I went to the store in the afternoon, on Friday, November 14, 2025. The front desk staff, as well as the manager were outstanding in providing excellent customer service. The store is always neat and people pointed me in the direction of subject matter experts, which I appreciate greatly! I highly recommend coming to this store and experiencing great staff, excellent service, attentive management, and a welcoming environment!! read more

I visited for the annual sale on return items. Some items were clearly worn but I found a pair of Shimano cycling shoes (what I was looking for) in my size! The shoes had no visible signs of wear and I paid $34.83 for a $100 pair of shoes! Woo hoo! That is what I call a bargain. I also picked up a pair of long Novara bicycle pants for cooler weather for $20 and a shirt for $7. Although we were not among the first in line, I was quite pleased with my purchases. Those shoes were waiting for my hands to pick them up and they rendered a perfect fit! Had we been among the first inside, I'm sure I would have picked up items that I didn't really need. Oh, I also got an all weather, 3-piece coat (White Sierra) for the little one - just $30. Note: Staff members were knowledgeable about the items in their section of the store. read more

REI - My $34.83 bicycle shoes (retail $100). - Sports Wear Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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Generally speaking I do quite love REI! I've heard the negatives and seen the obvious positives. Apparently the biggest negative being that they raise their prices outrageously for a profit over the manufacturer's price. Placing that aside as the only negative I can burn through some time in here. One of my biggest loves would have to be carabiners and climbing hooks. I'm no climber but I love hooks for all kinds of things. I'm even willing to buy those awesome $20 locking hooks just to hang something from my bags. There really is no end to the climbing, hiking and camping gear. If you find yourself in love with climbing or often end up at the National Whitewater Center strapped into some nasty over-used harness you can always buy your own harness and helmet right in here to bring with you. They have plenty of camping gear including tents and sleeping bags as well as all the cooking gear you could possibly imagine in order to camp in relative style and comfort. Cool North Face clothes and Vibram foot-hugging shoes for anything from tall mountain climbing to some casual trail running. Bags galore, flashlights and such, sunglasses, knives, food, etc. The staff is friendly, nice and helpful. In the back side of the store near the bathrooms there is a world map where you can place a pin and stick a picture to the billboard to show off where you've gone trekking in the world. I'm saving up and aiming for buying a car-top rack for my kayak and mountain bike. They have both of the big name brands Yakima and Thule. Anybody with a heart for the outdoors could easily run out an entire day in here. read more

We love Prana products so we received a couple of hoodies/jackets type for Christmas. We have a REI pretty far in LA area and we wanted to see if a store in Charlotte area had other sizes. The store is huge (so is its parking lot), it carries many sport brands, it was a bit messy when we went over because it was right after Christmas, that's normal, it was clearance time. My husband did find his hoodie in M (needed an exchange from L). I also found my jacket in M, it was too big, I kept the one I had in Small, even if the sleeves are a tad too tight (and my arms are thin). It happens! The exchange took a long time, the guy who was helping us was nice, but took forever to do the transaction. Since these were gifts (bought in Florida) he was hinting at us to pay an extra 15 cents because of sales tax. We didn't take the hint since it was a simple exchange, same product, a different size. We don't do exchanges too often and this one took forever. Otherwise, a decent store with many outdoor gear, cool clothes for hiking, exercises, trips. read more

Friendly staff, quality, but high priced gear. REI basically agrees to reward you by giving back 10 % in the form of incentive and then 10% or more than you can buy products for elsewhere. However their staff is well informed and helpful and they have a good selection and return policy. I recommend this store. read more

Great store. One of my favorite. A whole nother level of quality compared to Dick's Sporting good and the like. Super friendly staff as well. Whatever you need in outdoor activities, so can pretty much find here. Kayaks, bikes, Tents, sleeping bags, hiking boots, all kinds of camping supplies and great clothing as well. The only thing close to a negative comment I have is that this store isn't quite as big as some others. read more

I don't camp. I don't scale mountains. I don't kayak. I don't canoe. I don't ski. I don't snowboard. But we went into the new REI by Northlake Mall this past weekend to look for swimming gear for my partner who's training for a triathalon. They didn't have what we were looking for, but the store itself was pretty fascinating...if you're into all that stuff. I enjoy a good hike and riding a bike, but not professionally. One of the most fascinating things we saw in the store was the Camelbak. It's a sleek, modern backpack with a long straw coming out of it. Kinda like those beer hats, but not as doofy-looking. My only concern? How does my martini stay cold? read more

