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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

  • 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.

  • 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

    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

    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.

  • Buying Advice

    How to Choose Sun-Protection (UPF) Clothing

    1337 reviews with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars

    Clothing designed to offer sun protection can prevent cancer, skin damage and more. Learn what UPF ratings mean, what features UPF clothing should have and more.

  • Buying Advice

    How to Find the Right Bike Lock

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

    Find out how to choose the right bike lock for your security needs with tips on how to reduce the risk of bike theft.

  • Gear Guides

    The 7 Best Bike Locks of 2025: Staff Picks

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

    Discover the bike locks that REI experts recommend, from U-locks to chain locks. Learn how to pick the right one to secure your bike in different environments.

  • Gear Guides

    The Best Camp Pillows of 2025: Staff Picks

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

    Rest easy with our expert picks for pillows for car camping, backpacking, travel and more.

  • 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.