I Worked at REI for 12 Years - Here's the REI Gear You Should Buy!

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Күн бұрын

*This video is sponsored by LMNT! Try LMNT (it's amazing) by clicking here: drinklmnt.com/mirandagoesoutside
I worked at REI for 12 years and this is the REI Gear you should ACTUALLY Buy! Over my years working at REI I got to try a ton of REI gear. A common question I got asked all the time when I worked at REI stores was whether or not REI brand gear was actually good, or just a cheaper knock-off of other name brand gear like North Face, Patagonia, NEMO, and Arc'Teryx. In this video I'll share which REI brand gear I think is truly worth your money, and even worth buying over its name brand competitors!
Intro: 00:00
Best REI Gear #1: 1:13
Best REI Gear #2: 2:00
Why I love LMNT chocolate salt! (sponsor): 2:47
Best REI Gear #2 (con't): 4:03
Best REI Gear #3: 4:04
Best REI Gear #4: 5:36
Best REI Gear #5: 7:44
Best REI Gear #6: 8:39
Best REI Gear #7: 9:37
Best REI Gear #8: 10:55
Best REI Gear #9: 11:51
My all-time favorite piece of REI Gear: 13:11
Outro: 17:13
Check out my video on hiking underwear Here: • The BEST Underwear for...
Gear in this video -
Camp Dreamer Slippers: bit.ly/3Qa5CbQ
Trail 2 Pride Print: bit.ly/3Q9FopN
Flexlite Air Chair: bit.ly/3O9R4rn
Sahara Shade Hoodie:
Active Hipster Underwear: bit.ly/46dOlUv
Trailsmith Jogger Pants:
Rainier Rain Jacket:
Mini Multi Towel: bit.ly/44CWctx
Flash 22 Print Day Pack: bit.ly/471y5Gx
Big Haul 40 Duffel:
Pack-Away 100L Storage Bin:
Flash 55 Pack: bit.ly/42Y4OKO
Shop ALL My Favorite Backpacking Gear: www.mirandagoesoutside.com/bl...
The above links are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to purchase something from these links I may earn a small commission. This money goes straight back into making content, and allows me to keep making videos for all of you!
Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me on Patreon! 💚 If you'd like to become a Patron and support my channel, click here: / mirandagoesoutside
Miranda Goes Outside stickers are now for sale! Get yours here: www.mirandagoesoutside.com/
This video is NOT sponsored by REI! It's actually sponsored by LMNT! Thank you so much to LMNT for sponsoring another video! 💚 If you want to find more awesome recipes using LMNT like the one I shared in this video, click here: drinklmnt.com/
The Miranda Goes Outside crew:
Director and Producer: Rainer Golden
Videographer and Sr. Editor: Abby Hagan
Videographer and Editor: Chelsea Newton
Videographer and Editor: Kyle Roof
Editor: Katie Van Fleet
Dog: Tucker
This video was filmed by Rainer Golden and edited by Rainer Golden and Miranda Webster!
Follow me on IG @MirandaGoesOutside: / mirandagoesoutside
Find past Miranda in the Wild videos on REI Co-op's KZfaq channel here: / @rei
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#rei #reicoop #gear #backpacking #hiking #camping #outdoors #travel #adventure #mirandagoesoutside #mirandainthewild

Пікірлер: 848

@MirandaGoesOutside 11 ай бұрын

One piece of gear that *didn't* make the video, but absolutely makes the list, is the REI Half Dome SL2+ Tent! It was out of stock when I went to my local REI (it's that popular!) but it deserves a mention. Ten years ago, the Half Dome was the first tent that I ever purchased, and it's only gotten better over the years. It's a great tent for people who don't know if they are going to be more into backpacking or car camping, because it's decently light while also being very spacious! It's also a *true* two person tent. The most recent update to the Half Dome makes it a pound lighter than its predecessor! Highly, highly recommend. Link here: bit.ly/3JKtr5N

@striknein 11 ай бұрын

One thing I love about my 2016 SL2+ is the number of pockets. I think it has one at each corner, and two MASSIVE gear lofts. Plus it's super fast to setup and the side walls are nearly vertical. My wife and I sleep on 25" wide pads and it's the perfect width for us. I only wish it packed a little smaller. One weird quirk about it, and I'm not sure if I'm doing it right: Do the grommets for the rain fly pole attachments go above or below the ones for the tent body?

@Swimdeep 11 ай бұрын

Agree abt the Half Dome. Really liked this video. I like you product reviews/comparisons a lot.🌿

@MrRade0110 11 ай бұрын

I watched the video before coming into the comments because I wanted to mention this, haha! I've taken the Half Dome SL2+ on 30-40 trips spanning just an overnight to about a week. It has NEVER failed me. It's incredibly easy to set up and take down, the weight is better than pretty much any competitor at it's price point, and headroom is nice for people like me who are over 6 ft tall. The only thing I did, was change out the stakes. The base ones (when I got mine) were aluminum. I switched them out for bright red stakes so they were easier to see. I love that tent though!

