This is the place to go for massive selection and honest service! In an era of disappearing retail and needing to order tricky items like shoes online, I'll be here much more often!
We are planning an international trip and intend to use packs in lieu of traditional luggage to make our way around. After checking with friends we had a few pack models to try as we made our way around, and the rep to see is B-Man for solid service. He was fast to put weights in different packs, show us where each would ride well on our frames, discuss pros/cons, and had no reservations with showing us less expensive packs. Coincidentally, the members 20% off sale was starting the next weekend and he had no hesitation with letting us know that and recommending that we make our purchases a week later.
As far as selection, my feet are wide and while other stores like Dicks or Field&Stream would need to special order, REI has all sizes of Merrells (among others) right on hand.