Emily Parnay
Gear Analyst

Emily loves the community, personal growth and challenge that adventure pursuits provide. She loves rock climbing, peak scrambling, rafting, snowsports, breaking new trails, and hunting for hot springs and swimming holes.

She graduated college with a degree in Adventure Education and holds a WFR and ACCT Level 1 Challenge Course Certificate. When not out on an adventure, you can find her stargazing, gardening, social dancing and planning her next epic life experience.

Articles by Emily Parnay

Osprey Raven 14/Raptor 14 Hydration Pack Review
A woman walks across a bridge with her day pack.

Osprey Raven 14/Raptor 14 Hydration Pack Review

Author
This is a small, well-organized hydration pack, specifically designed for biking, but it still fits the bill for day hiking.
CamelBak Cloud Walker 18 Hydration Pack Review
A woman hikes, a long trail wearing her hydration pack.

CamelBak Cloud Walker 18 Hydration Pack Review

Author
This is a simple, lightweight, minimalist, and affordable unisex hydration pack that is easy to take on the go.
Women’s Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Low GTX Review
Closeup of hiking shoes while standing on a log.

Women’s Adidas Terrex Free Hiker 2.0 Low GTX Review

Author
This hiking shoe is a standout choice for rugged adventures thanks to great cushioning, protection, and long-term durability.
Women’s Altra Olympus 6 Review
A woman walks across a mossy log.

Women’s Altra Olympus 6 Review

Author
This shoe offers reliable protection, durability, and comfort over long distances – surpassing the popular Lone Peaks in these metrics.
Best Sun Hats for Hiking of 2026
A woman looks out at mountain peaks in the distance in front of a lake, wearing her sun hat.

Best Sun Hats for Hiking of 2026

Author
Our guide to sun hats has you covered (literally). From paddleboarding at the lake to backyard hangs, see why these hats are the best of the best for comfort, protection, and more.
REI Trailmade Women’s Hiking Shorts Review
Woman standing on a rock outcropping overlooking the scenery below.

REI Trailmade Women’s Hiking Shorts Review

Author
These shorts are truly made for the trail with their impressive comfort, functionality and quick-drying capabilities.
prAna Stretch Zion Cargo Women’s Hiking Shorts Review
Woman hikes along a forested trail with her Prana shorts.

prAna Stretch Zion Cargo Women’s Hiking Shorts Review

Author
These shorts are a new, unique high-rise style that features many pockets, adjustable waist cinches, and UPF-rated material.
Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 2.5” Women’s Hiking Shorts Review
A woman hikes down a trail, showcasing her red Rabbit shorts.

Rabbit Fuel n’ Fly 2.5” Women’s Hiking Shorts Review

Author
This is one of the lightest and most breathable shorts in our lineup that also boasts five pockets, making it our go-to for trail runs or hikes in hot climates.
Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Hiking Shorts Review
A woman walks along a lush trail surrounded by greenery.

Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Hiking Shorts Review

Author
This is a low-profile, stretchy, sweat-wicking, and flattering option that is a great pick for women who prefer compression shorts on the trail.
Glorsign Outdoor Puffy Camping Blanket Review
A man stands on a rock overlooking the ocean, wrapped in a puffy blanket.

Glorsign Outdoor Puffy Camping Blanket Review

Author
Suspiciously cheap, this outdoor blanket begged our attention. We tested this outdoor puffy quilt, and yep, it gets the job done at a wildly low price.
Kelty Biggie Camping Blanket Review
A woman lays in a hammock covered by a blanket. The hammock is hung off a wave-washed log with the ocean in the background

Kelty Biggie Camping Blanket Review

Author
We adore this blanket! It is everything you want in a car camping blanket: big, comfy and warm.
Kammok Firebelly 30F Camping Blanket Review
A woman sits in her tent on the beach, wrapped in her sleeping bag.

Kammok Firebelly 30F Camping Blanket Review

Author
This is the warmest and most feature-filled option in our camping blankets lineup. It can be used as a blanket, hammock underquilt, minimalist sleeping bag and poncho.
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