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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 Backcountry Ski Bindings

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

    AT bindings allow you to lift your heels to stride uphill and then lock the heels in place for the descent. We help you sort out your choices.

  • Gear Guides

    The Best Budget Sleeping Pads of 2024: Tested

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

    Our five favorite sleeping pads for around $100 include options for backpacking and car camping, plus a variety of pad types and warmth ratings.

  • Skills

    Guide to Adaptive Camping

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

    Two camping experts who use wheelchairs offer tips to help ensure you have a successful and enjoyable camping trip.

  • Checklists

    Mountaineering Checklist

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

    Our comprehensive checklist for mountaineering features required and optional gear, clothing and accessories.

  • Buying Advice

    How to Choose an Ice Axe

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

    Find out how to choose the right ice axe for your intended use. Learn how to size your ice axe, the parts of an ice axe and key features to consider.

  • Buying Advice

    How to Choose Mountaineering Boots

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

    Mountaineering boots are a big investment. Learn when to buy versus when to rent, and what to look for when buying your first pair.

  • 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

    Avalanche Rescue Overview

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

    This overview of topics covered in an avalanche rescue class introduces essential skills such as searching, probing and digging for a buried victim.

  • Skills

    Avalanche Safety Gear and Checklist

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

    Learn about the essential avalanche safety gear you need to carry when you venture beyond in-bounds ski areas.

  • Skills

    How to Skate Ski

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

    Learn the basics of skate skiing; this video and article will explain the fundamentals of this fast and fun way to cross-country ski.