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 Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Boot Review
A side shot of the outside of hiking boots at sunset.

Men’s Merrell Thermo Chill Mid Boot Review

Author
Supportive and waterproof with excellent traction, the Merrell Thermo Chills give you great bang for your buck.
Men’s Blundstone Thermal Boot Review
A man walks toward the camera on a snowy trail.

Men’s Blundstone Thermal Boot Review

Author
The Blundstone Thermal is a dependable winter boot with an iconic style for both casual and recreational uses.
Men’s Salomon X Ultra Snowpilot Boot Review
A man walks down a rocky slope above an ocean view

Men’s Salomon X Ultra Snowpilot Boot Review

Author
The Salomon X Ultra Snowpilot blurs the line between running shoes and snow boots for protection on our all-day winter adventures.
Men’s Columbia Fairbanks winter boot Review
A closeup of the tread of shoes worn while walking.

Men’s Columbia Fairbanks winter boot Review

Author
Named after one of the country’s coldest cities, the Columbia Fairbanks is a great boot to take out on the town when it’s cold and snowy.
Men’s Kamik Atwater winter boot Review
A man balances on ice along a steep embankment.

Men’s Kamik Atwater winter boot Review

Author
Durable and stylish winter boots, Kamik’s Atwater keeps your feet warm and dry whether in town or on your local trails.
Men’s KEEN Revel IV Polar Boot Review
A closeup of the leather of winter hiking boots.

Men’s KEEN Revel IV Polar Boot Review

Author
A rugged winter boot, the KEEN Revel IV offers excellent warmth underneath a waterproof and breathable leather exterior
Men’s Merrell Nova 3 Thermo Boot Review
A side shot of a pair of winter boots on a rock.

Men’s Merrell Nova 3 Thermo Boot Review

Author
With running shoe comfort, the Merrell Nova 3 Thermos are light enough for days on the trail and stylish enough for the brewery afterward.
Outdoor Research Foray 3L / Aspire 3L Rain Jacket Review
A man stands in front of a yellow meadow with fall foliage.

Outdoor Research Foray 3L / Aspire 3L 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.
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