REI in Durham is my go to place for trail running shoes. They have great brands like Altra and Saucony to name a few. I've always gotten excellent service while shopping here for running shoes. Maddy has helped me on two different occasions with picking out shoes, she does a phenomenal job at suggesting shoes and giving you time to make decisions and not making you feel rushed. Great value on trail items like backpacks, shoes, socks, bikes/biking gear and other items. Definitely check out REI in Durham *I live in Raleigh but, travel to Durham to go to this REI. read more

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My father took me to REI for my Christmas present and decided upon a green heavy weight long sleeve shirt. It is high quality and very comfortable which is what REI produces all the the time. My brother loves REI and swears by their product because it has great value for the price and lasts a long time. The service is Ok at REI and the staff are very knowledgeable about the products. They are willing to help you out and answer any questions you may have on their clothes. REI has a wonderful selection of products and is very top notch quality 100% on all of their products. They are a bag free store which is great for the environment. REI is a great store and you get a valuable product for the price you pay for on whatever you purchase at the store. That is all I have to say about REI. read more

REI - heavy weight shirt for Christmas - Bikes Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

I'm generally a fan of REI and try to support REI whenever I can. You can't go wrong with their 10% back deal. However, it isn't as good as it used to be. Before 2022, you could ask REI to send you a check (and I think even redeem cash in-store). Since 2022, you can only spend your rewards with REI, in-store or online. I've been an REI member since 2009 and chose the check option in the past. Honestly, I'm surprised they kept the check/cash option going for as long as they did. This REI location in Durham is one of three REI stores in the Triangle. It's in Renaissance Center (https://www.yelp.com/biz/renaissance-center-durham-2), the shopping plaza across the street from the Streets at Southpoint mall. Conveniently, this is just off I-40 exit 276. REI is the main reason I've come to this shopping center in recent years. The other REI Triangle locations are in Cary and Raleigh. I've come to this location to shop for quick-drying sandals (e.g., Teva) and rain jackets (e.g., Patagonia). I think the selection here is good, but not great. I've had better luck finding what I like in my size at the (understandably) bigger REI in Atlanta (https://www.yelp.com/biz/rei-atlanta-4) as well as at other outdoor retailers such as Mountain High Outfitters. At this REI location in Durham, I've sometimes left empty-handed and ended up ordering directly from brands such as Patagonia. Still, this store is worth a visit. Service at this location has always been great. The staff has been polite, friendly, and willing to help. read more

Cool store if you need all things outdoor related and more. I visited this location at the request of someone. I have been searching for specific walking shoes, and she recommended the Hoka brand. The shoes are great; lightweight and durable. The shoe fit well but my foot slightly slipped out when I walked around the store. The lady assisting me was very helpful and kind. I appreciated her patience I have not shopped for shoes in years now. She brought me several shoes to try on and did her best to help. I really appreciated her kindness and attention to detail today. This was a great experience. Check it out! read more

Out of the three REIs in the Triangle Area, this one has the best ReSupply area (formerly Garage Sale). I am always able to find shoes or clothes in my size at a great value. Parking in this shopping area is a bit crazy and not my favorite. The changing rooms need to be opened by a staff member and once you press the button present- the staff is usually really quick in their response. I've noticed REI prices have increased lately but the quality of the items remains good. read more

I'm not a camper anymore, or as physically active as I once was able to be, but I do come here from time to time just to check things and make some purchases. Today I was on mission though. I had purchased a small camp stove a couple years ago from Aldi, similar to a Coleman, for those times when the power goes out as happens from time to time in inclement weather here. With the impending storm prediction I needed to get some butane canisters for the stove and was concerned they'd all be gone by now. To my surprise I saw online that REI had them, whereas everyone else was out. Bonus that the store is nearly around the corner from me. Hoping there'd still be some left so I ran over this morning and to my delight found them! It was a busy and there was a line at the checkout, but the friendly clerks did a fantastic job moving it quickly. I was on my way in no time and grateful to have found what I needed as a backup if need be tomorrow! read more

Always a nice bunch of folks working! I had to take my bike in to get the rear tube replaced, and found that as a member, service is free! So I paid for the tube out of the coop rebate I forgot I had, so it was free. Depending on the day and time, it's a while you wait service. Great experience walking in with a bike they have never sold, and they never batted an eye. I was on the stand and ready to go in a hot minute. The tech even showed me how to remove my rear wheel, which I've always been afraid to do. read more

