REI

Reviews

• RD

  Roslyn Dahl

  3 days ago
  5.0
  I had an excellent experience buying boots. Mallory was super knowledgeable and helped me find the best pair for my needs. Thank you!
• SL

  Sandy LaBelle

  Apr 22, 2026
  5.0
  Love the quality and service. Co ops are the best! I've got fitted for a back pack in Tucson, AZ and shoes in Albany, NY. Love that they stand behind their products with a year guarantee when you become a member (for only $30 for lifetime)
• AP

  annie p

  Apr 18, 2026
  5.0
  I am on a search for good hiking boots that give me the support I need for plantar fasciitis and I wanted to test drive a few that I read about and REI being the amazing store that it is, had those shoes. The employees in that department were attentive and very helpful. I was also able to pick up a new pair of Oofos recovery sandals. Yay for my feet
• SL

  Samantha LaFond

  Apr 9, 2026
  1.0
  I was really disappointed with my recent visit to REI Albany. I went in specifically intending to purchase a higher-end pair of hiking boots, expecting the knowledgeable and attentive service REI is known for. Unfortunately, that wasn’t my experience. I stood in the footwear section for about 10 minutes without any assistance. Eventually, I tried on a display pair just to get started. A sales associate finally approached—but only after finishing a conversation with another employee. He brought out two boxes, neither of which fit properly, and before I could ask for another size or discuss options, he disappeared and returned to chatting again. It’s frustrating, especially when you’re ready to spend money on quality gear and are relying on staff expertise for proper fit and recommendations. We ended up leaving feeling like we were disturbing the staff. We’ve always liked REI, but this location has been a letdown for us more than once due to the lack of customer support.
• DC

  Daniel Conte

  Mar 28, 2026
  1.0
  I stopped into a store in Albany and it was easily one of the most uncomfortable and frustrating shopping experiences I’ve had. From the second we walked in, we were shadowed around the store nonstop. Not helped—followed. Every few minutes it was the same forced “Do you need anything?” like a script on repeat. It didn’t feel like customer service, it felt like we weren’t trusted to simply be in the store. When I finally called it out and asked why we were being followed around, the employee’s response was to laugh. Not clarify, not apologize—laugh. That pretty much said everything. At that point, it’s hard not to question what kind of experience they’re trying to create, because it definitely isn’t one where customers feel welcome. If you’re looking to be hovered over, made uncomfortable, and then laughed at when you speak up, this is absolutely the place. Want the full experience? Show up in sweatpants.

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