I remember the first time I walked into an REI store.  It was 2006 and my husband and I were preparing to leave for our year long stay in Europe.  I thought to myself…Why have I never been in this store?  REI is THE store for everything outdoors. The company offers quality outdoor gear and clothing for men, women, and children.  I really like the company’s commitment to the environment.  Every year REI donates to conservation efforts nationwide and sends volunteers to build trails, clean up beaches, and teach outdoor ethics to kids.  It’s important to me that a store that sells products designed to get you out and about is eco-minded.

With Mother’s Day around the corner, REI offers several gift ideas, particularly for the outdoorsy types.  Here are several suggestions:

Novara Jaunt XX Women’s Bike (Retails for $429.00)

Not only will that mom in your life benefit from the added physical exercise, she’ll reduce her carbon footprint if she chooses to utilize it as a means of transportation.  Check out REI’s Savings Calculator to find out how many calories burned and how many carbon dioxide emissions saved by using the bike instead of the car.

Product Specs (from the site):

• Provides ultimate comfort thanks to the Best Foot Forward Design, which lets riders easily put their feet down without compromising pedaling efficiency
• A subtle chainring guard helps to protect clothing from catching in the drivetrain
• 26-inch wheels and wide tires are inherently stable

REI OXT Airflyte Running Jacket, (Retails for $99.83)

At under $100, this lightweight, waterproof running jacket can be worn for a jog or outings with the kids.

Product Specs (from the site):

• Features eVent fabric, a waterproof material allowing sweat vapor to escape to the outside of the fabric
• Stretch panels along the sides and under arms allow the piece to move with you
• Zippered chest pocket features a headphone portal
• Reflective trim enhances visibility in low light
• An extended rear hem increases coverage to shield you from splashes

I am very impressed with how lightweight and breathable this jacket is.  It’s actually designed for the active mom.  The jacket features eVent fabric, which allows sweat to escape up to twice as fast as other waterproof fabrics.  I don’t usually sweat a lot (perhaps I’m not exercising intensely enough) so I don’t typically find this to be a problem, but if you do, this jacket is for you.  It’s also extremely versatile.  I can wear it while I’m out for a walk with the kids or with a pair of jeans for cooler evenings.  The Airflyte is available in a variety of colors including blue, black, purple, and green.

REI OXT Sariska Hoodie, (Retails for $46.50) and OXT Sariska Pant, (Retails for $46.50)

Product Specs (from the site):

Yoga moms can practice in their super comfy Sariska Pants paired with the Sariska Hoodie.

• The Hoodie features polyester/spandex blend which wicks moisture
• The Pants feature a soft brushed finish and UPF 50+ sun protective fabric

Balance Gym Bag, (Retails for $59.50)

Perfect for toting gym essentials this bag is functional and eco-friendly.

Product Specs (from the site):

• Sourced from old plastic bottles and made of post-consumer recycled PET polyester
• Features a separate compartment for shoes or dirty clothes, complete with mesh vents to air out your gear
• Hideaway straps to secure a yoga mat to the front
• Front zippered stash pocket to stow keys and your cell phone
• Adjustable padded shoulder strap

For more Mother’s Day Gift Ideas, just check out their website.

No compensation was received for this post.  A review sample was provided.