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Ken Knapp

REI Editor Emeritus Ken Knapp became a member in 1977 and went on to work for more than 36 years at the co-op. A father of daughters (thriving) and monitor of marmots (threatened), Ken is also a big fan of sustainability and sharing the ball.

Latest Articles

  • Buying Advice

    How to Pick the Most Breathable Fabrics

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

    When the weather is hot, breathable fabric is a must. Learn what makes a fabric breathe well and what other features will help you stay cool.

  • Skills

    Ultralight Backpacking Basics

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

    Ultralight backpacking done well can be safe and comfortable. Get tips on lightening up your Big Four items, plus water and food strategies.

  • Buying Advice

    What to Wear Hiking

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

    Learn about clothes that can help you hike more comfortably, and get strategies for cutting the weight and bulk of clothing in your pack.

  • 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 Choose Bike Tires

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

    Learn about bike tire sizes, tread and valve types, as well as other features to consider when you replace tires on a road or mountain bike.

  • Skills

    Intro to Electric Bikes

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

    Increasingly popular, electric bikes (e-bikes) expand riding possibilities. This primer covers who rides, where to ride, how to ride and care tips.

  • Buying Advice

    How to Choose Insect Repellent

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

    Learn how to combat mosquitoes, ticks and flies with DEET, picaridin and natural lotions, air-emitted repellents and permethrin-treated clothing.

  • Buying Advice

    How to Choose a Kayak

    1837 reviews with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars

    Not all kayaks are created equal. Learn what to consider when choosing between different types of kayaks based on your favorite way to paddle.

  • Buying Advice

    How to Choose an Electric Bike

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

    E-bikes offer an efficient and fun way to get around. This primer helps you sort through your options for commuting, errands, trail riding and more.

  • Buying Advice

    How to Choose a Bike Computer

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

    Our bike computer guide helps you sort through options from a basic speed-and-distance unit up to a data-rich, phone-synced GPS model.