REI - Display humor - Bikes Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

Can not continue to support a store that does not follow their own core values as advertised. Management illegally punishes employees for trying to unionize which is their legal right. Highly suggest folks to not support REI Durham till some major changes are made at the leadership level. read more

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We're not the most rugged outdoor types but when we need clothing or gear for the outdoors, it's hard to beat the selection and customer service here. On my most recent visit, I just needed a gift card for my niece. I told the clerk that my wife had an account but didn't know what phone number or email it was under. The clerk tried several different ones until we found my wife's account (it was under an old phone number so we changed it to the new one). I appreciate the staff here and I appreciate that the company doesn't make them work on Thanksgiving. read more

REI is always good. I found the staff here to be indifferent to my needs, however. Not the usual experience at REI.

I visited the REI store in Durham for the first time today. An associate named Ben helped me find some hiking shoes. I had already done my homework, but Ben was able to answer all my questions and provide valuable insight. After looking at three different pairs of shoes I ended up getting the Salomon XA Pro 3D shoes. Check them out, they are sweet. I already enjoyed REI and liked shopping there, but now it is on my preferred shopping list. read more

I haven't been here in at least five years and now I remember why. I was on a hike recently and somebody told me they were having a storewide sale so I decided to go in. The signage was completely confusing "30% off for members" but then 25% off on everything else for everybody else but only on "some" things... I approached an employee to clarify but Instead of clarifying he started 21 questions- "why wouldn't I want to become a member if I save money etc etc. " like I was in the principal's office. The information he finally ended up giving me was completely wrong and I spent an hour looking around the store picking things out. When I got to the cash register to pay and the guy told me that none of my stuff was on sale. Horrible management. read more

I went to this location to get a bike for my husband as a surprise gift. I had a general idea of what I wanted but I needed someone with more knowledge to weigh in and help me make the best choice. Jerremy was the staff member who helped me. He was super kind and provided me with helpful pros and cons for several types of bikes. He made sure I didn't choose something way out of my price range but didn't skimp either and get something I would regret or need to upgrade soon. I feel super confident in what I ended up choosing even though it was different from what I originally thought I would get. I trusted his judgment and feel better for it. Everyone who helped with the process (applying extra accessory parts and setting me up with membership) was just as great and helpful! Super easy process and totally stress-free because of the help I had. read more

Stepped into REI for a specific product I'd seen online and was astounded by the size of the store! It's beautifully lain out and specific sections are very visible from the front of the store. After browsing for the product I needed for a bit, an REI employee offered to assist me. All my questions were answered and he was incredibly helpful and quick to assist and recommend similar products (unfortunately they didn't have what I needed in stock). REI a huge selection of great outdoor products, although, as I've noticed is true in the world of camping gear, you'll be paying $$$ for it. I took a little time to look through their women's clothing, including their clearance items, and while the items look to be great quality, you'll definitely be paying top dollar. On a side note, the REI website is great, and if you're purchasing something over $50, you'll usually get free shipping, so there's almost not even a need to go into the store (although, the store experience is very welcoming!) read more

Seldom has a chain of stores managed to grip me like REI, but there's something so awe-inspiring about walking into REI. Something that makes sleeping in a sleeping bag in a tent on dirt seem so wild and adventurous. This particular REI has become my standby REI in the Raleigh/Durham area -- mostly because the North Hills location is a pain to find parking at, and the Cary location is in Cary (which, by default, is somewhere I don't want to be). But location aside, this location has always had excellent and helpful staff that really seem to know what they're talking about. This is one of the few stores I'll ask for recommendations fairly unreservedly, and I've yet to regret that. read more

So why might one go to REI? Well if you are into the outdoors and are in need of gear or clothing then this is the place to check out! They pretty much will have anything you're looking for. Whether its camping supplies, cycling gear, kayaks and canoes, climbing or hiking gear, they have it. You can even book your vacation through them. Whether you simply want to stay in the NC mountains and go Rock climbing or you want to be more adventurous and and hike through Nepal, REI can accommodate. Living on a budget and can't afford much gear? Then consider joining their co-op... You get a life-time membership for about $20 and enjoy 10% of your hard earned cash back at the end of the year on all purchases you make at REI. The staff at this location is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. The even know where to find an answer to your question if they don't know it off the top of their heads, which is huge when your average joe might just say, "i dunno" or "google it". The weather is getting nice so swing by and pick up some gear! read more

