I love the fact that REI is looking closely at packaging and not adding unnecessary waste to the process. Most sleeping bags, even if wet should dry out quickly if they are stored properly (not compressed in their stuff sack) and I'd want to launder a synthetic one anyway. Mine have also gotten wet on first runs in use as well as many times after so I would consider it holding up in the rain an added benefit. That said I know my perspective might be different from others. REI can't know that a customer is disappointed by their interactions unless it's expressed so it's great that you spoke up @member-since-1986. I love that we have this forum to share and comment! ... View more

Exciting to see Indigenous Women Hike! I follow them on IG! ... View more

@bayleemiller Hi there! I apologize for not responding sooner. I'm an ambassador for the Minnesota chapter of Women Who Hike. We have many members of the group that are backpackers. A large portion of our membership is based in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area. To learn more about the organization you can visit www.womenwhohike.com or request to join the Minnesota chapter's Facebook page (Women Who Hike Minnesota) to connect with other women who are interested in hiking and backpacking! ... View more

RPL, I'd agree with both @Philreedshikes and @REI-JohnJ regarding your question. Unless you are purchasing an Expedition style parka (which truthfully I'd overheat in quickly walking down the street), layering is your best way to stay warm. My winter set up is very similar, though extremely budget conscious. Base layer: REI mid-weight base layer (wool), Smartwool 150 weight base layer or Kari Traa base layer. NO cotton. Mid/Insulating layer: A wool or fleece layer. Think sweaters, turtle necks, half-zip tops. I will occasionally use my REI or Patagonia down sweater (most see this a jacket) alone or with one of the previously mentioned from the list. NO Cotton. This layer is a size bigger than my base layer in most cases so I get a bit of air trapped between it and my base layer. Top/Wind and Water Resistant Layer: Most often this is not the cheapest, but close to it, rain jacket and pants. It's best if you can afford Gortex lined as it will breathe while keeping you dry. Feet: A pair of thin synthetic socks (wicking) layered with wool socks does the trick for me. Those thinner socks can even be old dress socks. Over those I put a pair of insulated boots (I have a pair of Vasque backpacking boots or Oboz Bridger B-Dry depending on how cold). A few other things I've done that fly in the face of fashion, but work is to layer my REI 650 down sweater over my Patagonia 850 down for a double warmth. The key is that they aren't tight over my clothes. And don't forget a good hat. That helps hold the heat in from the single most place of heat loss on your body.   ... View more

Notice your question about hike-able parks. I know that many of the SRA areas have hiking available, but in general, I'm referencing those that are part of the Hiking Club and Passport trails. Not everyone is comfortable doing hikes where there aren't established trails. I'm personally on the fence about going off-trail because I'm also solidly in the Leave No Trace camp. I've seen social trails, downed trees or mud cause all kinds of problems with erosion, especially by inexperienced hikers. ... View more

@REI-JenK Thanks! I've got two display boxes for all the patches. So far, only two parks I've visited don't have patches (Franz Jevne and Monson Lake).  ... View more

I've added a new series of Minnesota State Park reviews following a recent trip to southwestern Minnesota on my blog - www.ruthsbluemarble.com - for those who are interested. I'm just eight parks from having visited every one for at least one hike! Greenleaf Lake State Recreation Area Mt. Tom at Sibley State Park ... View more

Is it possible to have too many Kulas? Asking for a friend... ... View more