REI or Specialty Gear Shops: The Big Outdoor Retail Debate

Today on THE ROCK FIGHT (an outdoor podcast that aims for the head) we’re talking outdoor retail; specifically REI versus the independent gear shop. A few episodes back, Colin had a few choice words for REI (click here to listen to that episode) thus raising the ire of a Rock Fight listener who reached out to set the record straight on the most established outdoor retailer we have. So today Colin talks about the history that has brought us to this point where REI has become the establishment and the new world that independent retailers have to operate in. Please follow and subscribe to THE ROCK FIGHT and give us a 5 star rating wherever you get your podcasts. Have a question or comment for a future mailbag episode? Send it to myrockfight@gmail.com or send a message on Instagram or Threads. Subscribe to Adventure Journal to get more Justin Housman in your life. Head to the Here and There Club to read more from Kyle Frost. Support our partners! Check out Long Weekend Coffee for the best cup of coffee for your next adventure. Be sure to enter promo code 'rock10' at checkout to receive 10% off of your first order. Head over to Gear Trade to turn your unused gear and apparel into cash money or to pick up that piece of gear you need for your next adventure! Thanks for listening! THE ROCK FIGHT is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.