Switchback Travel, a leading outdoor adventure website, is looking to expand our team with qualified individuals. Prerequisites include enthusiasm and knowledge of the outdoors, strong writing and communication skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of Switchback Travel’s voice. In addition to the postings listed below, we do consider specific projects and articles on a case-by-case basis. Please send your resume, cover letter, relevant work samples, and proposals to [email protected].


Freelance Outdoor Gear Testers

We are excited to add qualified Outdoor Gear Testers to our growing team. The position is remote—we are primarily located in the western half of the US—but you can live and work anywhere with good outdoor access.
 

Responsibilities:

  • Test and photograph outdoor gear locally and on designated testing trips.
  • Write in-depth reviews based on your experiences. 
  • Research new and existing products in a range of gear categories.
  • Contribute to informational gear articles as needed.


Requirements:

  • A high level of outdoor experience and authenticity. Key areas of expertise that we are always looking for include mountain biking, backpacking, running, skiing, and snowboarding.
  • Excellent writing and photography skills.
  • Understanding of Switchback Travel’s voice.
  • Attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines.


Current Openings For:

  • Runners who are racing—either trail or road
  • Plus and extended size hikers and backpackers
  • Gear testers with kids


To Apply

For consideration, please send a resume, cover letter, and writing samples to [email protected] with "Outdoor Gear Tester" in the subject line. We cannot respond to every application individually, but we will follow up with qualified candidates as quickly as possible. Thanks for your time!


Hiking to a river in Utah (packrafting)


About AllGear Digital

At AllGear Digital, we strive to inform, educate, and entertain readers about the passions, products, and people that enrich their lives, with the goal of becoming the leading publisher of gear reviews and content for active lifestyles and the outdoors. We own and operate a diverse set of digital media brands, including GearJunkie, Switchback Travel, iRunFar, Bikerumor, The Inertia, ExplorersWeb, and other top names in their respective niches. We reach over 60 million readers annually. AllGear Digital is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all, both for the company and in our content.

By Penney Garrett

Penney has worked in and around the outdoor industry for over a decade and joined Switchback Travel as editor-in-chief in early 2024. Before that, she tested, wrote, and managed large freelance teams for other gear-focused publications. With an eclectic background ranging from fine art to botany to professional baking, Penney loves to play outside, especially with the right gear. Hailing originally from New Mexico but having spent most of her life in Colorado, she now lives amidst the trees in South Lake Tahoe, CA, with her husband and dog. When she's not exploring trails or skiing, you can find her covered in clay in the ceramics studio, at her sewing machine, or cooking a large meal for friends. 

Powered by Drupal