I love REI - surprised to find this ski shop is super shady!!! Stay far away (you are likely to get ripped off). They installed new REI-purchased bindings on my skis, then told me my boots failed a binding fit test and I needed expensive new stuff (which they sell and/or provide). Heard it happens, but glad I did not entirely trust them.. read on! 2 hour drive later, a boot shop has them (who has a self-interest in selling / fitting boots), but they tested fine!!! They called REI to resolve. Turns out REI made a mistake and "entered the wrong binding model into a computer". I totally get mistakes and would not review a one-off, but the 4 facts below point to some blatantly crappy tactics: 1) BINDINGS WERE NEW, IN BOX, with all labels and info, REI-purchased online 2) DISCUSSED THE ISSUES THEY FOUND WITH SHOP MANAGER/TESTER before picking skis up during a 20 minute phone call, going over the test in detail, referencing boots and binding models, types etc (I asked an absurd amount of questions - they almost definitely would have caught a mistake in re-iterating many things). 3) The shop said I needed new soles and implied new boots FOR SAFETY - said this again when I picked them up, pointed directly to my boot soles as if it was the main problem. 4) In theory, all could be deemed confusion, but logically not so, since THIS REI SHOP FITS AND SELLS NEW BOOTS. WTF? Super disappointed (love REI and love skiing). Will only hope this review gets some likely dishonest tactics sorted out. They crushed my desire to shop at REI in future, will now head to Sports Basement for everything I can. read more

This is the only Rei location that wouldn't let me bring my dog in. They only accept service dogs. I literally was in the Mountain View location which is 13 minutes away from here and they allow dogs. Not sure why this one doesn't. Also the first review I wrote is completely invalid. I asked this older man questions about the snow boots that were in garage sale and he said that it should work with any bindings. I also went to make sure with another worker in the shoe section with that same question, he wasn't sure so he went ahead and asked someone that's more "knowledgeable" and they too also said it should work with ANY bindings. When I got to my friends house to try the boots on with the bindings he right away knew it wasn't compatible cause it was step in boots that WONT WORK WITH HIS BINDINGS because it's only meant for the step in bindings.... Because it's in the garage sale now I can't return it and it wasn't even my fault. Employees of REI PLEASE don't tell people false information. If you're uncertain, then say you're not sure or get help from someone who is actually knowledgeable. I literally wasted my time and money at this location. read more

What have I been missing all of these years? Shame on me that right up until just a few months ago I thought that REI was furniture store. Yes.. spot the silly immigrant. Little did I know it was packed full of everything you could possible need for outdoor sports and activities. The inventory here is very impressive and staff are great if you need help with anything. I came looking for a Camelbak to keep me hydrated while I do long distance Run's and although the adult ones came up absolutely huge on me I found really good children's ones that fit perfectly and the colors match my Running shoes too. Winner! read more

REI - Kiddies hydration pack for me. - Outdoor Gear Near Me - San Carlos, California

Discriminated against by staff; our dog was not barking and well behaved and was asked to leave while the small dog next to us barked the entire time but stayed in the store. We've brought our dog in multiple times previously and never had any issues. Staff here are rude and create a very unpleasant environment. read more

This place would be a solid three stars were it not for the aggressive membership sales tactics they use with you at the register. An older white woman with a brown bob was our cashier just now and offered the membership to us. My boyfriend politely declined, saying he's heard the sales pitch before. Regardless of him saying this the woman proceeded to rattle off the sales pitch as if there was some chance he or I wouldn't be annoyed by her doing this right after he told her no and that he's heard it before. I don't know what possessed her to be so pushy but I suspect it's because management puts a lot of pressure on people to meet their membership quotas. If you want to put that much pressure on people, open a gym, not a clothing and gear store. That being said, I like this place because it usually has what my boyfriend needs. The clothes and gear and shoes are in good condition and while browsing someone is sure to come and check up on you. They have a good range of high quality brands but it's hard to find popular items in common sizes. read more

This is one of the bigger REIs. Been here a few times the past month and enjoyed their selection of things. Went in today for some sunglasses for the kids but they didn't have many for sale. Ended up picking up some hiking socks and a hiking hat. Clearance section is lacking. Trying to sell things with holes in them lol. The bathroom was clean and spacious. read more

