Jacob Clark found a passion for the outdoors through climbing while in school, followed by backpacking, and most recently a love of trail running. After graduating college with a degree in Chemistry, Jacob wasn't ready to settle into a lab job and pursued the outdoors. Going through UCSB's outdoor leadership program initially introduced him to guiding, and soon after graduating, he took a part-time job at REI guiding outdoors and teaching in-store classes. In addition, Jacob set climbing routes for the local rock gym in Santa Barbara, CA, while working as a blacksmith full-time. Now he lives out east near the Blue Ridge Mountains in Western Virginia spending free time exploring new trails, new routes, and the colorful trees of the east with his husky/malamute pup and trail buddy Eli.
Author Profile
Jacob Clark
Review Editor
Showing 1-15 of 23 by Jacob Clark
10 Best Water Shoes of 2024
Sick of wrinkled toes or stubs on sharp rocks while playing in the water? We've tested the best water shoes that will...Best Daypacks of 2024
Determining the ideal daypack in the market and selecting the best option for you, your requirements, and your budget...How to Choose a Daypack for Hiking
A daypack is a simple purchase, with complicated ramifications. A good day pack will accompany you for far more than...Editors' Choice
Osprey Talon 22 Review
Lightweight, comfortable, and with a ton of functional features, this continues to be one of our all-around favorite...Best Buy
REI Co-op Flash 22 Review
The Flash 22 offers exceptional mobility and ease-of-use at a much friendlier price point than the competition.10 Best Sandals of 2024
Trying to figure out what type of sandal the one you need is? We've spent years testing hundreds of pairs of flip...Best Water Shoes for Men of 2024
After combing through 70 of the best water shoes on the market, we purchased and rigorously tested the top 15 to find...Top Pick
Astral Brewer 2.0 Review
These shoes are great at what they do, giving impressive traction on slick surfaces and offering excellent protection.Top Pick
NRS Paddle Wetshoe Review
Our clear favorite for days spent in a boat, this high-top bootie performs well on the water. For all things paddling...Best Sandals for Men of 2024
There is no such thing as a wrong time to wear sandals. We've sifted through the market's top offerings, comparing...Editors' Choice
Bedrock Cairn Adventure Review
Securing our highest award once again, this sandal provides excellent lightweight performance. Sturdy enough to handle...Deuter Speed Lite 20 Review
The Deuter Speed Lite 20 earns high marks for presenting the perfect balance between low weight and simplicity, with...Top Pick
Earth Runners Alpha Review
Although this sandal may not rival some of the technical titans in our selection, it rightfully earns top accolades...Top Pick
ECCO Yucatan Review
High-end materials and a comfort-oriented design combine to make these kicks some of the most comfortable sandals that...Xero Z-Trail EV Review
While this sandal is not a technical powerhouse like some others in our lineup, it is still deserving of a Top Pick...
Next >