Author profile image
Author profile image

Ryan Wichelns

Ryan is a freelance journalist and climber. His favorite climbs are the random, unaesthetic snow- and ice-covered heaps in the middle of nowhere that require a weeklong scree-choked slog to maybe climb. Don’t ask him why. REI member since 2017.

Latest Articles

  • Gear Guides

    The 6 Best Camping Tents of 2025: Tested

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

    Home is where you pitch it. And, thankfully, home is pretty comfortable with these 6 field-tested tents for car camping.

  • Gear Guides

    The 9 Best Backpacking Tents of 2025: Tested

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

    Discover our favorite backpacking tents, tested and reviewed: From ultralight solo shelters to spacious four-person hideaways, these 9 backpacking tents provide a cozy haven for every type of backpacker.

  • Gear Guides

    The 4 Best Gloves and Mittens: Tested

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

    Don’t let your digits go numb. These are the warmest and most dexterous gloves and mittens for skiing, snowboarding, snow shoveling and wintery walks.

  • Gear Guides

    The 8 Best Headlamps of 2025: Tested

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

    Our REI field testers pick their 8 favorite headlamps for running, camping, backpacking and more.

  • Gear Guides

    The 5 Best Hammocks of 2025: Staff Picks

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

    Our staff chooses the 5 best hammocks for everyday use, camping and backpacking, plus the best hammock accessories at REI.