REI: Best retailer EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[venchka]

July, 2009: Lisa treated me to a Freestyle watch. It was cool.
Match, 2011: Freestyle watch band explodes.
I take the watch to REI. On the way through the door we were distracted by the kayaks. OK, REI can be the most dangerous retailer ever.
About an hour later I remember the watch in my pocket. I pull it out and discuss my options with the very helpful staff.
1. New watch band.
2. Straight trade for the identical Freestyle model.
3. Trade for any item in the store. Pay the difference.
I picked Door #3. $16.00 later I had a nice new Swiss Army watch.
I still own the first thing I ever bought from REI way back in the 70s. A summer weight goose down sleeping bag. If anything ever happens to it, I know they will stand behind it.
Good gear. Good people. Good place to do business. I wish they sold camera equipment.
We'll go back and fondle kayaks soon.

ps: The receipt was at home. They had the information in their computer.

[groovyone]

I want a kayak.

[hue-e]

to many things I want from REI... and B&H :(

[venchka]

I said they are dangerous.

[srwatters]

I've been a member for many years. Best thing I ever bought there was a pair of Merrel hiking boots that carried me to the top of Half Dome and back in less than 10 hours. A nice hike!

[lfmerrell]

I like going to REI and tell them I want a pair of monogrammed boots. Jokingly they say good luck with that. I show my drivers license and they laugh and say your size is right here. L. F Merrell

[Jake]

I would also love to have a kayak.

[venchka]

The kayak is a nice idea. But. Where would a fellow use one in Texas? The availablity of pleasant streams seems to be lacking. No whitewater. Just peaceful paddling with a tent and a camera or 3.

[dminton]

Originally Posted by venchka

The kayak is a nice idea. But. Where would a fellow use one in Texas?

Creek + Kayak + Sand Bass spawn = OH YEAH

[matwey]

Originally Posted by venchka

The kayak is a nice idea. But. Where would a fellow use one in Texas? The availablity of pleasant streams seems to be lacking. No whitewater. Just peaceful paddling with a tent and a camera or 3.

I'm taking my kayak to Lake Caddo often , White Rock Lake in Dallas and Trinity River with some white water spots like :-)

[venchka]

I have a perfectly good boat for big flat water places. I need to investigate the rivers a little more. It appears that a person needs Scotty manning the transporter room to move a watercraft around the various weirs, dams, etc. that plauge/improve Texas streams.