REI - worth a trip?

[tcbonline]

Hi all, I live in Birmingham and I've never been in a REI store before. Since I'm new to backpacking and just getting ideas for my gear together, would it be worth a trip to the Atlanta area to visit one of these stores in person? I'm just wondering if these stores have much more selection to peruse than say the stores we have local to Birmingham?

I've been doing lots of gear research online, but it just doesn't replace seeing something in person. I've especially been agonizing over sleeping bag and tent choices and I would really like to see them in person.

Also, I notice there are a few REIs in the Atlanta area. Which one is the largest?

[Magic City Matt]

I personally don't think the selection is that much more impressive than some of the local stores. They do have all of the REI brand stuff though which is a major bonus. Of course you may have to go to 2 or three different stores here to se all the same things you would at REI but to me it is not worth the drive and dealing with ATL traffic. Not to mention you really might want to cultivate relationships with the stores here. They are the most likely to help you when you need it.
In fact the only problem I have ever really had from the local shops is some of the over zealous salespeople trying to sell me a "good alternative" to what I really wanted. So stick to your guns and don't be afraid to go to a couple of different stores.

Matthew

on a side note: the REI outlet online is almost always completely worthwhile.

[theprocon]

I was just over there last week. I stopped by because I has never been to one. As far as selection goes, they have the same stuff you can find over here......and mostly at the same prices. I guess it depends on what you are shopping for. The prices I see of theirs online are MUCH cheaper than the store was. If you know exactly what you want, shop for it locally first.....if you want a selection, stop by the local shops and talk to some of them. Like Matt said, they always have insight in some form.

[tcbonline]

Thanks for the info. I think you just saved me a trip!

[Lostsheep]

I would personally avoid the trip unless you happen to be in ATL. It's not that much better. I'd personally recommend Alabama Outdoors (www.alabamaoutdo ors.com) for buying local. There are a few others, but I just have a strong liking to them instead. Some of their stuff is a little high, but they do offer loyalty points, and double points on certain weekends, and what nots.

Just my $0.02.

[crittcg]

In fact the only problem I have ever really had from the local shops is some of the over zealous salespeople trying to sell me a "good alternative" to what I really wanted.

who me?! haha.

*shameless plug* Shop AO, when I'm working >.>

[Magic City Matt]

No not you.


though

You were pretty pushy about the hubba series.  JK

[crittcg]

isma baby!

and now there is an HP series... yay!

[Lostsheep]

so, which AO do you work at? I'll have to keep that in mind when I go in there to shell out some of my hard earned money. BTW, I'll be in there in a few days/week to gear up for another trip.

[crittcg]

Homewood. work most days 12-7ish. but off tomorrow for a day on the rocks woot!

[Lostsheep]

10-4. I'll keep that in mind.