At REI, we love to get outside and play, and we know first-hand the importance of quality outdoor gear. We stand behind all our products with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and we design our own line of award-winning REI brand gear and clothing. Whether you're new to outdoor adventure or a seasoned pro, we gladly share our enthusiasm for our products--and the trails, slopes and waterways where we play.
Feedback on staff is mixed; while many customers praised the helpfulness and knowledge of employees, others reported negative experiences with unhelpful or rude staff.
Product Selection
Customers appreciated the wide variety of outdoor gear available, particularly in camping and hiking equipment, but some noted a lack of inventory in specific categories, such as women's shorts.
Pricing Concerns
Several reviews highlighted concerns about high prices compared to competitors, with some customers feeling that the value did not match the cost.
Store Policies
There were complaints regarding the return policy and customer service related to returns, with some customers feeling misled about the satisfaction guarantee.
Store Environment
The store was generally described as clean and well-organized, but some customers expressed discomfort with staff behavior and the store's dog policy.
IL
Ian Lockheart
1 day ago
5.0
Always love going there. Plenty of inventory and new things to try out. 4 or 5 different staff members will usually check in with you throughout your shopping to make sure you are taken care of.
Also, they have the best points program of any company I've ever shopped with...in fact, several years ago I somehow accumulated enough points to buy a $400 trail bike.
CW
Charlie Watts
Jan 3, 2026
3.0
If you need to go out and get an adventure.this place has your stuff, from this highest mountain to nears ocean and trails ,check them out
NS
Nakisa Salehi
Jan 3, 2026
1.0
This store doesnt allow dogs (only service dogs) which inconvenient and a little conflicting considering they are an outdoor/nature/recreational etc. product store. They didnt even let me just go straight return something while hugging-carrying my puppy.
AA
Aaron Linsdau Thriller Author
Jan 3, 2026
5.0
As a thriller and fiction author who has also written several non-fiction outdoor guidebooks, I spend a lot of time in REI stores. This San Diego location is one I come back to often.
The camping selection is the store’s great strength, There’s a large organized spread of tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, stoves, packs, and general camp gear. They have plenty of options at different price points. It’s easy to compare brands side by side without feeling rushed. The layout makes sense. The store is clean and easy to move through.
Staff presence is solid. The shoe and pack areas usually have multiple employees actively helping customers with fit and use rather than just pointing things out. I’ve consistently found the staff knowledgeable and genuinely helpful. Checkout is efficient and lines tend to move quickly.
There’s also a used gear section that’s worth checking. Sometimes it’s hit or miss, but it’s a nice bonus and fits the REI ethos well. For San Diego, they also carry a modest selection of cold-weather items, not extensive, but enough to support occasional snow or mountain trips.
As the author of The Most Crucial Knots to Know, How to Keep Your Feet Warm in the Cold, and The Motivated Amateur’s Guide to Winter Camping, I appreciate stores that focus on practical, real-world gear. This REI does that without overhyping anything.
DC
Dan C
Jan 1, 2026
5.0
My go to place for anything that I need in an adventure or outdoors. Ski, biking, hiking.. it has it all. Plus the workers are very helpful and friendly. They also know a lot!
What types of outdoor gear and clothing does REI offer?
REI offers a wide range of outdoor gear and clothing including their own award-winning REI brand as well as popular brands like The North Face, Patagonia, GoPro, Thule, Osprey, prAna, Arc'teryx, Columbia, and Smith Optics.
What are the store hours for REI in San Diego?
REI is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Saturday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Does REI offer curbside pickup for orders?
Yes, REI offers curbside pickup services for customer orders.
What payment options are accepted at REI?
REI accepts various payment methods including American Express, Android Pay, Apple Pay, Cash, Discover, Mastercard, PayPal, and Visa.
Where is REI located in San Diego?
REI is located at 5556 Copley Dr, Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA 92111, United States.
Can customers find other outdoor or sporting goods stores near REI?
Yes, nearby outdoor and sporting goods stores include Road Runner Sports, SCP Distributors, Chacos, and Saucony, offering customers additional options for shoes, sportswear, and gear.
What parks or athletic facilities are near REI for enjoying outdoor activities?
Nearby recreational spots include Hickman Field Park, Hickman Athletic Complex, and Kinsell Memorial Field, providing great opportunities for sports and outdoor enjoyment before or after visiting REI.
Are there any gyms or fitness centers near REI?
Yes, customers can visit nearby gyms and fitness centers like Flip Force San Diego and Nomads Soccer Academy for training and fitness activities.
Does REI have social media presence or an app for customers?
Yes, REI maintains a Facebook page, an Instagram account (@rei), a Twitter handle (@REI), and offers mobile apps for both iOS and Android for easy shopping and updates.
What types of stores and services can customers find near REI in Kearny Mesa?
Near REI, customers can find a variety of stores and services including plumbing services (A Payless Water Heaters & Plumbing), automotive repair (Glass Doctor), bridal shops (A Beautiful Wedding), storage facilities (A-1 Self Storage), and more, making the area convenient for various needs.