In the middle of the winter, just the day before the massive snowstorm Benjamin arrived, my winter coat decided to retire. Granted, it was 7 years old and zippers don't work forever. In an attempt to find an upgrade immediately, I went to REI. At REI you'll find an assortment of items for your active lifestyle. There's items for camping, for hiking, for skiing, etc... The coats are sorted by brand. I looked through, they had just one, in one color and one size. I asked the associate, they told me I could order online. Mind blowing info, isn't it? Unfortunately my online experience wasn't much better. Maybe everyone else is looking to replace their coats at the same time. I walked out empty handed. It might be worth stopping by, since the rest of their inventory looked like it might cater to certain lifestyles. read more

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First time coming to the store and it wasn't sure what to expect, but it's for any outdoorsman or woman who likes good quality gear There's 100% satisfaction guarantee for up to a year and they also have a buyback program for anything used to sell as a secondhand item at a lower price There's a bike shop that will service your bike, they have a bunch of camping gear, cold weather gear, clearance clothing items. They also have a backpack section with somebody that can help you go over the different backpacks, the correct way to wear them and the different options when buying. read more

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Been here now multiple times now and made purchases of all sorts. I have been pleased with the customer service both around the store and at the front desk. I miss the discount area which I guess is online now ‍ did some window shopping my last time in and have some ideas for my next purchases. read more

REI - Sports Wear Near Me - West Hartford, Connecticut

Definitely a cool store to check out. They have almost everything kind of sports equipment you could want. You can trade in your old gear for money too with the re/supply if you are a member. Staff here was friendly too. read more

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I normally don't leave reviews, but my experience with REI Ski Shop was extremely disappointing and potentially unsafe. I dropped off my skis with Tyrolia Protector SLR 11 GW 90 Ski Bindings for mounting. REI initially told me the bindings would be ready in 3-4 days, but they never called. When I phoned them to check, I was told I could either wait indefinitely or take the skis back, because they did not have the correct jig. What's shocking is that the binding box literally has a paper on top--clearly showing the correct template ID: "JRS/SLR PRO NO. 163104" (see attached photos). It appears they knowingly chose to borrow a similar jig instead of using the correct one provided in the box. This decision caused unnecessary delay, wasted my time, and could have led to improper mounting and safety risks if it had been attempted. Their work order even listed the correct template ID, the same as in the box, yet they still went ahead with the wrong jig. This is a clear case of technical mishandling, not a "miscommunication." I was initially offered a $50 gift card, but that does not compensate for the wasted time, disruption to my ski plans, or the fact that this was a basic professional error that could have compromised safety. I expected REI to handle equipment mounting professionally, with attention to detail. Instead, this experience demonstrated careless disregard for technical standards. I am very disappointed and will escalate this to REI Headquarters and the Better Business Bureau. Photos attached: 1 Paper visible immediately upon opening the box 2 Template ID clearly listed ("JRS/SLR PRO NO. 163104") 3 REI work order showing the same template ID read more

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I believe that this store can get some better employees, they're always on top of the white folks. I tried to get some service but when I did they're all taken, but when another white person comes in it's always them over me ‍ read more

I know there has been issues in the news regarding REI, ie., store closings etc. Went to this store to buy some camping knick-knacks for a trip. Had a specific item in mind. It wasn't a major piece of equipment or clothing, just something that would make the trip a little more comfortable. We looked around for it, couldn't find it in the store. We asked a green vest to see if they stocked some sort of item that would serve our needs. He looked around, couldn't find anything, went to the back and looked for us. Still didn't find anything but told us he knew he saw it somewhere from his memory. Then looked around some more in a somewhat unlikely plate. Found an item! Took it out of the box and checked it and showed us how to use it. I thought he really went out of his way to track down some $40 piece of gear in the store, beyond some cursory search. Tremendously helpful. Saved us another trip to some other store. Great experience. read more

They've finally moved into they're new home in the former Sears & Roebuck. Ample parking here, large floor space. Though I do miss the previous store & open second level. The new store offers all the same quality merchandise, professional staff, and loaded with ideas to get outdoors and rock nature in style! read more

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Buyer Beware! Bought three pairs of New Balance shoes for my 93 year old father for Christmas. He wanted to keep two pairs and I went to return one pair. They refused to credit my card and would only give me a store credit. Purchase was made on December 21st. Today is December 30th. At no time during this purchase was I told that they would only give store credits for purchases! why would New Balance align themselves with such a shoddy business practice??? Filing a dispute with AmEx next. read more

