Owen Carr
Mountain bike + hiking writer
Based in Asheville, North Carolina
Owen covers everything that goes uphill. He commutes by gravel bike, races XC on weekends, and just spent six months fixing the tech sections of his local Pisgah loop because it makes the descent feel earned.
40 published articles · most recent April 26, 2026
Owen covers everything that goes uphill. He commutes by gravel bike, races XC on weekends, and just spent six months fixing the tech sections of his local Pisgah loop because it makes the descent feel earned.
Owen does most of our mountain-bike trail testing. If a route has a specific tire pressure recommendation in the gear pack, that came from him.
Articles by Owen Carr
Your First Day at Whistler Bike Park: What Gets SkippedPlanning your first day at Whistler Bike Park? Here is how to pick trails, rent the right bike, gear up and beat the lift queues without getting hurt.
Mountain Bike Tire Pressure: An Honest Guide (Stop Guessing)Mountain bike tire pressure explained: a rider weight formula, a simple tuning loop and what to ignore on the sidewall. Stop guessing and start riding.
Three Days of Pisgah Mountain Biking: Why Day Two HurtsPisgah mountain biking over three days: Black Mountain, Heartbreak Ridge, then DuPont. Why the middle day hurts and the ride order that works.
How to Prevent and Treat FrostbiteDo you want to learn how to prevent and treat frostbite when hiking? Sometimes when we think of frostbite, we think of toes and fingers turning black and…
Best Hiking SocksFind the best hiking socks for your trip: compare height, material, cushioning and fit, plus six sock picks with pros and cons and tips on care.
The 6 Best Hiking Boots For Turkey HuntingHiking boots are one of the most essentials for trekking. We have hunted down the best hiking boots for turkey hunting in our article below. Turkey hunting…
Best Hiking Boots For Haglund DeformityThe 6 Best Hiking Boots For Haglund Deformity If you are suffering from Haglund’s deformity, you need shoes that don't bruise your feet. We have selected…
Can You Hike in Snow Boots?Can you hike in snow boots? Here is how snow boots, hiking boots and winter hiking boots differ, and which footwear suits the trail you have planned.
How to Hike in Yoga PantsWondering how to hike in yoga pants? Learn which fabrics work, why cotton fails, and what features to look for in hiking leggings before your next trail.
Are Chacos Good For Hiking?Are Chacos Good For Hiking? Yes, Here's Why Chacos are known to be super comfortable, but are they actually practical for hiking? If you ask this question…
Pants or Shorts for Hiking - Which Is Really Best?Pants or shorts for hiking? Compare protection, comfort, temperature, fabric and convertible options so you can pick the right legwear for your next trail.
7 Ways to Carry Your Tripod Hiking7 Ways to Carry Your Tripod Hiking - Tips Tricks Experiencing fantastic scenery in a different light is one of the main reasons so many people are drawn to…
6 Ways to Carry Cellphone When HikingLearn how to carry cellphone when hiking with six simple options, from hip belts to chest mounts, plus tips on battery life, rain and drops on the trail.
Hiking Without Underwear, Gross or Practical?Hiking is already a sweaty activity . So when it comes to hiking without underwear, it may seem a bit gross. But if you're reading this, you're probably at…
Can You Hike in Jeans? (Here's How)Jeans are probably part of everyone's wardrobe. And while they are durable, are they actually practical to hike in? You'll often hear people say "no jeans!"…
Military Boots for Hiking (Tips and Recommendations)Military boots for hiking: are combat boots a good idea on the trail? Veteran opinions, pros and cons, fit tips and three alternatives worth a look.
Hiking vs Walking - Differences and BenefitsHiking vs walking: learn how they differ, how many calories each burns, the muscles they work and the mental benefits, so you can pick what suits you.
How to Attach and Use the Bungee Cord on Your BackpackLearn what a bungee cord on your pack is for, how to attach or replace shock cord, which lashing designs work, and when paracord is the better choice.
