I think REI stuff is okay and some is good. It was never for the most part the greatest. Not WM-style premium stuff.

I bought one of their tents in 1971. It was cotton with a nylon floor and aluminum "A" poles. Tapered to the rear in height and width. That was a pretty good mountain tent.

I still have an REI sleeping bag from 1972,. Works good. Very basic.

A cagoule from 1978 held up until 2003, with patching, as my main rain gear.

I have a cheap 2002 Scholler jacket from them which I like. MEC made something very similar at a better price (given 2002 Loonie rate).

Never was a big fan of REI branded packs, although I found one in the garbage and gave it to my friend. Made a nice gift.

Then there's the brand itself. Not cool. Like, do you really want to drive a Ford? MEC is much cooler in that way. WM is way cool.