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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 7 Best Ski Jackets for Women: Staff Picks

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

    Find the best jacket for skiing or snowboarding among our favorites. We review women's ski jackets from Arc'teryx, The North Face, Outdoor Research, REI Co-op and more.

  • 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 Best Car-Camping Gear of 2025: Staff Picks

    26 reviews with an average rating of 3.3 out of 5 stars

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

  • 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 4 Best Approach Shoes of 2025: Staff Picks

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

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

  • Gear Guides

    The 5 Best Road-Running Shoes of 2025: Tested

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

    Hitting the pavement more often? Make sure you have the perfect pair of road running shoes for your next run. REI 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 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 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.