Excellent service from Holli! Holli realized my online pickup barcode was from a screenshot in dark mode, so I couldn't use it. Hark, woe, tragedy had struck! Not to fear, Holli quickly pointed out some other verification methods. The day was saved thanks to the cunning customer service mastery of Holli. read more

This is a huge store with a lot of selection to choose from. They have a lot of clothes, camping gear, shoes, bikes, and much more. The staff was friendly and helpful, and they were very knowledgeable about their merchandise and products. There's lots of parking out front, and it's located near other sporting good shops. read more

REI - Sales floor - Outdoor Gear Near Me - San Carlos, California

It would be hard to say anything new about REI. Selection good, prices not the best, the service uneven. Sometimes you get a great salesperson and sometimes you get nobody, or worse. On my last trip had a great experience. I was looking for a specific backpacking cot. They had one left in the back. The salesperson went to the storeroom, got the cot and installed it on the floor so I could try it out. So we assembled, took a try and then disassembled right there in the camping area. The product worked, comfortably so I bought it. Couldn't be happier. So will remember this service the next time I go to REI and I can't find a person who knows anything about their products. Still giving them four out of five. Been shopping there since the mid seventies so there must be a good reason. read more

Bad customer service in shoe department. He started and after he desired and helping another customer keep me in the dust.

Very knowledgeable staff, as always for REI. I went in to get fitted for ski boots on a Saturday afternoon. There were a lot of people at the store, and I waited some time for the shoe area to clear up. The worker went above and beyond to help me, despite the busyness at the store. He gave the same care to each customer in the snow shoe area. He measured my foot, asked a ton of questions, and practically gave me every boot in the store to try on. I did not end up finding a boot that fit me well, but I am extremely thankful for the worker's time and dedication to help. He did not try to push a product down my throat, his main concern was my comfort in the ski boot. He also told me about setting up an appointment with a worker at REI to get completely fitted with ski gear. I did not know that REI offered such a service, so I appreciated him telling me. read more

I just became a member not too long ago. Spending the money at REI I now feel invested. Not only that, but they stand by their products for life. As a member if your product falls apart, you can get it replaced. The San Carlos store is located right off Hwy 101. The parking lot can get a little hectic at times. If you can't find an employee, it's best to hunt them down for help, the store is big and confusing if you don't know what you are looking for. Don't be shy, everyone that works here is super nice. read more

I am heading out to Peru next week to trek Machu Picchu and was looking for a new rain jacket, hiking pants, and a fleece jacket. I went over to the clothing section at REI San Carlos and was greeted by woman named Helen who assisted me in my shopping. We both had blonde hair with blue/green eyes, so not only did Helen provide me with great quality information about the clothing I was considering, she also helped me find good colors that would make my eyes and hair pop. She also went into the back to find pants in my size multiple times. I was very fortunate to have had Helen's help. She was knowledgable, friendly, and fun. She made the shopping experience enjoyable and I left REI very happy with every single purchase I made thanks to her help and support. Thank you, Helen! I wish all my shopping experiences could be as productive and pleasurable as mine was on Wednesday with you at REI. read more

Great store for people who love camping, sports or other kind of active live style. People who work here are knowledgeable, kind, and provide great service. I'm not a target audience for this store, but I have to admit that this store is great at the service it is providing. Although, I was a bit surprised on how they are treating Patagonia jackets. Apparently, there is a big problem with theft in this store. Some thieves have mastered a way of taking magnetic badges off, so they walk out the store in Patagonia attire. As a result, all jackets were locked onto strings and required an attendant who would unlock them one by one. Since this is a big concern, it felt really odd that there are no mirror right there. We had to unlock the jacket, put it on, walk to a mirror and then walk back to change it. I feel customer experience needs to be better than that. read more

A lot of coaxing into the silly membership, and eventually you get overpriced fragile fancy garbage that doesn't hold up to any real use. Good only for sporting on a hiking trail, not for the real use. The worst was the Purist thermal bottle which fell apart after a month of pouring hot drinks and struggling to open it. The price, $65. One more funny thing today, returns like is longer than the new purchases line. I guess why read more

