't find anyone in the department, you can ask anyone from any department and they will immediately help you or find someone who can. REI is a model retail store to me. They take care of their employees. They take care of their customers. They take care of their products. They do it right. Addendum: Their selection of Skis, Snowboards, Snowshoes, heavy coats, and the like is PITIFUL right now. Because IT IS JULY! :) I have no doubt that the store layout will change pretty significantly before the weather does. read more

What the hottest nightclub on Saturday night is in LA, or the trendy dive bar is in Berkeley, REI is where to be "seen" on the weekends. Honestly, do THAT many people need to look at canoes? No, I don't think so. But, it seems that if you are going to get your outdoorsy street cred you will have to show up to REI at some point during the weekend with your SUV, crossover or Subaru toting a thule car rack. So the store as a result is busy, full of people checking out each others', ahem, "canoes", on the weekends. The store itself is huge, has a helpful friendly staff, and has everything you need to go camping, biking, hiking, canoeing, or just look like you do. I personally have found things you might not expect at your typical "outdoor" store like iPad cases, and the perfect sports bra, so I can see why they are busy. REI is essentially selling a lifestyle, and all the accessories one needs, a lifestyle, as you can tell from the lack of parking in the lot, that boulderites have embraced. read more

Highly informed staff are eager to solve your outing adventure. I even called to ask about research online. I picked out an incredible sleeping bag that was WAY more affordable and functional than I was finding online. Everyone is laid back and happy to help. By the time I was done, I felt fully prepared for an extended, solo trip on the Colorado Trail. Glad to have them in my neighbourhood. read more

My mom had a horrible experience with a worker here. She had rented some ski equipment and returned all of it but the ski helmet, which she forgot in her friends car. The very next morning when the store opened, she called and nobody picked up. I was with her when she called again and she spoke to someone named Molly. She was completely unreasonable and extremely rude to her. They are charging her with a late fee as well as an additional 8 dollar fee every day it's not back. We live two hours away and she is very busy, but still willing to drive four hours total to bring it back. She was a former employee at another REI location and never did the employees treat the customers in the way that Molly did. I was shocked at how she treated my mom and never in a million years should a customer be talked to in the way that she was. I am highly disappointed with how that went, and do not recommend this location to anyone. Especially that one worker. She was unbelievably rude. And to continue charging each day when she is a very busy person is utterly ridiculous, especially since we live so far away. read more

DO check out their monthly(?) member sales and return after 5pm(?) when the already discounted gear is 50% off. DON'T expect all staff to be nice. One staff refused to check me out (she actually walked away when I walked up to the counter) b/c my bf (not a member) had asked me if I would buy shoes for him that he liked in the member sale. DO buy tamales from the lady sitting in front of the store with a cooler of warm tamales. DON'T overpay for stuff you can get a lot less expensively if you're a savvy shopper. read more

Huge store, great selection, friendly staff -- very helpful and knowledgeable. Of course, this all comes at a price -- they are not cheap, they're retail. But when you need something specific, REI has it. They stand by their products and I feel confident buying from them. As far as REI stores go, this is a nice one. I also like their freebie events/talks. Been an REI member since the 1980s and I will continue to rely on them when I need something for the great outdoors. Update (6/2011): I just bought a bike from REI after shopping a number of bike stores in Boulder. REI had a great deal on a bike I REALLY like and I trust REI's sales people and reputation. Robb was so helpful and patient -- he was really the deciding factor to purchase from REI. I don't know much about bikes and Robb patiently helped me choose the right bike for me. I am SO happy with my Marin hybrid bike! I love REI and highly recommend buying any sports gear from them! read more

