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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 Choose a Backpacking Tent

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

    Learn how to shop for backpacking tents: We'll cover tent capacity, seasonality, weight, livability, setup and materials.

  • Buying Advice

    How to Choose and Use an Avalanche Transceiver

    210 reviews with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars

    Learn how to choose and use an avalanche transceiver for backcountry safety. Explore features, types, training tips and top-rated models at REI Co-op.

  • Buying Advice

    What to Wear Skiing and Snowboarding

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

    Learn what clothing and gear you’ll need to wear skiing or snowboarding. We cover the basics: from underwear to jacket and from head to toe.

  • 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

    Avalanche Safety for Snowshoers

    4 reviews with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars

    Snowshoeing is an easy, fun and relatively low-risk winter activity—as long as you follow a few basic guidelines about avoiding avalanches.

  • Skills

    How to Dress in Cold Weather

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

    Learn how to stay warm in cold weather with these expert outdoor clothing tips for any activity, including running, snowshoeing, hiking or more.

  • Gear Guides

    The 7 Best Backpacking Stoves of 2025: Staff Picks

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

    Find our expert picks for the best canister stoves for backpacking, plus a liquid-fuel stove, an alcohol stove and a wood-fuel stove.

  • Skills

    Tips for Winter Bicycling

    540 reviews with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars

    Winter riding requires added preparation for you and your bike. Learn gear, clothing and riding strategies to keep you rolling in cold, wet weather.

  • 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.