The Shangri-la of gear for those who spend their time rock-climbing, backpacking, cycling and finding other ways to conquer nature.

by Contributor

In Short
The largest co-op in the nation, REI sells everything needed to survive in the outdoors to members and non-members alike: sleeping bags for below-zero temperatures, GPS units, climbing gear, rations and more. For the more casual outdoor enthusiast, the store also sells tents, kayaks, bicycles, snowboards, skis, luggage, footwear and outdoors-oriented clothing for men, women and children.

06/07/02

Top notch

by ebergman_citysearch

The place to go when you want to salivate over top-of-the-line camping equipment. It's expensive but employees usually know their stuff and you know you're getting high quality gear. And REI brand is as good, if not better, than the brand-name products.

• Cons: expensive