Becca Downs

Managing Editor and Contributing Writer

Becca on a backpacking trip in Scotland

Becca Downs backpacking on the West Highland Way in Scotland. Photo by Jon Rudolph

Becca Downs ran D1 cross country and track for Indiana University—Purdue University of Indianapolis (IUPUI) and continued racing everything from elite miles to an ultramarathon in her post-collegiate years. She earned a USATF Level 1 certification and coached boys and girls high school cross country and track in Indianapolis for four years. Becca then joined the IUPUI women’s distance coaching staff as a volunteer assistant coach in 2020-2021.

She geeks out on trail running, track and field, and cries every time she watches a marathon (they’re just so beautiful!).

After notching a few small FKTs under her belt, she was diagnosed with hip arthritis and now channels her passion for running into coaching, crewing, writing, creating training plans for her friends, hiking, snowshoeing, and running as much as her hip allows. She earned her MFA in Creative Writing from the Mile-High MFA Program at Regis University. Becca is based in Denver, Colorado.

Website: Becca Downs Writing

Instagram: @beccad___

Twitter: @MsBDowns

Gear Reviews
HOKA Transport 2 Walking Shoes Proved More Versatile Than I Expected
Becca Downs
HOKA Transport 2 Walking Shoes Proved More Versatile Than I Expected
Becca Downs

The HOKA Transport 2 walking shoes balance cushioning and support for all-day comfort, the Vibram outsole handles a wide range of technical terrain with ease, and they’re simple and stylish enough for casual wear, and are the best trail-to-city crossover shoes we’ve tested.

Becca Downs
Best Walking Shoes of 2026
Becca Downs
Best Walking Shoes of 2026
Becca Downs

Find the perfect walking shoes—comfortable, supportive, and durable options for daily walks, travel, fitness, and all-day wear.

Becca Downs
I Tried the NEMO Vantage Travel Pack — Comfort and Organization Won Me Over
Becca Downs
I Tried the NEMO Vantage Travel Pack — Comfort and Organization Won Me Over
Becca Downs

Comfort, durability, spacious storage, and thoughtful organization make the NEMO Vantage a versatile and quality investment for most travel and adventure needs.

Becca Downs
Best Recovery Shoes, Sandals, and Slides for Runners of 2026
Becca Downs
Best Recovery Shoes, Sandals, and Slides for Runners of 2026
Becca Downs

Help tired feet recover with recovery shoes for runners—sandals, slides, and slippers. We tested passive and active recovery shoes for easing pain or plantar fasciitis.

Becca Downs
I Used the Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Sandals After Hikes and Long Days on My Feet
Becca Downs
I Used the Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed Sandals After Hikes and Long Days on My Feet
Becca Downs

Our long-term, in-depth review of the Birkenstock Arizona sandals as recovery shoes. Cushioned, comfortable, for post-workout recovery for runners, hikers, skiers, and people who work on their feet.

Becca Downs
OOFOS OOahh Slides Review: The Most Cushioned Recovery Shoes We’ve Tested
Becca Downs
OOFOS OOahh Slides Review: The Most Cushioned Recovery Shoes We’ve Tested
Becca Downs

Our long-term, in-depth review of the Oofos Ooahh slides as recovery shoes. Cushioned, comfortable, for post-workout recovery for runners, hikers, skiers, and people who work on their feet.


Becca Downs
Slip-On Ease, All-Day Comfort: Why I Reached for the On Cloud 6 for Travel, Commuting, and Long Days
Becca Downs
Slip-On Ease, All-Day Comfort: Why I Reached for the On Cloud 6 for Travel, Commuting, and Long Days
Becca Downs

In-depth review of the On Cloud 6 shoes tested for fit and comfort, support, and style for daily walks, fitness, and all-day wear.

Becca Downs
How to Choose
Best Running Accessories for 2026: Must-Haves for Every Runner
Best Running Accessories for 2026: Must-Haves for Every Runner

Explore the best running accessories to enhance your comfort, safety, and performance, including hydration, recovery, and must-have gear for every run.

What to Wear Running in the Rain: Essential Gear for Wet-Weather Runs
What to Wear Running in the Rain: Essential Gear for Wet-Weather Runs

What to wear when running in the rain including a gear checklist–including what we've tested, reviewed, and found to be the best gear for running in the rain

Gift Guides
44 Best Gifts for Runners They’ll Actually Use
44 Best Gifts for Runners They’ll Actually Use

Whether they’re training for their next marathon, hitting the trails on weekends, or simply running for the joy of it, runners are a passionate bunch — and thoughtful gear can make every mile more enjoyable.

Treeline Review Staffauthor