I mean it's the only REI in like 200 miles in any direction, so obviously it's 5 stars. In addition to that, this is a pretty decent sized REI store with a pretty good selection. The staff is all friendly and helpful and will be able to direct you where you're going. The layout is a little wonky, I don't know if it's because of the overall size of the store, or just that it's laid out poorly. But once you get your bearings you'll be able to figure it out. The parking lot is also awkward to get in and out of, and also awkwardly located in relation to the main entrance. But any REI is a good REI and I'm glad this place is here. read more

Do your research and snipe in here for that something special. The vast majority of this stuff is unnecessary, over-engineered, outdoor recreation thirst traps for weekend warriors but of course for the dedicated adventurer there are some vital items I'm sure. Prices are off the rails. Park passes are sold here including National Forest day parking passes. Just get em' at checkout. Speaking of checkout, brace yourself for a long wait during busy times including over lunch hour. Employees can be knowledgeable or downright confused but are at least mostly friendly. I'd suggest RambleRaven first, or go online, but come here for well-researched certain somethings that you may have to return. read more

This was my first time in this location and it is such a n awesome one! I could obviously just write how I love REI in general and how I could spend an hour just talking about that but as soon as I walked in it was just like every other location I've been into but I'm giving this one 5 stars because of the awesome and friendly staff that were able to help me find what I needed while being so patient with me since I'm so indecisive lol. They were so knowledgeable and informed me of any new things going on with my membership there. A special shout out to Angie! Thank you for helping me out! I'll definitely be coming back as soon as I need some more gear when you think of shopping at REI think of THIS location!! Also prep my new hat and stickers I got read more

REI - Always a good time here at REI! Finally got my new hat - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Spokane, Washington

Now that I've been here a few more times, including a trail running class (by Trail Maniacs) that was upstairs in their community room, I feel the need to upgrade the stars. In my previous review, I'd had a couple of trips in with less than stellar customer service in the shoe department, but that was two years ago. Now you'll find one of the most knowledgeable hiking shoe experts here. He will also make you feel like the only person in the store, and really work with you to find what works with your foot. This REI also really caters to community events related to the outdoors. So, if you are new to the area and like the outdoors, check out their classes on the their website or drop in, go upstairs to their community room, and check out the bulletin board. read more

This is another fine REI store. I would give it 5 stars but parking can be an issue some of the time.

Hire employee's that will treat your customers with respect and value your customers. Was treated like a lesser human and disrespected.

REI is a great place for outdoor gear. Unfortunately, although they have an awesome shoe section, it is difficult to get help. Employees that should be helping customers were hiding in the back where the shoes were kept having personal conversations. We were there for 20 minutes and only tried on 2 pair of shoes, the second of which we had no idea how to tighten the unique lace, and nobody around to ask. I tried to talk to a manager before I left, but he was one of the people I interacted with and only made excuses. Probably hit and miss here, but it's been miss now for the last 4 times and nobody cares. read more

I came here simply to rent a tent for a weekend of car-camping in Glacier National Park. I was new to Spokane (and the NW) and thought I'd see what the deal was with this "nature" thing everyone talks about... I have since been inspired to visit and photograph every national park in the US. I did a 6 mile trail here and I was hooked on hiking. My feet were killing me, I was ill-equipped, I didn't bring water. But, I was amazed at all the beauty (I'm not the type of guy to usually talk all spiritually like this either). I vowed to go deeper and "never stop exploring". If I didn't have reviews in the triple-digits you'd probably think I was a CO-OP-BOT sent to give REI cheesy, feel-good reviews. NOT SO FRIEND! I took up hiking, then eventually back-packing, and now mountaineering. The friendly people of REI have been with me every step of the way: - Advising me on how to prevent blisters - Helping me learn the right way to fit a boot - Explaining things to me I know NOTHING about in a concise and friendly manner. - Never pushing me to buy anything unless I can't decide (they will then pick something and tell you WHY they prefer it) I love this place, it helped nurture and encourage a sort of hobby and life I thought I'd never be a part of. Thanks guys, thanks so much. read more