@jackmehoff5201 11 ай бұрын

@Miranda when you gonna make an OF w them Tig Ole Bitties! Bring the hipsters if you want.

@karenpaulson 11 ай бұрын

We have the Quarter Dome 3 and LOVE IT! Since we each carry part (one has the tent, the other has the poles), it’s great for our backpacking adventures. We have been through terrible weather it and never had a leak or moment of concern. We’ve had it for about 8 years now.

@ml-dz9ww 11 ай бұрын

As one of your many content consumers, it brings me vast joy to know that you have a DEEP understanding what we want to see: Miranda trying to fit in to bags. 100% satisfied.

@MirandaGoesOutside 11 ай бұрын

Just here to give the people what they deserve 🔥

@TheJhtlag 11 ай бұрын

That's funny, thought they're be a joke about travelling by air cheap.

@tomconnor2529 11 ай бұрын

I don't know about that . Now I want to kinda see her bare feet more since she and Rainer joked about it . ( jokingly )

@greenwave819 11 ай бұрын

what?

@AimForTheBushes908 11 ай бұрын

@@greenwave819😂

@spamandkimchi 11 ай бұрын

I love how Miranda and REI have such a great relationship after Miranda went independent. Makes me happy to keep supporting REI!

@PD-we8vf 10 ай бұрын

Summer 2020 rei kicked me out of their store for not having my mask over my nose. Complete commie weirdo employees came up and threatened me and they wouldn’t let me check out. The manager was a lunatic.

@imbonnie 9 ай бұрын

I would never wear sodomy print. That’s evil and disgusting.

@historicalaccuracy15 8 ай бұрын

@@imbonnie Pfft speak for yourself, Sodomy print is great!! Now we just need a Gomorrah print to match for a full set

@alanstrange2421 8 ай бұрын

@@imbonnie - Weird, it just looks like colorful trees to me. Do you see sodomy everywhere you look? You might want to get some help with that, either psychological or ...otherwise.

@PhilAndersonOutside 8 ай бұрын

Waist?! 😏

@traviskinchen2265 11 ай бұрын

Well, I only worked for REI for 6 years, so you got me there, Miranda. Some of my favorite REI brand gear: a down mummy bag still going strong after 25 years, and a LOT of use. Several daypacks and one internal frame backpack, all well used, and most lasted 15-20 years, including a Flash pack from the very first year they came out. My REI fleece jackets from the mid 90s are still nearly as good as the day I bought them, though horribly out of fashion. But the best REI branded thing I ever got was and is my wife - does an REI vest make you REI branded? We worked together, climbed and hiked together, and then I proposed to her at an employee party in the store. She's outlasted most of the other stuff - except that mummy bag, it's still in the running!

@nedanother9382 11 ай бұрын

aint it the truth. fabulous wives are just the best.

@donkeysaurusrex7881 10 ай бұрын

What a beautiful life

@JB-mo8rs 10 ай бұрын

Since you worked there, does REI tell their employees to be annoying to all customers be constantly asking them if they need help? Just one visit and got hit up SIX times from every damn employee. All overtly friendly with a liberal, disingenuous overtone.

@traviskinchen2265 10 ай бұрын

@@JB-mo8rs It’s been 24 years since I last worked for REI. I can only speak for what we did then. Ask every person if you can help with anything, be genuinely friendly and helpful, and give good advice to help them meet their needs. Nobody was on commission, so no pressure selling. Truly there to serve the needs of members and customers. With that said, some employees were better than others at striking the right balance between helpful and annoying. Humans, you know. I never knew anyone to be truly disingenuous, though. There was no motive for it. With all that said, I have shopped in REI stores many times since leaving that job, and I have never experienced anything like what you describe. Not sure what may have been going on there.

@rebeccawest8973 9 ай бұрын

This is a beautiful story! Thank you for sharing. I wish you many more years!

@austinterry2343 11 ай бұрын

Archaeologist here and I use a lot of REI equipment for field clothes. I LOVE their button down shirts, I bought one randomly for my first dig 11 years ago and I'm still using it today. They also make a great pair of heavy canvas pants that are up there with Carharts

@PiLLO360 11 ай бұрын

What other brands do you you like?

@aworldincolor1331 2 ай бұрын

As a student archaeologist this was great to read! Only been on one dig so far so still finding what works best for me lol Edit: For anyone else that cares, the Sahara hoodie was AMAZING! I had my wedding after my first dig and did not want tan lines (because strapless dress) so I wore it the whole time in 80 degree weather. Not only was it breathable enough to not die, but it kept me from getting burnt/tanning. Also it was SUPER light!

@christaylor1045 11 ай бұрын

I’ve had that chair for years and it only gets more comfortable. Used it at home in the backyard, in the garage, on lakes for kayaking breaks on islands and at the beach. A must.