Attended their Sidewalk Sale today for REI members. It was very crowded, with a huge line waiting for the 9:00 Opening. Last time I went I bought two really nice pair of athletic shoes. Today I scooped up a very nice pair of waterproof casual shoes (see photo). The outdoor sale is held a few times a year -it's all the stuff that was previously returned and the tags give the reason they were returned (the shoes I bought said "worn twice returned as 'uncomfortable'''. And yes, I did try them on first and they felt OK. This is an amazing store for the active and inactive souls alike. Bike stuff. Camping stuff. Dog stuff. Ski stuff. Snowboard stuff. As much clothing and footwear as you can envision in your mind. I found the help to be very helpful. The lines all went fast. It really is a cool place! read more

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I love REI. I somewhat miss the multi leveled layout of their previous location but I'm starting to get used to the new space. The parking here is certainly more convenient and customer service continues to be top notch. I was able to get a great pair of boots for my Mom for a gift that she loves and I know that if she didn't 100% love them that REI would be a dream to deal with in making the return or exchange. I'm in the market for a road bike and I was able to take out a couple of road bikes as I'm somewhat in between sizes of medium and large and ride around for a while for a comparison. My salesman, Tim, was very encouraging and offered this option right away. I'm still in the market for a road bike and I will be back to evaluate the 2 sizes, it was just to close to call for me. read more

Considering the only other REI locations in CT are in Norwalk and Milford? I'll take what I can get! As a long-time member of their Co-Op, I have to admit there really is no reason not to be. From their annual dividends, garage sales, and outdoor classes, outings, or events -- REI does a great job at engaging their community. Though this location may not be the biggest store I've visited, the staff is always friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. I particularly appreciate the guys over at the bike department (they have saved my arse more times than I can count) As echoed by other users, parking can be a pain. If you know what you're looking for/buying use the "15-minute only spots" reserved for food pick-up. Otherwise, you'll be stuck paying for parking no matter what (opt to bike or walk over if you can!) read more

REI - Sports Wear Near Me - West Hartford, Connecticut

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The service here is great. Every staff member I've encountered has been helpful and cheerful. Recently I went in the store to try on several pairs of trail-running shoes. The salesperson who helped me was knowledgable about the products and had good recommendations. I ended up buying two pairs of shoes. read more

This wasn't my favorite REI. I could be mistaken but I thought the shoe selections were limited and the men's clothing definitely was less than in other stores. I have a reward balance, but I had trouble finding a way to spend it. Still, it's an REI which is one of my favorite retailers so I'm still dishing out 3 stars. read more

This is what I'm supposed to be doing while leaving this store. Rejoicing. This is not the case. Me and the wife came in to return two gifts we received that were purchased there. Brand new and in the box untouched things. It was poorly explained to us that if we didn't have a receipt then we couldn't return them, for credit of any form of return. I've spent a lot of money with you over the years. Now we can sit home and look at these gifts and constantly be mad and upset at this store. For about $80 in merchandise that was refused any sort of return consideration you have lost a customer for life. Abusive. read more

I was interested in buying a new pair of bike shoes. The customer service rep was so informative and helpful (brown haired girl W a bun in biking department). I am so grateful for rei. Thank you for a great shopping experience. read more

I can't get enough of REI. I've tried LL Bean, Cabela's as well as several other outdoor stores and I love REI for their service, knowledgeable staff and return policy. LL Bean in my opinion is stuck in the 80's fashion-wise so I like that REI carries Patagonia and North Face clothes that are pretty stylist and functional. Will you pay more? Yes. If you don't mind paying more for looking good AND having functional items then REI is for you. Only thing I don't like about this particular location is parking is tough (for West Hartford) but you can park at the garage across the street. read more

I usually get dragged by my boyfriend to come to this store but it does have a lot of camping, skiing and other various sports type gear, clothes and equipment. 4 x a year they have a garage sale where you can buy all the returned items from past customers. Get in line early and bring a coffee because the line gets long. When it's raining, they do it inside otherwise they clear the tiny lot and have it outside. It's pretty crazy and people have either camped overnight or come early in the morning. They have a great return policy and lots of great sporting goods. read more

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Let me first say: I LOVE REI SO MUCH. I AM A HUGE, HUGE REI FAN. I've been to my share of REIs all over the country and this is by far the worst one I've seen. It's the end of December in the northeast and most of the gear they had out was for rock climbing (not ONE thing for ice!!!) and BIKING. They had like a few pairs of average skis and not a thing to do with snowboarding. Poor selection of everything except maybe women's clothes upstairs and stuff for kids. Granted, the only other customers I did see looked like rich ladies who ski once a year and do nothing else outdoors, so maybe they're just playing to their clientele but WOW, I'm super disappointed. read more

