{"id":199269,"date":"2025-02-21T13:32:27","date_gmt":"2025-02-21T21:32:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/?p=199269"},"modified":"2025-03-05T09:28:29","modified_gmt":"2025-03-05T17:28:29","slug":"rei-co-op-member-moment-campaign","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/news\/rei-co-op-member-moment-campaign","title":{"rendered":"Meet the REI Co-op Members In Front of\u2014and Behind\u2014the Camera"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Many things have changed since Lloyd and Mary Anderson first began importing high-quality Austrian ice axes<\/a> in the 1930s. Over the years, the co-op has grown from a small collective in search of high-quality outdoor gear to a co-op of 24 million adventurers enhancing their outdoors experiences with everything from hiking backpacks<\/a> to cold plunge necessities<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Throughout it all, members have remained the heart of the co-op, and their rich tales of life outside have encouraged us to get out there, too. Some of their adventures, like Cal Dobbs<\/a>\u2019 run across America, inspire us, while stories like Keva Niver\u2019s<\/a> commitment to helping more people find solace in nature, challenge us. Still others remind us that time outside is always worth it, even if technically<\/em> we\u2019re supposed to be somewhere else<\/a> (like work).  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This spring, we invited several members to tell their stories through a different lens\u2013literally. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Members took their cameras on their outdoors adventures, snapping photos of their experiences that would become the campaign\u2019s imagery. They returned with photos and videos of sunsets over Grand Canyon National Park, California\u2019s Catalina Island and more\u2014as well as images of the journey to get to these vistas, the time spent snacking at the trailhead, resting post-run and even celebrating a birthday with a bowl of camp pasta (complete with candles). The images show the breadth of what outdoor adventure look like, and even more importantly, who <\/em>an outdoor adventurer can be. As three member-photographers share below, there are many ways to explore life outside. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take me straight to the gear.<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Yvonne Leow<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

REI Co-op Member since 2012<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Age:<\/strong> 36<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shoot location:<\/strong> Catalina Island, California<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Background: <\/strong>\u201cI grew up in Washington State, which is known as an outdoorsy person\u2019s paradise. But my younger brother Oscar and I were city kids who spent our weekends in malls, movie theaters and amusement parks,\u201d Leow says. \u201cI still love the movies, but when I was 27 years old, I went on my first backpacking trip in California\u2019s eastern Sierra, and everything changed.\u201d Now, as the founder and CEO of outdoor education company Bewilder<\/a>, Leow hopes to inspire more families to experience the mental, emotional and physical benefits of time spent in nature. (Bewilder received support from REI\u2019s Path Ahead Ventures<\/a> initiative). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The story behind the images: <\/strong>What better way to turn 36 than by camping on an island filled with more than 165 miles of hiking trails? Leow couldn\u2019t think of one, which is why she loaded up her REI Co-op Flash 55 Pack<\/a>, charged up her phone, and brought along her best four-legged friend, June, for an overnight adventure. The pair caught the sunrise over Little Harbor Beach and feasted on red curry noodle soup (with candles, of course), and the puppy was more than happy to celebrate with her owner. \u201cIt was truly June\u2019s journey to Catalina Island,\u201d Leow says. \u201cEvery moment was magnificent as I saw her sprint up cactus-covered hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean, her tail nearly bursting with joy.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Favorite product:<\/strong> \u201cCooking delicious food and enjoying a warm meal by the campfire is one of my favorite pastimes,\u201d Leow says, and her Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System Camp Stove<\/a> makes the experience feel easy and seamless. Plus, with dual burners that fold in on themselves\u2013not to mention the integrated design of the pot, pan and stove\u2013the Genesis is compact to carry and store. \u201cThe entire system is thoughtfully designed so we don\u2019t have to think too hard when we\u2019re huddled around the camp kitchen making red curry noodle soup at dusk,\u201d adds Leow. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why she\u2019s an REI Co-op Member: <\/strong>Leow remembers gearing up for her first backpacking trip in 2017, which of course required a stop at her local REI store in San Francisco<\/a>. \u201cI knew nothing about how to camp, let alone backpack<\/em>, through the wilderness, but the REI staff members\u2019 encouragement and excitement were infectious,\u201d she says. \u201cIt\u2019s always intimidating to take on a new hobby\u2013especially when you didn\u2019t grow up doing it\u2013and REI\u2019s reputation for having friendly, helpful staff and plenty of outdoor gear proved to be right.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Angela Rodriguez <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

