Brian Metzler
Brian is an award-winning journalist, photographer and podcaster who has written for Runner’s World, The Times, Outside, Men’s Journal, Trail Runner, Triathlete and Red Bulletin. He's also the author of several books, including Kicksology: The Hype, Science, Culture and Cool of Running Shoes. He lives in Boulder, Colorado, and loves to run, bike, hike, camp, ski and climb mountains. He has wear-tested more than 1,500 pairs of running shoes, completed four Ironman triathlons, as well as numerous marathons and ultra-distance running races.
Latest articles by Brian Metzler

The best trail running sunglasses 2023: protect your eyes on the trails
By Brian Metzler last updated
We've tested the best trail running sunglasses to find the models that fit well, give the optimum field of vision and, most of all, protect the eyes

The best freeze-dried meals 2023: lightweight food for backpacking
By Brian Metzler last updated
Freeze-dried meals that are quick and easy to prepare, tasty, nutritious, and make dining in the backcountry a pleasure

The best multitools 2023: for camping, hiking and other outdoor adventures
By Brian Metzler last updated
The best multitool – compact and robust, but packing all the implements to do simple jobs and intricate tasks – will be your best friend in the backcountry

What to do if you see a snake on a trail: expert tips to help keep your flesh fang-free
By Brian Metzler last updated
Knowing what to do if you see a snake on the trail could make the difference between walking away from any encounter flustered but bite-free and finding yourself in a life-threatening situation

10 backpacking essentials: the ultimate checklist
By Brian Metzler, Alex Foxfield last updated
Our list of the 10 backpacking essentials for any overnight hiking trip includes crucial kit that should go without no matter where you're going, what season and how experienced you are

How to go winter camping: head out into the colder months with confidence
By Brian Metzler, Alex Foxfield last updated
Our guide to winter camping, with helpful tips on gear, apparel and cooking so that you can embark on awesome adventures, no matter what the conditions

What to do if you meet a bear: a guide to wildlife safety
By Brian Metzler last updated
Knowing what to do if you meet a bear is an important part of outdoor safety in many areas of North America where you love to hike, bike, run and camp

Second fatal fall in two weeks from Angels Landing in Utah
By Brian Metzler last updated
Two hikers have been killed within a fortnight after falling from the famously vertiginous walkway in Zion National Park

Top backpacking hacks: a dozen tips to from the pros to use on your hiking adventures
By Brian Metzler last updated
These 12 savvy backpacking hacks will ensure your adventure into the wilderness is as fun, comfortable and safe as possible

Brooks Divide trail running shoe review
By Brian Metzler, Casey Blaine last updated
A great entry-level model for novices, the Brooks Divide trail running shoe also appeals to experienced runners looking for a lower-priced shoe

Are hydration packs worth it?
By Brian Metzler published
Are hydration packs worth it? We explain why this piece of kit can be a game changer for hikers and runners, and discuss what to look for in a hydration pack

Best backpacking food: recipes of 9 great meals to cook over a camp fire
By Brian Metzler last updated
The best backpacking food, using a little imagination, will make camp cuisine filling and fun

Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 5 Vest review: a surprising amount of storage for something so stripped back
By Casey Blaine, Brian Metzler published
A lightweight, trail race backpack, the Inov-8 Race Ultra Pro 5 Vest sports a minimalist design

Camelbak Zephyr Vest hydration pack review: versatile and with excellent storage capacity
By Brian Metzler, Casey Blaine last updated
The Camelbak Zephyr Vest is a lean, efficient pack for the minimalist who likes to move light and fast

New River Gorge National Park: America’s Newest National Park
By Brian Metzler published
New River Gorge National Park is the first national park in West Virginia

Trail runner completes five round trips across the Grand Canyon
By Brian Metzler published
Colorado runner covers 226 miles in five days

National park reservations 2021: 6 U.S. national parks will require reservations to enter this summer
By Brian Metzler last updated
National park reservations are in place to offset the expected surge of visitors, but tickets are still plentifully available

New summit lodge atop Pikes Peak will open in June
By Brian Metzler published
The new visitor center on Pikes Peak will feature restaurants, shops, decks and spectacular views

Popular Colorado hiking circuit of 14ers temporarily closed
By Brian Metzler published
Private landowners want safety and liability issues addressed

New global trail running championship series announced
By Brian Metzler published
The UTMB World Series will bring the world’s top runners to Chamonix in France

Firefly season is coming in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
By Brian Metzler published
The most beloved residents of Great Smoky Mountains National Park are preparing to put on one of Earth's most spectacular seasonal light shows

Medano Creek: It’s time to enjoy Colorado’s elusive, disappearing creek
By Brian Metzler published
Medano Creek is a springtime phenomenon that flows adjacent to Great Sand Dunes National Park

Camp on top of a volcano! Hawaiian crater opens for overnight stays
By Brian Metzler published
You could wake up to views like this as Haleakalā Crater opens for overnight wilderness camping
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