Maggie Slepian

Maggie Slepian

Title: Contributing Editor

Location: Montana

Expertise & Background

  • Topics of Expertise: Backpacking, bikepacking, trail running, camping, climbing, archery
  • Education: Bachelor of Arts, English / Creative Writing
  • Years of Writing: 15
  • Years of Gear Testing: 10+
  • Previous Publications: New York Times, Outside Magazine, Longreads, Backpacker, Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, The Strategist, Runner’s World, Travel + Leisure, The Trek, Women’s Health, Men’s Health, Popular Mechanics, Runner’s World, Bicycling Magazine, Adventure Cycling, Backpacking Light, Wide Open Spaces


Why I Chose This Career

I have always enjoyed backcountry travel and writing, and somehow figured out a way to turn it into a career between writing, editing, and gear testing. 


How I Began My Career

I started as an intern with a local outdoors magazine. After thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail I took a job as the managing editor for an outdoor publication and continued as a full-time freelance writer from there.

Recent Articles

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Best Waterproof Hiking Shoes of 2025

Last Updated: July 3, 2025

As hiking footwear continues to move away from bulky boots towards lightweight trail runners, hiking shoes have become increasingly streamlined while still impressively capable. Often made with similar materials as mid-height boots—but with a lower...

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Hiking Shoes vs. Trail Runners

Last Updated: September 8, 2025

As lightweight gear gains popularity among outdoor enthusiasts, above-the-ankle hiking boots are quickly becoming obsolete. For a major bump in comfort and weight savings, hikers and backpackers are now opting for lightweight hiking shoes and trail...

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Kühl Crossfire Parka Review

Last Updated: February 20, 2025

Kühl is known for their no-nonsense, stylish outerwear that toes the line between casual and performance. Their women's-specific Crossfire Parka follows this trend in a knee-length, high-coverage design that leaves plenty of room for layering. I have...

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Do You Need Waterproof Hiking Shoes?

Last Updated: July 22, 2024

We get this question a lot: Do your hiking shoes or boots need to be waterproof, or can you do without? Hikers and backpackers fall on both ends of the spectrum—some prefer the unparalleled breathability of non-waterproof footwear, while others...