Return policy comparison · 2026
REI vs Simms Fishing
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (REI) and July 24, 2026 (Simms Fishing)
Winner
REI
A+
5.0 / 5.0 · Exceptional
Simms Fishing
B-
2.7 / 5.0 · Fair
The verdict
REI has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against Simms Fishing's B- (2.7/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus customer pays return shipping.
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
REISimms Fishing
Return window · worth 2.0
Restocking fee · worth 1.0
Return shipping · worth 1.0
Holiday window · worth 0.5
Transparency · worth 0.5
Key terms side-by-side
| REI | Simms Fishing | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 365 days (members); 90 days (non-members) | 60 days (unused, tags and packaging attached) |
| Free returns | ✓ Yes (members) | No - $10 flat return fee, or $2.98 prepaid at checkout to unlock free return shipping later |
| Restocking fee | None | None published |
| Return shipping | Free for members | $10 flat-rate return fee, or pay $2.98 at checkout to get free return shipping later; oversize or odd-shaped items may cost more; US orders only |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Not specifically extended | None published |
| Non-returnable | Final sale items, helmets involved in accidents, items damaged beyond normal wear | Final clearance and sale items, stickers, custom wader orders, dirty/damaged/worn products, opened undergarment packaging |
| Watch-out items | Electronics 90 days | — |
REI tip
REI membership ($30 lifetime) gives a full year to return anything — even used gear. Co-op philosophy.
Simms Fishing tip
Pay the small $2.98 checkout fee if there's any chance you'll return something - it unlocks free return shipping later, cheaper than the flat $10 fee you'd otherwise pay.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, REI or Simms Fishing?
REI has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against Simms Fishing's B- (2.7/5.0). It wins 3 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return shipping: free returns (incl. by mail) versus customer pays return shipping.
What is REI's return window?
REI's return window is 365 days (members); 90 days (non-members).
What is Simms Fishing's return window?
Simms Fishing's return window is 60 days (unused, tags and packaging attached).
Does REI or Simms Fishing offer free returns?
REI: Yes (members). Simms Fishing: No - $10 flat return fee, or $2.98 prepaid at checkout to unlock free return shipping later.