For the record, as a manufacturer who deals with retailers all over the world, REI has some of the savviest buyers anywhere. They are psycho when it comes to understanding the gear that they sell. You may not like the large store feel but manufacturers WANT to sell their stuff there, in part, because being there gives you credibility. When REI started carrying my company's products, many other retailers followed suit because they appreciate how REI scrutinizes products and vendors.