REI Co-op Member since <\/strong>2021 <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Age: <\/strong>29 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shoot location: <\/strong>Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Background: <\/strong>Mud pies with a grass garnish: Those were Rodriguez\u2019s specialty as a kid. So too were daisy necklaces, which she happily made for her mom. She also dabbled in geology, hoping to find diamonds (or least crystals) with each geode she and her sister cracked open using their dad\u2019s old hammers. \u201cI\u2019ve just always spent time outside,\u201d she says. \u201cIt\u2019s always brought me a lot of joy.\u201d For Rodriguez, working with REI on the Member Moment campaign has offered a lens through which to reflect on her childhood outdoors and \u201cinspire others to try camping and hiking for themselves,\u201d a privilege she says she \u201chold[s] very dearly.\u201d  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The story behind the images: <\/strong>Rodriguez strives to capture images that are pleasing aesthetically, but more than that, will stand the test of time. \u201cMy goal is always to get a \u2018your family is going to see this picture someday and remember how grand you lived\u2019 picture,\u201d she says. Given that, Rodriguez also recognizes the importance of putting the camera down and embracing her surroundings\u2014this time, the towering walls of the Grand Canyon. \u201cThere was this moment during sunset at camp where my friends and I paused from the chaos of taking photos. We were just in total awe of the glowing layers of red rock and the fact that our bodies had brought us there.\u201d  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Favorite product: <\/strong>\u201cThis is a tough question!\u201d Rodriguez says, laughing. She loves her Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent<\/a> because it\u2019s a breeze to set up and pack down and \u201cthe space inside is incredible. Ten out of 10!\u201d she says. Bonus: The Copper Spur is also super photogenic. On the other hand, Rodriguez calls her REI Co-op XeroCloud 3L Rain Jacket<\/a> \u201cthe perfect layer.\u201d The jacket provided an extra dose of warmth when paired with her Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown<\/a> puffy but also worked well as a solo layer during the warmer hours of the day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why she\u2019s an REI Co-op Member: <\/strong>Rodriguez doesn\u2019t hold back when talking about the impact of her REI membership. \u201cBecoming an REI member changed my life,\u201d she says, noting that since joining the co-op she\u2019s hiked an active volcano, stood on top of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park<\/a> and slept multiple nights in the backcountry. \u201cMy membership really gave me the confidence to pursue all of the outdoor adventures I\u2019ve always dreamed of.\u201d Her sole regret about co-op membership: \u201cI just wish I had been brave enough to join and get involved sooner.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Erik Valiente <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

REI Co-op Member since <\/strong>2022 <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Age: <\/strong>36 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shoot location: <\/strong>Griffith Park in Los Angeles <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Background: <\/strong>From his wide grin to the collection of tattoos on his right leg, including a red-tailed hawk that connects him to his Salvadoran ancestors, Valiente oozes gratitude. He\u2019s thankful for his parents who are first-generation Latino immigrants, for his home in what he calls the \u201cCity of Angels,\u201d and for the freedom bestowed by being active outside, especially with singer-songwriter Jason Joshua\u2019s so-called \u201cgolden voice\u201d in his ear<\/a>. \u201cRunning and music and the outdoors fill my soul with happiness,\u201d he says. \u201cI cherish every chance I get to bask in that. That\u2019s life right there!\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The story behind the images: <\/strong>\u201cI loved every minute!\u201d Valiente says with his characteristic enthusiasm. Yet in addition to the joy of feeling his body in motion (\u201cRunning and being outdoors is my superpower!\u201d), he also relished the minutes post-run. \u201cYou feel like you\u2019re on top of the world and unstoppable. It proves you can achieve hard things if you just set your mind to it, embrace the journey and stay committed to your goals.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Favorite product: <\/strong>Valiente points to the REI Co-op Swiftland Pack Running Anorak<\/a> as his top pick thanks to the jacket\u2019s minimal weight, thoughtful design and \u201con-point\u201d style. \u201cOn those cold morning runs here in LA, you can easily throw on the jacket while you warm up,\u201d he says. \u201cOnce the sun comes out and you\u2019re in your running flow, you can take it off and pack it into its own pocket. It\u2019s so lightweight that you won\u2019t even feel it during your run.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why he\u2019s an REI Co-op Member: <\/strong>Despite Valiente\u2019s fondness for running fast, he appreciates the way his co-op membership inspires him to slow down. \u201cI feel a strong connection to REI,\u201d he says, \u201cbecause they encourage people to explore nature and spend time outdoors.\u201d Member perks are a big benefit too, he adds, pointing to the member-only deals and the opportunity to do good in the world through the REI Cooperative Action Fund<\/a> and #OptOutside campaign<\/a>, \u201cwhich emphasizes putting people before profits.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Shop the Gear <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Leow’s friend Ariel carrying the REI Co-op Flash 55 Pack, on the right, as she backpacks on Catalina Island.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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REI Co-op Flash 55 Pack (<\/strong>women\u2019s<\/strong><\/a> and <\/strong>men\u2019s<\/strong><\/a>)<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

