Icey Shop Spotlight - REI, Vibing Well With Icelantic #OptOutside #ReturnToNature

REI Co-op began in 1938 as a group of 23 mountain climbing buddies looking to buy more affordable ice axes from Europe. Today, the outdoor retailer has become the nation's largest consumer cooperative with 16 million members. But no matter how large the co-op grows, its roots remain firmly planted in the outdoors. REI’s passion for outdoor adventure is clear whenever you walk into one of the co-op’s 149 stores in 36 states, phone them, take a class or visit REI.com.

REI employees love to get outside and play, and they know first-hand the importance of quality outdoor gear. They stand behind all their products with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Whether you're new to outdoor adventure or a seasoned pro, employees gladly share their enthusiasm for their products—and the trails, slopes and waterways where they all play.

Icelantic and REI share an important value, a philosophy if you will / way of life and that is the emphasis on the importance of getting outside in nature. REI encourages their customers to "#OptOutside" and at Icelantic we say "#ReturnToNature". On one of the biggest days in business for retail Black Friday,  REI CEO Jerry Stritzke has all doors closed for business and instead he encourages consumers to go play outside with their loved ones.

Whether you want to learn to tune your skis, gain avalanche awareness, build a snow cave or find local backcountry lines, REI provides you with knowledge and confidence. Explore and discover new adventures through a wide variety of classes and events at their retail stores, as well as on REI Adventures’ worldwide trips and close-to-home weekend adventures.

You will find Icelantic skis in REI stores across the country so go check them out! Can’t make it to a store? REI provides free online education, too. You can learn how to choose the right gear, reference checklists and get the basics on shop services like waxing and tuning your skis. With written pieces and easy-to-follow videos, it’s an excellent resource whether you’re skiing greens or double-blacks.

And if you’re just looking for a little fun, REI has plenty of events like their annual Pray for Snow parties.

Read what’s happening at REI on the Co-op Journal and follow REI on your favorite social channels: Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.