I drove my mother to REI, San Carlos, to get her some camping equipment, and we were given fantastic service by Keanu. He is kind and outgoing and courteous and professional. I thanked him greatly for giving us such really useful information and assistance. The great thing about Keanu is that he will acknowledge a waiting customer even while he is assisting another customer. Keanu later saw us out in the parking lot. He greeted us with a wave and a smile. I think he is a very caring person who enjoys seeing others happy. Thank you, Keanu. I went to the footwear department where I was helped by Gene. My shoe requirements are a mile long but Gene stuck with me and brought out all kinds of shoes. I appreciate Gene; he wants people to get what they are looking for and be happy with their choice. That is no easy thing, but Gene will make it happen if it is at all possible. Thank you Gene for taking the time to make sure that I was set up for success. I appreciate your knowledge and great customer service. Finally, I went into the cooking department: looking for a portable gas cooker for emergencies, primarily for my mother. Leb came over to help me. He put down what he was doing and walked me through the variety of stoves and attachments. He was a great help and a real wealth of information. We looked at every possible combination of stoves and attachments, and Leb helped me to understand all the possible cooking options that were available to me. Thank you Leb for your patience and your information and your kindness. And thank you to all the staff at REI, San Carlos. Several staff offered my mother and I assistance, including the Manager. We will surely be back. read more

Pretty rude and crappy experience. I was trying to find a hydro flask lid and when I spoke with one of the representatives he was obviously trying to avoid me and in the end gave me misinformation. First when I asked if they had any straw lids in stock, he said that this particular item I was looking for didn't exist. When I showed him on the REI website, he then said, "oh," looked up the item number and said they didn't have any in stock. I then asked if any others around the area did and he said the Mountain View store would have it. I then drove there and they also didn't have it. At the end, it was a waste of an hour. I thought REI would be better than this. Well, I guess I should have gone with my initial instincts and just gone to Amazon to buy it. Fool me once... read more

I stopped by to return some items today and to do some in person shopping. I was hoping to try on clothing and buy some new clothes for summer. California has been completely open for 11 days and stores have been basically open for months. I was greeted at the door by not one but two REI staff members. One spotted my REI envelope and asked, "Are you returning?" I confirmed I was. He opened the door, looked inside, and said, "The returns are open. You can go ahead and take your return to the counter." I proceeded to one of the two open cashiers and asked the cashier which side of the register I should be on. She said "What are you trying to do?" Although I thought that was fairly rude, I responded that I was returning. She said I needed to go to a different area. My bad. I went to the return section where one woman at the cashier already but there was otherwise no line. I waited several feet back, where a sign indicated I should stand. The same cashier who could not help me earlier came over and told me that several other customers were already in a "virtual line" to return and that I could not wait here. I needed to scan something on my phone and then lurk around the store apparently. I looked around. Literally, there are like 6 people in the store who don't work there. Honestly, at this point, it is too complicated. I just want to return my stuff and get out. The desire to buy a bunch of REI merchandise has long since faded. REI, you should be encouraging people to shop in your store. Not making it more difficult. I'll just slap a return label on my items and ship them back. Then, for the items I wanted to buy, I will shop at one of the ONE MILLION OTHER SITES AVAILABLE! It is not like there isn't competition out there. read more

Love REI. We registered at REI for our wedding and love our gifts. I appreciate how friendly, helpful and informative the staff are. Recently picked up a pair of hiking boots and love them, the associate helped me pick out an appropriate style and size for me. More of an investment and they stand behind their products. My pair of boots, post hike, one rinsed one dusted. read more

REI - Outdoor Gear Near Me - San Carlos, California

Got lectured on a return. Guy said he'll make an exception but next time bring it in sooner. I asked what's the policy and he said 1 year. Of course it's not 1 year yet. He then go in saying they can't even sell it. Well that's why there's the used section in the back right? read more

Good store. Helpful service. Some prices are high, so know what your buying, but support local business.

