Hands down this is the best company for outdoor gear. The staff are invested in the store through their hobbies. If you are member you get ten percent back on all purchases and are allowed to participate in the garage sales. The garage sales are all the returned gear sold for cheap. Also, this store has the best return policy ever, which makes the customer service hard to beat. I have been shopping at REI for 20 years, and my dad has been going there since 1969...they believe in taking care of the earth, customers, and their staff.
I have never had a piece of gear that has failed on me that had the label R.E.I. on it and I have lived in igloos, remote sections of southern Utah, to the Pacific Northwest.
The staff also take the time to remember you and your interests. Great place to meet other people who are active and enjoy the outdoors.