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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 6 Best Kid Carriers of 2026: Tested

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

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

  • Buying Advice

    How to Choose Hiking Boots and Shoes

    1142 reviews with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars

    Use our guide to find the right hiking footwear for you, including hiking boots and hiking shoes suitable for day hikes, backpacking, mountaineering and more. Learn more about boot and shoe types, components, materials and fit.

  • Gear Guides

    The 5 Best Trail-Running Shoes of 2026: Tested

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

    Our list of the five best trail-running shoes at REI includes options for every type of runner, whether you're headed into the wild or exploring close-to-home trails. Find the perfect pair today!

  • 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 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 7 Best Winter Snow Boots of 2025: Staff Picks

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

    Keep your toes warm in the fourth season. These nine pairs of boots are great for snowy trails, slick sidewalks and even alpine adventures.

  • Gear Guides

    The Best Running Shorts: Staff Picks

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

    Find the best running shorts for any activity. From trail runs to marathons, we've rounded up our favorites, based on input from REI Co-op staff.

  • 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 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.