Comparing REI Used & Worn Wear Return Policies

When it comes to making online purchases, having the peace of mind that you can return or exchange a product if it doesn't meet your expectations is essential, especially when you are purchasing used gear. Here we'll explore the return policies of three top used outdoor gear retailers: REI Re/Supply, Patagonia Worn-Wear, and Out&Back Outdoor. Each of these companies has its own approach to returns for their used gear, and understanding their policies can help you make informed shopping decisions. Let's dive in and compare these three return policies.

REI Re/Supply

REI offers a unique return policy through its REI Re/Supply program for used gear that is separate from their standard return process. Here's a breakdown of the key features of REI Re/Supply's return policy:

Timeline: You have up to 30 days from the date of purchase to return an item if it was purchased online, but all sales are final for Re/Supply items sold in-store.

Refund Options: Once your return is received, you will be refunded for the cost of the item(s) and any associated sales tax and return postage within 5-7 business days.

Return Shipping Fees: A shipping fee of $7.25 will be taken from your refund if you opt top use the shipping label provided by REI. You may also purchase postage directly from the carrier of your choice.

REI is a great option for folks who recently purchased something and it didn’t fit right or was the wrong size. However, the items must be in “like-new” condition in order to return them. This is a strict condition requirement given the items bought have already been used. 

Patagonia Worn-Wear

Patagonia's Worn Wear program is an extension of the brand's normal line of new outdoor apparel. Like REI, their Worn Wear used gear has a different return policy than their standard offerings. 

Timeline: Patagonia does not have a return time limit.

Refund Options: You will receive a refund in the original form of payment.

Return Shipping Fees: If you use the label they provide, a flat fee of $7 for return shipping will be deducted from your final refund amount. Alternatively, you can purchase postage directly from the carrier of your choice.

Patagonia provides a bit more flexibility on time, but items must be returned in the condition they were received and cost of return shipping should be taken into consideration.

Out&Back Outdoor

Out&Back is an online gear retailer that specializes in used outdoor gear with their own distinct return policy. Here are the main features: 

Timeline: They offer a 30-day return window from the date of purchase. However, after 30 days have passed, if an item has sustained damage that is not due to regular wear and tear or the item has been deemed unsafe by manufacturers, the item can be returned.

Refund Options: Returns will be applied to the original form of payment.

Return Shipping Fees: Free shipping on returns, with some exceptions for selected products.

Out&Back prides itself on offering personalized customer service, ensuring that customers have a positive experience throughout the return process. They provide complimentary shipping for nearly all returns which sets them apart from many other used gear retailers. They also offer returns outside of the 30-day window in certain circumstances, providing additional confidence in your purchase.

Before making a purchase, it's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific return policy of the retailer you're considering to ensure it aligns with your expectations and requirements.