Are Winter Boots Waterproof? It DependsAre winter boots waterproof? Only rubber boots truly are. Here is what waterproof claims mean, how to choose boots and how to keep your feet dry.
Can You Hike in Doc Martens?Can you hike in Doc Martens? See what hikers report, when they work, when they fail, and how to make them more trail-ready before you lace up.
Cork vs EVA Trekking Poles - Which Is Really Better?If you're looking to purchase trekking poles, one of the features you'll be looking at is grip. Grips on quality trekking poles usually come in two forms,…
One Trekking Pole or Two, Which Is Better?Should you hike with one trekking pole or two? Here is when each makes sense, how to size and set up poles, and what the research says about knees.
Hiking Without a Backpack: 3 Pack AlternativesHiking without a backpack works on short, marked trails. Compare shoulder bags, lumbar packs and the Dixon Roller Pack, plus what to carry and when not to.
Can You Go Hiking in Sweatpants? When to Wear ThemHiking in sweatpants is fine on short, dry, mild trails. Learn which fabrics work, when to skip them and how to layer sweats for colder hikes.
Hiking in Converse, How Bad Is It Really?Is hiking in Converse a bad idea? Here's where Chuck Taylors cope, where they fail, what other hikers say, and the fixes that make them tolerable.
Hiking for Beginners on a Budget (With Prices)Hiking for beginners on a budget? Here are real prices for shoes, packs, rain gear and first aid, plus where to save and where not to cut corners.
Is Hiking a Sport? No, Here's WhyIs hiking a sport? Not by most definitions. Here's why hiking is recreation, how it differs from trail running and orienteering, and why the label matters.
Playing Music When Hiking: When and How to Do ItPlaying music when hiking can annoy other hikers and stress wildlife. Here is the etiquette, the safest headphone options and when music helps on trail.
Why You Should Wear Two Pairs of Socks When HikingWearing two pairs of socks when hiking can cut blisters and keep feet dry. Learn which liners and outer socks to pair, and when one pair is better.
Can You Hike in Running Shoes?Can you hike in running shoes? Compare trail runners and boots on grip, weight, protection and durability, plus when boots are the safer choice.
Are Timberlands Good for Hiking? (It Depends)Are Timberlands good for hiking? The Classic yellow boot is heavy and built for work, but Timberland's hiking models hold up well. Here is how to choose.
Do Hiking Boots Work in Snow?Do hiking boots work in snow? Yes, with waterproofing, gaiters and warm socks. Learn when three-season boots will do and when you need winter boots.
Do You Need to Worry About Bears in Winter?Should you worry about bears in winter? See which bears stay active, how long they den, how often attacks happen, and what safety steps still matter.
How to Prevent Your Hydration Pack from FreezingLearn how to prevent your hydration pack from freezing with insulated tubes, warm water, blowing back the hose, and smarter backups for cold hikes.
3 Ways to Attach an Ice Axe to Your PackLearn how to attach an ice axe to your pack three ways, from loops and straps to a shoulder carry, plus mistakes to avoid and a quick bounce test.
Trail Runners For Winter Hiking: My Top 6 ChoicesWhy trail runners for winter hiking? They keep your feet warm and comfortable even in long hikes.
On the TrailWinter hiking on the trail demands steady pacing, dry layers, group discipline and sharp navigation. Here is how to stay warm, found and safe.
Kahtoola Microspikes Review: Best Hiking Traction Device?Kahtoola Microspikes review: how the spikes grip, how to size them, when they fall short of crampons, and how to care for them so they last for years.
How To Layer Clothing - A Complete GuideLearn how to layer clothing for winter hikes and camping: base, mid and shell layers, fabric choices, and common mistakes that leave you cold or damp.
14 Tips For Safe Hiking This WinterPlan for safe hiking in winter with 14 practical tips on route planning, layers, traction, navigation, emergency gear and knowing when to turn back.