I don't write reviews all too frequently, but I thought my recent experience at this REI bike repair shop merited a review. I dropped my bike off at the repair center just for a silver tuneup. I had accidentally gotten some degreaser on the brakes and the bike just needed a little bit of cleaning up. The time that they took was about expected and when I picked up my bike it did look immaculate. However, once I got home I noticed that while I was rolling my bike the derailer was making a clicking noise. After working to make sure that the chain was making contact with all of the gears, I thought the bike just needed to be pushed into gear. I hopped on my bike pressed on the peddle and instantly heard a large cracking sound as the chain slung up and struck my leg. The derailer completely broke off my bike and was hanging loose in the chain. I'm not sure what exactly happened during the repair that caused this issue with my bike, but when I brought it back the mechanic noted that the derailer appeared to be bent and the derailer clasp was broken (obviously). Mistakes happen, so the fact that my derailer broke is not the focus of my review. Rather it was the experience that I received after the fact. When I brought my bike back in I was ready to argue about fault, but rather I received prompt attention. The first associate grabbed somebody out of the shop (I believe his name was Jason, he was a taller guy who works in the repair shop) who took a very close look at my bike. After some discussion, they realize that this bike is my commuter. Furthermore, that after selling my car this last week, the bike was my only option of transportation beyond Uber or the bus. Jason took a personal vested interest in ensuring that my bike was repaired properly. He even went so far as attempting to get a derailer clasp brought in from another shop in town. I was honestly blown away by the way that Jason handled the entire experience. Instead of dealing with wait times, bureaucracy, and numerous phone calls he ensured the bike was taken care of from A to Z without my intervention. I was obviously a little bit agitated when I brought my bike back, but Jason handled the entire situation with etiquette and understanding to the point that I fully trust the REI team with my bike. To make the situation better, Jason (and I'm sure other members of the REI team) put in so much effort that he was actually able to get the bike done the same day; something that I was originally told was not possible. Thanks to Jason, and the other team members of this REI, I was actually able to bike to work today and my bike runs perfectly. In summary, hats off to Jason and the entire bike team, in getting my bike back up and running. I wasn't able to tell you in person but I am incredibly grateful for you working so hard to handle this issue. read more

Best location with the most knowledgeable staff. When in doubt I check with these guys before I buy. Friendly, helpful, respectful. I end up at one of the Denver locations when in Colorado, and always end up back up here. read more

REI is an awesome sports store for all your snow gear, camping and outdoor adventure needs. The staff is knowledgable and helpful, and they let you return any item you don't love within a year. I feel much more comfortable buying things knowing I can return it. I highly recommend REI, they only sell awesome stuff and they have just about everything you need. Buy a membership and buy stuff when it is on sale. Cons- there are a few downsides: 1. Selection- They can run out of the best items and they don't carry the super high end gear. I couldn't find a ski jacket I liked so I ended up going directly to North Face for their top of the line jacket. 2. Staff can be busy- If you need help selecting stuff, you may have to look around and wait to find a staff member to assist you, they do get busy. Their staff is awesome and knowledgeable though so worth the wait. Go on the off times if you need help and don't want to wait. 3. Sometimes online stores offer much better prices. For example, I went to buy a rain jacket and it was $99 the same one on backcountry was $60. I have no problem spending more at REI (you get a % back and can return things and they are awesome), but I wasn't going to return this jacket so to save $40 I ordered it online. read more

Rex helped me out with picking out some shoes. I had an awful cramp in my left calf and he guided me towards the right selection. I recommend REI in boulder for the excellent customer service. read more

Large REI location and I find that the people that work there are very well informed. It is Boulder after all, they are bound to be well stocked with what you need and they staff is able to answer your questions. I bought some great hiking shoes here and they are perfect to this day. The man who helped us really steered us in the right direction, these were his top recommendation and he was right. They have great stuff during the garage sales if you're a member. It is well organized and lots of staff are around to help. I picked up a travel pack that is great quality, and in pretty much perfect condition for a much lower price. It is going to be my home for my next overseas trip. I like shopping at REI because they always have what you need and someone is always around to help. Being a member is great because you can access the garage sales and earn dividend points. All outdoor gear is so expensive you may as well get some perks when you buy. read more

Amazing service and the staff was very knowledgeable, friendly, and willing to help. Mike in the ski boot department was great and made sure that your ski boots fit property. Will be coming back here again! read more

REI does a great job. They don't have all of the super high-end gear; but carry a selection that will meet the needs of 90% of the population. Their staff is well educated about product and very helpful. Their stores are usually well stocked, and laid out in a fashion that makes it easy to find what you need. If you plan on buying supplies for a weekend camping trip, don't wait until Friday, as the place will be packed, and many common items will be picked over. read more