$199.00 <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Best Use:<\/strong> Backpacking <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Adjustable Torso Length: <\/strong>Yes <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Material(s): <\/strong>Recycled ripstop nylon (bluesign approved) <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Number of Pockets:<\/strong> 9 + main compartment <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Removable Daypack: <\/strong>Yes <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Leow cooking with the Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System Camp Stove.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Jetboil Genesis Basecamp System Camp Stove<\/strong><\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

$399.95 <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fuel Type:<\/strong> Canister (Propane) <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Auto Ignition: <\/strong>Yes <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Number of Burners:<\/strong> 2 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Heat Output (per burner): <\/strong>10,000 BTUs <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Liquid Capacity (L): <\/strong>5 liters <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Rodriguez and her Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent at Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent<\/strong><\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

$370.93 ($523.95<\/s>) <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Best Use: <\/strong>Backpacking <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Seasons:<\/strong> 3-season <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sleeping capacity:<\/strong> 2-person <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Minimum Trail Weight: <\/strong>2 lbs. 11 oz. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Packed Weight:<\/strong> 3 lbs. 2 oz.  <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Rodriguez (left) in the REI Co-op XeroCloud 3L Rain Jacket.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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REI Co-op XeroCloud 3L Rain Jacket (<\/strong>women\u2019s<\/strong><\/a> and <\/strong>men\u2019s<\/strong><\/a>)<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

$189.00<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Best Use: <\/strong>Hiking <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fabric: <\/strong>72% recycled nylon\/28% recycled polyester (bluesign approved) with jersey backer <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Windproof: <\/strong>Yes <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Type of Waterproofing: <\/strong>3-layer HydroWall waterproof\/breathable laminate <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Packable:<\/strong> Yes <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Image courtesy of Mountain Hardwear.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Mountain Hardwear Stretchdown<\/strong><\/a> Hoody (<\/strong>women\u2019s<\/strong><\/a> and <\/strong>men\u2019s<\/strong><\/a>) or Jacket (<\/strong>men\u2019s<\/strong><\/a>)<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Hoody: $300; Jacket: $270<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Best Use: Multisport <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fabric (Hoody): 20-denier durable stretch double-weave; solids: 87% nylon\/13% elastane; heathers: 65% nylon\/26% polyester\/9% elastane <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fabric (Jacket): 20-denier durable stretch double-weave: 86% nylon\/14% elastane <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Insulation: 700-fill-power RDS-certified down (85% down\/15% feather) <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Back Length: Hip-length <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Valiente in the REI Co-op Swiftland Pack Running Anorak in Griffith Park, Los Angeles.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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REI Co-op Swiftland Pack Running Anorak<\/strong><\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

$94.95<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Best Use: Running, Trail Running, Fitness <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fabric: 100% recycled ripstop nylon; stretch-woven back\/underarm panels: 73% nylon\/27% spandex <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hood: No <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Packable: Yes <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gender: Unisex <\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Read More:<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Best Hiking Pants of 2025: Staff Picks<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Essential Running Gear Checklist<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Best Backpacking Packs of 2025: Staff Picks<\/a> <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/span>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Many things have changed since Lloyd and Mary Anderson first began importing high-quality Austrian ice axes in the 1930s. Over the years, the co-op has grown from a small collective in search of high-quality outdoor gear to a co-op of 24 million adventurers enhancing their outdoors experiences with everything from hiking backpacks to cold plunge […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":30729,"featured_media":199309,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[685],"tags":[15,1823,588,707,727,570,2152,1376],"internal-tag":[],"class_list":["post-199269","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news","tag-backpacking","tag-campaign","tag-camping","tag-hiking","tag-latest-posts","tag-member-portraits","tag-member-spotlight","tag-running"],"parsely":{"version":"1.1.0","canonical_url":"https:\/\/rei.com\/blog\/news\/rei-co-op-member-moment-campaign","smart_links":{"inbound":0,"outbound":0},"traffic_boost_suggestions_count":0,"meta":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","headline":"Meet the REI Co-op Members In Front of\u2014and Behind\u2014the Camera","url":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/news\/rei-co-op-member-moment-campaign","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"http:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/news\/rei-co-op-member-moment-campaign"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/Leow20241216_002_lg.jpeg?resize=150%2C150","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/02\/Leow20241216_002_lg.jpeg?fit=2048%2C1365"},"articleSection":"News","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"Cassie da Costa"}],"creator":["Cassie da Costa"],"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Uncommon Path \u2013 An REI Co-op Publication","logo":""},"keywords":["backpacking","campaign","camping","hiking","latest posts","member portraits","member spotlight","running"],"dateCreated":"2025-02-21T21:32:27Z","datePublished":"2025-02-21T21:32:27Z","dateModified":"2025-03-05T17:28:29Z"},"rendered":"