I am brand new to backpacking- I haven't even been yet but my friends have been wanting me to join them for quite some time. I came to REI for the first time and Marcus helped us out. He was absolutely amazing and was very helpful with fitting me for a backpack. Loved my first experience at REI and he made me feel even more excited to take the plunge into some serious hiking. Thank you!!! read more

I'd been to the REI in Blueback Square many times and I was excited that the new location would be more convenient for me in terms of distance and parking. I visited their new home in Corbin's Corner during a recent big sale in search of some hiking gear. My husband and I both went straight to the shoe section in search of real hiking shoes (we have been hiking in sneakers). We were greeted by a male employee who took the time to find out exactly what we were looking for and then made suggestions and brought out different pairs for us to each try on. We both found pairs that we liked and moved on to the socks, where another super knowledgeable employee helped us by recommending hiking socks to wear with our new shoes. One more quick stop for me to pick out some REI brand hiking pants and we were on our way to the register. To my dismay, only the socks had been on sale, but I bought everything anyway. The new store definitely seemed smaller and is only one floor, but it still seems to have almost everything that you could ever need for outdoor fun. As with the old store, it's clean and well organized and the employees are really pleasant and helpful. read more

I've skied almost all of my life, but never actually owned my own skis. I've always either rented on the mountain or done seasonal rentals. I decided since I spend so much on rentals it was time to stop the BS and get my own equipment. I had some ideas for what I wanted style wise , but to be honest I am not at all knowledgeable about equipment. Like.. at all. Today, one of the gentlemen who work there- his name was Matt- helped me for nearly an hour and a half to find exactly everything I needed and wanted within my budget. Some things needed to be ordered and he was SO cordial in arranging everything for me and talking me through how it would go for me to get my gear and start riding as soon as possible. He didn't use language that I wouldn't understand which I really appreciated, because again- this really just would have confused me. But he did find a way to explain literally everything I needed to know and was angelically patient with me through the entire process. The gentleman at the register - named Ben- was also incredibly patient and helped me to order all of the things I needed to be sent in or mailed to my home and explained how the billing would go as well. I think often when people are trying to get into a hobby or get deeper into a hobby, they feel afraid to tell experts that they are clueless, but this is never a worry here , as every time I've needed beginners-talks and walk-throughs, I've gotten them with amazing patience and service. If you're into the outdoors, having an REI co-op membership is SO worth it. I've always shopped there but never considered a membership until recently and I've already felt like I've gotten 100x my money back. Thanks y'all for making me super happy!!!! Can't wait to break in my OWN skis this year instead of using skis broken in by dozens or even hundreds of strangers sweaty feet !!!!! read more

I heart REI. It's expensive, yes, but they carry such high-quality items, they have the members only sale once a year, and they have the whole co-op thing where you profit share if you're a member. I love using my REI dollars and coupons to buy items I know I'll love and use forever. Plus, the staff there are so helpful and friendly, and REI holds different clubs and events (like running groups, session to learn about bikes and such, etc). I do think I have bad luck, since the last few times I went, the item I wanted was out of stock in my size. Of course, they're always willing to order it for you if needed :) read more

This is the worst shop I have ever been to. I loved REI, I came from San Francisco where there was a shop everywhere you turned. Wonderful staff and highly intelligent about gear and the how to. This one clearly missed the memo. I have had nothing but the worst experiences here. Its like talking to a bunch of middle schoolers, even if they are wrong they will just yell louder until you walk out. (kind of like our political system) I have walked out here furious on multiple occasions. I don't know if it because you are in Black Hole Square or in CT, but you are terrible. You have ruined a lot of things for me now. Go to Altrec.com, they have better selection, free shipping, and the 100% guarantee. read more

I'm not an avid hiker, biker or camper so when I strolled in last weekend to look for some decent shoes for intense walking for a future trip, I was a little lost and also sticker shocked. But, I had the most amazing experience!!! Hope, who was in the shoe department was incredibly helpful in giving recommendations on shoes, brands and styles. She even looked up a shoe I liked in a different color and showed it to me on her phone. She then told me about the REI membership program and had a great sales pitch which wasn't too pushy! I was being indecisive that day and ended up not buying the shoes but did come back later on to order the shoes. I'll definitely be back to this store and who knows, maybe I'll become an avid hiker, biker or camper!! Thank you Hope for your help!! read more