There isn't anything *wrong* with my experience at REI, per se, but my journeys here have lacked the above-and-beyond requirement to earn more than the average 3 stars. On my last visit, I was looking for a pair of shoes. I found the shoe section of the store fairly easily, and began browsing through their selection. I'm a novice when it comes to running/hiking shoes and wanted to ask some questions before making my decision (it's the reason I came to the store instead of simply looking online.) The store was busy, and the staff never acknowledged my presence. Usually when I go to an REI, 3 or 4 people offer to help before I even need it. On this visit I had to track down an employee on my own. The women passively acknowledged me and began helping another customer. When she noticed a second employee walk over, she told them to help me instead. The women who helped me did an okay job. I told her what I planned to use the shoe for and the brand I had been looking at. She made a few recommendations and quickly brought out my choices for me to try on. Although she ultimately provided the help I needed, she seemed a bit frazzled and I felt as if I was taking her away from something more important. I didn't feel very comfortable with the experience (and it seemed as if she didn't, either). I left the store without purchasing the shoes. At least they helped me in finding the right pair. :) ((As a side note, I know this isn't REI's fault, but the parking here is AWFUL. The spaces are tiny and you can barely fit even the smallest sedan in. If you have passengers, it may be best to let them out before you park or else they may be trapped in the car.)) read more

I was really annoyed by REI. I know-they have all the things- but they are NOT dog friendly. Pretty much every store in Boulder that doesn't sell food is extremely dog friendly, most even hand out dog treats. It is really surprising that the one store that actually turns away a customer with a dog is an outdoor gear store. Obviously this review doesn't address the fact that they carry great things, but this unfriendly behavior will make me bring my business to their competitors from now on. read more

If you need a hat, coat, long johns, a tent, power bars, or any other necessities for life in the Rocky Mountains it's almost guaranteed you can find it at REI. Definitely the best selection in town. REI is like the (eco-conscious, non-worker-oppressing, and helpful) Wal-Mart of outdoor goods. It's nice to see a distinct (and not neglected) women's section with outdoor AND active lifestyle choices. I also love the gifty items they have around holiday time. Prices are what they are, but if you manage to find a clearance rack there's a good chance that you'll find some great deals. What makes this store one of my favorite places to shop is the staff - they're seriously incredible! Knowledgeable and friendly and just all-around nice people. If you have a question, they'll either answer it themselves or take you to someone who knows about whatever it is you need. Even though they're a chain store, the level of customer service is top notch. read more

Recent members jam was great! Everything you need is here! Unfortunately I can't get everything I want. One day. Great return policy, customer service. read more

Recently we needed camping chairs. Its a bit early in the season to get them from Target, etc. And we were in a rush cause our picnic was starting in moments. I knew I could go to REI and find a good chair, and that it would be slightly more expensive then what I could get at the right moment, in season, for a day, at Target. I found two camping chairs for $25 each. They were of quality build and both had a cup holder. My daughter was very happy that one of the chairs was just her size. I was happy to find out later, at the picnic, that even though it is a kid's chair, it fits me too... let's just hope I don't squash it now! read more

Love this store- great selection. Super helpful staff and easy returns. Masks and limited customers in store but I had no wait.

The first REI store I had ever stepped in was this one in Colorado and to this day I still return to the same one when I visit the area each year. It makes me wish we had a local REI as well because of all the great benefits they have to offer. REI provides so many great benefits along with their service is outstanding! The last time we went in we were able to ask one of the associates suggestions on where to camp nearby that would allow us to go on short notice. Her directions were perfect and exact! The store is always neat, clean, and well organized. I always fine something new to purchase for future or current camp trips. Their staff members are very well knowledgeable about anything you ask and if they don't know the answer they will find it for you instead of sending you away with an I don't know. I truly enjoy my visits to the store and will continue to stop by to expand my camping needs. read more

I showed up to get some help with attaching a few pieces of equipment to my bike and the team at the cycle shop were generous with their time and immensely helpful. At the end of it, they insisted that because I'm an REI member that I didn't need to pay anything. read more

This is a very nice store. Very neat and organized. Quite big compared to others but not the biggest I ever visited. Staff is friendly, willing to help (more than you might need). Parking is easy, no issues here. Check out lanes are pretty quick. We have bought a few things here and were on our way in no time. read more

