By tamikirkland at Citysearch August 10, 2010
My 12 year-old climbed the pinnacle today at REI, Seattle. She would have been climbing sooner, but has just about completely healed from years of (24) hip & leg surgeries she's had to endure for the past 6 years.\t\n\t\n We're moving to Thailand for a few years in three months, where the climbing at Railay is some of the MOST amazing in the world. I was not willing to spend the $$ in gear, if she didn't even like it in a totally controlled environment, like REI \t\n\t\nWe had the MOST amazing young man helping her, talking to her constantly, and reassuring her throughout the entire visit. She only made it a little more than halfway up, but we'll be going again, for sure. Next time, taking a few of her friends - relying on them for support (I'm convinced that peer pressure can be super advantageous when used positively).\t\n\t\nAll-in-all - a VERY positive experience! And all for ONLY $7! That is a next-to-nothing price to pay to get kids (and adults) off the couch, by introducing them into an amazing sport. If you think (like I did before I tried it), it sounds silly, well you're not alone. Rock climbing is truly a sport you have to TRY to appreciate, and love. Sadly, I have an arm injury that prevents me from the sport, but I REALLY want my kids to experience it, even though I can't any longer.\t\n\t\nDownside - available by appointment ONLY, and it currently runs 4 days - a week to schedule one. I wish it could be a last-minute deal, but it's not. \t\n\t\nDon't let that hold you back, though - the up-side to that is, NO one is watching / hanging around for their turn! No lines! \t\n\t\nBottom line, GO FOR IT! You, your kids, your friends - alone, or in a group. Skip movie night, go climb the pinnacle. It's a VERY healthy, positive experience that may very well leed to many more for you, your family, and your friends! ...read more
By Lone Star State at Citysearch May 07, 2010
I'm new at the whole hiking thing (people here hike in the rain???) and was referred to REI for gear. This is a great resource for quality equipment and a one stop shop. My salesperson was very good, helped me get everything I needed, and asked lots of questions. He told me about his favorite hiking areas and trails, and got me excited about my first trip up to Mt. Si. I hope to start biking and running again. I'll be back to pick up more gear. ...read more
By Pee Dee at Citysearch September 11, 2009
REI is no longer a store we shop at after 20 years. I wanted to buy a canoe at the San Diego store and was asked to not come in with my small Laos Aapso NO DOGS ALOWED!!! I asked do you server food? No! No Dogs Allowed the kid at the door said. Okay see you. We will not be back ever. ...read more
When purchasing skis, you must ensure that you have the appropriate size for your feet and height. Otherwise, it will be difficult to maneuver when you are on the slopes. These types of skis are designed with curves on both sides of the skis. ...read more
Water skiing is something that some people find fun to do. If you are thinking about taking up water skiing, then you may be interested in watching videos that teach people how to water ski. Perhaps you are a water skiing enthusiast who just wants to watch cool water skiing videos. Fortunately, water ... ...read more