There is a TikTok trend I keep seeing: a woman tells her husband she’s wearing her “most expensive outfit” and walks out in a down jacket, hiking pants, and boots. It is funny because it is true — outdoor gear costs what it costs.
I’ve felt the pinch myself. Between trips to Aconcagua, Elbrus, and Denali, my share of receipts could fill a small filing cabinet. But when you’re sleeping on ice or pushing through a blizzard, cheap gear stops being a savings and starts being a problem.
That is why the REI Anniversary Sale matters. The retailer was founded in 1938, and this is their biggest sale of the year: 25% off more than 6,000 items, from big brands to their own Co-op line. The 2026 sale ran May 15–25.
Here are 10 deals I think are worth your time.
1. Base layer top
The deal: Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis Long-Sleeve Thermal Top — $96, was $120.
Soft and breathable enough for everyday wear, solid enough for active days. The women’s version is a reliable go-to. For men, the equivalent Icebreaker top has offset shoulder seams so pack straps don’t dig in on longer hikes.
2. Fleece
The deal: Women’s REI Co-op Flash Hyperstretch Fleece Jacket at $80, was $99.95. Men’s REI Co-op Trailmade Fleece Jacket at $56, was $69.95.
The women’s Flash Hyperstretch is built for movement — whether you’re thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail or just heading out for a day on local trails. The men’s Trailmade works as a standalone layer on cold days or under a shell when rain rolls in.
3. Rain jacket
The deal: Women’s REI Co-op Trailmade Rain Jacket at $56, was $69.95. Men’s XeroCloud 3L Rain Jacket at $151, was $189.
The women’s version has solid waterproof construction — good enough to keep going even in a proper downpour. The men’s XeroCloud is REI’s most technical backpacking shell yet: 3-layer waterproof protection with stretchy fabric, pit zips, and a packable pocket.
4. Insulated jacket
The deal: Women’s REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket at $103, was $129. Men’s Fjallraven Expedition X-Latt Insulated Jacket at $184, was $230.
The women’s down jacket comes in six colors and is perfect for chilly walks and crisp autumn air. At this price, you could grab one for every season without much thought. The men’s Fjallraven keeps you warm whether it’s a long trek or just a day out.
5. Hiking pants
The deal: Women’s Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants at $88, was $110. Men’s KUHL Free Radikl Pants at $87, was $109.
The women’s Ferrosi got a fabric update with better stretch and recovery — performance-ready for crag days and multiday trips. The men’s KUHL Free Radikl feels like your favorite sweatpants but holds up on actual trails.
6. Hiking boots
The deal: Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX Hiking Boots — $199, was $249.95 (same price for men’s and women’s).
Waterproof protection with Ortholite Eco comfort insoles. I once bought a waterproof pair that lasted one beach trip, so I always check the construction before committing. These Danners are built to tackle trails regardless of weather. Grab both his and hers at the same price for your next couple’s hike.
7. Trail running shoes
The deal: Women’s Altra Timp 6 Trail-Running Shoes at $132, was $165. Men’s La Sportiva Bushido III Trail-Running Shoes at $128, was $160.
The women’s Altra has roomy toeboxes and plush midsoles, plus redesigned Vibram Megagrip outsoles that are stickier than the last version. The men’s La Sportiva delivers more traction too, with a secure fit that holds up mile after mile.
8. Backpack
The deal: REI Co-op Trailmade 60 Pack — $151, was $189 (both men’s and women’s versions).
Both packs prioritize organization to simplify backpacking trips. They come with adjustable back panels that fit a range of torso lengths. I always look for this feature — a pack that doesn’t fit is a pack you won’t use.
9. Sleeping bag
The deal: The North Face Wawona Bed 20 Sleeping Bag at $120–$128, was $150–$160.
Rectangular design so you can stretch out without feeling confined like in a traditional mummy bag. Works whether you sleep on your back, side, or front. The YKK zipper lets you pair two Wawona Beds together for an effective double bag.
10. Tent
The deal: REI Flash 2 Tent at $359, was $449.
One of REI’s lightest and highest-performance tents. The nearly 90° hubbed roof poles give extra headroom, and two large canopy-style doors make entry easy. It packs down to 18.5 inches — small enough for bikes and backpacks alike.
Worth It?
Worth it if you’ve been waiting for a reason to upgrade a piece of gear. Twenty-five percent off is a real discount on outdoor equipment, not the kind of filler sale that only moves clearance stock. I’d prioritize the fleece and hiking pants — those are everyday items where savings add up fast.
FAQ
When does the REI Anniversary Sale happen?
The 2026 sale ran May 15–25, for 11 days. It happens annually to mark REI’s founding in 1938.
Does REI match prices after the sale?
Pricing can change once the event ends. Some items carry similar deals year-round, but the Anniversary Sale is typically the deepest across the full catalog of 6,000+ products.
Are these deals available online and in stores?
The REI Anniversary Sale runs both online and at physical locations. Availability varies by location — check your nearest store if you prefer to try things on first.
A note from Dana
I’ve learned that the best time to buy outdoor gear is when you actually need it, not when a sale forces your hand. But 25% across the board? That’s hard to ignore. If any of these caught your eye this May, grab them before they restock at full price.