@janiegirly07 11 ай бұрын

As a current REI employee this is soooo helpful, I get these kind of questions all the time. Thanks for sharing!

@GraceSerenityK 11 ай бұрын

Most other KZfaqrs "No you can't see my feet!" But Miranda put on a whole runway show! Bold move Ms. Goes Outside!

@Kampy_ 11 ай бұрын

I worked at REI for 2-3 years... back around 2000-2003~ish. Over 20 years later, I'm STILL using a bunch of the REI brand gear I acquired back then. The Taj 3 tent served me well for 2 decades. My default travel bag / carry-on is an REI duffel that has held up amazingly well. One of our employee holiday gifts one year was the rain jacket, and I rocked it for 15 years before the coating started to delam. I have some REI thermal underlayers that I've used for 20 years. REI gear just lasts forever (usually).

@rluxon 11 ай бұрын

Miranda, you rock! Love the videos. You have inspired my daughter and I to start going on adventures (day trips for now). Your honesty and knowledge combined with your humour is so fun to watch. As Scouts, we take your knowledge to heart to help us get ready for a long trip next summer. Thank you again for your videos. From a Canadian family.

@Breeski1 11 ай бұрын

The Forest Service gave my crew the REI sun hoodie and it was a life saver in the glaring high altitude sun

@SonicAndTrippy 11 ай бұрын

OMG THE KYLE INSERT FOR THE CHAIR 😂😂😂😂💀

@MirandaGoesOutside 11 ай бұрын

🤠 we love Kyle Hates Chairs

@Mike_Blanda 11 ай бұрын

Exactly!! That made me laugh lol 😂

@musingwithreba9667 11 ай бұрын

@@MirandaGoesOutside😂😅

@KrafftyGoesBackpacking 11 ай бұрын

Made me chuckle a bit

@loganpierce9244 11 ай бұрын

Passage 1 tent got me through more than 3000 mile hike in some of the most inclement weather from hail, sleet rain and snow and did an incredible job at keeping me completely dry…!!! Gotta love it.

@7476318 8 ай бұрын

I loved your REI videos, I'm glad the algorithm brought me to you! Your happy fun personality was really uplifting during all of the stress during Covid. Thanks for you being you and sharing it with everyone.

@jimmeek8621 11 ай бұрын

Helpful content. Great pacing, so a lot of information in a compact format. People are busy, so being respectful of their time matters. Thanks.

@tc2156 11 ай бұрын

My REI merino wool socks are still going strong after 14 years. They are great for Colorado winters. I also like my REI baselayer pants. I’m 5’1” and an XS and had the hardest time finding a petite baselayer bottom.

@Gecko029 11 ай бұрын

Welp, Miranda has justified the items that have been sitting in my cart for quite some time😂… they shall be in my pack soon! Thanks Miranda for all you do! You and your team are AMAZING!🎉

@johnphillips3526 11 ай бұрын

Glad you gave a shout out to the chair! It is the most overlooked REI item I feel. Love mine!

@AdventureOtaku 11 ай бұрын

Oh Miranda… If you had stuck around for 3 more years you would have had your discount for life! I had a store manager tell me I wasn’t allowed to quit (at 13.5 years) for that very reason!

@seedmole 11 ай бұрын

My best REI purchase ever was the Sahara Vest in green. I ended up wearing it for countless hours while working with horses. It was absolutely the best utility vest I could ever imagine. Still have it, and a backup in tan, because it's not available anymore sadly.

@MirandaGoesOutside 11 ай бұрын

I’m so bummed they discontinued that vest!! Seriously, utility vests are hard to find now.

@RainerGolden 11 ай бұрын

Some stuff from REI that I love that’s not mentioned in the video is their hiking shirts (so soft!), the beyonder shoes, and for a down jacket I think the 650 down jacket is great option at its super cheap price. Fully second the Flash 55, trailsmith joggers, and sahara shade hoodie!

@striknein 11 ай бұрын

Their Flash jackets are a great option for new campers/backpackers. Super cheap and plenty warm, and nobody's going to cry too much when they burn their first pinhole in it from a campfire ember.

@MS-ut8fd 11 ай бұрын

I still wear my 15+ year old REI down jacket.

@PhilAndersonOutside 8 ай бұрын

You're one of few people who like the Beyonder shoes (footwear is not REI's strong suit).

@RainerGolden 8 ай бұрын

@@PhilAndersonOutside Agreed on their footwear. I was surprised I like them so much, honestly. Genuinely love them as my around town shoes, especially in summer. But totally get I may be in the minority in this one.

@edchaos2679 11 ай бұрын

Love the Flash 55, bought it for my wife. Flex lite hack... go get the Ozark trail chair for 25 dollars and get the flex lite replacement seat for 10 dollars. Its interchangeable.

