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

Outdoor Research Foray II / Aspire II Rain Jacket Review
A man stands in front of a yellow meadow with fall foliage.

Outdoor Research Foray II / Aspire II Rain Jacket Review

Author
For anyone who plans to be out in heavy rains with no break in the forecast, this water resistant, superbly ventilated and burly jacket is for you.
REI Rainier Rain Jacket Review
A closeup of the front of a rain jacket.

REI Rainier Rain Jacket Review

Author
This affordable rain jacket excels in rain resistance, comfort, and mobility, making it a top budget choice for getting caught in the rain.
Montbell Versalite Rain Jacket Review
A man wearing a running vest runs through fall colors

Montbell Versalite Rain Jacket Review

Author
If you’re the lightweight backpacker who sometimes refuses to pack a raincoat because it is too bulky and heavy, this shell won’t bog you down or clog your pack.
Marmot Precip Eco Rain Jacket Review
A man hikes uphill with a coastal view behind him.

Marmot Precip Eco Rain Jacket Review

Author
A lightweight, yet affordable option, this is a great entry-level rain coat providing enough weather resistance to ride out a passing drizzle.
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 Rain Jacket Review
A closeup of the zippers of a rain jacket.

Arc’teryx Beta 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
These are an excellent choice for the price-conscious hiker looking for a lightweight pant. We are impressed with their performance and their value.
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.
Mammut Runbold Pants Review
A man shows the front of pants in front of a glacier lake.

Mammut Runbold Pants Review

Author
After extensive testing in the alpine of Alaska’s Talkeetna Range, these pants are one of our top scorers in our lineup.
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.
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