I love the company REI. I love what it stands for, I love the customer service and I love what it does to preserve the outdoors. I've been to several REI locations across the northwest. Missoula, Bozeman, Denver and Seattle and have had nothin but an amazing experience. That's not the case for the Spokane store. My first experience was when I first moved to Spokane from Montana. I was looking for a good hiking guide and just to get input from the employees where they liked to hike. I was pushed to the Spokane Falcon's Guide and another customer ended up talking to me about where they liked to hike because the employee was too busy talking to a coworker. Next I had to help my friend with her Chacos because they footwear guy was too busy tying the laces of the display shoes to show her the "knuckle toe buckle" trick. Lastly I was so tired and just sold my bed before I moved away from Spokane but needed a pump for my air mattress. I went into REI because I knew they had really good priced pumps and they lasted for a long time. I told the camping sales employee that I was looking for one that I could use IN MY HOUSE. That plugged into the wall and was decently priced. I know I should have looked better, but he sold me a $40 pump that ONLY WORKS IN CARS. Like dude were you even listening? This store needs to retrain all their employees. None of those visits are what any REIs are about read more

Visiting a friend in town and thought it would be nice to check out Spokane's REI and see how different it was from Tacoma's location and it was really good. Managed to find great deals and the staff were really helpful. Be sure to check out the return item bins upstairs. Found really good deals. read more

The employees here are sales zombies who will regurgitate the information they read on the packaging. If you need help with a product you have already purchase forget about it, sales are clearly more important to them. One older gentleman in particular who was kinda gruff, semi knowledgeable but definitely outdated on his knowledge of gear and trends. He sounded like a backpack brochure, instead of someone who had maybe actually backpacked before and was drawing from knowledge. Definitely shifty sales motivated vibes in this store, in Portland there is always someone there who is up on the trends and wants to get your gear right not just there sales numbers right. read more

I had a terrible experience at the local REI. Second time visiting this store following researching online. Both times the sales rep was openly dismissive of products available online at REI. One actually said the product on the website did not exist. Footwear once and backpacks for the other. Unfortunately the only nearby REI- but I won't shop there again if I can help it. No point being a member if they treat you like you are an idiot. read more

This is my first online review. I never write these. However, I had such a bad experience at this store recently that I feel like sharing it. I bought a balance bike for my baby's first birthday. And I regret that I bought it at this store. The manager who has a name that sounds like "Tree-boo" was very rude. He was so offensive, that I actually asked him several times to hand me off to a manager/supervisor. He stated that he was the manager and refused to give me the name of his supervisor. I'm trying not to take the way I was treated personally....maybe his Mom just died? Maybe he got dumped that day? But, it was a terrible experience. If you have to shop at REI I recommend shopping online, or at any other REI store. The Spokane location is the worst. read more

Today I was in REI looking to buy some hiking boots and I have a difficult shoe size to find. I wear either women's 5 or kids 4-5 so it's always an ordeal and I need help finding shoes that will fit. We went to the man working in shoes who had the dreads multiple times with questions about different shoes and sizes that were available and he did not once offer to help us. I even told him what size I was looking for and at first he said "we won't have anything in that size" and then when I asked about kids sizes he said "well then we should have all of them in that size". He offered to help multiple other people but would not pull shoes for us and generally would not look in our direction. I honestly just felt like maybe he thought I looked too poor to buy shoes there and we left without any new shoes because I couldn't try any on. Sad day :( read more

REI received this rating because the gentleman Seamus at the REI SPokane location gave me the best ski boot fitting I've ever had from the numerious REI's I have used over the 35 years. Not only was his fitting excellent he was more knowledgeable than any previous REI fitter over the last 20+ years. He answered my question throughly and was extremely knowledgeable on recommendations on a possible new purchase on skis. I wish every time I went in to REI I got this kind of service. Spokane managers please give this employee a KUDOS and let him know his help was awesome today. Seamus you really know your stuff and the boots feel excellent. I'l be back soon for some new skis and will come directly to you. If I could give you a tip I would have !!! read more

I was in dire need of a wide day hiking shoe. They produce the perfect shoe with impeccable support! Very pleased!

