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 Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket Review
A man walks through wet vegetation

Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket Review

Author
A longtime trusted shell in the elements, this jacket is a flexible, durable, weather-repelling yet breathable forcefield in the toughest of rains.
Arc’teryx Beta SL Rain Jacket Review
A man hikes though a riany forest wearing a black rain jacket.

Arc’teryx Beta SL Rain Jacket Review

Author
This is the jacket to bring when heavy rain and strong winds hit your next hike. We love its weather resistance, durability, and comfort.
Men’s REI Trailmade Pants Review
A man walks through alpine wildflowers.

Men’s REI Trailmade Pants Review

Author
Budget-friendly and versatile, these pants offer durable fabric and reliable performance for both hiking and everyday wear.
Men’s REI Sahara Convertible Pants Review
A man walking in the alpine wearing green pants with blue sky behind.

Men’s REI Sahara Convertible Pants Review

Author
This model is the image of the classic hiking pant: versatile, durable, and loaded with features. We tested them in heavy Alaskan rain and on long sunny hikes and we love using one pair of pants for both outings.
Rab Incline Light Pants Review
A man walks on an alpine trail in the sunshine.

Rab Incline Light Pants Review

Author
These pants are a super lightweight and packable pair sure to please anyone who’s after a quick-drying and breathable option.
Men’s Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants Review
A man runs downhill in the tundra.

Men’s Outdoor Research Ferrosi Pants Review

Author
Tested in Alaska’s Chugach Mountains, these pants deliver a lightweight and highly mobile pant that excels in a variety of conditions.
Men’s Mammut Runbold IV Pants Review
A man hikes up a trail with mountains in the background.

Men’s Mammut Runbold IV Pants Review

Author
With great mobility and breathability, these pants are an excellent choice for summit scramblers and weekend trail-goers alike.
Janji Transit Tech Pants Review
A man runs uphill with an alpine background.

Janji Transit Tech Pants Review

Author
These jogger-style pants are extremely lightweight and breathable and are a great fit for warmer weather and higher-output activities.
Men’s Arc’teryx Gamma Pants Review
A man walks on an alpine ridge in the sunshine.

Men’s Arc’teryx Gamma Pants Review

Author
Need rugged pants for rugged adventures? The Arc’Teryx Gamma Pants are one of our all time favorites for high-output adventures.
Best Rain Jackets of 2026
A man smiles while wearing a rain jacket in the alpine.

Best Rain Jackets of 2026

Author
From drizzles to downpours, we’ve got your back. Our team of seasoned hikers weathered the storm to find the best rain jackets for performance and protection.
Best Stuff Sacks of 2026
A closeup of a stuff sack

Best Stuff Sacks of 2026

Author
Toiletries, electronics, extra clothes, food – all the little bits and bobs in your backpack can become a mess if you don’t have a way…
Best Hiking Shorts for Men of 2026
Waist-down view of a hiker standing on a rocky trail in the men's Patagonia Quandary hiking shorts

Best Hiking Shorts for Men of 2026

Additional Author
Discover your new favorite trail-ready hiking shorts from Patagonia, prAna, REI, and more. Our experts bring you tailored suggestions for the best in comfort, durability, and style from trail to town.
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