With warm, sunny days filling the forecast, many of us are digging through long-neglected bins of outdoor gear to discover the hole-ridden hiking socks, worn out boots and broken camp chairs we vowed to replace over the winter and then totally forgot. You are just in time: REI Co-op is holding its annual anniversary sale.
Sale Details
Running from 15 May to 25 May, the outdoor retailer's biggest sales event of the year includes generous 25% discounts on more than 6,000 products, many from elite brands that seldom go on sale. REI members also get a 20% coupon applicable to any full-price item, which can save hundreds of dollars applied to big-ticket purchases such as bikes and kayaks.
Expert Picks
As an outdoor writer who hikes, runs, bikes and camps as often as possible, I frequently rush into my local REI to grab a last-minute item: blister-proof socks for a mountain footrace, soft water flasks for my hydration pack, extra layers for a chilly backpacking trip. Many of the anniversary-sale products are ones that I have personally used and have been thrilled with, from tough-as-nails footwear for long hikes to a comfy camp chair made for cozying up with your favorite adventure partner. Get inspired by my favorites, and go discover new ones of your own – you have 11 days to stock up on some of the best gear made for getting outside.
Kelty Low Loveseat
Now $112.39, originally $149.95 at REI. My husband and I are that couple: the ones holding hands on every walk and sitting as close together as possible at the campfire. The Kelty Low Loveseat allows us to continue disgusting everyone with our affection as we relax at camp (it is great on our patio, too). Plenty of other attached-at-the-hip duos are fond of this seat made for two – it is a bestseller in the Kelty line.
Exped MegaMat Sleeping Pad
Now $194.89, originally $259.95 at REI. When camping, your sleeping pad will make or break how much quality shut-eye you get each night. I have found that Exped makes great ones: easy to inflate, wide enough for wiggle room, with the perfect level of cushion between my back and the rocky ground.
Gregory Alpaca Gear Boxes and Pods
Now $52.39, originally $69.95 at REI (gear boxes); now $24.69, originally $32.95 at REI (gear pods). I use almost everything in the Gregory Alpaca line, which is specially designed to store excess stuff. The sturdy Gear Boxes keep my outdoor equipment neatly stacked in the basement, while the Gear Pods (with zips!) help maintain order in my suitcases every time I travel.
Oboz Bridger Mid Boots
Now $164.99, originally $220 at REI. Oboz makes the rare hiking boots that are comfy right out of the box and built for the long haul. The Bridger Mid Boots were the hikers of choice for my husband on our South Dakota backpacking trip – despite daily downpours, these waterproof boots kept his feet warm, dry and comfortable.
Buff CoolNet UV Multifunctional Neckwear
Now $18.69, originally $25 at REI. Shoutout to Buff's CoolNet UV Multifunctional Neckwear for saving my neck, quite literally, from sunburn. It was indispensable during a 14-mile mountain race, when I ran long hours under the high-elevation Colorado sun. It is amazing, and a bit counter-intuitive, how this little neck scarf keeps skin safely covered without heating me up.
Icebreaker Merino Base Layers
Now $89.99, originally $120 at REI (women's and men's). I wore the Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis Long-Sleeve Crewe Thermal Top, along with the matching leggings, while snowboarding in Breckenridge, and they became an instant favorite. These base layers provided just the right amount of warmth and did not get stinky after a full day of playing in the snow.
La Sportiva Prodigio Trail Running Shoes
Now $114.93, originally $165 at REI (women's). Lightweight and fast, La Sportiva shoes are my go-tos for speedy training runs on trails. The Prodigios are highly supportive and stable and they offer reliable traction on roots and rocks. Aside from their excellent performance, I like the bold and sleek design that makes the shoes stand out.
Smartwool Performance Hike Light Cushion Mid Crew Socks
Now $17.99, originally $24 at REI (women's and men's). You just cannot go wrong with Smartwool socks – they are soft yet durable, warm yet breathable, and they can (miraculously) endure long sweaty hikes without smelling like feet. I love the Performance Hike Light Cushion Mid Crew Socks that feel great in any shoe during any activity.
Black Diamond Dogma Pants
Now $74.19, originally $99 at REI (women's and men's). Anyone who climbs, or just enjoys roughing it in nature, will appreciate Black Diamond's rugged apparel. My favorite pieces from the brand are the Dogma Pants, which look great and are tough enough for scrambling up rocks (and the occasional tree).
Salomon Sense Aero Shorts
Now $56.19, originally $75 at REI (women's and men's). Staying cool on warm-weather runs is critical and Salomon has really nailed it with their featherlight and breathable running apparel. I love their breezy T-shirts, and the Sense Aero shorts have that barely-there feel.
Altra Experience Flow 2 Road Running Shoes
Now $109.73, originally $140 at REI (women's and men's). Altra shoes are consistently kind to my feet. The wide, roomy toe box is one of their defining features, allowing toes to splay naturally. For road runs, the Experience Flow is a solid choice; for trails, I favor the grippy and durable Lone Peak 9.
Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket
Now $74.89, originally $99.95 at REI. An extra blanket is a must for chilly evenings around the campfire, or more warmth in your tent when nighttime temps get colder than expected. I enjoy my Rumpl puffy blanket's packability and beautiful design – the pop of color makes camping even more fun.
The Landmark Project T-Shirt
Now $25.19, originally $36 at REI. A significant chunk of my closet space is devoted to T-shirts from The Landmark Project. They are made with soft cotton and feature nostalgic outdoor graphics that quickly identify you as an outdoor enthusiast. Besides making really fun clothing, the brand partners with conservation organizations to support wildfire prevention, habitat restoration and accessibility of national parks and forests.
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
Now $65.89, originally $87.95 at REI. Petzl headlamps have lit my way on all kinds of outings, from night hikes in Costa Rica to 1am bathroom trips into the woods (when I reluctantly need to venture out of my tent). They offer a snug and comfortable fit on my head, provide a powerfully illuminating beam of light and are easy to turn on with the click of a button.
