Brand · United States
REI Co-op
The co-operative retailer's own label, typically strong on price-to-feature ratio in the US market.
Background
REI was founded in 1938 in Seattle by Lloyd and Mary Anderson and 21 other adventurers; their gear-import activity began in 1935, which predates the co-op itself.
What to check before buying
Editorial buying guidance, not a brand rating
Compare the exact model's construction and features with the kind of rain exposure you expect. For occasional showers, a simple packable jacket may be sufficient; regular wet-weather walking places more emphasis on ventilation, hood control and comfort under a pack. Check current availability and support arrangements for your region.
For the general method, see how to choose a waterproof jacket and waterproof ratings explained.
Brand facts
Published company information
- Country of origin
- United States
- Founded
- 1938
- Price range
- Entry to mid
- Jacket families
- Rainier, XeroCloud
- Warranty
- An official guarantee page states items with a manufacturing defect in materials or workmanship can be returned at any time; ordinary wear and improper-use damage are excluded. The current full policy text was not accessible when checked.
- Repair programme
- A repair-services help category exists, but its substantive terms were not accessible when checked.
- Sustainability
- States the REI Co-op brand is certified to The Climate Label and funds emissions-reduction efforts — a certification claim, not zero emissions.
WaterproofJacket.com assessment
Our editorial view of the brand
Strengths
- HydroWall platform documented in both 2.5-layer (Rainier) and 3-layer stretch (XeroCloud 3L) constructions
- Very accessible pricing: Rainier listed at $99.95, XeroCloud 3L at $189
Weaknesses
- US market focus; availability and service outside the US are limited
- Current detailed warranty policy text was not accessible in the checked sources
Sources
- officialREI history
- officialREI Co-op Rainier rain jacket
- officialREI Co-op XeroCloud 3L rain jacket