@georgem7965 11 ай бұрын

I've been and REI member since the mid-60s (my REI number is 75xxx) and I have consistently found over the years that REI brand equipment has performed as well or better than the name brands at usually significantly lower price points, not to mention the dividend. REI stores are a lot commoner than they were when I joined when it was on ly the flagship store in Seattle or mail order and the internet has changed things a lot.

@wildeescape 11 ай бұрын

Great video, and I agree with all your recommendations too! This is also from a former REI employee. There are a few others that I would add, but the chair and Flash 55 are freaken awesome!

@janebudde6220 11 ай бұрын

I LOVE the Sahara hoodie. I wear it to the gym as often as I can because it helps me regulate my body temperature; I sweat too much too fast and end up shivering in a breezy or air conditioned area.

@Khemtime 11 ай бұрын

Great timing! I just moved to Alaska from New Mexico less than a week ago. I’ve bought from REI for years online but never been in one of their stores until yesterday and it was awesome!

@valeriejosephson5739 11 ай бұрын

Thank you, Miranda for making content that makes me smile. I also have the Flash 55 thanks to your glowing reviews and I love it. It is the most comfortable pack I have ever owned.

@MirandaGoesOutside 11 ай бұрын

Woo I’m so happy to hear that!!! It’s my favorite pack of all time.

@christenweston3360 11 ай бұрын

Yes! Love the Flash 55! That Olive/chartreuse green is also one of my favorite colors. So, just icing on the cake!

@lonniefox2599 10 ай бұрын

Thank you! We are loving the camp slippers!❤❤❤❤

@hammerpants11c54 11 ай бұрын

I hit the jackpot when I went to the garage sale area of my local REI and found a 2023 Flash 55 for $70 that someone used once and returned like a day prior because the sternum strap broke. Bought the Packmod straps for $10 to use as an improvised strap and so far it’s been great

@kimyoung230 11 ай бұрын

A solid REI garage sale find is the best! Backpacking knife that won’t close? Just gotta know how to operate it! Micro spikes with a missing chain? Mfgr sent a replacement in the mail! Luci light leaks? Just needed a patch! I could go on for a while!

@micheles8773 11 ай бұрын

I recently got the Flexlite Air Chair and it was definitely the most luxurious thing I had on my last backpacking trip! Adding a couple of things from this video to my wish list.

@ronaldrose7593 11 ай бұрын

Hello 👋 Miranda, I first became an REI customer in June.of 1971. REI remains my favorite store for all things camping 🏕. Stay safe out there. 🤗 👋

@elderhiker7787 11 ай бұрын

Excellent review video and I learned a few things. I joined REI in 1976 and I ve never been disappointed with their brand items. Never. The item that I love the most and have used most is a lightweight sleeping bag “liner.” Compared to the bag liners of today, it is really a lightweight sleeping bag that I also used with my REI down sleeping bag when I’m doing early spring/late fall hammocking. I frequently zip it down about 3/4 of the way and use it as a top quilt in the summer. It is perfect and considering it is 34 years old, it was great value for the money. It is perfect for sleepovers when I’m on the couch. The current batch of bag liners are mostly just thin fleece slip-overs which are probably okay for increasing the warmth factor by about 5 degrees. But this is a beast that can be used alone for temps down into the mid-50s, which the new ones can’t handle. So, 2 thumbs up to REI.

@kgwash 11 ай бұрын

I've worked (PT) at REI for 8 years, so I can concur on and own quite a few pieces. I must say the Flexlite Air is my favorite piece by far. I even sold one when I went in on my day off. Plus it is .1oz less than the Chair Zero. And I am so sad the Quarter Dome was discontinued. I still have mine after 10 years. And my yoga teacher always tells me how she likes the Packaway. Plus the Magma and Flash jackets are awesome. I could go on.

@peggyconway2900 11 ай бұрын

Great video! Thank you for the info, smiles and laughs!

@cindydain5801 11 ай бұрын

One of my favorite REI purchases is the waist pack that you showed. I have it in the solid black color and use the back pocket as my "secret" compartment for my passport and credit cards. It works great for international travel.

@Mike_Blanda 11 ай бұрын

Awesome video! I love the Flexlite chair and absolutely LOVE my flash 55!!! I do have the updated version and I am EXTREMELY happy with it! I did have it in snow conditions and had a cover. Nothing was wet as I was backpacking for 8 hrs in snow, and rain conditions 😮. The only issue I have found is the chest strap has popped off a few times but not a big deal. Ty for this video!

@Paperann234 11 ай бұрын

I’ve worked at REI for 7 years and I’m in agreement with several (most) of your items. In fact, it was a little spooky how you spoke about the sun hoodie and the joggers EXACTLY as I speak about them! I don’t have the slippers ( I have the ember Mocs) so I would have added the quarter dome SL1. Love that tent.