I have been in REI's before, and bought stuff that was on sale, primarily for mountain biking. But, this was my first time going with the intention of getting a bunch of stuff for backpacking. (My best friend and I are going to start going regularly, and we are complete novices to backpacking). The selection was unreal and we got quickly overwhelmed. I went to go and find one of the employees in a green frock. I could not BELIEVE how knowledgeable these people were! We were in the store for 3.5 hours (it was an expensive trip, and I still forgot stuff . . . How in the HELL did I forget boots?!) The associate stayed with us for the nearly the entire time, and we never felt rushed. When he went on lunch, he made sure we were handed over to yet another knowledgeable green frocked guy, and then took back over after he got done. I was really impressed with his knowledge. "No, don't buy that. You can make that at home cheaper and it'll be better." etc etc. I wasn't steered toward the more expensive stuff, just what I wanted and not a jot more. Very very pleasant shopping experience. And, since I am realizing I forgot stuff, I'm going to be headed back . . . read more

I went into this store to do an exchange for an "SOL flameless lighter" that I had already went to replace a few months after purchase due to its poor quality. I had the original purchase receipt and the clearly not functioning item in hand-they gave me the hardest time about processing an exchange. The reason they provided was that AFTER I made the original purchase and THEY did the EXCHANGE for the DEFECTIVE item that the NEW policy since I WAS NOT a member I only had 90 days to trade it out (which was NOT explained when the first one broke, neither was i provided an actual receipt that stated the updated policy after the first exchange). Nonetheless I ended up finally getting a manager after asking for a resolution OVER THE PHONE who unwillingly did the exchange outside of the building and then went to lecture me on not being upset when REI representatives are unwilling to help. It's clear from the reviews-POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE, & you'll get better prices ONLINE. SAVE YOUR MONEY AND TIME. I can't believe how I was treated and I won't be shopping there again. read more

The staff at the Spokane location were friendly and helpful especially the Canadian guy at the front counter. This is a nice location if you need an REI. read more

So, I love REI on a macro level. The Portlandia, Mothership, and Tacoma stores are great. Spokane, like Spokane the city, tends to hit the average mark too much. I freaking hate standing looking confused and REI salespeople in the vicinity ignoring me. I also hate being clearly engaged in examining a product, needing no assistance, and being bothered by one of them. Why is this so hard REI salespeople???? Best part of REI and what balances their prices is the return policy. OMFG. Spokane store is light on selections and merch, but many of the small to mid size REIs are like this. If you've not been to the Mothership in Seattle you should check it out. They have several Sherpas they brought back from Nepal who live in the store 24/7 by the humongous fake rock climbing wall. The Sherpa family is pretty friendly but tends to keep to themselves, doing knitting, crampon repairs, smoking many kinds of tasty meats, and provide a deadly sort of store security in the off hours. Anyway, Spokane REI is alright but Mountain Gear busts their chops for coolness and cred. read more

This store in specific is small compared to other locations around Washington and/or the Portland area, but it's all we've got. Therefore, smaller selection of often picked over goods. REI has a great return policy though, so just order online for home delivery or instore pickup. I've had no trouble returning unopened/unused online purchases after inspection and finding them not as described, and they've been snatched up in no time from the store (new returned items are often promptly placed on the shelf) as we have such limited inventory. Though not entirely related to REI, their branded credit card is less than reliable in issuing promotional credits earned through purchases. read more

Stopped at REI to get some hiking boots. And David was at the cash register and he was GREAT! He helped us sign up for rewards which we did not know was a thing. He was very friendly. The people upstairs weren't very friendly, but David was fantastic. We will definitely be back! read more

