7 Alternatives to REI: A Comprehensive List of Similar Outdoor Gear Retailers

REI

vs.

Amazon

46

REI and Amazon are both large retail websites, offering a variety of products for customers. REI specializes in outdoor gear, apparel, and footwear for activities such as camping, hiking, biking, skiing and more. Amazon is an online department store with a wide range of products from clothing to electronics. When comparing the features of the two websites, REI offers an in-depth look at each product with detailed information about quality and specifications. Customers can also view customer reviews and ratings on each item which helps them make a better informed decision when selecting products. Amazon offers a less detailed look at each product with only basic information available. Customer reviews are also available but they are not as detailed as those found on REI. Both websites offer delivery options such as free shipping and same day delivery services. However, while Amazon offers expedited shipping options such as next day or two day delivery services, these are not available through REI. Additionally, both websites offer discount programs that allow customers to save money on their purchases but the terms and conditions vary between the two sites. In conclusion, both websites offer a variety of products for customers with different features that appeal to different types of shoppers. REI has more detailed product information on its website than Amazon does but does not have as many expedited shipping options available for customers.

REI

vs.

PropStream

6

REI and PropStream are both digital platforms that offer tools to help users make informed decisions when it comes to real estate investments. REI provides a variety of resources for exploring and analyzing prospective rental properties, such as a searchable database of nationwide listings, loan calculators, and financial analysis reports. PropStream is a more advanced platform that offers users access to an expansive property data library, analytics tools, and dynamic mapping capabilities. PropStream also features integrations with third-party providers, allowing users to quickly pull data into their projects from multiple sources. Both platforms offer support for investors looking to make the most of their investments, but PropStream’s advanced features give it an edge over REI when it comes to providing comprehensive insights into potential rental properties.

REI

vs.

Backcountry

52

REI and Backcountry are both online retailers of outdoor gear, apparel, and accessories. REI is a co-op owned by its members, while Backcountry is a privately owned company. When it comes to selection, REI offers a large variety of products for hiking, camping, cycling, climbing, snow sports, paddling and more. Backcountry carries the same types of gear but also offers items related to travel such as luggage and accessories. Both companies offer free shipping on orders over $50 and have excellent customer service with knowledgeable staff available via chat or phone. Additionally, both sites feature digital tools such as gear lists that help shoppers plan their trips in advance. In terms of returns and warranties, REI has a generous 100% satisfaction guarantee that allows customers to return anything within one year for any reason - no questions asked. Backcountry also has an easy return policy with 30 days to try out products before returning them for any reason. The two sites differ when it comes to product warranties; REI offers lifetime warranties on many of their products while Backcountry only offers manufacturer's warranties on select items.

REI

vs.

L.L. Bean

27

REI and L.L. Bean are two popular outdoor brands that provide quality clothing, gear, and equipment for a variety of activities. Both websites offer a wide selection of items for both men and women, as well as an array of accessories. REI offers camping and cycling supplies, along with water sports equipment, while L.L. Bean has a focus on classic outdoor apparel such as coats, jackets, vests, boots, and shoes. Both sites have helpful product reviews to help customers make informed decisions about their purchases and offer free standard shipping on orders over a certain amount. Additionally, REI offers customers access to the REI Co-op membership program which gives members exclusive discounts as well as access to special events and experiences. In contrast, L.L Bean offers its customers the option to join the Trail Rewards Program which provides them with discounts on select products along with free returns on all products purchased online or in store throughout the year.

REI

vs.

Decathlon

69

REI and Decathlon are both retailers offering outdoor gear for a variety of activities. REI specializes in high quality, well-crafted products designed to last, while Decathlon is known for its more affordable prices that don’t sacrifice on quality. When it comes to selection, REI carries a wider range of styles and brands from top industry names such as Patagonia and The North Face. Decathlon has its own brand of apparel and equipment that covers a wide range of activities but is often simpler in design. Both stores offer online shopping with free shipping over a certain amount, as well as the option of in-store pickup. REI also offers rental services for some items at select locations, while Decathlon does not. In addition, REI offers classes, workshops and events at their stores to help customers learn about their products and get the most out of their purchases.

REI

vs.

EVO

59

REI and EVO are both online retail websites specializing in outdoor gear, apparel, and equipment. REI offers a range of options to suit any budget with a wide selection of clothing, footwear, tools, and accessories from top brands. On the other hand, EVO is known for carrying some of the most cutting-edge performance gear on the market from top names such as Burton, The North Face, and Patagonia. Both websites offer expert advice on their respective categories allowing customers to make informed purchases. Additionally, both sites feature intuitive navigation systems that allow for easy browsing and comparison shopping. Finally, both REI and EVO offer free shipping on orders over certain amounts.