@michelleburken 11 ай бұрын

I tried out the Half Dome 1 person tent and the Camp Bed Sleeping Pad last summer and loved them both! Shout out to the REI rentals program, it was cheaper to rent those two pieces for a week than it would have been to pay for a checked bag to haul my own gear on my flight!

@Uturnsandgiggles 11 ай бұрын

I just brought the same daypack and love it. Did 7 trails in 2 days up in Wisconsin with it and it was perfect! Love your reviews.

@leegd5 11 ай бұрын

I bought a zip-up outdoor shirt from REI in 2012. Am still wearing it eleven years later. It's my favorite cool season shirt, it looks great, washes beautifully and was an amazing value! I've worn the hell out of it and it still looks so good. Thank you REI.

@Whitify 11 ай бұрын

Packaway 100L is incredible. Especially for someone who lives in a small space to be able to put most of the camping stuff get in 1 bag. The handles on every side makes it perfect for easy grab and move. Worth every penny

@jenniferbostrom759 11 ай бұрын

Love my Flash 55! I’ve got the new one and the range of sizes available in store allowed my short round form to actually try stuff on! Mine is an XS with a medium hip belt and fits so well that I barely feel it! My REI honorable mention is my Sahara women’s +25 600 fill power sleeping bag in the short length. It’s lighter than my big Agnes, so cozy & has space in all the right places.also it’s about 10 years old and going strong

@overwatchxrescue 10 ай бұрын

Love the gear breakdown!

@marycharleson3320 11 ай бұрын

I have not used the Flash 55 backpack yet….but I did buy it about a month ago after watching you on another one of KZfaq..💞 I need to add the straps.. Love watching you! Your so down to earth Enjoy your journey in life and keep spreading your sunshine…🌞

@romerogj 11 ай бұрын

I really appreciate their Puffy jackets being $100 versus a $250-$300 Patagonia or Cotapaxi. While the REI doesn't have as much insulation, as a Colorado person, I haven't run into the situation where it wasn't warm enough. (That being said I also do have a Carhart for when I need to be outside doing physical work that I don't want to tear a puffy over) I've had really positive experiences with the REI branded stuff and always recommend it, especially for people getting into outdoor activities and suffer sticker shock from some of the items. Great Video, as always!

@TandBKount 11 ай бұрын

My fav: REI Flexlite Camp Dreamer Chair (Black is best cuz the pillow hooks are hooked not straight making them more stable (way better) to stay in the loop with any movement including carrying in any direction. Blue=pillow hooks are straight and can fall out of the loop with minimal movement) Retail is $99.95 but I bought mine for $69.89 each due to a sale. My husband and I (both 5'6", 145-175lbs) both have one and absolutely love them and use them daily at home indoors and in the yard, but easy for bringing to the park / keeping in the car / under the original xl PetRover dog stroller in the storage basket. The size, comfort (easy up and down) and side pockets are spot on!

@J-Peterson777 11 ай бұрын

I've liked this video, I am already a subscriber, the only other thing I can do to support you is to leave you this comment. PLEASE keep doing what you do. Between you, Rainer and the rest of your team you provide interesting, informative and entertaining content. I can't wait for your next instalment. Excelsior!

@meinthewild312 9 ай бұрын

One of my REI Brand gear that I’ve really liked are their hiking poles. I’ve been using them for 4 years now and other than occasionally needing to tighten the screws, they have performed flawlessly. And, so much less expensive than those other name brands.

@dgmckim 11 ай бұрын

a few things i've picked up: Swiftland shirts are so good! The trailmade short sleeve button up party shirt (you know the one) is my favorite beer shirt. Magma trail quilt is a great non-cottage quilt option, and lastly the hyperaxis fleece hoody 2.0 has been a great jacket!

@stevenqirkle 6 ай бұрын

I have an REI DryPoint GTX jacket that I absolutely adore. It’s light weight, packable, adjustable, breathable, and has never failed to keep me dry in all the rain and snow that we get here. I pretty much never leave home without it in Winter, Spring, and Fall.

@WanderingSwitchback 11 ай бұрын

I have the older version of the Flash 55 (and the 10 year old version, the Flash 52, from a mega Pro Deal when I worked there), and highly recommend the Flash to everyone. I also have 5 of those sun hoodies. They're AWESOME! I got a Half Dome 2+ (prior to the SL) about 8 years ago at the Used Gear Sale (when they still operated that way, and it was an event), and we still use it! This winter I got a set of the midweight Merino wool base layers, and they're soooo soft and cozy. I'm so happy to see REI adding more expanded sizes, too. It's slow progress, but still progress.

@Satellite42 Ай бұрын

One of the sales is on. It is a good time for people to be able to see this again. I know it helped me decide on what to get. 💛

@Billbless87 11 ай бұрын

I bought the Rainer rain jacket after your last video on it! I absolutely love it

@TweetyPAK7 11 ай бұрын

I'm a huge REI fan. I love wandering around in there. I have found many REI brand products that are great!! Favorites include the Big Haul duffels! They are awesome. I have 4: 90L, 60L, and 2 40s. All kinds of little extras and features on them. Highly recommend! Love their storage cubes and recently got that large PackAway cube and condensed my various gear into that one cube in my car. Love it! Also love the gear vest with all the pockets.