I have never been to this store before, not even the Marin store when I lived points North, but I came for the glorious Hydro Flask, the 64 ouncer for my desk and the 24 ouncer for my car. Yes, I'm a regular Indiana Jones! I used to camp and hike regularly in the Tiff early years. I was quite the mountain goat, but not so much anymore, however, this store got me super excited bringing back fond memories of my outdoors days. Anyway, I was sniffing around the store and looking at all the adventure equipment and I wanted to buy everything and leave town for the mountains! Lots and lots of outdoor equipment for hiking, camping, biking (tons of bikes hanging from the ceiling) and outdoor survival gear. Lots of clothing and footwear for any outdoor occasion, too! This store is pretty big and everyone, customers and staff, are all so friendly. Tyler at the checkout counter was super friendly and helpful regarding information about the store and merchandise. I appreciated his enthusiasm and adventurous spirit for the outdoors, it was a refreshing conversation. REI offers classes and outdoor arranged activities if you browse their online store, too. If I do need outdoor equipment I will definitely return and investigate all the options they offer! read more

First of all, Yelp has been some good fun. I wanted my voice to be heard and found the perfect forum. The friends I've made are great and many share the same passion for food as I do. I've also enjoyed and followed a lot of people's writing. But I haven't been able to completely give the needed time and dedication to my reviews and friends, so I've decided that this review will be my last.* I'm not what you would call an avid camper, but I do enjoy being in the outdoors once in awhile. The idea of communing with Nature and sleeping underneath the stars helps me appreciate my warm bed and running hot water when I get back home. My only thing with roughing it is all the gear you need: sleeping bag, air mattress, tent, gas grill, generator, portable DVD player with LCD screen . . . you know, the basics. I use to get my stuff over at Sports Authority, but the quality wasn't always there. Not a problem with REI. The stuff here rocks. The only thing is it can be pricey. Although, I wasn't all too surprised when I saw the majority of their clientele - they just look like hard core nature loving folks. I'm thinking there has to be a place for the more semi-casual camper and so the search is on. But for those serious about getting some awesome outdoor equipment, REI is your place. *I'm just kidding. Happy April Fool's Day. http://i109.photobucket.com/albums/n58/just_me_017/happy-april-fools-day-elf-af.gif Did I fool you? read more

Before visiting the San Carlos REI, I had never been to one of their stores before. I didn't know much about them in general, other than their lack of participation in the black friday craziness (which I appreciated.) But I needed some bike rain gear and they seemed like a good place to start. When I walked into the store, I was a bit overwhelmed as it was huge and the organization seemed a bit all over the place. The general bike area was easy to find but then the racks of clothing, etc. didn't seem to have any order. Fortunately, after looking through them for a short period of time, I found the rain pants I was looking for. Then, I quickly found some all-weather gloves to go with them. When I checked out, the employee at the registered asked if I was a member and then explained their whole co-op status and the 10% back for members at the end of the deal. And to make it even better, the fee is only a one-time $20! I signed up as it seemed a no-brainer. I may not need a ton of outdoor gear but I can definitely see myself coming back for running stuff or maybe gifts for friends and family. All in all, my first experience was good and I'm looking forward to checking out the SF store to see how it measures up. read more

I should probably admit right up front that I'm a monster fan of the REI chain, having been a member for over 20 years. I love being outdoors, and I love new gear, so my heart beats a little faster when I walk into an REI. Years of hypnosis therapy have allowed me to actually leave here without a single purchase (on a few occasions). Then again, maybe its because I've collected most of the gear I need over the years (and I hate to upgrade anything that still works fine). So most of my purchases here are now of the refill ilk: propane tanks, replacement flashlight bulbs, etc. and occasionally some shorts or fleece pants to replace a pair that I have worn out. For those who are not familiar with REI, it's a co-op, retailer of outdoor equipment/clothing where customers can become lifetime members for $20, and consequently part owners. Members get rebates on purchases, typically 10%, which is mailed out as a "dividend" every year in the Spring. But you don't have to be a member to shop here. I've been to a lot of different REIs, including the original flagship store in Seattle (where members cross themselves like Catholics upon entering). The San Carlos REI is pretty average in layout, albeit slightly on the small side. Unfortunately, like all REI stores in California, there is no ski/board/snowshoe rental shop here. Annoying! (1 star loss). For that you have to go to another retailer, like Any Mountain down the road. Return policy is extremely favorable, making purchases that much more risk-free. If you purchased something in the past several months (or past year, for that matter), you don't even need a receipt, since they are easily able to look it up in their system. (Membership probably helps here too.) Like most REI stores across the country, the staff here is excellent, going the extra mile when needed. One example - a few years ago I had an old camp stove that was failing, and one of the staff asked me to bring it in. I did, and he helped me take apart the stove and diagnose the issue, only charging me for one new part, even though I had purchased the stove several years earlier. So, as a co-op member, even though. I probably "own" some vanishingly small percentage of REI, I'm actually made to feel like a major shareholder. read more

