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Author profile image

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

  • Gear Guides

    The 5 Best Trail-Running Shoes of 2025: Tested

    74 reviews with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars

    Our list of the best trail-running shoes at REI includes options for every type of runner, plus honorable mentions. Find the perfect pair today!

  • Gear Guides

    The 7 Best Coolers of 2025: Staff Picks

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

    Eat and drink well wherever you go with our seven favorite hard and soft coolers, picked by REI staff and customer-reviewers.

  • Gear Guides

    The 4 Best Running Hydration Vests of 2025: Tested

    9 reviews with an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars

    Discover our testers' favorite running hydration vests put through the ringer across the US. Learn how to choose a running vest with Expert Advice!

  • Gear Guides

    The 5 Best Wide Sleeping Pads of 2025: Tested

    17 reviews with an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars

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

  • Gear Guides

    The 5 Best Kid Carriers of 2025: Tested

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

    Our testers bring you the five best packs for hauling gear and kiddos on day hikes, hard-core epics and everything in between.

  • Gear Guides

    The Best Budget Sleeping Bags of 2025: Tested

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

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

  • Gear Guides

    The 6 Best Hiking Sandals of 2025: Tested

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

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

  • Gear Guides

    The 8 Best Walking Shoes of 2025: Staff Picks

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

    These are the eight best pairs of walking shoes, according to REI Co-op member, staff and customer reviews.

  • Gear Guides

    The 6 Best Bike Shorts of 2025: Staff Picks

    23 reviews with an average rating of 3.2 out of 5 stars

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

  • Skills

    Hiking While Pregnant

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

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