@seanadean424 11 ай бұрын

Love my rain jacket from REI - agree, deserves all the stars

@0HARE 11 ай бұрын

Thanks for the run down. Great products. We have the chair you showed. It brings a bit of luxury to the outdoors at a very light weight. We have multiple REI duffel bags and packing cubes, and they really help us compartmentalize the storage in our Casita travel trailer. In fact, we used REI to outfit the new Casita with light weight dish ware, cookware, storage, bedding, backpacking towels, etc. I just picked up the REI Trailmade 1 tent with footprint, and I love it. It’s easy to set up, totally comfortable, and the built-in footprint is one less thing to hassle with.

@MichaelNatrin 11 ай бұрын

Really great video, thanks so much for sharing!

@joebeman8000 11 ай бұрын

Love the Kyle HH reference at 4:30. Well done!

@valstarkgraf 11 ай бұрын

The mesh sleeping bag bag shines for car camping. It's durable, it does exactly what it's supposed to do, does it well, and it allows for modular packing of all bedding for one human together in one bag where your sleeping bag can vent a bit and there is still room for a bag liner or some sheets, an extra blanket, a travel pillow, OR if you vanlife it is a way to put all your regular bed type bedding away neatly in one concise bag. If I'm on a road trip I can just chuck all bedding in this thing and shove it in the back of my SUV or in the roof box, and when I set up camp again down the road setup of bedding is minimal because I can just unpack everything without messing with all sorts of compression sacks and allowing loft time. Here's my bed, just pull out the stuff and I'm good to go. If space isn't at a premium, this can be a good option campsite to campsite on a multi-site road trip tour, because it will save a significant amount of time packing tight and unpacking to loft while also keeping things contained and reasonably neat.

@tgilbs 11 ай бұрын

LOVE my REI Flash 55, I have the version that you have. I have recommended it to friends, it's such a solid pack. LOVE all the pockets on the outside and the hip belt! I picked up the REI chair during a sale and got two for the price of one Helinox chair. I haven't tried the Helinox, I'm sure it's a fine chair, but the REI chair was a lot more affordable. My hope is that it is durable. I loved having a chair on my recent trip, I don't think I'll ever backpack again without it. It made the experience in camp SOOOooooo much more comfortable. I even took it out when we stopped for lunch. Quick to set up and entirely worth carrying the extra pound, at least for this weekend backpacker!

@obfuscurity 11 ай бұрын

Glad you called out the duffel. I adore my Big Haul 40 and I'm really pleased that I got it in Stone Blue (which doesn't seem to be available anymore). Also love my Trailmade shorts (for men), though I wish the spring closure mechanism was more robust, it's super flimsy and prone to breaking.

@andrewlaas911 10 ай бұрын

Nice review. As an old guy w a bad back who has had to transition to “darned light”, the flash 55 is the most comfortable pack I’ve ever owned. That said, I’m done going into the backcountry without my 1lb chair….

@Erik_The_Viking 11 ай бұрын

I've been using REI gear for a long time. Some items have been hit and miss, but overall I've been happy. I love my REI Flash backpack which is lightweight, holds a ton of stuff and is practical.

@slolee 11 ай бұрын

I love my Flash 55 so much and will be sad when I need a new one because to me, it’s perfect. Plus the olive oil color got me a lot of compliments on trail!

@cpcolella 11 ай бұрын

I love my flexlite air chair so much. I use it at home sometimes too. I got that rain jacket a while back as a gift and it’s one of my most worn since then. And while it’s the only backpacking tent i have ever used, I love my rei half done 2+ tent. It’s easy to set up and take down, it fits me and my wife and our gear. It has a covered outside area for shoes and such, and it has entrances on both sides so you don’t have to climb over each other to get in and out. On top of that it’s reasonably priced and the weight is more than acceptable for that price. Great piece of gear.

@askunz1 11 ай бұрын

This video is very well done, thank you Miranda. I liked and subscribed!

@scottca9780 11 ай бұрын

REi makes some good equipment (I regularly wear one of their jackets and backpacks) but I miss the olden days when I was a lad, before color TV and horseless carriages, when REI was significantly cheaper than the big brands (Glenn Randall's book on his ascent on Mt Hunter in the 80s mentions buying cheaper REI jackets and equipment to save money over the North Face equivalents- a savings that would be minimal today). It's true REI kit looks more stylish now, but there used to be a place for utilitarian but high quality gear.

@softball1191 11 ай бұрын

I love your recommendations. I just wish the REI brand had more size inclusivity. I’m a larger gal and not having great options with outdoor gear to be more active has to be the most frustrating aspect of trying to live a healthier lifestyle.

