Miles Knotek
Gear Analyst

Miles is a born and raised Alaskan who is passionate about all things outdoors. He was fortunate enough to be raised in the middle of the Chugach National Forest which fostered his love for the outdoors from an early age.

A career in environmental education has brought Miles across the Mountain West and he currently resides in his home state of Alaska. Some of his most memorable hiking experiences include section hiking the Te Araroa in New Zealand and learning how to fend off pesky keas and possums, attempting an off-trail traverse of the second largest uninhabited island in the US, and searching out backcountry hot springs on various trips in the western US.

Miles is passionate about sharing the outdoors with others and empowering everyone to spend time outside. When not outside, Miles enjoys baking with his wife and finding a new science fiction book to get lost in.

Articles by Miles Knotek

Men’s KUHL Renegade Convertible Pants Review
A man converts his convertible pants into shorts alongside a lake.

Men’s KUHL Renegade Convertible Pants Review

Author
Hot or cold doesn’t matter in these pants. Transition quickly and easily from pants to shorts for varied temperatures while out on the trail.
Men’s Norrona Femund Flex1 Pants Review
A closeup of he front of green hiking pants in front of a rocky canyon.

Men’s Norrona Femund Flex1 Pants Review

Author
From the trails to the summit and back again, count on these pants to get you there in comfort and style with enough durability to last for years.
Men’s Patagonia Terravia Alpine Pants Review
A closeup of green pants on an alpine ridge.

Men’s Patagonia Terravia Alpine Pants Review

Author
Choose these pants for your next fast and light alpine mission – or any adventure needing a highly durable yet still lightweight pair of pants.
Norrona Falketind Dri1 Rain Jacket Review
A front shot of an orange rain jacket showing the different pockets.

Norrona Falketind Dri1 Rain Jacket Review

Author
Balance lightweight and packability with excellent weather resistance; this is a great jacket for alpine missions in uncertain weather.
REI Trailmade Rain Jacket Review
A closeup of the front of a maroon rain jacket.

REI Trailmade Rain Jacket Review

Author
With decent weather resistance for the price, this jacket balances affordability with performance.
Best Hiking Gaiters of 2025
A closeup of hikng giaters with a mountainous background.

Best Hiking Gaiters of 2025

Author
Tired of rocks in your shoes? We put the best gaiters on the market toe-to-toe with gravel, mud, and rain. Find out which models keep your feet protected, dry, and happy.
Men’s Salomon X Ultra 5 GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes Review
A closeup of hiking shoes in front of a glacier.

Men’s Salomon X Ultra 5 GORE-TEX Hiking Shoes Review

Author
Wear this shoe on your next wet and muddy adventure to keep your feet dry while logging long days on the trail.
Men’s La Sportiva Prodigio Review
A closeup of shoes above an alpine lake.

Men’s La Sportiva Prodigio Review

Author
Tackle your next fast and light hike into the mountains with these high performing trail running shoes.
Patagonia Airshed Pro Review
A man puts on the hood of a windbreaker.

Patagonia Airshed Pro Review

Author
This ultralight, breathable, and wind-resistant layer is perfect for high-output activities like trail runs and mountain hikes.
Rab Vital Jacket Review
A man hikes downhill in front of a mountain vista.

Rab Vital Jacket Review

Author
With a durable water-repellent finish and versatile design, this jacket is your go-to layer for hiking, climbing, or everyday wear.
Patagonia Houdini Jacket Review
A man ice skates wearing a red jacket.

Patagonia Houdini Jacket Review

Author
Stay outside longer with this versatile and breathable layer – perfect for any adventure.
Ortovox Windbreaker Review
A man stands in front of a snowy canyon view.

Ortovox Windbreaker Review

Author
Lightweight, breathable, and wind-resistant, this jacket combines durable materials with the natural warmth of merino wool to make a high-performing layer.
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