Sara has been traveling internationally for over 30 years, first following her tri-lingual parents and later with a white water kayak in tow. She has competed in numerous international white water kayaking events and is proud to say she has lost to some of the world’s best kayakers. After finishing a Masters in Teaching Special Education, Sara moved to the Sierra Foothills to teach at an Expeditionary Learning high school. She enjoys sharing her passion for the outdoors with students, whilst supporting them with a rigorous interdisciplinary college-prep curriculum.
An avid learner herself, Sara continues to take classes for fun and is currently working on a Certificate in Wilderness Education through Lake Tahoe Community College. She has learned to skate, downhill mountain bike, backcountry ski, and climb in the last 6 years and looks forward to learning much more. Sara doesn’t believe in the mantra that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. She teaches for California Women’s Kayak Collective during her summer breaks.
Author Profile
Sara James
Review Editor
Showing 1-15 of 90 by Sara James
Best Water Gear
Enjoy a day on the water. Our ultimate list of the best water gear is adventure worthy. We considered everything you...
The Best Winter Boots for Women
Our expert winter testers took to the trails, streets, and snowbanks to test the market's top-rated winter boots...
Best Buy
Columbia Minx Shorty IV for Women Review
This lightweight, comfortable everyday boot delivers good value for the price. It's not the warmest or most...
Top Pick
The North Face Shellista VI for Women Review
This stylish boot boasts the best warmth-to-weight ratio in our lineup, making it an excellent option for everyday...
10 Best Winter Boots
Over the last decade, we have tested over 100 pairs of winter boots. We trekked through icy river crossings, did...
10 Best Water Shoes
Sick of soggy feet, or stubbing your toes on rocks while playing in the water? We've tested the best water shoes that...
The Best Down Jacket for Women
From icy trailheads to stormy ski days, a well-designed down jacket can mean the difference between shivering on the...
Editors' Choice
Rab Neutrino Pro for Women Review
One of the warmest and most weather-ready puffies we've tested—built for serious cold and high-elevation adventures.
10 Best Down Jackets
We're always testing the best down jackets on real adventures in every condition. We tested down jackets for women and...
The Best Cargo Boxes
Have more cargo than your car can carry? We bought the best cargo boxes available today and tested them head-to-head...
Editors' Choice
Thule Motion 3 XL Review
This is a high-capacity roof box that combines sleek looks, smart features, and solid craftsmanship. Dual-side...
Editors' Choice
INNO Wedge 660 Review
A great choice for those with non-bulky items to transport who want to retain a low profile on their car roofline
The Best Dry Bags
Unless you are willing to gamble with your gear, carrying water-sensitive essentials across any body of water calls...
The Best Life Jackets
Be safe and comfortable by wearing the right life jacket on the water. Since 2019, we've tested dozens of the best...
Top Pick
Astral Otter 2.0 Review
A standout leader for youth, this vest is comfortable, durable, and packed with additional features to keep your kids...
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