REI now stocking HMG backpacks (online only)

[Jim C]

REI now lists Hyperlite Mountain Gear backpacks for sale online. This is interesting for a couple of reasons:

• REI giving more focus to lightweight/UL gear
• REI return policy makes it easier to try out a pack, and you can return it to a store rather than ship it back if it’s not right for you.
• REI frequently has 20% discounts (next one should be in March). Assuming HMG packs will be eligible for the discount, this could be helpful.
• Another use for dividend dollars if you’ve got ’em.

 

[Sharon J.]

Campsaver does as well

https://www.campsaver.com/hyperlite-mountain-gear-brand.html

[Ken Thompson]

I think we’re getting to the point where lightweight gear is just gear. Another cottage goes mainstream.

[spencer c]

FYI some stores are now getting them stocke. When I was in store getting my girlfriend fitted for her first pack and noticed them the sales rep said they were getting all stores designed at “AT” and “PCT” stores stocked with them first. Not too sure what makes a store designed as one as this was suburban Boston.

 

Do you think HMG quality will suffer with growth and is cottage going mainstream really that bad? I seem to compare this to a small tech company blowing up, more money for them and easier access to the product for us. I’m thinking of getting a SW 2400 with the upcoming 20% off since it seems like a great pack and good for bike commuting too

[Ken Thompson]

“Do you think HMG quality will suffer with growth and is cottage going mainstream really that bad?”  Time will tell on quality, but no it doesn’t have to. And isn’t growth the goal of many companies cottage included? Kelty was cottage once too.

[Rick Reno]

Not so sure Kelty’s such a great example to illustrate that quality doesn’t have to suffer when a cottage company goes mainstream.

[Ken Thompson]

Right. Just as all cottage isn’t necessarily quality. BPWD comes to mind.

[Sam C]

I think that REI may have them in select stores, but not sure about that.

Anyways, a heads up:  if you are an REI member, member coupons come out this Friday.  So, you should be able to purchase an HMG for 20% off (~$60 savings).

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