REI - from the web site - Outdoor Gear Near Me - San Carlos, California

I have been going to REI for years. I have bought hiking shoes, camping gear, bicycles...you name it. The member rewards aren't too bad. But it's overall good quality stuff that is not necessarily cheap. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. I have always received great customer service. They also carry yeti and nicer brands as compared to other stores in the area. read more

I'll take three canoes, nine weather resistant high elevation climbing parkas and one pair of socks. REI has everything. Literally everything, from mountain bikes to hand warmers. It's one of those stores where you can literally spend countless hours meandering around and add things to your mental wish list. It's even a place that can provide solutions. For example, that last minute camping trip and all your stuff is at your parents house three hours away. No problem, you can rent what you need from tents, to sleeping bags. Yes, the thought of sleeping so close to where a stranger (or strangers) "stuff" isn't always so appealing, but I am thinking they double wash before actually renting it to you. Yes? I literally used the word "literally" like four times in this review. read more

I like that they have parking compared to the one in SF but their service is just sooooo slow. Even before the pandemic, the staff here seem to stay in their allotted corners and have no real interest in helping you. Some seem very knowledgeable on specific sports but only really seem to help if you're more than a novice. Otherwise it's just go figure things out for yourself here. read more

Do your homework before bringing a bike in for repairs or before authorizing replacement of parts. I was overcharged 30% on a rear wheel and did not find out until after the fact. They had me over a barrel because the bike was in for service and was stripped down. I made the mistake of believing their pricing was competitive. I contacted customer service and was advised by Christopher D. that REI does not price match. So, buyer beware. I really don't appreciate being gouged like that ans cannot recommend their bike shop. read more

REI - Weinmann ZAC19 wheel with Shimano hub. $43.65 on Amazon.com, REI will sell it to you for just $66. Sucker! - Outdoor Gear Near Me - San Carlos, California

I went here for the first time yesterday (I know, I'm late to the party). I had great/helpful/friendly customer service from the greeter-to the department workers-to the cashiers. I got a $60 baselayer on clearance for $15 and I was so happy with my experience that I went back today and found another $60 baselayer for $15. Good shopping experience here! And saved a lot of money! Win-win read more

REI, the "co-op" that's supposed to pass on lower prices, but instead is modeled more like a giant retail outfit where it's customers pay top dollar and the CEO makes millions. It's a busy Saturday morning and my husband and I went in to exchange some bike pants he got for Christmas. After winding our way up to the register, the cashier says, "Are you a member?" I reply, "NO". He asks for my phone number so I give it to him, then he says "You're not in here". "Yea, I'm not a member". Then, no kidding, he says, "What's your last name?" I said "Are you going to look that up, because I've said I'm not a member" I give him my last name and he says. "I can't find you". I said, "yea, because I'm not a member." I must be the last person on the peninsula that is NOT A MEMBER!!! He finally starts the exchange the entire time selling me on the benefits of membership, he says spend $20 now and get a credit at the end of the year. You could've had $9 back if you'd joined when you bought the pants and then you'll get coupons, blah, blah". Yea, I didn't buy the pants, so I'd still be $20 in the hole. He says "It's your money!" Like I'm a moron for not handing him $20 bucks. I just smiled, but I wanted to tell him I don't like paying $20 dollars for the privilege of overpaying for merchandise and getting coupons or credits at the end of the year that I will never use and, if you can believe this, there are other sporting goods stores I like more than this place. Like the other reviewer said, "REI has all this hype as a great store, but the people who work there ruin the entire experience". read more

It's better now with the expansion, more selection. They still could use more variety in the women's clothing. IMHO I do find that almost every time I'm there I am helping a customer find something or giving advice on equipment. I swear they just seem to be drawn to me and ask me questions. Okay there was the young woman with her Mom planning a trip to Machu Picchu and she had never even been hiking before. I had to explain the wonders of wool socks and that she could hike for a week with only two pair. (I bet she packed make-up for the trip) Sometimes I'm there on lunch in my business clothes and people ask if I work there. (I wasn't wearing a green vest or anything) Anyway I love shopping here. I always buy something I could live without but life's short. read more