REI - Bikes Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

Gonna do anything outdoors? This is the spot. They. Have. Everything. I've been going to and shopping at REI for decades. The staff is always very knowledgeable and quite helpful. Biking, camping, hiking, rock climbing, running, kayaking, etc etc etc. I feel like they have more apparel than in the past, but that's where the money is so I don't blame them. Become a member and receive a dividend check each year from your prior year purchases. Better than trying to buy this he ear online. It's important to get a good fit and be able to feel the materials befoRe you begin your next adventure. read more

Tracy was fantastic helping me pick climbing shoes. Fantastic employee who had great recommendations, was very kind, and knowledgeable.

I have never had a bad experience here! I love the staff and they always go out of their way to make sure that my questions are answered and I get the equipment that works best for me. What I really like about the staff is that they don't alway recommend the most expensive equipment, they recommend what would work best for me at a reasonable price. The store is always clean, stocked and organized. Qualities a lot of retail stores lack. Check them out! I go here often and you won't be disappointed... read more

Recently bought water shoes at this REI location and staff were very helpful and spent a long time with me while I was having trouble deciding on which style and size to buy. Today I called after a lot of research about transporting a kayak on my vehicle, and the staff person on the phone talked with me for 25 minutes answering all my questions and explaining options and prices for cross bars and racks. Thank you! read more

This is a regular REI like any other, but I was disappointed. What I wanted them to have in stock they'd have to special order. Why bother having an REI then? read more

Extremely friendly and helpful staff. I like their lay out of the store and how many snacks are available for people who have several food allergies. I was able to find a good deal of bars considering I am allergic to dairy, nuts, and avocado. They provide a selection of sugar based gels and gummies as well as Chocolate Mint Cliff bars, Chocolate Chip Cliff bars and sesame snacks! If you forget your receipt and need to do a return or exchange their system is extremely organized in my experience and have usually had a very quick check out. read more

REI - Bikes Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

I ordered a pair of shoes online for in store pick up. I went to the store to pick them up. I admit, I was an hour earlier than the estimated pick up time, but they had the shoes in stock (I actually had them in my hands...) -- however when I went to check-out and showed them my order number, they couldn't find it -- it wasn't in their system. So, I couldn't get the shoes (I had used my one-time rewards discount). Their in store staff was apologetic, but they said there was nothing they could do. So, as of now (24 hrs later) I still don't have notification that I can pick up the shoes. Compare this to Target -- I placed an online order for an in stock item, and got an email 15 minutes later telling me my item was ready for pick up. REI online ordering and instore pick up is a joke. And you can't call anyone to talk to them about it and you can't cancel your order!!! You have to "speak" to a chat bot. What an archaic system -- I expect with the current increase in online ordering REI will likely not survive -- their customer service stinks -- something they used to be known for. read more

REI is one of my go-to places when I need something to help me have fun in the outdoors. Being a member of their co-op has SERIOUSLY been worth the $20 fee - the perks and cash back you get? I've gotten it back many times over. The selection of gear runs the same across all sports - there is a good variety, you can find medium to high end gear for hiking, cycling, running, swimming, and just a general active lifestyle. They've got great variety in nutrition as well, so if you want to try out any kind of sport nutrition - go here and check out the selection. Their newer buildings are outfitted with all repurposed materials, and the company is very eco-concious. It gives me a good feeling to know that I can help any chain with the crusade, as its a difficult mission to maintain. As Dan mentioned, they aren't always the best deal in town - BUT they do have decent sales on a regular basis, and again, if you're a member, you will get rewards (in a very specific dollar amount) that help offset the cost. read more

