App Feature
REI Co-op – Shop Outdoor Gear is a free mobile storefront for discovering, researching, and buying outdoor gear and apparel. Core features include personalized member sign-in with benefits, saved wish lists and purchase history, robust search and filters, streamlined checkout with stored gift cards and membership number, local store pickup, deal notifications, and in-store barcode scanning for specs and reviews.
Verdict
Verdict: A polished, member-friendly shopping app for outdoor gear, best if you use REI stores and benefits.
Who is it for
Best for:
- REI Co-op members who want easy access to rewards, history, and deals
- Shoppers who prefer curated outdoor brands and convenient store pickup
- In-store browsers who use barcode scanning for reviews and details
Not ideal for:
- Bargain hunters needing the absolute lowest prices across all marketplaces
- Users seeking marketplace-level variety beyond REI’s curated catalog
- Shoppers in regions without nearby REI stores who rely on pickup
Real-world User Experience
Users like it:
Overall 4.4 rating suggests a smooth shopping flow, clear navigation, reliable search/filters, and useful membership integration. Users appreciate quick checkout, timely sale alerts, and the convenience of local pickup and barcode scanning while in store.
Users complain about:
Some users report occasional bugs (slow loads, crashes), sign-in or cart sync hiccups, and occasional inventory or availability mismatches between the app and stores—typical pain points for retail apps.
Is it Worth Paying For?
The app is free with no in-app purchases or ads. There’s nothing to pay for the app itself; value is highest if you already have (or plan to get) REI Co-op membership to unlock rewards and member pricing.
How it Compares to Alternatives
Compared with Amazon or big-box retail apps, REI’s app offers stronger curation, product sustainability standards, and tight member benefits, but a narrower catalog and potentially fewer price lows. Against outdoor specialists like Backcountry or Moosejaw, REI stands out with co-op membership rewards, in-store pickup, and barcode scanning; competitors may match selection or promotions but often lack brick-and-mortar integration. If you frequently shop REI or visit stores, this app is the most seamless choice.
Summary
REI Co-op – Shop Outdoor Gear delivers a clean, efficient way to browse, research, and purchase quality outdoor products on the go. The app shines for members, surfacing benefits, past purchases, and deal alerts, while practical touches like store pickup and barcode scanning make both online and in-store experiences smoother. With a strong rating and a focus on curated brands and sustainability, it’s a dependable companion for hikers, campers, cyclists, and skiers who shop REI. Expect occasional retail-app quirks (login or inventory sync issues), but for most users—especially near an REI store—the overall experience is fast, informative, and convenient.



