About REI

REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) is a premier American outdoor retail cooperative founded in 1938 by Lloyd and Mary Anderson. Unlike traditional corporations, REI operates as a consumer co-op, meaning it is owned by its members rather than shareholders.

The brand focuses on top-quality outdoor gear and apparel for activities like camping, hiking, climbing, cycling, and paddling. REI is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, outdoor stewardship, and returning a significant portion of its profits to the outdoor community and its members.

Disclaimer
Affiliate program terms can change frequently. The figures below are based on general information and may vary based on specific campaigns or affiliate tiers.

REI Affiliate Program Overview

REI’s affiliate program allows partners to earn commissions by directing traffic to REI.com. It is particularly strong in the outdoor niche due to the brand’s high trust factor and loyal membership base.

FeatureDetails
IndustryOutdoor Recreation & Retail
Product TypeOutdoor Gear, Apparel, Footwear, Travel Equipment
Affiliate Program TypeCPS (Cost Per Sale) / Affiliate Network

REI Affiliate Program Offers

The program provides partners with the tools necessary to promote products effectively, though it has stricter tracking windows compared to some competitors.

FeatureDetails
Promotional MaterialsBanners, Text Links, Product Data Feeds, Newsletters
Affiliate Cookie Duration15 Days
Accepted Traffic SourcesContent Blogs, Review Sites, Social Media, Email (with compliance)
Accepted CountriesPrimarily USA (REI ships internationally, but the program is US-focused)
Explicit ContentStrictly Prohibited (Family-friendly brand)
Religious or Political ContentGenerally Prohibited (Content must not be controversial or offensive)

REI Affiliate Commissions & Payments

REI offers a straightforward commission structure. While it does not rely on an MLM model, the flat-rate commission is reliable given the high average order value (AOV).

FeatureDetails
MLMNo
Commission Rate5% Flat Rate
Commission StructurePercentage of Sale (Flat)
Payout FrequencyMonthly
Payout MethodsDirect Deposit (EFT), Check, or Wire (via Network)
Minimum PayoutTypically $25 – $50 (Depending on the network settings)

Suitable Affiliates for REI Affiliate

This program is best suited for creators who focus on outdoor lifestyles, travel, and gear reviews.

  • Bloggers: specifically those running hiking, camping, travel, or “van life” blogs.
  • YouTubers: channels focusing on gear reviews, outdoor adventures, or tutorials.
  • Influencers: Instagram/outdoor lifestyle personalities.
  • KOL (Key Opinion Leaders): experts in niche sports like climbing or trail running.
  • KOC (Key Opinion Consumers): everyday users who share authentic reviews of gear.

REI Affiliate Software

REI does not use in-house affiliate management software. It manages its program through third-party affiliate networks. Currently, the program is primarily active on AvantLink and Impact Radius (Impact). These platforms handle tracking, reporting, and payouts.

3 Alternatives for REI Affiliate Program

If you are looking for higher commissions or longer cookie durations, here are three strong competitors in the outdoor niche.

Comparison FactorREIBackcountryAmazon AssociatesEvo
Average Bill (AOV)~$120 – $150~$150+ (High-end gear)Varies (Low to High)~$150+
Entry FeesFreeFreeFreeFree
Withdrawal Threshold~$25 – $50~$50$10~$25 – $50
Payment FrequencyMonthlyMonthlyMonthly (Net 60)Monthly
Commission5% Flat4% – 12% (Tiered)3% (Outdoors)5% Flat
Cookie Duration15 Days30 Days24 Hours30 Days
Marketing MaterialsBanners, FeedsBanners, FeedsBanners, Native AdsBanners, Feeds