REI

vs.

Moosejaw

68

REI and Moosejaw are both outdoor gear and apparel retailers. REI specializes in clothing, footwear, camping equipment, fitness gear, and cycling items. Moosejaw focuses more on outdoor sports and activewear with a wide selection of technical apparel and outerwear. Both sites have a rewards program to earn points with purchases that can be used for discounts on future orders, free shipping options with certain order values, and generous return policies. REI also offers custom services such as bike tune-ups, ski/snowboard waxing, and snowshoe fitting appointments online or in-store; whereas Moosejaw doesn’t offer these services. Additionally, Moosejaw’s website is designed to be more user-friendly than REI's which has minimal product images but extensive product details that include specifications, reviews from customers, detailed sizing charts, and product comparisons.

REI

vs.

Patagonia

44

REI and Patagonia are both outdoor gear retailers, but they offer different approaches to their customers. REI is a member-owned cooperative, meaning customers can purchase a lifetime membership and receive exclusive discounts on products and services. Patagonia, on the other hand, practices environmental advocacy as part of its mission and donates 1% of all sales to grassroots environmental organizations. REI offers an extensive range of clothing and equipment for camping, hiking, climbing, cycling, running and more. They also have a wide selection of outdoor activities such as classes and trips. Patagonia has similar equipment for outdoor sports but also includes alpine skiing and snowboarding gear as well as apparel for surfing and fly fishing. Both stores have online shops with easy navigation options that make finding the right product simple. REI has free shipping over $50 for orders sent within the United States while Patagonia offers free shipping worldwide over $75. Additionally, both websites offer returns on unused items within certain time frames.

REI

vs.

Plus

2

REI and Plus are both websites that offer a wide selection of outdoor gear for activities such as camping, hiking, and biking. REI specializes in high-end apparel, footwear, camping supplies, and accessories for the outdoors enthusiast. They offer well-known brands such as Patagonia and North Face. Plus is an online marketplace where you can find a variety of different types of outdoor gear from several different vendors. The items they sell range from sporting goods to clothes and accessories. In terms of shopping experience, REI offers an organized store layout with more personalized customer service whilePlus allows customers to compare prices across multiple vendors before making a purchase decision. Both sites have user reviews available to help customers make informed decisions when selecting products. Finally, both sites provide free shipping on orders over certain thresholds.

REI

vs.

RFP

23

REI and RFP are two websites that provide outdoor gear and apparel. REI offers a range of products for camping, climbing, cycling, fitness, hiking, paddling, skiing and snowboarding as well as casual apparel. They also have rental equipment available. RFP on the other hand specializes in providing supplies for campers and RVers with items such as generators, inverters, hoses and more. Both websites offer a wide selection of brands, but REI is more focused on activewear while RFP has more of an assortment of practical camping items. REI also provides an online community where customers can connect with each other and find helpful advice from experts in their sport or activity. The website includes how-to videos and product reviews to help consumers make the best decisions for their needs. In contrast, RFP offers customer support through online chat or phone call with experienced advisors who can answer any questions about RVing and camping needs. Both websites offer easy returns policies so customers can be sure that they are getting the best value for their money.

REI

vs.

Sierra Trading Post

26

REI and Sierra Trading Post are both popular websites for outdoor gear, clothing, and accessories. Both sites offer a wide variety of products from well-known brands. REI focuses on providing quality items with a better selection of high-end products compared to Sierra Trading Post. They also have a wider variety of sizes for their apparel and footwear. Additionally, REI offers customers the ability to purchase memberships, which can save them money on certain purchases. On the other hand, Sierra Trading Post has a larger selection of budget friendly items and it is easier to find discounts and promotions on their site. They also offer free shipping on orders over $89 as well as free returns within 365 days of purchase. Both sites have excellent customer service options including live chat support, phone support and email support.

REI

vs.

Wiki

13

REI and Wiki are both online sources of information, but they serve different purposes. REI is an outdoor retailer that sells gear, apparel, and footwear for a variety of outdoor activities. It also provides expert advice on various topics related to the outdoors and features a community forum for customers to connect with each other. Wiki is an open-source encyclopedia that anyone can contribute to and edit, providing reliable information about a wide range of topics from history to current events. REI offers product reviews from customers and experts, while Wiki relies on citations from external sources to support its content. REI also offers an online store where customers can browse and purchase items directly from their website, while Wiki does not offer any products or services for sale. Both websites contain helpful resources for those interested in learning more about their respective topics.