REI has been in the adventure game since the 1930s. So, it’s perhaps no surprise that in addition to a great selection of outdoor gear, the co-op touts some top-level staffers too. You know, those folks wandering around the store in green vests. These employees don’t just work for the brand; they live the lifestyle. They hit the trails and actually test the gear, coming away with invaluable wisdom that, when shared, can make your next camping trip or visit to Joshua Tree National Park all the better.
Ed Zebrowski wears the coveted green vest. He’s a product information specialist at REI, where he’s worked for nearly a decade. Here, he sheds some wisdom on being equipped for and thoroughly enjoying the outdoors. We talked him up on everything from bucket list destinations to gear he can’t live without. We hope that the following will amp up your summer adventure season and even allow for a better experience the next time you’re in need of some gear. He’s based in Michigan, but his advice is applicable to all of your outings, wherever they may take you.
“One of the key pillars of my nearly ten years as a proud REI employee is the deep shared passion for the outdoors, and the natural desire to share this knowledge,” he says. “I think this separates REI Green Vest staff from our competitors. Our team is approachable, has strong practical knowledge, embraces the lived experience, and believes that the outdoors should be for all. This passion can be felt in our stores, which lends to our authenticity.”
Product recs and tips
Zebrowski suggests starting with something simple, like a daypack. Then, go more specialized. “Consider rainwear, a water bottle or hydration reservoir, a headlamp, solid hiking footwear, or a first aid kit,” he adds. “Anything off the ten essentials list would be a great entry point for spending more time outdoors.”
For this particular green vest, it starts from the ground up. “My footwear is critical to my overall success and comfort,” he says. “I personally elect for trail running shoes for most of my day hiking goals. I spend a lot of time trying on, researching, and testing
And teaming up with like-minded people tends to be a good idea. “REI stores feature community events that can connect you with others who have like-minded outdoor goals. Look for local hiking trails (“rails to trails” are often great options!) and local parks. Start small and work your way up with distance, pack weight, and endurance,” he says.
Other tips for shopping at REI, either from home or in person:
- We (the proud staff of REI) have thousands of hours of experience and a diverse range of interests and knowledge, so be sure to ask questions!
- Come to the store with a list or goals and try things on, customers can hike around the store with a weighted backpack or walk laps in different sizes of hiking boots.
- From home, our Expert Advice articles are an incredible and easy-to-search resource. We have 900+ articles to keep up with gear advancement and emerging trends.
Where to go
As is the case with just about every REI Green Vest, Zebrowski is an active nomad, always out there exploring. Some of his favorite places of late are set in the stunning Pacific Northwest.
One of them is the Wonderland Trail at Mount Rainier National Park in Washington. “This is a premier 93-mile backpacking route that completely circumnavigates Mount Rainier in Washington state,” he says. “Known for its stunning glaciers, wildflower meadows, and dense forests, it features a challenging 22,000+ feet of elevation gain and typically takes 10-to-14 days to thru-hike.”
Another is Bugaboo Park, a provincial park in British Columbia, Zebrowski calls a top spot for climbers, full of dramatic granite spires and glacier peaks. “This park is like a mini-Patagonia hidden away in the Canadian Rockies, which is just a few hours from Banff, Alberta,” He says. “Many peaks rise over 3,000 meters, offering incredible alpine scenery. The Conrad Kain Hut serves as a main basecamp, helping protect the fragile area around Snowpatch Spire. This park is not for the faint of heart…getting there involves rough gravel roads (a high-clearance vehicle helps), and the park is best suited for experienced, well-prepared adventurers.”
What about a bucket list destination?
“Japan is famous for its legendary ‘Japow’ or deep powder snow, wide-open terrain, and the mix of great skiing with relaxing hot springs (onsens),” he says. “The season runs from December to April, with the best powder in January and February. It’s often more affordable than skiing in the U.S. or Europe, too. Possibly my favorite food style as well. Hopefully 2027/2028 is my year to go!”