Minus one star for the price I buy all gear here, and most of my clothes (and almost all this years Christmas pressies) Even though you can find the stuff cheaper, the staff are great, and if you ever *and I mean ever* want to return your clothes/gear for whatever reason you can. Make sure your a member, don't buy without being one, and you can return a tent that has a tear, a shoe that just didnt feel right, a fleece that piles up, anything. Great store, great selection, this is how shopping should be Tips: Be a member Do the once a month (quarter?) special sale. You have to Q up 2-3 hours before they open and ask staff for date. You can buy cheaply all those returned items. For example I bought a hubahuba tent for $35 with a broken tent pole (they have a manufacturing lifetime guarantee) and they shipped me a out new one. if they put an item on sale within 30 days of your purchase you can (without even bringing in the item) have them refund the difference. read more

They have a nice selection of products, and the folks up front are very nice. However, the entire time I shopped, neither of the 2 floor associates even spoke to me or acknowledged my existence. While I stood there trying on coats for 15 minutes, other customers came in and out of the area and were greeted and asked if they needed help, all while I was ignored. I selected my jacket, alone, and proceeded up front to pay. One associate on the floor was a young girl and the other was a man with a mustache I think. The man was moving around me the entire time, in fact. Astonishing because I've never had this experience at an REI before. Maybe it's a Durham thing. Saturday, 1-26-19, between 12:30 and 1pm. Makes me think there's something wrong with me. read more

If I was in Barenaked Ladies and thus helped pen 'If I Had a Million Dollars", I'm pretty sure REI would have been prominently featured in the tune. Alas, I don't even have one million pennies, yet I still find myself indulging in some REI goodness whenever I do have the cash to do so! This REI shop is phenomenal with a ton of gear for hiking, camping, biking, running, working out, and snow sports. Basically, you could waste hours inside this spot if you're an outdoor junkie. The REI branded products themselves are very solid in quality, and the store also carries numerous other high end name brands. Aside from the gear, the staff members are as a whole laid back, friendly, and knowledgeable. No need to feel like an idiot for asking a ridiculous question here! Another cool aspect of this shop is that there are frequent regularly scheduled talks and demos about all sorts of nature and fitness related topics. Even cooler still is the fact that REI is all about stewardship, volunteering, and helping to protect nature and thus sponsors numerous activities and opportunities aimed at such ideals. Oh, did I also mention that they have a ridiculously amazing online outlet store and have pretty frequent garage sales on site as well? (for those of us that don't have a million dollars) Bottom line: REI is like crack for fitness and outdoor enthusiasts. Go get some! read more

This is what every store should hope to be. I had a bunch of friends that have used REI for years and finally convinced me to try it out. Their stores are well layed out and their staff is always happy to help you out and explain their products. I've found most of the staff has already done what you're trying to do so they have good insight whether something will work or not. They have a great inventory of everything you need to get you through your outdoor activity and back home again. The best part is their return policy, 100% guarantee will settle your stomach when you're making those iffy purchases. Cash back at the end of year with a membership also puts a smile on my face. read more

I wanted to give 4.5 stars but I went ahead and gave 5. The reason being is each time I've come in for shoes or equipment they have exactly what you are looking for a reasonable prices. Minus .5 stars because I was getting some nice boots and the lady didn't really know the nuances between two Merril's. It's ok I have the internet. She let me try on a few pairs and didn't rush me. The line went faster and I understand companies want to sell their cards but it seems as if they haven't been as pushy lately. They still will suggest you purchasing more than you need to get the card, but I can't fault the employees for the corporations. The place is clean and not cluttered. I like it, I like how they get new things in, but not so frequent you feel as if "Why did I not wait?". Brands they carry are quality and sturdy. They offer help but don't harass. I like it, my only qualm is that I wish they would be a little bit more knowledgeable especially when you are paying almost 200 for boots, so I don't have to spend time double checking. Other than that great service and really great selection of outdoor products. read more

No floor associates greeted/acknowledged me the entire time I was in the store, including the two associates at the registers (who were not assisting customers and clearly watched me enter and exit the store w/out interrupting their personal conversation). I was shopping for shoes, but the associate ignored me waiting for assistance by the shoe display wall while chit-chatting w/another customer. Weird experience. I left. read more