@TweetyPAK7 11 ай бұрын

I agree with you. In case you missed them, REI partnered with Outdoor Afro to make hiking pants in over 20 different sizes. I love them! Lots of pockets with zippers. 5-star rated in reviews. Very popular! I hope they continue to offer these pants because it is hard to find good clothing in larger sizes.

@madtownangler 11 ай бұрын

Unfortunately they do have that problem. My friends wife is kind big now that she is over sixty and takes it easy so she just has to use her husband's stuff a lot. We have a Cabela's a few towns over so she asks her kids for gift certificates for that place and she tries stuff on while we guys look at used guns

@Scubastewie 11 ай бұрын

Lose weight

@lori_noaviv 11 ай бұрын

It also sucks they don't have tall sizes, finding a full-length pair of hiking pants that are actually full length, has been a real challenge, and some places that do offer tall, still only offer up to size 14 or 16.

@memathews 11 ай бұрын

@@lori_noavivYep, same thing with guys clothes. Inseam length and sleeve length are too short most often in medium and large sizes, although usually select morels have an extended length (Sahara models are good about this).

@IntenseAngler 11 ай бұрын

Good stuff Miranda 👍 I've scored more than a few great deals at REI over the years 👍

@benji5489 11 ай бұрын

I have the Flash 55 and I tell people it is the definition of the perfect backpack!! It just hugs my body

@IntriguedLioness 11 ай бұрын

I have a serious travel bag collection/addiction and also am very active in hiking, camping, through hiking, kayaking etcetera. I have most of these items but the absolute favorite of mine that I have told so many people to buy is the Big Hall 40. By now I have a few, mostly black but I even ordered have a crazy mango colour for summer. I have a 60 L but the 40 is absolutely my favorite. People have pointed out that the big rectangle box that it is kind of pokes out more than a couple of my other bags but I like that it gives me a freedom of arm movement. I don't feel like I have a big pack behind my arms. I'm also someone who doesn't like a lot of pockets and sleeves built in so a simple rectangle with a mesh pocket inside the lid and exterior straps is perfect. _Miranda forgot to mention that if you're female (AKA small feet) the stuff sack that you're always supposed to put this bag into never quite worked for me so it's a perfect heavy duty camp sandal bag!_

@kelseybailey276 11 ай бұрын

Our first (and only after 5 years) tent purchase was of a used Rental Kingdom 4 tent. It’s amazing and pairs so well with our kingdom queen sleep system (any time we need an air mattress we pull it out, way better than anything else you can buy at a normal store.) and my newest favorite piece of gear is our REI co-op cooler. It was our first big cooler investment and now I will never even think about dropping the cash on a hydro flask or yeti because this baby is perfect for way less

@PhilAndersonOutside 10 ай бұрын

The Kingdom was probably the best pure camping tent REI ever made. Unfortunately they discontinued it in 2022. It's been "replaced" by the Wonderland which is $100 more, has less pockets, and is arguably harder to set up, and perhaps not as weather resistant. :-(

@Sumanitu 10 ай бұрын

The REI outer shell ski jacket and pants I got were one of the best purchases I've ever made. Not just outdoor gear. One of the best purchases period. ~16 years now snowboarding and even doing light construction work shifts in them and they're still holding up. Still comfy. Still nearly as waterproof as they were with no treatments

@yuegan1939 11 ай бұрын

I bought the chair with 30% off. Best outdoor purchase ever!

@saltycat262 11 ай бұрын

I love the outro jingle. It's so happy! :D

@MirandaGoesOutside 11 ай бұрын

yay me too!! It's literally called "happy sunshine song" 😆

@ScootsTrades 11 ай бұрын

The fact that the joggers might be your date night pants is not sad, it's perfect! If a date requires anything more formal, count me out! So happy to see you doing well on your own and still giving love to REI!

@bootson_au 11 ай бұрын

It's so crazy to me seeing the amount of choice you have in the states in regards to hiking/backpacking gear. Unfortunately REI stopped selling to Australia back in 2018 due to a tax law change. Still an awesome video, thank you for sharing!

@xuejianyao4363 7 ай бұрын

Would like to trade REI for Decathlon....Decathlon provide much more budget choices, and they closed their last store in US last year.

@karenpaulson 11 ай бұрын

I’m amazed at how many of your faves are in our closets!

@christophertaylor87 11 ай бұрын

I bought the Flash 55 after watching your videos and it was sooo fantastic for my first backpacking trip! Packed it to its max weight and it was still super comfortable.

@Kicksology 11 ай бұрын

Same exact experience here-bought the Flash 55 based on Miranda’s review a while back & am super happy with it. I’ve taken it backpacking within the States & even on a trip to Japan, and it’s just been perfect.👍🏻👍🏻

@MsNiNiCherie 11 ай бұрын

Also a huge fan of the REI Flash 55 pack! Also, as I’m primarily a car camper, the REI Co-Op Trailgate Vehicle Sleeping Platform is pretty sweet! Beats the crap outta’ my failed attempt at a DIY platform bed! Lol!

