Ok, so we all have that old piece of gear which we've worn to death for the better part of five, 10, maybe 15+ years. Maybe it's an old puffy down vest that served us well as a mid layer on many winter hikes. Perhaps a stove, charred black on the burner from years of flames and use. Maybe even a pair of tattered hiking boots with a missing shoe lace from when you had to strangle a bear with your bare hands because it tried to steal one of your kids. Whatever the gear, It has seen better days and for whatever the reason REI, arguably the largest and most popular outdoor retailer in the world has taken it back. That's because until recently REI's return policy has been return any merchandise, anytime, no questions asked. However now the retailer is calling foul on the more than generous policy.

Really? You can take in a five year old pair of gaiters because you no longer like the style and some green vested kid behind the counter will give you store credit (which is worth its weight in gold to the avid gear junkie)? Recently I popped into my local REI during one of their garage sales they do semi-frequently and watched the feeding frenzy. This sale is member exclusive and offers patrons the chance to buy returned merchandise at deeply discounted prices. What I saw reinforced why REI has changed its policy. Boots from circa 1995 that looked like they had hiked around the world several times, jackets and shirts with stains (from your camping trip dinner... not from the factory) and underwear... yes... underwear. Reading some of the tags with descriptions on why these items were returned was rather amusing.

"Customer didn't like the color"

"Not the right style"

And my favorite...

"Nothing wrong with the item"

Now I understand that sometimes you get something home, pull it out of the box, try it on and think... this isn't what I had in mind. That's when it goes back to the store, NOT FIVE YEARS LATER! How do you buy a jacket in 2010 and in 2013 decide you don't like the color? Sure that pair of whitey tightey technical underpants was in style... in 1995... what'd you expect 10 years later and who wants your decade old briefs anyway?

Talking to one of the employees he said there have been several people upset by REI's decision to be more conservative about the policy change. I for one think it's disappointing that some people would take advantage of this policy and ruin it for the masses. This is a store which already strives to treat customers (and its members especially) pretty awesome with deals throughout the year. Its new more "conservative" return policy is one year. Compare that time limit to most stores which vary from 30 to 90 days. Why getting sweet gear at competitive prices isn't enough... I don't know. I for one like to see how long I can keep my gear before it absolutely disintegrates.

What are your thoughts? Are you ok with REI's new return policy?