Stopped by the REI location at Southpoint looking for Rainpants for the impending monsoon game on Saturday. (NC State vs. Rudy, aka, Notre Dame) Researched this item online prior giving me an idea of their prices and brands. I did have lofty expectations based on my visit to their sister store in North Hills... Totally disappointed. It is not in any way as nice as the North Hills store. This may be due to the smaller size, or that it is one floor, but the merchandising lacked pizzazz, and their inventory was spartan. Tried on several pairs of North Face Rainpants (my sponsor),after a long discussion with a very helpful employee. She was the one shining star, and I did not get her name. Mea culpa. Left REI Pantsless, saving 80 bones, and I will wear my buddies Gortons Fisherman outfit Saturday. As far as this REI, this fisherman will not be returning. read more

Great selection of hiking gear, camping gear, and clothes. I use it anytime I can't order it online, want to try it on first, or need it immediately. Plus, their return policy is awesome. I've returned many things and no one batted an eyelash. I love that I can return from rei.com or rei-outlet.com instead of having to mail it back. Their member discounts and rebates have paid for themselves many times. Their staff is usually more knowledgeable than the average person. Plus if you really need to know a lot of depth, they can point you to an expert. It's worth it to pay a few more bucks and buy it from REI for the guarantee alone. You can always return it. read more

So this review is more geared to this particular REI than others. Overall I love REI and think it's a 4. This store suffers from being on the small side. Maybe because I come from Colorado and am used to the REI's in Denver and Boulder, but I just wish this one had more selection. Service is good here and people are friendly. If you need something quick and reliably this is your best bet in Durham. I would recommend finding one of the many bike or running specialty shops that are in the area if you are after equipment for either of those activities. read more

I have been a member and have always enjoyed my time at this store and today was no different until I checked out. When had shopped here the week before they were running a promotion for when you spend $100 you get a $20 promotional gift card. I happened to shop there twice that weekend and spend over $100 each time I was issued a gift card each time. My expectation when coming in today was to have $40 off of my total purchase. Upon completing my purchase and going to payment the gentleman asked why I had to $20 promotional cards, I explained to him that I was given one each time last weekend. He then told me that it was the policy that each REI member would only get one promotional gift card which I understand. He then told me that even though it was an error by the store if you would only use one of the promotional gift cards took them both and rang me up with one promotional gift card. While I do not hate this policy being in customer service as I am I would have handled this very differently seeing that it was an error by the store, instead of making the customer pay for their mistake. I never expected to be turned off from my favorite store, but needless to say, I will not be returning anytime soon. read more

This location is always helpful, check out is always quick. Went by there yesterday for the member sale. Picked up a few marked down items. The quality of the REI line has always been solid. Glad we have a location in Durham. read more

My name is Dan, and I've been a member of REI since I lived in WA. That being said, this is prolly the most consistent national chain of outdoor equipment you can find anywhere in the states (I still prefer Canada's MEC, personally). They pretty much do everything - from bicycling, paddling, to climbing and campgear. They also perform a lot of community oriented services like donating money and time to local organizations (environmental, etc). And if you want to learn about a particular "sport" or activity like how to use that new-fangled shiny GPS you got for Christmas....well, they even provide courses you can sign up for to do so. The big caveat being that some of these courses are free...however, some like bicycle maintenance require a fee that's listed on their website or the class schedule flyer in store. As a lifetime member, you not only get a nice shiny plastic card with your name on it, but "dividends" (typically 10% back) on eligible purchases all for a one time fee of $20. Okay, so all of this is really nothing new, but worth mentioning. What I like about REI in general is that they do have a no-questions asked return policy on any item you purchase....I think this even extends to non-members, but check before you quote me on this. That being said, I've returned tons of things back to REI b/c for one reason or another it was something I didn't use nor did I need on a particular trip, but it was a good insurance policy having some of those items on some of the backcountry stuff we participated in. Which also leads into the second best thing about ALL REI stores...they have member only sales AND "garage" sales where they have to sell items that were returned for one reason or another and aren't in pristine showroom condition (e.g., used). THIS alone makes this REI (all REI stores for that matter) my BFF in outdoor gear purchases. You looking for your first camping tent? Go to one of these tent sales and if you're lucky, you could save BIG. I've bought carbon fiber bars for $10 that retailed for over $150 in the past. Try a pair of Smith sunglasses with a small scratch on the lens for $20 that normally retails for $100! Another great thing about REI, they do produce their own in-house brands that are actually quite good and very inexpensive for the budget minded enthusiast. They've been rated well by several independent magazines (e.g., Backpacker, Outside). Their 2 person Quarter Dome tent comes to mind it's almost a sub 4 pound tent and is nearly half the price of name brands like Mountain Hardwear or North Face. Okay then, so why the 4 star review? Well, truth be told, they aren't the best deal in town when it comes to name brand outdoor gear. I've also found that *some* of the employees aren't exactly the most knowledgeable when it comes to gear. If you're knowledgeable and know what you need and have done most of the research, you're set. If you do get a great staff person to help you out, it can be a great learning experience. Overall, everyone here is friendly, but prices (non-sale) on name brands are always consistently on the high end. You're better off waiting for a sale every couple of months or just going elsewhere (mgear.com, campsaver.com, etc) for better deals. Personally, I think places like MEC do a better job of bringing the price point down even on their own branded products. 5 stars for community oriented services, 4 stars for friendly and knowledgeable service, 3 stars for prices. 4 stars overall. REI is still my BFF in outdoor equipment...and the super convenient location here makes my life just a bit easier! And yes, I'm still a member. read more