This is a Meh-meets-A-OK review for the 'cycle section' of REI San Carlos. I purchased a Cannondale at this location recently while simultaneously having the saddle 'upgraded' with a gel model and fenders put on. Both the saddle and fenders were recommended by the sales person. Given an approximate wait time of 30 minutes, we took a short walk, shopped a bit, then returned. About 45 minutes into the wait, our salesperson approached with 'You're still waiting?! Let me go check on the bike...' He returned to say that the technician could not mount the fenders. 'He even tried zip ties.' It would seem that the one fender that either wasn't made of bamboo or wasn't an easily removable half-fender in stock would not fit one of the major bike brands REI carries. One would have thought that that salient piece of information would have already been known by both the bike staff & bike technicians alike. We switched gears, no pun intended, and opted for the easily removable half-fender to be mounted onto the bike instead. At around the one hour wait mark, the technician got started on the work. One hour later the bike was rolled out, job complete. I had to ask, however, for the stock saddle to be returned to me & it was quickly retrieved from the work area. What would have helped us better manage the 2 hour wait time was to simply have been told, periodically, how long *approximately* the ensuing job might take. I understand, having worked as a hostess in restaurants, the perils of giving a time quote as some custies think it's the Word of God & don't understand why whatever it is that they've been waiting for isn't ready right as soon as the second hand strikes the hour. I think most customers do understand that things take time and, in the presence of unforeseen 'hiccups', certain things may take even more time. To have staff keep customers abreast of the unfolding situation certainly helps ease the wait. Good bits: selection of bikes better than the Mtn. View location; *fairly* knowledgeable sales staff. Bad bits: initially worked with someone who, in the middle of the interaction, moved on to work with another customer leaving me a bit perplexed. read more

Terrible service - took skis to be mounted. spent forever getting it all organized then called 10 min later that they won't mount my skis because my boots are PERFECTLY flat. My old ski/ bindings were just worked on no problem. REI terrible ploy to sell more boots....member for 20 years . My last purchase there read more

I love outdoor and REI. This REI is not very big, and fitting room system is so inefficient. Anyway Mountain View is better and I will stick to the MV one. read more

I bought a snow outfit for my boy who is 2 years old, they told me that if does not fit I can return it, so I bought it, The item did not fit my buy and I lost the cash receipt, when I bought it they offered me a membership for $20 and I could save 10%, the out fit was about 120+ so I did my math and it was not worth it, but since I lost the receipt they told me that they could not even give a store credit even though it had the sticker REI, so what a ripped off.. Never coming back read more

I was looking to buy another hydro flask today and the company switched the top to one which I don't like from 1 year ago. I asked the store manager , Mr. Kazu Ishidera, if I can switch the top as they sell many different tops. He was adamant and said NO. I said it's a small ask and as a store manager, does he have any discretion? He said NO but I can spend more money and buy another top for $10. What's the point of being an REI member and shopping physically if one can't get a little extra accommodation which isn't not the biggest favor extended to me. Such poor service mentality. Afterwards, I had to go to #Apple store for a return. They extended their policy to accommodate me because Apple cares about customer service and that's why I keep going back to Apple. We pay full price at REI and it's terrible service. Hey, corporate at REI, just shut down all your physical stores. I ll never shop with that useless Ishidera. There's always Amazon! read more

Great location and this is one of my favorite places to go. They have excellent quality gear and an even better return policy. Their sales staff specialize in their departments and are usually very helpful and friendly. Be sure to peek at the clearance and sales items for some real gems. read more

Bought replacement shoes (same brand same size for family member) found out once at home one is size 9.5 and the other is size 10. Salespersons took 20 mn to locate the shoes.... 1 hour on the phone to sort out, mostly on hold. Now have to drive 20 miles to return bc REI moved to San Carlos. What is the point of going to the retail location if the staff cannot execute. read more

Awesome store, love all the option and sales available. The workout gear and hiking equipment is by far my favorite.