What is REI? MEC is mostly hippy university student but I do like some of their older gear. I have an old pack of theirs that is just one huge pocket with really first rate zippers though. Perfect for carrying odd shaped gear on the bike.
I like milsurp gear and some high end hiking stuff. I have noticed that most canadian forces soldiers hate whatever gear they are issued on principal.
They do use it under much harsher conditions though.

I am disappointed in Bear, I do think survivorman is more real but sometimes not so entertaining. It would be real hard to find cameramen to eat bugs and drink urine.