Upon earning her BA in Political Science, Mary traded in books and city-living for a trad-rack and the mountains – backpacking and riding bikes all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and even France. Whether climbing cracks in the desert, hiking into the backcountry for alpine rock and ice climbing missions, or commuting by bicycle – this gal is on the go. Mary has over fifteen years of experience in the outdoor industry, from wrenching on bicycles and selling climbing gear, to working as an outdoor educator. After using and abusing enough gear for a lifetime, she decided to juggle her outdoor pursuits with bigger academic goals: recently finishing her MA in Politics and International Affairs from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ, before beginning a PhD in Environmental Politics and Policy from Colorado State University in Fort Collins. When she isn’t nose deep in books, you’ll find her fist-deep in granite cracks, or frolicking in the mountains.
Author Profile
Mary Witlacil
Mary Witlacil
Review Editor
Showing 1-15 of 100 by Mary Witlacil
Best Trekking Poles of 2022
Looking for the best trekking poles for your next hike or backpacking trip? Whether you're concerned with comfort, adjustability, weight or just the greatest value, we're here to help with...
Best Softshell Jackets for Women of 2022
It can be challenging to find the best softshell because there are so many types and styles. Our reviewers have spent 8 years wearing over 45 of the best models and in this update, we...
How to Choose a Softshell Jacket for Women
Softshell jackets are fantastic mediators, striking a brilliant balance between breathability and protection from the elements. If you are drawn to aerobic activities out in cold...
Editors' Choice
Arc'teryx Gamma LT Hoody - Women's
This jacket strikes a balance between weather resistance, mobility, and breathability - proving to be an excellent softshell for alpine climbing, mountaineering, or aerobic but chilly days...
Best Buy
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoodie - Women's
Reliable performance meets an excellent price point with this well-designed jacket. We love the features, durability, and breathability, and feel it is an excellent addition to any...
Top Pick
Arc'teryx Proton FL Hoody - Women's
You may think it's inconceivable to have warmth and breathability all in one jacket, but this hybrid shows it's not only possible, it's award-worthy! Plush and stretchy with great movement...
Best Hiking Shoes for Women of 2022
We're here to help you sort through the options for the best women's hiking shoes. We tested the market's leading pairs, then picked the 13 leaders for thorough side-by-side testing.
Top Pick
Rab Kinetic 2.0 - Women's
A cozy and breathable but highly water-resistant softshell with great mobility and premium features. If you're looking for
Editors' Choice
La Sportiva Spire GTX - Women's
Performing well in almost every metric, this is a high-quality hiking shoe that will make your feet happy on and off-trail.
Best Buy
Merrell Siren Edge 3 - Women's
A lightweight and inexpensive shoe that provides in comfort what it lacks in waterproofing or durability. We recommend this shoe for...
Best Messenger Bag of 2022
Whether you need a bag for your commute or for your job, we've taken the top 8 models and tested them in as many practical scenarios as possible.
Best Buy
Merrell Moab 2 WP - Women's
A high-performing hiking shoe that won't let you down. It's not the most comfortable, but it has excellent traction. And it is cheaper than most of the competition.
Top Pick
Keen Targhee III Low - Women's
Comfortable and supportive waterproof hiking shoes that are impressively durable. While they aren't the most breathable and they fit a little wide
Best Camping Stoves of 2022
Love to cook? Searching for the best camping stove for you and your crew? Then, you've come to the right place. We tested 15 of the most popular camping stoves available, putting them...
Editors' Choice
Camp Chef Everest 2X
If you're looking for a powerful, durable, wind-resistant stove that boils fast but simmers like a boss, then look no further
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