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

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.
Montbell Tachyon Hooded Jacket Review
A closeup of the front of a windbreaker backlit by the sun.

Montbell Tachyon Hooded Jacket Review

Author
Ultralight and soft on the skin, this jacket is the perfect windbreaker for anyone who counts every ounce in their backpack.
Enlightened Equipment Copperfield Review
A man wears a windbreaker standing over a mountain view.

Enlightened Equipment Copperfield Review

Author
Coming in at whisper lite 2.3 ounces, gram counters, and base weight watches will rejoice at this ultra-light layer for their next windy weather outing.
Cotopaxi Teca Windbreaker Review
A closeup of the logo of a windbreaker.

Cotopaxi Teca Windbreaker Review

Author
Made from repurposed materials, this jacket is lightweight, packable, and perfect for fending off wind during your adventures.
Black Diamond Alpine Start Jacket Review
A man ice skates wearing a blue jacket

Black Diamond Alpine Start Jacket Review

Author
Built for alpine adventures, this jacket offers ultralight, weather-resistant protection that packs down into its chest pocket.
ARC’TERYX Squamish Jacket Review
A man walks along an alpine ridge wearing a windbreaker.

ARC’TERYX Squamish Jacket Review

Author
It’s packable, breathable, and built to perform, designed for hikers, climbers, and recreators needing quick wind protection. Whether on the trail or scaling peaks, it’s your go-to for lightweight protection.
REI XeroCloud 3L Rain Jacket Review
A closeup of the front of a rain jacket.

REI XeroCloud 3L Rain Jacket Review

Author
With its excellent stretch and mobility combined withgreat weather resistance, we liked this shell for hiking in the rain.
Men’s REI Activator Pants Review
A closeup of the side pocket on a pair of hiking pants.

Men’s REI Activator Pants Review

Author
Warm enough for cool days on the trail, these pants are a worthy companion when the weather turns south and you need protection from the elements.
Men’s Fjallraven Vidda Pro Ventilated Pants Review
A closeup of a unique pocket on a pair of pants.

Men’s Fjallraven Vidda Pro Ventilated Pants Review

Author
Built for extremes, these men’s hiking pants are perfect for those who spend all day in the toughest environments, running chainsaws or bashing through dense brush.
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