REI - Sports Wear Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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REI is known for the diversity of their goods for sale--nearly everything outdoorsy you need, except for hunting-oriented things--and their helpful staff. This store in Northlake is like most others: large, appealing, neat and well-organized. They have a bike shop, which not all REI stores have, and the expected camping, kayaking, climbing, and hiking goods including a decent but not extensive selection of clothing. Indeed, this is why I rate them four instead of five stars: they are heavy on their own REI brand, have some North Face, Patagonia, and other well-known brands, but not nearly enough--their Arc'teryx selection was weak and beyond clothing their backpacks seemed lacking in some sizes and brands, too. On to the staff: I was helped by two staff members, the first was very sweet but she made a startling comment (in my view), when we were comparing North Face and Arc'teryx jackets, she stated "well, you know, Arc'teryx they have some $800 jackets so you're wearing that and you have major swag, here people think they're all that in their North Face but come on". Really? At REI? Yes, Arc'teryx is great but the swag factor isn't what sells it to the demographic who buys it here, it's the quality. I told her all things being equal, I'd rather not wear a $500-800 jacket in the woods where I know sooner or later it will get dirty and maybe torn even. I was just surprised at her attitude about what makes this gear "important" considering the REI ethos. Second employee was better as I asked him about a couple different folding knives and he was very informed and on-point. Something that really impressed me was their rock climbing gear selection and its presentation (see the photo I posted) which was great. Here's the thing with climbing gear: much of it is small, almost all is expensive, and you don't need to have it cluttered as some shops do--REI had it very neatly laid out so you could see everything, all the rope was on nice spools, most everything else on shelves or in a glass case--this is how it's done. Their small book section also was very neat as was most of the store. So really, the only complaint is that they could expand the clothing some and also maybe encourage their staff to extoll the real merits of their brands instead of hype. Overall, very cool store though. read more

REI - Rock climbing gear presented in a neat and tidy fashion at REI in a glass case. - Sports Wear Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Wanna get away? Get in here and get what you need to get away from most of civilization in a most civilized manner. Kayaks, canoes, bikes, and shoes will help you put miles between you and here. Bags and packs for your gear and snacks. Portable lodging and campsite accouterments to satisfy your creature comfort needs weather you're John Wayne or Bruce Wayne; there's a lot of stuff in here. Never camped? hiked? packed? whatevered? Besides the hardware you can also get educated. Classes are available throughout the year on how to better enjoy outdoors and use the stuff you bought. Most activities are a broken out by skill/experience because sometimes "playing outside" is awkward. ...regardless if you're preparing for an interruption of services or the collapse of civilization you should consider dropping in for a look. There's stuff to help you get in touch with nature without having to touch any more nature than necessary. read more

Refused to service my bike. Trash overpriced establishment! Stay away from this dumpster!

I go into REI once in a while just to check things out. I'm not the outdoorsy type, but do like the 'Life is Good' brand & they carry it here. The store itself is nicely laid out & very inviting - looks almost like a ski lodge to me. :D. The employees are nice & friendly, but mainly they're knowledgeable. The prices are kinda high, but like Leanne said, the REI brand is comparable to Columbia & North Face. If you or you know someone who's outdoorsy, go to REI. read more

We are a fan of the REI brand, this is the first store we have visited that has no second level, I believe we like this layout. Not having to go up stairs to go to a different department. The location is good with plenty of parking. The staff is very helpful and plenty are around to help. There are plenty of items in stock and sizes as well. Looking forward to visiting more often. read more

REI - Sports Wear Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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This is always a great place to come for your outdoor needs of most any variety. It's especially a good place if you're looking for hiking gear. When preparing for a trip you always want to have the proper equipment. Most likely you'll find what you need here. If you have questions, the staff is educated and friendly. Always great to have a Co-op membership too especially when they are having their annual Memorial Weekend sale. read more

I love REI and have been a member since way back in High School during my backpacking craze days. This store has the typical great selection of outdoors gear and wear and you can basically outfit yourself for most anything from a camp out in the backyard to your bucket list, hike the Appalachian Trail end to end, goal and beyond. They do have many sales during the year but you need to catch the right ones to really save a bundle. Went last week and was underwhelmed by the discounts but still walked out with a bit of outerwear for this winter (if it ever gets to the Carolina's that is). read more

