If you’re looking to do some gear shopping, we have good news: REI’s Labor Day Sale is in full swing. Now through Sept. 2, you can save up to 40% on top-rated gear from brands like The North Face and Garmin, as well as REI’s in-house brand. The sale also includes clearance clothing and gear at up to 50% 0ff. Plus, members of REI’s Co-op rewards program can take an extra 20% off one REI outlet item with code SAVEOUTLET.
Here’s what our deals editors recommend buying from REI’s Labor Day Sale.
Illustration: Forbes / Photos: Retailer
While REI’s Labor Day Sale will technically be live through the weekend, we recommend shopping early since its best deals tend to sell out quick. (We’ve already seen several items go out of stock.) We sorted through the offers and found all of the can’t-miss discounts in apparel, outdoor and travel gear, footwear and accessories. Browse them all here.
Patagonia’s Synchilla fleeces have been popular since the 1980s, and it’s not hard to see why. The retro-inspired styles are great for layering and maintain their warmth and softness after countless washes. During the sale, you can get the men’s style for 30% off in five colors and patterns.
It’s not every day that you see a jacket from The North Face available for 50% off, so be sure to take advantage. This water-repellant design is half off in five colorways—but select sizes are already selling out.
The end of the summer is typically your last chance to score fall and winter gear on sale. This 650-fill-power down jacket will keep you feeling comfortable as the temperature drops in the coming months. Right now, it’s half off in four shades.
Durable and lightweight, these popular PrAna pants will keep you protected and comfortable while you’re out in nature. They also have handy features like mesh-lined pockets, roll-up leg snaps and special performance fabric that helps with wrinkles, durability and sun protection. This discount is available in three colorways, but sizing is limited in some options (and already sold out in five colors).
This Brooks sports bra offers molded cups, ventilation and a nearly seamless pull-over design. It delivers medium-impact support, making it a great option for runners. This discount is available in two colors and almost every size.
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Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Hoodie (Women’s)
This adaptable long-sleeved shirt was granted a Seal of Recommendation by The Skin Cancer Foundation. It’s buttery soft, quick drying and made of a protective UPF 50+ fabric—great for layering or wearing as a standalone piece. Most sizes of all four colorways are on sale.
Whether you’re hitting the trails or a happy hour, these PrAna joggers are cute and functional. They have a nice silhouette without compromising handy features like pocket space. The fabric is also water-repellant, wrinkle- and abrasion-resistant, and has a 50+ UPF rating. Get them in your choice of four neutral colors for 30% off.
Lightweight and protective, this men’s hoodie is made of moisture-wicking UPF 50+ fabric that’ll come in handy on bright days. The popular design is highly rated by REI shoppers and currently on sale in nine colorways.
REI Labor Day Sale: Our Outdoor And Travel Gear Picks
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The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel (32 Liter)
This duffle is the perfect companion for a quick weekend trip. The 32-liter pack has plenty of built-in organization options, including a padded laptop sleeve, separate water bottle and shoe pockets, and an adjustable divider. The bag can also be carried like a classic duffle or worn like a backpack when you need your hands free. Five colors are currently on sale.
The NEMO Stargaze camp chair swings back into a comfy hammock-like position for stargazing or lounging around the fire. When you’re done, it folds up into its own carrying case. This 25% discount is available in four colors.
If you take a lot of road trips or have gear-heavy hobbies, you’ll find plenty of uses for a Thule roof box. This design is spacious yet streamlined—it can hold up to 450 liters of gear. The cargo box has gone on sale for less in the past, but this is one of the better discounts we’ve seen in a while.
Lightweight and easy to maneuver, this Thule stroller is a double version of our favorite jogging stroller overall. If you’re a runner with multiple kids, the Urban Glide is comfortable (for the passenger and pusher), adjustable and offers plenty of storage. This discount matches the best price we’ve seen for this stroller.
A good sleeping pad can turn your tent (or car) into a cozy retreat that’ll entice even the most hesitant camper. This self-inflating pad uses air and foam to keep you comfy all night long and easily packs away into a handy shoulder bag. It’s available in three different sizes, all of which are 40% off right now.
REI Labor Day Sale: Our Footwear Picks
Our gear team named this design the best On stability shoe based on feedback from a personal trainer. They say it’s a good option if your ankles tend to roll inward or outward when you run. Pick up the style for 25% off in the black and white color combo. Psst, the men’s version is also 25% off.
There’s nothing worse than having to finish a hike with soggy socks. The Merrell Moab 3 prevents that issue with waterproof membranes designed to keep water out. During REI’s Labor Day Sale, you can get the style for $104.93 instead of the typical $140.
In addition to making ultra comfortable sneakers, Hoka makes some great hiking boots. This style is waterproof, lightweight and offers substantial ankle support. Oh, and did we mention it’s 50% off?
Offering moderate cushioning and neutral support, this Adidas sneaker has a responsive feel with a stiffer push off that’s popular with runners. The pink colorway is the only style still available, but REI members can use code SAVEOUTLET for an additional 20% off.
Supportive and durable, this rugged sandal is built for all-day wear. Its buckle design makes it easy to slip on and off, while an antimicrobial treatment helps prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Currently only the golden orange colorway is on sale, but it’s available in all sizes.
If you do a lot of winter hiking, this boot will keep your feet dry and supported. It has a stable over-the-ankle design with a waterproof GORE-TEX lining and plenty of padding for long days on your feet. The boot is on sale in two colorways right now, though one is a little more expensive.
REI Labor Day Sale: Our Accessory Picks
This Black Diamond headlamp is our pick for the best headlamp overall. Small but mighty, it casts a 300-foot beam and can last for up to 200 hours on its lowest light level. Just keep in mind that it’s battery operated, so you’ll need AAA batteries on hand. The headlamp comes in five colors, all of which are on sale.
If you’re looking for a reliable way to track your distance and pace on runs, hikes or bike rides, the Garmin Forerunner 265 is a solid option. It offers up to 13 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, and gives you a training readiness score based on your sleep, heart rate variability and how hard you trained the day before. This $350 deal price matches the best price for the Forerunner 265 online right now.
Protect your clothes and gear from ticks and mosquitoes with this Sawyer Permethrin Pump Spray. A bottle is enough to coat four full outfits and single treatment should last up to six washes (or roughly six weeks).
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Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Sock (Men’s)
Made of moisture-wicking merino wool and offering mid-level cushion, this sock will keep you warm and comfortable on your next trek. Seven colorways are currently on sale in all sizes.
Whether you take weekend trips on your bike or use it as a daily commuter, you’ll appreciate these panniers. The bags are durable, waterproof and can hold up to 20 liters of gear apiece. Each bag also has a padded shoulder strap to make it easier to carry. This discount is available in five bright colors.
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Purist Founder Vacuum Water Bottle (32-Ounce)
A larger version of our pick for the best water bottle overall, the Purist Founder has the same understated design and well-insulated stainless interior, but holds 32 ounces of water (versus our pick’s 18-ounce capacity). The bottle is currently discounted in three colors.
Does REI Do A Labor Day Sale?
Yes, REI hosts a Labor Day sale every year. The specific details of the sale change annually, but it typically includes a majority of REI-branded items alongside a wide selection of popular products from brands like Garmin, Hoka and The North Face. REI Co-Op members also usually receive an exclusive code for an additional discount, and this year is no different.
Is Labor Day A Good Time To Buy Outdoor Gear?
Yes, Labor Day is a great time to score outdoor gear, due in part to the holiday weekend falling on the cusp of fall. Tons of retailers offer discounts on outgoing summer apparel and gear, while also ushering in seasonal sales to help you gear up for the cooler months ahead.