REI Co-op and BEAMS bring a 1986 outdoor icon back to life

The limited-edition Expedition Parka blends REI's outdoor heritage with BEAMS' contemporary Japanese design perspective

SEATTLE, Oct. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, REI Co-op and BEAMS unveiled the BEAMS x REI Co-op Expedition Parka, a limited-edition collaboration that revives one of REI's most iconic cold-weather designs through the lens of contemporary Japanese style.

Inspired by an original 1986 Expedition Parka discovered in REI's archive, the new jacket blends nearly 90 years of outdoor heritage with BEAMS' distinct design. The result is a modern interpretation of a co-op classic, honoring the original's purpose-built functionality while introducing modern materials and performance features for life outside today.

"The best pieces in our archive don't feel like relics. They feel as relevant today as they did when they were first designed," said Scott Mosher, creative director, Brand at REI Co-op. "What made the Expedition Parka special in 1986 still matters today: purposeful design, durability and a deep connection to life outside. Working with BEAMS gave us a chance to celebrate that heritage while seeing it through a completely fresh lens."

"BEAMS has always been interested in American style and the stories behind the clothes," said Keita Kobayashi, BEAMS Men's Casual Buyer. "When we began working with the original Expedition Parka from REI's archive, there were so many details that felt special and worth preserving. We wanted to respect what made the original distinctly REI while bringing a BEAMS perspective to how it could be worn today. That balance between outdoor function, history and everyday style is what makes this collaboration exciting to us."

While rooted in heritage, the Expedition Parka is built for the present. The jacket features WINDSTOPPER® by GORE-TEX LABS® fabric, 650-fill-power down insulation, a durable water repellent (DWR) made without PFAS, and recycled materials—and it's made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory. Co-branded details and a coordinating stuff sack complete the design.

Only 500 BEAMS x REI Co-op Expedition Parkas were produced, making this a highly limited-edition release. Beginning October 6, the parka will be available for $599 online and at select stores.

The Expedition Parka marks the latest chapter in the relationship between REI and BEAMS, building on the brands' successful 2025 collaboration with Swiss performance brand On. That collection brought the three brands together around outdoor culture, technical performance and everyday style, with REI's archive providing inspiration and examples of timeless colorways.

About REI Co-op

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation's largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 26 million members who expect and love the best quality gear and outstanding customer service. In addition to the co-op's many stores across the country, outdoor enthusiasts can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. Everyone is welcome to shop REI, but members who join the co-op enjoy a range of benefits. REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.

About BEAMS

BEAMS, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in March 2026, was founded in Harajuku, Tokyo, in 1976. Following its first store, "American Life Shop BEAMS," it has developed stores based on various lifestyles from around the world and has led the way as a pioneer of select shops that introduce a wide range of domestic and international brands and works, from fashion and miscellaneous goods to interiors, music, art, and food. In particular, it has a wealth of experience as a driving force in creating new value through collaborations and provides creative solutions in collaborations with companies and public-private partnerships. With approximately 165 stores in Japan and the Asian region, the culture woven from communities centered on things, events, and people is supported by a wide range of generations in various locations.

SOURCE REI Co-op