Kills me to write this review, given how much I love REI. However, I just don't think the customer service at this store matches up with the level of service at other stores. I've been to REIs in Seattle, Pittsburgh, Jersey and Virginia. At all of them, the salespeople were friendly, knowledgeable and very prompt. At this store, the salespeople are definitely not as reliable, nor as friendly. That said, if you know what you want and don't need much help, then you'll be fine, b/c the products are still the same. However, if you do need some help, then get some tips online first before visiting this store. read more

Some will say this store is Too Expensive. I admit, is not inexpensive to purchase clothing at REI. Watch the sales, they do have them. I am a frugal guy, I am always trying to make sure I get decent value for my dollar. REI permits you to join the club..REI members do get benefits. We did it recently, and then you participate in some benefits. All that is great, and this does make paying slightly more worthwhile. One thing about REI that I do appreciate is the ease with which they manage returns. They do have a liberal policy, that is another reason I support this store. I also find that the staff are helpful and interested in helping. A huge plus and not that common. read more

Last year I purchased a pair of hiking boots at EMS, and it turns out they were too small for me. In need of a new pair, I turned to REI this time (if I'd bought them there in the first place, I could have exchanged them for a larger size even after wearing them - one reason I'll be an REI customer from here on out!). Yesterday was my first visit to any REI, and it was a wonderful experience. I was assisted by an employee named Darren, who gave me some incredibly helpful recommendations and advice. He showed me how to properly lace the boots, had me try on a number of pairs with different socks and insoles, and was very knowledgable about the different brands - which were true to size, which ran more narrow, which would provide more support for the type of hiking I wanted to do - everything. I can't say enough good things about his expertise, and I left with a great pair of boots, feeling very comfortable that I'd made an informed purchase based on his assessment of what I needed. Seems like he knew my feet better than I did! Also, to reiterate, the return policy beats all - I was encouraged to wear the boots, try hiking in them, and was assured that if I'm not 100% satisfied, they can be returned or exchanged. Standard REI policy, I know, but this really was exactly what I was looking for after buying my last pair of boots too small. It's great to buy from a company that really cares that you're happy with your investment. I'll definitely be purchasing from REI in the future, and was very happy with my experience at the West Hartford store. read more

I love REI. When I found out they built one in CT (and within 25 mins of my house), I was on it... and just in time, too. I had plans of going to NYC for New Years Eve last week. Ya gotta love standing in cold weather for hours on end! The boyfriend suggested I get these things called "silk thermal underwear." Sounds sexy, huh? Oh man, if you only knew! (joking) Anyway, I love enjoying the outdoors, but I hate cold weather, so I never even messed with long underwear before, but apparently these are supposed to be awesome. They are thin and soft, but keep you plenty warm and don't cause you to sweat obscene amounts. Long story short, they only sold the silk undies for girls who are size Small or Extra-Small, so I didn't find what I wanted (they didn't have them in men's, either). But I know I'll be back, because I got a cool hiking/camping book and that sippy thing for my Nalgene bottle that I've been meaning to get forever. Plus, REI has (almost) everything, and entering the store makes me realize how many things I don't own that I really really need. Wait, that's probably a bad thing. Maybe I shouldn't go back there. (normally they'd get 5 stars, because they are awesome... but c'mon, I am not a size SMALL!) ***PS: When I went, I parked in the garage (cost me $2, but I also went a few other places in the area). I also saw meters all over for street & lot parking. But I bet you could park across the street at Whole Foods. I am not promising someone wouldn't yell at you, but it's free, so why not try? read more

First of all, what's not to love about REI? Great selection of gear at great prices. But the best thing about this particular REI is the staff. They are incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. I've been to about a dozen different REI stores across the country (including the flagship in Seattle) and the staff at REI Hartford is easily the best. I was recently there looking for a new pack. The staff member that helped me gave me many different options, helped me find the right fit, and gave great suggestions about where to visit locally. During a different visit, a different staff member helped me choose a new tent as well, citing his personal experiences with the different tents. It's really great when there's a staff that really wants to help you. read more

My boyfriend loves visiting REI. Whenever we're in West Hartford, I know that we'll be making a pit stop in Blue Back Square to visit this store. He's a very outdoorsy guy, so he really enjoys browsing their cycling, paddleboarding, and skiing equipment. He describes their products as high quality at a fair price. As a part of their membership program, I know he receives a lot of great benefits that go along with joining such as discounts and rebates. I don't mind coming along with him because there are so many cool things to browse and an extensive clothing section upstairs; I've even purchased some items for myself! They also have one of the best staffs around. We are always greeted at the door and throughout the store they have people working in the different departments who are eager to offer their assistance. The workers here are not only friendly, but also very knowledgeable. One of the employees here named Eli was especially helpful during one of our visits. I really appreciated his great customer service and positive attitude! Thank you REI! Knowing my boyfriend we will definitely be back! read more

