REI sales policy - anyone know?

[xeney]

I love REI's return policy. Last month we bought an Easton seatpost there for about $100. It worked out fine for me, but the next week we found the exact same Easton seatpost on sale at Nashbar for $40. That was too much of a savings to pass up, so I was going to return the REI one, but since it had been installed they wouldn't have been able to resell it. So I put the identical but brand-new Nashbar one in the REI box and returned that.

Was that cheating? Maybe it was. I would have returned the used one, otherwise, and this seemed less wasteful overall. (They always ask you if the item has been used or damaged, to determine if it can be resold, but that is generally the only question asked.)

[Blueberry]

I picked up some tights at lunch (didn't have the computers or their receipt with me). I asked what they could do, since they're now 25% off. They replied that within 30 days of purchase, if an item goes on sale, they will refund the difference. So there you go. However, I would think they would be even more flexible than the policy, given that you can return and re-buy.

[emily_in_nc]

Yep, you were all exactly right. REI rocks! They refunded the difference ($37) no questions asked. I did have my receipt but didn't need it since I am a member.

Tomorrow we'll return my DH's hiking boots that didn't work for him, and he really tried. We don't have the receipt, and they were pricy, so I feel kinda bad, but I bought several additional items from them today, so when they see how much we spend there, I think they'll be okay with the return. After my good experience there today, I feel better about returning a used item.

Thanks for all the great replies!

Emily

[Blueberry]

I did the same with the computers tonight - no questions asked and a $25 refund. They rock!

[Bike Goddess]

Emily in NC- did your DH try Superfeet inside the boots? Might help. They've been a great addition to my hiking boots. REI carries all kinds of models!