asteffes said:
I didn't intend to spark a large debate about the merits and flaws of REI, and since this seems to happen anytime REI is mentioned I'll not bring up the subject from here on out. No big deal.
Actually Adam it is interesting to see what information everyone has about REI.
I do know that all of the things that I get from them(I am a member) has made me not buy anything from them for quite some time. BUT much of that is because as far as camping gear goes, I am pretty well equipped with stuff left over from my sierra days.
I do know that my impression of REI is that it is kissing up to the Sierra club crowd. I also know that 99% of the people buying stuff from them do the proverbial drive up Mt Washington.
I think that the greens overly radical stance on may things is coming back to haunt them. I noticed in the latest BRC(Blue Ribbon Coalition) magazine there is an article reprinted from MtnBikeAction magazine, which I canceled my subscription to after they started siding with the many non-mechanized groups out there. I think that MBA came to realize that the backpackers are trying to make everything off-limits, including Mtn Bikes so they have started working with the BRC.
It is kind of difficult because many of these companies are trying to portray an image and deliver an experience through their Marketing. Most people would prefer to buy their gear from the hardcore(myself included). If there was an outdoor clothing store that catered to ORV drivers, I don't think it would get much business, BUT if someone walks the Appalachian trail wearing a Patagonia TShirt, well that clothing is hard core enough for me! If I buy one, I could walk the appalachian trail too!
Anyhow, we stopped at Cabela's while driving through Nebraska. It seemed like a pretty cool place, down to earth people and a clientele of people that use their 4wds for work, play,etc. I tried on one of their winter jackets, and although it was nice enough and Gore-Tex, I was not my North Face Mtn Jacket. All the stuffed moose, elk, mountain goats, mountain lions are pretty cool(It is very much a hunting and fishing place.)
From my perspective, being a backpacker, Mtn Biker, 4 wheeler, car camper....etc. I keep coming up with the 'Why can't we all just get along' then we run into Mtn Bikers that almost run me off the trail while Mtn Biking (very limited incidents yes but incidents that stick in peoples minds) and we can see both sides.
So there are lots of rumors and a lot of hearsay along with jumping on bandwagons. It is important that these kind of topics be discussed so that everyone can be exposed to the information and be able to make their own decisions.
Now that being said, it seems like every sport I have participated in the last few years has people trying to make everything political. I am still unsure whether that is just irritating or necessary.
Maybe it is irritating that it is necessary.
my 2cents(where's the 2 cents icon?)