This is one of my favorite stores. I really enjoy the outdoors and come here for all of my needs. There other nice thing about REI is that they offer various classes (bike maintenance, Go pro classes, seminars with local professionals, camping tips, etc). I have taken a few and really enjoy what this company offers. They really have a goal to get you out and about. They also have employees with good knowledge of the products that they sell. Most of the times, those employees have actually used that same gear. They can provide really good information, not just what the vendor wants you to know. I really like supporting businesses like this as they talk the talk when it comes to supporting their customers. read more

Took my nephew to get his first bike today, we decided to go somewhere else but the staff was very helpful and made sure he was looking for the correct size and gave us some great recommendations for his first bike. read more

You need camping equipment, rafting equipment, hiking or biking? No matter what gets you going outside, REI has it inside their store. You definitely have a nice selection of clothing and equipment to choose from and the sales staff really go out of their way to answer any questions you may have and they also ask you questions to make sure you're getting the right equipment. Do not pass up REI. read more

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Been here....a lot. Most of the time I feel like I really want a kayak, or a new sleeping bag, or a bunch of climbing gear that I'm not certified to operate, or a new backpack, or several boxes of clif bars.....or an over-sized mountaineering watch with an altimeter. Visited recently and happened a great gear duffel that has now become my traveling luggage. Love it. Membership perks to the tune of dividends at the end of every year, 20% off coupons, and random sprint-type sales. Not a bad deal at all. Customer service is pretty much awesome every time, too. What a great place to drop a few hundred bucks! read more

This store is awesome and the people there care. I took my bike in because I got stuck doing some upgrades and couldn't get it to work. The staff was so helpful and Allie took the time to get this project working perfectly! read more

I can't say I'm quite sure if I'm a believer of their lifetime membership, of which I too am a member. I mean, most retailers will take returns without a receipt, although some only offer store credit. Now if I continually bring back beat up shoes 12 months later without even an eyebrow raised..that's gonna be a different story. REI, well we all know what it is. Prices aren't as high is the LV store, but ain't as cheap as Walmart. Service is super nice. Being it's an outdoor store, you almost kinda expect everyone to be wearing all natural hemp tie dye shirts, crocs and rock dreads or something. Alas, only a few do and its like you can probably score some "all natural" herbal essence if you tried (totally kiddin'). Welp, what else is there to say? It's a great pro employee co-op with a few member perks and everything one needs to be their own Bear Grylls. I like the store and if it was set up something like Ikea, I'd be in there everyday. read more

The staff here is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. Sure, the products are expensive, aimed at wealthy people who have the time to engage in elite outdoor activities. However, the service is extraordinary. Today, my son needed to purchase some climbing shoes for Outward Bound. His first climbing experience will be on OB so he did not know the first thing about picking out the shoes. The guy who came over to help, (Matt, I think), was an experienced climber who offered great advice about how the shoes should fit, where the toe should be, the fact that they aren't ideal for walking, etc. He also gave my son great tips about how to tone his muscles for climbing and about how important balance is to climbing. We went on a sale weekend and actually found some good deals on some quality products. Every year members get a dividend based on the previous year's purchases. read more

REI - Boots - Sports Wear Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Great collection of Bikes and other sporting accessories. A bit pricey but definitely worth a look-see.

This is a great store but I only buy items that are on the clearance rack! REI is just too expensive to buy from, but its great as a showroom to try items on and then buy them online from a cheaper source. That's just the reality of it. As others have said, great store, great employees, but my current employment doesn't allow such high caliber purchases. read more

WARNING! If you're of the outdoorsy sort, leaving this store without at least one item is nearly impossible. REI is neatly laid out, super high ceilings, helpful staff, and has a lot of "local spots" (for climbing, hiking, swim holes, etc) books. Their REI-branded clothing is pretty awesome (and way cheaper than competitors like Northface and Prana) and durable. They basically make the same thing as the name brands only with different colors and knock 30-50% off of the price. I'm a fan. Next time I can afford more outdoors equipment, I'll be back. read more

Amazing customer service, helpful staff, products with good warranty and a decent location between 77 & 485. This is my go to place for anything outdoorsy, including nutrition/food! read more

