From Desk Job to Discovering Diversity in Nature: How I Became a Queer Ecologist Jason Wise|June 12, 2025 One REI Co-op Member in Los Angeles shares his journey from working a typical 9-to-5 job to living a life centered around nature and the outdoors.
In Praise of Solo Hiking Meredith O’Connor|June 11, 2025 REI Co-op Members and staff share why they love heading out on the trail alone.
Humans Designed the New REI Co-op Bear Canister. Bears Tested It. Lisa Jhung|May 2, 2025 The patent-pending bear canister offers two sizes and backcountry reliability—which REI put to the test with real grizzly bears.
What Kind of Hiker Are You? Your Pants Tell All Courtney Holden|April 28, 2025 Your favorite trail trousers reveal a lot about your personality.
Dear REI: Letters about Opting Outside Erin Berger|April 10, 2025 We love when REI Co-op Members write in to tell us how the co-op has helped fuel their outdoor adventures. Here are stories of how members #OptOutside.
First Look: Salomon X Ultra 5 Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boot Ever Meister|April 1, 2025 We field tested this light, nimble update from Salomon that crosses a burly hiking boot with a flexible trail-running shoe.
A Walk in the (Urban) Park Kade Krichko|March 12, 2025 How REI Co-op Member Miles Howard—and the Walking City Trail he founded—have brought the outdoors to the inner city.
The Beast in Me: How Mental Illness Changed My Outdoor Life—and What I Did About It Sarah Boon|March 7, 2025 How nature has helped one REI Co-op Member cope with recent diagnoses.
Ask an Outsider: Can I Hike in Jeans? Courtney Holden|February 28, 2025 Popular outdoor opinion says hiking in jeans is a no-no, but one REI Co-op Member swears by it. He makes a strong case for hiking in denim.
First Look: The Osprey Poco Soft Child Carrier Megan Lee|January 17, 2025 Osprey introduces the first soft child carrier pack specifically designed for the outdoors. Our writer tested it with her 18-month-old son.
The EXPLORE Act Has Been Signed into Law—Thanks to Your Help Jacqueline Kehoe|January 6, 2025 One of the U.S.'s largest outdoor recreation bills will have far-reaching positive affects on life outside.
I told my anxiety to take a hike. Here’s how it went. McKenna Ownby|December 23, 2024 One REI Co-op Member tells how she faced her fears and tackled a meaningful sunset hike.