I recently moved back to Springfield from Minneapo...

I recently moved back to Springfield from Minneapolis, MN. In the Twin Cities there's an REI store on every corner. I won't lie, I love REI; I love their philosophy and their hands on approach to gear. I found something ever better at Dynamic Earth. There's a nexus of people who work at this store who live to be outdoors. It's not a hobby, it's not an act.....the sheer passion for customer service and good gear comes out in every conversation with these folks. Could I save $10 on something by ordering it online from REI? Absolutely! But that $10 is well spent as an investment in a local resource. Because I know that when I have a question, when I need some no BS guidance on gear, or even if I just want to learn about a new chill spot in the Ozarks; the DE staff is right there ready to help and advise. That is priceless.