I say rip em off, they would do it to you and not even think twice about it.

Do it for all the mom and pop shops that they have put out of business.

STICK IT TO THE MAN!

Ethics don’t even come into play here, it’s a business decision the way I see it, and you gotta look out for numero uno.

It isn’t like you took a hypocratic oath not to take advantage of a huge corporation.

Do I have you convinced yet?

My 2 cents:

REI is a coop, so it’s not an us vs. them thing. I was told over the summer that they are considering getting rid of the 2% drop in member rebate for using a non-REI CC because they are doing so well. So, yeah, it’s a bit dodgy, but REI employees have told me they aren’t hurting in general. And besides, when you return that perfectly good freeride, some dirtbag splitter is going to pick it up at the garage sale. Just make sure you are reasonably honest with them at return time so that the return tag on the board at the garage sale doesn’t sound like the board is broken. I recommend something like “needed a better board for trees and icy conditions” or something.

So, I’m not sure I would do it or not, but ethically speaking, if you are honest with them about why you are returning it, and they don’t argue, I think you are in the clear. And based on what I’ve seen, they won’t argue.

Shep

Ok, now I am passing judgment. It sounds like it is ok to screw someone if they are big or if you have a personal gripe with them. Do I read that correctly?

It seems like slamming REI is a common pastime on ski related forums. In my opinion, they have gotten big and powerful by giving people the stuff they want at a reasonable price. The small businesses that went out of business when REI arrived, in my experience, shot themselves in the foot by not providing the service that a small shop can beat them with. In terms of responsible corporate citizens, REI is the leader in the outdoor industry in terms of treating employees well and initiating sustainable environmental and social responsibility programs. Here in SLC they are a huge supporter of local events and issues.

I’m disappointed in the responses to this question. If you are really disappointed in your board, yes, their warranty covers that and you should take advantage of it. If you just feel bad because they now have a board you’d rather have and you take advantage of their policies, shame on you. You are probably dishonest in other aspects of your life. Sad.

shame on you. You are probably dishonest in other aspects of your life. Sad.

Paulster, did you just get home from church (temple)? Who the fuck are you to pass judgement? Get off your high horse before someone knocks you off it.

Yes REI does some good things for the community, but that doesn’t wipe the slate clean.

Business is business and they offer a liberal return policy so that customers can return things and they can still resell them at a discounted price. I don’t think that this guy returning one board for the other is going to cause their empire to fall.

On your other point, small, mom and pop shops stand no chance against REI because they cannot compete with bulk buyers. period. I don’t care how good the service is, if you cannot offer lower prices and larger selection you cannot compete.

I didn’t figure that would be very popular.
So it would be ok if someone did that to you?

i don’t know about returning a snowboard just because you want the newest model. if there is something actually wrong with your current board?
my burton ions started leaking after half a season, and soggy boots really suck. i need new boots.

Don’t Lie = Don’t use half-truths either.

Say “I want the new board shape with the better taper and slightly stiffer flex. That’ll make it better in all-around conditions and trees.” My understanding is this is true. Would you be taking the board back if the ’07-’08 was still a freeride?

REI, the Walmart of the outdoor world. RIP, mom’n’popshop.

I have trouble feeling sorry for them. Still, karma’s a mean mofo.

Decieve at your own risk.