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Courtney Holden

Courtney moved to Boulder, Colorado, to pursue her dream of hiking, biking, skiing and writing about it. So far, things are working out. In the past four years, she’s transitioned from 100-mile days on her road bike to backpacking with a stuffed rabbit, Tonka truck and toddler in tow. Her husband comes too. She confesses to preferring Diet Coke to craft beer. REI member since 2011.

Latest Articles

  • Gear Guides

    The 10 Best Hiking Shoes of 2025: Staff Picks

    37 reviews with an average rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars

    REI Co-op Members and staff share their 10 favorite lower cut, lighter weight hiking shoes for everything from urban trails to thru-hikes.

  • Skills

    The Benefits of Cycling

    The physical, mental and practical benefits of biking outside on the road or in the mountains—or indoors.

  • Buying Advice

    How to Choose Hiking Pants

    The right hiking pants will fit your body, your activity and the environment you'll be trekking through. Here's how to find the right pair.

  • Gear Guides

    The 6 Best Cycling Jackets of 2025: Staff Picks

    39 reviews with an average rating of 3.6 out of 5 stars

    A cycling jacket comes in handy when the weather takes a turn. We’ve gathered our top recommendations for however you ride.

  • Gear Guides

    The 7 Best Insulated Jackets of 2025: Staff Picks

    27 reviews with an average rating of 3.6 out of 5 stars

    REI experts share their favorite down or synthetic insulated jackets for casual wear, hiking, snowsports and more. Read on for our top picks for down jackets and synthetic jackets from Arc'teryx, REI Co-op, Patagonia and more.

  • Gear Guides

    The Best Gifts for Hikers

    21 reviews with an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars

    From hiking boots to trekking poles to backpacking gear, find the perfect gift for the hiker in your life.

  • Gear Guides

    The Best Gifts for Outdoorsy Kids

    8 reviews with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars

    Because time outside is better than any toy with a battery. We've got puzzles, winter wear, a pack, bikes, helmets and more.

  • Gear Guides

    The Best Gifts for Cyclists

    6 reviews with an average rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars

    We've pulled together great gifts for cyclists, including bike helmets, bike computers, handlebar bag, an electric mountain bike and more.

  • Gear Guides

    The Best Gifts for Runners

    15 reviews with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars

    Whether they love the trail or just get out in the city for a quick jog, find the perfect gift for the runner in your life.

  • Gear Guides

    The Best Winter Jackets of 2024: Staff Picks

    10 reviews with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars

    Discover the best winter jackets to keep you warm and dry for snowshoeing, fat-tire biking, running, camping and everyday wear.

  • Skills

    How to Run Hills

    Whether you run on the road or trail, learning how to handle hills, including the uphill and downhill, will improve your running overall—and lead you to some beautiful views.

  • Buying Advice

    The Perfect Camp Kit, at Four Different Price Points

    19 reviews with an average rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars

    Whether you want to invest in your first few pieces of camp gear or need to upgrade your existing setup, we have gear recommendations for creating a camp kit at four different budgets.

  • Gear Guides

    On Cloudsurfer Trail: Tested Review

    3 reviews with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars

    Tested, single-perspective review of the trail-ready version of the On Cloudsurfer running shoe, featuring the new CloudTec Phase midsole technology.

  • Buying Advice

    What Is Body Mapping?

    12 reviews with an average rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars

    An explanation of body mapping, a form of garment construction that mixes materials to create high-performance technical apparel.

  • Skills

    A Guide to Common Hiking Injuries

    23 reviews with an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars

    This guide reviews some of the most common hiking injuries, how to identify them, how to prevent them and what to do when you're injured on trail.

  • Buying Advice

    What Is Merino Wool?

    2 reviews with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars

    A guide to merino wool, including where it comes from, what it's used for, its benefits as a material for outdoor apparel and more.

  • Skills

    Gear Expectations: Tips for Cycling on a New Bike

    17 reviews with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars

    You and your new bike will go through an adjustment period. We provide tips on what to expect and how to make adjustments for comfort and performance.

  • Skills

    A Guide to Disc Sports

    4 reviews with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars

    A guide to different types of disc sports and games including the basic rules, equipment needed and how to start playing.

  • Skills

    Get Your Bike Ready for Riding Season

    6 reviews with an average rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars

    First ride of the season? We've got a checklist of things to do to get your bike ready for spring.

  • Buying Advice

    When to Upsize a Kid’s Bike

    4 reviews with an average rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars

    Young riders need a bike that will keep up with their progress. Get tips on what to consider when choosing the next bike for a growing child.

  • Skills

    Resistance Band Workouts

    90 reviews with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars

    Here are four exercises you can do at home or on the road using lightweight, versatile resistance bands.