Reader's Choice Awards - Reader's Choice Shopping

POSTED: Monday, Dec. 08, 2008

Best sporting goods store: REI

FIRST PLACE

REI

Location: 400 36th St., Sehome Village, 647-8955

Web site: www.rei.com/stores/65

Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday

From the boss: "REI celebrates its 10-year anniversary in May of next year. A recent expansion brings the store to approximately 30,000 square feet. Virtually every category of gear and clothing will see a greater selection. The store was refixtured and lighting was improved. Our staff members bring a broad variety of backgrounds, experiences, cultures, and ages - it really illustrates the wide and lasting appeal the outdoors has." Ray Elliott, REI store manager

Reader rave: "My favorite part aside from the staff, which is always really nice and knowledgeable, is the 100-percent return policy. If something goes wrong with a pair of shoes you've had for a year you can bring them back no questions asked. I think that's pretty cool." Heidi Postlewait, Bellingham

Highlights: A bright, comfortable, well-organized space invites you to wander through REI's massive selection of outdoor and travel gear. Spanning sports from skiing, backpacking and biking to rock climbing and kayaking, as well as offering gear rentals and a variety of classes, REI is the place where Bellingham residents gear up before communing with Mother Nature. If you're looking for something that's not in stock you can order online or from the flagship Seattle store and have it delivered to the Sehome Village shop. Anyone who receives REI gifts can merrily take advantage of the store's flexibility with returns and exchanges.