REI

I’m a long-​time REI member and am disappointed with the service in the Alpharetta store. Although quite nice, the staff was not very knowledgeable and therefore not very helpful. Unfortunately, could have gotten the same service at Dick’s, and my expectations are much higher for REI.

A STORE WITH A PURPOSE!
Don’t even think about coming into this store looking for a cute outfit, (you know who you are), because this is not that kind of store. If you do, you will get the V-​8 pop on the back of your head!
This store has a purpose, to help you get fit, to assist you in taking your fitness to the next level, to help you plan your next adventure or find the appropriate fitness gear and accessories. It is a very cool store, very open and easy to negotiate.
It is well staffed with super helpful employees ready and willing to answer your questions and provide assistance.
Don’t forget to visit the community board if you are interested in taking a class, (rock climbing) or learning to prepare for that first 5k. They have something for every person and every interest.
Go and use this store wisely!

Ah REI, how I have grown to love you in the last 7 years. Ever since I moved to Seattle and realized it was dress differently or stay indoors all the time, I have been frequenting REIs. Therefore, REI has become synonymous with the PNW for me and it was with much joy that I witnessed the grand opening of an REI in my new neighborhood. Now, I admit I’m homesick for Seattle a bit. I miss the coffee, my friends, the coffee, my old neighborhood (cap hill!!!), the coffee and shockingly enough, the weather. I was, I admit, a bit hesitant to shop here in an Atlanta suburb. Would it be the same feeling? Would I just be more homesick? Would it feel like a cold, cheap imitation? So, I went in on opening weekend with a bit of trepidation. Friends, it was everything I hoped it would be! Here’s what I found:
The stuff: They had a lot of what I expected to find in an REI. Yeah, it wasn’t as large as the flagship store, duh, but it was pretty well stocked. I think they have done a great job curating the appropriate merchandise for this location and I am always able to find what I need.
The people: I didn’t know if they’d be able to find cool, laid back, REI people (you know what I mean) here. But, they did! The folks are friendly, approachable, and knowledgeable. They bring you every shoe in every size until you find your perfect fit then tell you that there is a sale next week and that shoe will probably be cheaper then. Just like the awesomeness I came to expect in Seattle. Ahh.
The look: Ok, yeah, I know it’s not the best reason to shop somewhere, but it’s a huge factor in my homesickness cure. This place «looks right». It feels like an REI. It smells like and REI, it has the right door handles, the steel, the wood. It’s just, mountain zen, if you know what I mean.
So, all in all. If you need gear for ANY sort of outdoor activity this is the best place to go in the Alpharetta area. And, as a bonus, if you, like me, are a lover of REIs, this store will make you very, very, happy.

The staff here is excellent, they are so knowledgeable and helpful! They also have an incredible selection of fitness apparel and just great clothing. Everyone was so helpful and courteous. We had a great afternoon. Oh one last comment the store is really beautiful!