Outdoor enthusiasts stock up as temperatures fall

29/10/2020
Outdoor enthusiasts stock up as temperatures fall

US-based outdoor retail group REI Co-op has reported record sales of winter gear , “suggesting the community does not intend to stay inside this winter”.

Sales of bikes and outdoor furniture have increased substantially since the beginning of the pandemic, cross-country ski sales are three times higher than last year and snowshoes sales are four times higher.

Purchases of insulated boots, winter hiking gear, base layers, mid-layers and outerwear have also increased.

Ben Johns, REI general merchandising manager for action sports, said: “Getting out into nature is one of the best ways to stay balanced during this stressful time, and our numbers are showing more Americans are doing just that. We’ve expanded inventory and continue to pivot however we can, to help more people get outside.

“This includes letting customers shop however they feel most comfortable, whether it’s on REI.com, curbside pick-up, getting virtually outfitted, or buying and trading in used-gear, we’re offering customers more options than ever before.”

The co-op has also introduced its used gear trade-in program. Members can send in “gently used gear” in exchange for an REI gift card and buy online in the Good and Used gear shop.