When I lived in Asheville, I really enjoyed visiting the REI there--they had great winter gear, a good selection of yoga clothing, and friendly (but not over-the-top) staff. The Southpoint REI is fine--clean, large, and well-lit. I've been in at least a dozen times, because it's convenient to one of my workplaces. I recently purchased a nice Camelback water bottle there for my new Osprey Tempest backpack (which I purchased locally at Townsend and Bertram for cheaper than it sells for at REI, and T&B let me try on at least six packs without getting frustrated with my need to get the most bang for my one hundred bucks.) They also have those yummy Pro Bar gummy energy treats in the checkout line. There are two main reasons for my three-star rating (I am tossing out the out of the ordinary recent incident when I asked a staff member to help me find the women's rain jackets and he said, "They are under that sign that says 'rain jackets.'" If I had seen the sign I would not have asked.): 1. The staff. They are overbearing with the up-selling. Ask me ONCE if you can help me or suggest ONE product, then leave me alone, please. 2. Poor selection of yoga pants. All I saw last time I was there were Lucy brand pants. They carry PrAna. Where are the PrAna pants? Or some other brand of decent yoga pants? I mean, I will happily trot on over to Athleta and buy my pants there, but REI could make it convenient for me to meet my cycling and yoga needs in one store. In summary, if you can make it to Carrboro, Townsend and Bertram does nearly everything REI does, but better. If you need a bike, go to Back Alley. read more

I stopped by this REI while back on the mainland (visiting my home state). I've been experiencing withdrawal since living in Hawaii (where there's no REI!). The REI website does fill that void a bit, but there's nothing like going to see (touch, feel) the products in person and totally immersing myself in the REI experience. I've been a fan and a member of REI since visiting my first REI store in San Diego and since then visiting the flagship store in Seattle. This Durham location is another great REI location. It's relatively new in a shopping area close to Southpoint. This time I bought only a headlight though I considered purchasing other items (probably a good thing not to haul too much stuff back with me). Over the years I've gotten loads of stuff at REI. edit: I wonder how many times I can mention REI in my review! :o) read more

Great customer experience! I have used this location several times and each time the have exceeded my expectations. Matt took my order on the way to the store and when I arrived it was all ready as expected. read more

So I recently noticed my wife was no longer embarrassed to be seen with me in public. I had to remedy this situation and do it fast! I needed a pair of VFF's! That is Vibram FiveFingers to those of you that don't have your phasers set on nerd all the time. So I headed to the local REI. I was concerned the sales person would be uneducated on the product or how to properly fit them, plus the place is usually pretty busy and understaffed. I was in for surprise when I found out he actually wears a pair for trail running, as well (my intended use)! He directed me away from the KSO and to the KSO trek, due to the improvement in the treads for trail use (and a nice upsell on his part as they cost 50% more). He also mentioned the Treksport, which he said they hope to get in the next few months, in case I wanted a more breathable upper. Although I'm used to getting a little bit more personal attention when buying shoes, he did a good job of balancing around 5 or so other customers all at the same time. I went through several different pairs in the same size, until I found one that felt just right. Also, they have a 30 day unconditional guarantee, just in case my wife threatens divorce. I will see about getting his name the next time I visit, and update the review. We've bought a lot of gear from this place over the years and they always have a great selection. read more