We took a class on bike maintenance... all I can say is that all of the rei classes we have taken have been well worth the money! Even in the basic class we had what I would consider "advanced" questions answered! The class is amazing, and in some cases, beyond amazing! Not only did they teach us, in some cases they actually performed work that needed to be done! read more

I really love REI. They're a great company. The employees are generally very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable about what is going on in the store. The Spokane store is no exception. Well, except for one thing: They have #(*!)&* rock walls!! And on certain days, they let you climb them. FOR FREE. That just makes this particular REI super awesome and makes me wish I could import it into Phoenix. read more

Huge REI. Two stories. Employees were helpful, but not as eager as I've experienced in other REIs. This could have been because we visited 30 min prior to closing. Nice place overall. read more

Our REI is by far the best sporting goods outlet in our region! Staff are always friendly, helpful and go the extra distance to inform and find a way to make the customer feel satisfied. Prices are competitive, even with Amazon AND membership offers cash back and sales that balance out any $ concerns. Special kudos to old friends Rick & Bonnie, as well as the entire bike team of sales/mechanics who always take good care of us. read more

I have shopped here before several times, Don't mind spending money on Quality. We arrived at the store on a weeknight about 6:30, we were greeted at the entrance by about 3-4 Employees one of which let us know there were Masks available; We said thank you and kept walking into the store she then proceeded to tell us that if we did not wear the provided mask that "Staff may or may not assist us" Not sure what that means but we kept walking, then she got on her Walkie talky Device and told the entire staff that there was a "Male and Female" couple walking around without a mask. I have never felt so Criminalized while trying to spend My own money on Things I probably didn't really need at this time anyway. So now every employee is staring as we walk thru. Needless to say we felt very uncomfortable so we left. I am in customer service and will be sharing my story! Security Theater at it finest! read more

I recently went into the REI store with my wife to buy shoes and noticed a manikin up high over the shoes. I liked the looks of the shirt it had on for display. I found a nearby store employee and asked if she might have a similar shirt on the rack. There wasn't, but before I knew it, she got a ladder and took the shirt down and finding it was my my size wrote up an order form and explained that my size was available and could be shipped for free (and that it was on sale also). Can't be more impressed with her customer service. read more

Went to this store as they were the only retailer near where I live which stocked a certain product. After calling the day before to ensure they still had plenty in-stock I drove over looking to buy. I walked into the store and noticed how poorly maintained it was in comparison to the other REI stores I have visited. Trash clearly visible on the floor as soon as I walked in, merchandising was sloppy and haphazard, dirt everywhere, etc. I had made the trip to purchase a new bike helmet and I he called in the day before to ensure they had a couple sizes and a couple colors which I was assured was the case. They had exactly one helmet available on their floor. After 15 minutes looking around and trying on sizes, the obviously very busy yelling man in the cycle department (who was simply standing in a doorway yelling at someone in the back) still hadn't come over. Nor had I seen any other employees besides the one who had completely ignored me when I walked into the store. I approached the yelling man in the cycle department, locked eyes, then watched him walk off the sales floor as I was approaching. I rang his little bell but he was suddenly silent and not present. After five minutes I gave up. Suffice it to say I was ignored as I exited the building the same way as when I entered. I will not only not be purchasing a new helmet from REI, I will not be purchasing anything from this REI under any circumstances. How such worthless pieces of garbage ended up working retail I'll never know. How said human trash ended up working at a seemingly higher-end outlet like REI escapes me. But how a couple pieces of sentient refuse turned me off of shopping at this location? Easy peasy, they simply acted like themselves. read more

We visited the Spokane REI this morning to purchase a GoPro package. We were there at 10:00 am when the doors opened. We were looking for someone to ask a question and couldn't find anyone. So, we took it to the checkout and the customer service person there was very friendly and answered some questions. We were the only ones at the counter and a lady came riding in on her bike. She barked to the guy helping us "someone needs to be down here by the door". She was very rude. We thought it was a customer but it was actually the MANAGER of the store. The guy helping us apologized to us for her rude behavior and explained that she was the manager. I guess she didn't realize how much money our family spends there on a regular basis. We will be back since it is the only REI in Spokane but with a bad taste in our mouth. read more

