Expertise & Background
- Topics of Expertise: Climbing, mountaineering, trail running, hiking and backpacking, backcountry skiing
- Education: Masters in Education
- Years of Writing: 9
- Years of Gear Testing: 9
- Certifications: PCGI certified Lead Guide
- Club or Association Memberships: American Alpine Club, Access Fund, Austrian Alpine Club
- Previous Publications: Climbing Magazine, Alpinist, Sidetracked, Adventure Journal, REI Co-op Journal
Why I Chose This Career
It feels like the other way around—this career chose me. I've always loved writing and have a fairly analytical brain, but my biggest fascination in life was with the mountains and the experiences I could have within them. Luckily, I get to combine the two!
How I Began My Career
Way back in the day, I was full-time rock climbing and living in my van and needed some extra cash to support my dirtbaggery. It made sense to write about the gear I was using and the life I was living! Fast forward almost a decade and I'm still doing just that, although my "house" got a little bigger and is no longer on wheels.
Recent Articles
Best GPS Watches of 2026
Last Updated: February 23, 2026
For hikers and mountaineers, a quality GPS watch is a worthy addition to your gear collection. Built to handle the extremes, GPS watches have a distinct look with durable, scratch-resistant faces and large screens flanked by glove-friendly buttons...
Rock Climbing Checklist
Last Updated: August 14, 2024
Whether you spend your days climbing indoors or scaling multi-hundred-foot monoliths, it’s always helpful to know what you need. Our detailed climbing checklist below covers the critical gear for different styles of climbing: gym climbing, bouldering...
Best 4-Season Tents of 2026
Last Updated: January 23, 2026
From backcountry ski tours to mountaineering in some of the most brutal weather on Earth, a 4-season tent is the last line of defense between you and the elements. Accordingly, these tents are much stronger than a typical 3-season backpacking tent...
Best Women's Rain Jackets
Last Updated: September 17, 2025
Let’s face it: It rains, and sometimes it pours. Thankfully, a good rain jacket can provide a solid layer of defense against the elements. Our female editors have tested dozens of designs on trails near and far to bring you our 18 favorites below...