Well I guess I won't be shopping at REI anymore. I never used to worry about anything I bought there because of their 100% guarantee, which has apparently changed. I came in with a Christmas gift and no receipt, brand new with the tags still on it, and I couldn't even get a store credit. I would've accepted a store credit at 20% less than the item price just in case it had been theoretically purchased with a 20% off coupon (which according to the gift giver it was not) and they wouldn't even do that. Sorry REI, but we're breaking up and I'm canceling your credit card. You can do better... read more

Had a very difficult time finding both small sizes for hiking pants for both men and women. Staff were really helpful though, and after two hours of searching we finally found something! Came back the following day to get some shoe inserts, Kenny was extremely helpful and knowledgeable. We really appreciated his wonderful customer service! read more

When we mentioned that we wished to check out a sporting goods store, Phil recommended R.E.I. We went there and were able to find everything we needed. I got a glow-in-the-dark Frisbee and Raj got hiking shoes; however, the place is expensive. Still, Raj and I found two other essentials: a platypus and an extendable fork. The platypus was so I could go on long hikes with a water pouch (pouch is to marsupial is to platypus; I think that's the line of logic they followed in naming it?) that has a hose I can drink out of. It was comfortable to wear but did not mesh well with my backpack, which pushed the platypus down to my butt. And I would run around with the platypus on, sometimes feeling it slipping, and it was not always easy to tighten. A big glow in the dark frisbee + a platypus = $70 Raj's investment turned out much better: he had a cooking utensil, a weapon to defend against attacking wildlife, and an epic staff like Moses' all in one. I think Raj did not realize it was a cooking utensil at first; he told us he was looking for a walking stick, and came back with it. He told this to an employee, who cracked up. The checkout line was long. read more

So, I can't say I've visited this store, but I ordered a product from them today. I had a particularly challenging time getting this sweater I wanted, but after outstanding customer service from the Seattle Flagship and Boulder locations, I was able to finally order this dang sweater in the size and color I wanted. I spoke with two individuals and I can't remember their names! I wish I could! I spoke with a gentlemen with an English accent who found the sweater in the store and then a woman from customer service who performed the transaction. She had to process my three methods of payment and I realize what a pain in the ass that is! I am pleased as punch with everyone I interacted with. Thank you REI! read more

I love this place! Everyone is super helpful, but customer service is awesome, especially scooter. If you have questions and are trying to figure out what to buy, this is a great place to go! read more

It may not be Denver's "flag-ship" store, but this is a smaller, very nice, REI.

Nothing but good things to say about this location. Customer service is awesome and have done multiple warranty claims no questions asked!

So I went in there and I saw a cute chick and I started talking to her... She had a boyfriend... Suck! Other than that the store is great!! Their attic/garage sale is amazing too! read more

I can't say enough about my experience in REI. I bought a pair of hiking shoes last year and they just didn't work out. I returned them without any problem and was able to purchase another pair that have worked out beautifully. Jean was incredibly knowledgeable about shoes and patiently and thoroughly helped me choose just the right pair. Jean and the whole REI crew greeted me with respect, knowledge, and a fun spirit. Thank you. read more

This is my favorite store in Boulder. Yes, it's true the Denver store is great, but they have everything you need: abundance of gear, knowledgeable staff, and excellent customer service. read more

Its an REI, if you have been to one you know what I mean. I joined the cooperative in 1979 at the Seattle flagship store. The business model is sound and consistently applied throughout all stores. They must have good customer service training because their staff is consistently pleasant and helpful. If you need an off season item, go to REI.com and get it shipped to your local store from the warehouse for free or if your order is greater than fifty bucks, they ship to your residence for free. The return policy is based on a full satisfaction model. It is superior to other stores return policies. read more

Other than the fact it ain't a local business like Neptune's or the long gone Boulder Mountaineer, you can't beat REI for general purpose outdoorsing equpiment. read more

I like this place, but it's not like any of their flagship stores. It's usually hard to find help, but once you do they are usually very knowledgeable and helpful. I have been to a few of their free classes and thought most of them were nice and informative. I really don't know what else to say though, it's your typical REI. read more

Not a huge store, but super helpful and usually have everything I am looking for when it comes to outdoor gear and apparel. Friendly staff and excellent floor plan. We signed up to be shareholders and find that the yearly dividends aren't anything worth getting excited about, but a nice option for regular shoppers nonetheless. read more