Buying Advice
Down vs. Synthetic: Which Insulation is Right for You?
Ever wonder what makes your sleeping bag warm? We explain the differences between the insulation options for sleeping bags.
Joe Pasteris
Latest Articles
Skills
How to Keep Your Hands Warm
Cold hands can quickly take the fun out of an outdoor adventure. Learn how to keep your fingers toasty warm on cold-weather outings.
Skills
How to Put on a Climbing Harness
Putting on a climbing harness for the first time can be confounding. But with a few tips and some repetition, it can become as familiar as pulling on a pair of pants. Learn how to put on a climbing harness with these seven easy steps.
Buying Advice
What’s the Difference Between Road and Trail-Running Shoes?
Road-running shoes and trail-running shoes are similar but different. We explain exactly how they differ to help you decide which is right for you.
Care and Repair
When to Retire Climbing Gear
Sadly, your climbing gear won’t last forever. Learn when to retire your climbing rope, harness, carabiners, helmet and slings.
Skills
Understanding the Different Types of Skiing
From alpine skiing to backcountry skiing, learn the different types of ways to get down the slopes at REI Expert Advice.
Buying Advice
Should I Get Waterproof Trail-Running Shoes?
If you run on trails, you’re likely to encounter some muck along the way. This article will help you decide if waterproof running shoes are right for you.
Skills
How Much Should Your Pack Weigh?
How much should your pack weigh? It’s tricky to answer, but our REI pack-fit pro helps you figure it out, and offers tips for reducing weight.
Skills
The Best Clothing for Humidity and Hot Weather
Stepping outside into a muggy, sticky, stifling wall of hot and humid weather can be pretty miserable. Here are four tips clothing choice tips for dea
Skills
How to Measure How Much Fuel is Left in a Canister
Learn two methods you can use to easily determine how much fuel remains in your partially used canisters.
Skills
How To Take Better Photos on Your Phone
Do you wish you were coming home with better photos from your big adventures? Learn how to take better outdoor photos with your phone.
Skills
Skinning: Tips for Uphill Travel by Skis or Splitboard
Traveling uphill on skis or a splitboard is a great workout and fun way to experience winter. Learn how to do it efficiently and comfortably.
Skills
How Splitboards Work
Learn how to make quick transitions on a splitboard with these step-by-step directions for taking a splitboard apart and putting it back together.
Buying Advice
How to Choose the Right Size Cargo Box
A cargo box can expand your vehicle’s storage to hold bulky things like skis, backpacks and strollers. Learn how to get the right size box for you.
Skills
Route Finding and Navigation for Mountaineering
Learn important route-finding and navigation skills to help you stay on course and travel efficiently up a mountain.
Skills
How to Plan a Mountaineering Trip
Taking the time to thoughtfully plan out a mountaineering trip will increase your odds of summiting and having fun. Learn how.
Skills
Mountaineering Gear Essentials
For new climbers, the variety of gear can be daunting. These tips help you get equipped for your next mountaineering adventure.
Skills
Getting Started Mountaineering
Mountaineering can involve rock climbing, glacier travel and off-trail hiking to reach a summit. Learn how to prepare and get the skills you need.
Buying Advice
How to Choose Luggage, Packs and Bags
A guide to travel gear: Learn about the different types of outdoor luggage, travel backpacks and duffel bags.
Buying Advice
How to Choose a Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP)
Read our complete guide to stand up paddle boards to help you decide which SUP is right for you.