Heather Balogh Rochfort

Heather is a freelance writer and author specializing in the outdoors and adventure travel, particularly as they apply to women and families. She is the co-founder of WildKind, an organization educating and empowering families to find their wild. As a lifelong Colorado resident, Heather loves Type-II fun above treeline where the sun is hot and the oxygen depleted. Thing she does not like: rock climbing. REI Co-op Member since 2008.

Latest Articles

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  Gear Guides

  The Best Car-Camping Gear of 2025: Staff Picks

  Spend a night under the stars in car-assisted comfort thanks to our favorite car-camping product picks at REI.

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  Gear Guides

  The 11 Best Backpacking Foods of 2025: Staff Picks

  We share our favorite picks for dehydrated meals and other trail treats for backpacking or camping.

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  Gear Guides

  The 4 Best Approach Shoes of 2025: Staff Picks

  Discover the top-rated approach shoes at REI, expertly tested for performance and durability. Find the best footwear for tackling any terrain with confidence.

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  Gear Guides

  The 5 Best Wide Sleeping Pads of 2025: Tested

  Discover the best sleeping pads available for backpackers seeking longer lengths and more spacious widths.

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  Gear Guides

  The Best Budget Sleeping Bags of 2025: Tested

  Our five favorite budget sleeping bags include options for backpacking and car camping, plus a variety of temperature ratings and shapes.

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  Gear Guides

  The 6 Best Hiking Sandals of 2025: Tested

  Our testers choose the 6 best sandals at REI for water crossings, kayaking, ultralight trips, urban hiking and more.

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  Gear Guides

  The 6 Best Bike Shorts of 2025: Staff Picks

  Our staff weighed in on their favorite bike shorts from Pearl iZumi, Outdoor Research, Terry and Rapha.

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  Skills

  Hiking While Pregnant

  Tips for pregnant hikers, including fueling and hydration, how to prepare, what to wear and more.

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  Gear Guides

  The Best Sleeping Pads for Camping: Tested

  Explore you the comfiest top-rated self-inflating sleeping pads from Exped, NEMO, Big Agnes, and others, plus one hybrid sleep system and portable cots.

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  Gear Guides

  The 4 Best Inclusive-Size Sleeping Bags of 2025: Tested

  Read on to find our favorite wide sleeping bags for car camping, backpacking and more. The sleep sacks we tested are available in short, wide and long dimensions.