My first time here will likely be my last. Prices are much higher than competitors and nobody asked me if I needed help. I had to search for a frontend clerk who could only tell me where to search on my own. The feel of the store was very subdued, no real energy. I felt better/ more energized once I left. Not a good quality for an outdoor store where they sell exciting products. read more

I'm a big fan. REI member for many years. The store is on the smaller side, but it does have two floors so you will get some options. I had a very nice experience in the shoe department with a very helpful woman who helped me with some choices to deal with my planter fasciitis. read more

Today my boyfriend and I decided to stop in at this REI because we have an upcoming camping trip and we wanted to see what they had to offer. As soon as we walked in we had people asking us if we were finding everything okay, it became to a point where it felt 'too friendly'. We accumulated some stuff and while we were upstairs an older man who worked there asked us if we needed help and we replied with no, then proceeded to ask us more questions, "so why are you guys here?" "Are you planning something" and lastly "sooo are you gonna buy anything?" LIKE WHAT?? Yes do you not see me holding some items. We are being stereotyped because we are young, so they presume we are up to no good or stealing. It had a really terrible atmosphere. The whole situation was terrible and uncomfortable and I will be spending my money somewhere else. read more

Just a regular REI and all that you can expect. Decent service and high prices, but, if you know what you're looking for, the excellent return policy makes up for it. read more

I decided to go back to REI and it was much better than first time. I won't keep a bad review up if a company exonerates themselves, which they did. The service was very good and very helpful and knowledgeable sales people. I think the first time I went in there I should have given the sales person more of a chance instead of writing it all off so quickly. Anyways, glad I went back. read more

Worst customer service! My husband and I drove into Spokane specifically to shop for snowshoe gear and to talk to the "experts" there to gain knowledge. What a huge disappointment! We were ignored the minute we came in. I made eye contact with a sales rep near by at the snowshoes. The next thing I know he's walking backwards and actually ducking out of my sight! I peered around a corner as we walked by and he was just standing there doing NOTHING! Ok, we could chalk that up to just a weird employee - we thought. We wandered around the store obviously looking for help but were ignored, avoided and or just stared at. We went up to the shoe department looking for specific cold weather hiking boots. A salesperson came up to us to fix a sign that had been knocked down. We made a joke about not being the ones that did it while examining the boots on the display. He walked away without a response. We became weary of the rude and avoidant behavior. When we walked down the stairs, at least 5 employees were standing together making jokes with each other...not helping a customer in sight!! Maybe they were avoiding us because we are large size people. We knew their clothing probably wouldn't fit (for now... I've recently lost 115 lbs and my hubby has lost 45 lbs.) But we had money to spend on gear and would have signed up for classes as well! As we left the store a female employee was near the door telling us to have a nice day. I responded that we were disappointed that no one offered to help. She LAUGHED and told us to have a nice day again with an obvious smirk on her face. Whatever! I will never step foot in that store again! read more

Had an issue with some boots recently. REI took them back and the sales associate was very helpful! He took the time to find the right boots and now i am extremely happy with the new choice! Not the biggest REI but they are super nice and helpful! read more

I went there to get orthotics for my daughter as my orthotics person recommended REI. Wow! Paid $300+ the first round for orthotics. Jeff was super knowledgeable. She got new shoes, orthotic insole and she feels great. read more

Let me start by saying I have been an REI member for over 40 years. But my recent visit to REI Spokane was less than satisfactory. If you are not young and pretty you could not get service. Since I am no longer as young as I used to be, I could not get service. So, maybe I should shop at REI for selection or price, price seemed not to be competitive and selection is better elsewhere in Spokane. read more

The problem with REI is they are expensive and it is hard to meet with a manager. Not to mention that they do not like credit cards except their own. You cannot get points and use a regular credit card. Often the things you need are not in stock. I tried to get a camping coffeemaker 4 times. read more