Compared to the MSRPs I saw online and retail prices at another store, REI has great prices on paddling helmets. This may contribute to why their inventory was low when I was shopping (which is why they got 4 instead of 5 stars). Don't just blindly listen to your friend complain that REI is expensive...put in the effort to compare prices and think about the guarantee REI offers when contemplating value. I must also say I LOVE the smell inside REI. Not exactly sure what it is, kind of smells like someone just brewed a pitcher of peach tea by the front door every time I walk in. This is actually something I look forward to when going to REI... Be sure to check the events calendar because this store has really neat seminars/classes to attend. Most are free if I remember correctly. read more

After years of using high quality gear I acquired a long time ago, I am beginning to refresh my gear as my GF wants to camp and fly fish with me this year (yeah!). So REI is my go to place for average priced gear that gets the job done. They stock a blending of REI branded items and some big names in the outdoor appearel and gear business. They have several sales a year and I was here to buy a sleeping bag for about 50% off, so a good deal. I like this place versus one off single outdooring stores in the area because their sales staff is very helpful. I find the other stores are just gear heads working there to get cheap gear. I got a membership, but cannot comment on the benefits at this time. read more

I came in yesterday with my boyfriend to get him some hiking shoes and socks and Zach was so great. He explained everything to him and helped us pick him out some great boots. They didn't have the size but he gave us the info to order them. He was knowledgeable and helped us get some great socks. We joined the co-op because there is such great service at this store! read more

Great customer service on multiple visits. Got a price adjustment with no questions. Knowledgeable people! Thank you REI!

On the smaller side compared to other REI's. Their selection reflects their size. Not nearly as many options for shoes as the larger stores. Employees seemed pretty friendly for the most part. read more

This is my favorite store. Everyone is so helpful and responsive. If they don't have something in stock, they always offer to look it up. No pressure sales, dividends every year. Love this store! read more

Location has the worst customer service. Wasted my time trying to place an online to find out my order wasn't ready given the fact they had several items of the product I ordered on their shelves! read more

I am able to get all of my riding gear and equipment here at REI. Great service...great return oolicy. Great sales and dividends as a member read more

Disclaimer: Maybe I shouldn't be posting a review here since I didn't actually BUY anything, but my experience was top notch (and I was expecting to be disappointed) so it couldn't hurt. My boyfriend and I came into possession of an ancient X-Cargo car top carrier that is no longer in production and also was missing some crucial parts (and also isn't REI brand to begin with). We went in as an absolute last resort to find this part, lest we have to travel all the way to the wilds of Concord to find it. (The HORROR!) An employee took a look at our part, brought out the same parts of the other car top carriers they have, pre-bent, and took it right in back to bend it at the same angle as ours with his vice grip, FREE OF CHARGE. It worked perfectly for our needs, which ended up saving us a ton of room AND money (because we can now fit a bed in the back of our car, which space would have otherwise been occupied by the things that are now snug as a bug in a car top carrier. So no hotels!) Thanks, dude! I feel really bad that I never got his name, but he is a lifesaver. read more

Wow was I impressed with the customer service! Unlike some other big name sporting goods stores, I actually had three people ask me if I needed help. I went in looking for a bicycle and got 1st class advice and help. I got to test ride them and felt very comfortable with my choice. They even offer a 90 day free tune-up if you need to tweek anything after riding a bit. Big shout out to Mike and Zach in the bike department! DB Charlotte read more

Best place to go for camping gear for sure! Was there tonight and spoke with Matt and Erica. Easily the most knowledgeable staff I have ever experienced in a sporting good store. Matt helped us try on multiple backpacks and was full of advice and tips on how to pack it and wear it properly in different terrains. Erica showed us different sleeping bags and mats and which ones were really worth the money. I will never set foot in a Dick's again. This really is the place to go whether your an amateur hiker or an expert. I will return for all of my outdoor needs! read more

I went to exchange sunglasses the cashier called someone over the intercom to come help me. No one ever showed up to help me. I told her to just return the glasses and I'd replace them somewhere else. She asked me if i wanted her to call over the intercom for help again. I didn't waste my time waiting again. Cashier was nice read more

REI is great,my son bought a Big Agnes Backpacking tent a year ago and the zipper broke. I bought him a new tent and shipped it to him on trail and returned his to REI and they refunded me the money. The employee at the register said "that's why you shop at REI" Thank You read more

This is my favorite place to shop when I've got a few more bucks available than usual. Love it!