Return policy comparison · 2026
REI vs Stio
Policy data verified April 17, 2026 (REI) and July 24, 2026 (Stio)
Winner
REI
A+
5.0 / 5.0 · Exceptional
Stio
B+
3.4 / 5.0 · Good
The verdict
REI has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against Stio's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 365-day window (industry-leading) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
Score breakdown
Five axes, 5.0 points total — the same deterministic grader behind every Thrifle policy page.
REIStio
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 | Stio | |
|---|---|---|
| Return window | ✓ 365 days (members); 90 days (non-members) | 30 days (unworn, tags attached) |
| Free returns | Yes (members) | Yes (most items) |
| Restocking fee | None | None |
| Return shipping | Free for members | Free for standard returns and exchanges; Stiosphere loyalty members pay a $5 return fee (waived for same-item color/size exchanges) |
| Holiday extension | ✓ Not specifically extended | None published |
| Non-returnable | Final sale items, helmets involved in accidents, items damaged beyond normal wear | Giveaway or promotional items, items marked All Sales Final, Stio Second Turn (used gear) items, items from the Stio ft. BirdieBlue collection (retail-only returns) |
| Watch-out items | Electronics 90 days | swimwear must have tags and hygiene liner intact to qualify |
REI tip
REI membership ($30 lifetime) gives a full year to return anything — even used gear. Co-op philosophy.
Stio tip
You have to drop the return at FedEx within 15 days of starting it through their portal or the return gets cancelled automatically - don't print the label and let it sit on your counter.
Frequently asked questions
Who has the better return policy, REI or Stio?
REI has the more generous return policy in 2026, grading A+ (5.0/5.0) against Stio's B+ (3.4/5.0). It wins 2 of 5 scoring axes; the biggest gap is the return window: 365-day window (industry-leading) versus 30-day window (industry standard).
What is REI's return window?
REI's return window is 365 days (members); 90 days (non-members).
What is Stio's return window?
Stio's return window is 30 days (unworn, tags attached).
Does REI or Stio offer free returns?
REI: Yes (members). Stio: Yes (most items).