The only real downside to this is it's location in Blue Back Sq. There are very little parking spots in direct proximity to it. The store itself is nothing special, it's your typical REI. I wonder why this one doesn't have a working climbing wall or some other gimic being in the high class Blue Back Sq. If you're fan of REI this store will suite you fine. read more

Worst visit ever. The good-- boots I wanted were on sale for 1/3 off. The bad-- saleswoman was on phone for many minutes and she could not answer the most basic straightforward question-- are the on sale The really, really bad-- clerk and manager asked intrusive personal questions before accepting credit card, they gave repeated nonsensical and incorrect reasons for doing so, it has nothing to do with protecting the customer-- the real reason is that since they have still not installed chip readers (a year after the deadline) they are simply attempting to protect themselves while intruding on the privacy of their customers previous visits have been positive this was really, really bad read more

I read a few bad reviews here and on google and I thought, "what the heck, there's only one in the are so I'll give it a shot." I was very much blown away with the customer service. While I will say I had to be proactive and ask some one to help me as the store was pretty busy on the day I went (Saturday) the girl who helped me was incredibly helpful when it came to me finding a backpack. She was incredibly patient and while she had to go to lunch as she had been working for several hours without break she put me in the hands of one of her associates who was just as patient and knowledgeable. The service was stellar and their knowledge was excellent. I had no problem dropping the $200+ on the back pack I needed. While I can't speak to there selection, the seamed to have good deal of things at the store including, bikes, ski's, clothes, tents, ect. I can say that I looked at a ridiculous amount of back packs and thanks to the service I received I was able to narrow it down to a handful to finally pick from. I will shop here again without a doubt. read more

Love REI. Great staff. They know everything about the products in the store and they are very patient. If they don't know, they look it up or refer to other sales persons. My husband and I worked with one salesman ( Kitch) for well over an hour. There was no pressure to buy. He recognized we were doing research but he also informed us that their sales were ending on an upcoming date. At the sales register we continued to get helpful info. They suggested how we could purchase our items at a lower price by using a membership card. Their member ship is life time. So for $20, we got 20% off an item and will continue to get coupons and items in sale. Good deal. read more

This is a pretty good REI. Not the largest that I've been to, but it has a great selection of all outdoor gear. Clothes are upstairs, and the selection is pretty great. They're good at rotating the goods, so it's always on season. The clearance section is always well stocked. Staff is very friendly and helpful. The biggest gripe is parking. All parking is paid -- $.75 for a half hour. This is the same for all of Blueback. There is a very small lot outside the store, though there are 2 large parking garages within a 5 minute walk. read more

A+ customer service , great online selection with member perks, always enjoy their expertise

I like REI and recently bought a bike there - the staff was knowledgeable and helpful in picking the right bike and getting it set up. with a bike purchase you get a free tune up, which we havent done yet - mostly because you have to bring your bike in and leave it with them for a week (which kind of sucks if you want to ride your bike during that week) .. REI has a membership club that gets you invites to special sales, and discounts that other people dont get and also a dividend rebate you can spend in store based on how much you spend .. They also do in-store classes and clinics to show you how to use a compass, tune up your bike, etc .. some of them are free. kind of cool. a good store, a good addition to blue back, a good place to go for your sporty outdoorsy gear .. note - katie k said maybe you can park in Whole Foods - shortly after Blue Back stores started opening Wholefoods put up signs that say something like 'if you arent shopping at wholefoods you will be towed' read more

I went to REI to buy myself some climbing gear. I was new to climbing, but had an idea of what I needed. Basically, one of the employees helped me find the right harness that would fit me and helped me fit it to make sure it was right. He also helped me pick the right size shoes, which can be tricky if you're new to climbing. While the prices can be a bit more for the merchandise, I don't think they were way out there. I'm sure I'll be going back here if I ever need any more outdoor equipment. read more

I've taken my bike to the bike shop several times. On the first occasion they fixed two broken spokes. The mechanic at the bike shop told me that my tube blew because I'd pinched it, so I purchased a new tube. New tube deflated the next morning, so I brought my bike back and they discovered a metal rod stuck in my tire, so I purchase a second tube. They charged me for the second tube. Following this, I brought my bike to the Simsbury Bicycle Cellar. In addition to the problem that caused me to bring the bike in to the shop, they corrected two additional issues that I hadn't noticed - one with the fender installation and a second with the chain. Bike is rides much better now, and I will be going to them in the future even though it's farther. read more