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

7 Best GPS Watches for Hiking & Backpacking of 2026

7 Best GPS Watches for Hiking & Backpacking of 2026

Author
From fitness trackers to multi-day navigational aids, GPS watches offer a wide range of features that make them a valuable tool when out on the trail.
7 Best Travel Backpacks of 2026
Back view of a guy wearing the Cotopaxi Allpa travel backpack in a green park with a bridge overhead

7 Best Travel Backpacks of 2026

Author
Our guide to the best travel backpacks helps you jet-set in style. See our 8 favorites.
Best Snowshoes of 2026
A man walks thorugh snow laden trees.

Best Snowshoes of 2026

Author
Hiking in the winter is far more enjoyable and accessible with snowshoes. Our expert testers trudged on trails and braved blustery blizzards to bring you this review of the very best.
10 Best Winter Gloves of 2026
A man shows the palms of his gloves.

10 Best Winter Gloves of 2026

Author
From snow and slush to icy water, we’ve dunked our hands and hiked mile after mile to find which gloves will keep your hands the warmest no matter what winter throws at you.
Best Winter Jackets for Men of 2026
A man with a backpack wearing a red REI Stormhenge winter jacket in a snowy scene

Best Winter Jackets for Men of 2026

Author
We’ve taken the guesswork out of finding the best jackets to bundle up in and keep you warm and dry this winter season.
Best Windbreaker Jackets of 2026
A backpacker wearing the Black Diamond Alpine Start Windbreaker while hiking in Glacier National Park in June

Best Windbreaker Jackets of 2026

Author
From windy summits to chilly days on the trail, a windbreaker can be a vital piece of gear to keep you comfortable and happy on all your adventures.
Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket Review
A closeup of the front of a rain jacket.

Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket Review

Author
Stay dry without the bulk. Made with durable Pertex Shield fabric, it offers reliable protection and breathability. This jacket is ultralight, packable, and weather-resistant, perfect for adventures in unpredictable weather.
Best Hiking Pants for Men of 2026
A backpacker standing in front of a lake in the men's Kuhl Deceptr hiking pants

Best Hiking Pants for Men of 2026

Author
Whether you need to crush big days in comfort or blaze your own path through the backcountry, these are the best pants for hiking, backpacking, and big adventures.
Best Hiking Shoes for Men of 2026
A hiker standing on a rock wearing the HOKA Speedgoat 6 trail running shoes with a beautiful view of craggy mountain peaks in the background at high altitude.

Best Hiking Shoes for Men of 2026

Author
We’ve hiked thousands of miles in the best hiking shoes available to see which ones gained the most traction with our team of experts…
Best Winter Boots for Men of 2026
A closeup of the leather of winter hiking boots.

Best Winter Boots for Men of 2026

Author
We’ve covered hundreds of miles on and off trail to bring you the best winter boots available – from heavy-duty options to some closer to insulated running shoes.
1 9 10 11