@dankappus7004 11 ай бұрын

It's fun to see you freed of the variety of niceness that REI understandably required of you. What you produce now has more humor and shows more personality.

@whatupsun8563 11 ай бұрын

REI GEAR I use: Flash 22, sahara convertible pants, sahara long sleeve shirt, sahara bucket hat, passage 1 tent, rainier rain pants.

@EATENG 11 ай бұрын

I love my Flexlite Air chair. If you are patient, you can find them onsale for 60 or 70 bucks sometimes. Absolute steal at that price!

@madtownangler 11 ай бұрын

I'm old fashioned and still have an old pack laying around with an external frame. It worked well for strapping my fishing rod carrier to it. I'm lucky enough to have a small REI here in the town I live in just across town.

@kimyoung230 11 ай бұрын

I have a number of those favorite items myself! It’s good to here this feedback from someone that worked there. A few more that I like: - REI light weight long sleeve base layer shirt for sun protection and hiking. - REI wool underwear bottoms - REI fleece pants - REI 850 jacket - definite favorite! I also recently bought a REI Magma sleeping bag for an incoming trip. While have not used it to note it as a favorite, it does seem to get good reviews on various sites. And I was able to get it at a very reasonable 40% off.

@matthewscott3689 11 ай бұрын

I absolutely agree about the mini microfiber towel. I purchased one just because I needed to add a few more dollars to my order to get free shipping and it was one of the cheapest things on the site. I put it in my backpack and I can't tell you how many times I've used it or it's saved me in some way or another. I love it so much I bought several more, one for each pack. I've used it as a handkerchief to wipe away sweat and even blood (multiple times), it comes in handy as a napkin, used it to dry up a spill, to clean my glasses, as tissue, literally so many things. I honestly think it's one of the best things I've ever bought from anywhere (REI obviously, but just purchases in general). I can't see a reason why somebody wouldn't need one. They're fantastic!

@mikenealis 11 ай бұрын

I tried LMNT because you said it helps with migraines. AND BOY HOWDY DOES IT. For me it either knocks them out, or takes the edge off long enough for me to get home and get in bed. I absolutely didn't know what to do with the chocolate salt one that came in the sample pack, but gonna try adding it to tomorrow morning's coffee.

@PhotoTrekr 11 ай бұрын

I've been an REI customer since you had to join and order gear from their catalogue. I wear REI socks almost every day. Another item that I love and REI no longer sells is the REI cooler. It was a clever design that could fold flat, but worked great when set up. It was also relatively cheap compared to other coolers. But, now they sell coolers that look like everyone else's cooler and they are more expensive than the previous cooler.

@iBad527 11 ай бұрын

Miranda videos are def a highlight of my Sunday :)

@MirandaGoesOutside 11 ай бұрын

😘 you being here is the highlight of mine!

@fillup660 11 ай бұрын

Same here!

@ronaldrose7593 11 ай бұрын

Hello 👋 Miranda, thank you for sharing this informative video.

@donnyho 11 ай бұрын

I agree with the Flash 55. I love mine as well! 👍🏽

@katherinerackow3029 11 ай бұрын

Love love LOVE my Sahara sun hoodie. Just took it backpacking last weekend.

@MirandaGoesOutside 11 ай бұрын

It’s THE BEST. Won’t leave home without it in the summer!

@Savannah_Creates_Postcards 11 ай бұрын

I just missed getting it in purple. Have a blue one but the purple color was my fave. It lives in my camera bag.

@taymus13 4 ай бұрын

Im seriously considering that 55 pack now. Just by the why your face absolutely lights up when you talked about it, like when I get talking about a show or topic I get really into and know I'm making the exact same face of joy. Also I LOVE the forward bottle pocket, thats luxury right there

@izy0321 Ай бұрын

I have a flexilite chair and when I first saw it in store it blew my mind. I loved how it packs up small enough to put in a backpack. Of course mine is too heavy for backpacking but I love how portable they are. I even use mine at the beach. So much easier to lug around than a traditional camping chair.

@grenoblegirl 11 ай бұрын

I own several of these items and can vouch for just how great they are! Flexlite Chair - I have the Boss version since the weight limit is a little higher and I only really car camp. Comfy and so light!! Rainier Rain Jacket - THE. BEST. I live in the PNW and this rain jacket actually does keep you dry. LOVE it. Sahara Shade Hoodie - Comfy, flattering, and haven't gotten overheated or sunburnt - even in the Central American jungle. The Active line of underwear is indeed comfy, but they don't hold up very well. :( I wash on a delicate cycle and hang to dry and they still seem to self-destruct way faster than other undies.