hiking gear from non greedy sell-out companies? Chaco went down the toilet, Arc`teryx is not among the ranks of “wilson” sports gear and “salamon” which are absolute crap. Everything says made in china, and it costs hundreds of dollars, even the Marmot Exum is made in china. What the hell is going on.
Were can I [...]

I’m looking in to buying a raft for river rafting and other gear for hiking and what not. Where’s the best place for this? I’d like a store that will give me good info on each product as well. I’ve already checking in to Bass Pro Shop.
Any suggestions?

You could also try the sportsman warehouse, they just opened one in Burlington

I would like to find a credit card with Reward Points for a store like REI, or Dick’s Sporting Goods, or Sierra Trading Post.
Plan on doing more camping and have added hiking and kayaking to my list of outdoor activities, but all the “specialty” gear is expensive.

www.cheaperthandirt.com
www.sportsmansguide.com
www.cabelas.com
They are all outfitters and surplus sites. They have anything and everything you could imagine.
For less military and more backpacking hiking gear check out:
www.rei.com
www.backcountry.com
www.ems.com
www.sierratradingpost.com