Alli Hartz

Alli Hartz

Title: Freelance Writer & Gear Tester

Location: Bend, OR

Expertise & Background

  • Topics of Expertise: Running, skiing, travel
  • Education: Bachelor of Arts, International Studies and Spanish (2006), Juris Doctor (2009)
  • Years of Writing: 15
  • Certifications: AIARE Course Instructor, AIARE Pro 2 Certificate of Training
  • Club or Association Memberships: American Avalanche Association, American Mountain Guides Association, Central Oregon Avalanche Center
  • Previous Publications: 1859 Magazine, Bend Magazine, iRunFar, Men’s Journal, Source Weekly, The Avalanche Review, Travel Oregon


Why I Chose This Career

I love the outdoors, sharing experiences with others, and writing.


How I Began My Career

I began my career as a lawyer before making the shift to the outdoor industry, where I started as a copywriter. After 10+ years in marketing and content management, I began working as a freelance writer for my own personal enjoyment and creative fulfillment, in addition to ski guiding and teaching avalanche courses. In 2022, my side gigs became my full-time job—now, I split my time between guiding/avalanche education in the winter and freelance writing in the summer and fall.

Recent Articles

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The Ski Strap: Your Backcountry Kit’s Secret Weapon

Last Updated: December 6, 2022

Ski straps are fiercely tough yet lightweight bands made from UV-resistant polyurethane, with perforated holes and a buckle. They’re the unsung hero that lives inside your ski pack or wrapped around your ski pole...

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Best Backcountry (Touring) Skis of 2025

Last Updated: May 20, 2025

Unlike their lift-assisted alpine cousins, backcountry skis have two jobs: getting you uphill efficiently while retaining enough power to make the downhill worth the effort (and fun). The good news is that material and construction technologies are...

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Blizzard Sheeva 10 Ski (2024) Review

Last Updated: August 17, 2023

Blizzard’s Sheeva 10 is the women’s counterpart to the popular Rustler and an impressively well-rounded ski for everyone from progressing intermediates to expert riders. For 2024, Blizzard retooled the construction and made slight tweaks to the sidecut...

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Backcountry Skiing Checklist

Last Updated: January 3, 2025

Nothing is more satisfying or adrenaline-inducing than slaying fresh powder in the heart of the backcountry, but you’ll need the right gear to accomplish your ski objectives. Our detailed backcountry skiing checklist below covers everything from...