John Ellings
Title: Editor-in-Chief (Former)
Location: Wenatchee, WA
I wouldn't say it was my plan all along, but the work connects a lot of things I love: creating and building something great, geeking out on outdoor gear, and adventuring in my Pacific Northwest backyard and around the world.
I met Switchback founder, David Wilkinson, while I was working at REI and part way through my MBA program in 2014. The opportunity to rethink outdoor gear testing, photography, and long-form content was too good to pass up!
Last Updated: April 30, 2025
Whether you’re a first-time bike commuter or a dedicated mountain biker, riding at night can be an exhilarating experience. But traveling along dark streets or singletrack at any speed requires a quality light (or two) to illuminate the way. Below we...
Last Updated: July 9, 2024
Salomon’s Quest has garnered serious popularity over the years as a highly capable backpacking boot, and the fourth-generation model carries the torch. We put the latest Quest 4 through its paces in Washington’s Hoh Rainforest, where it faced wet and...
Last Updated: August 28, 2024
Beginner skis offer great value and an easy platform for learning the basics of turning, balance, and control. In short, they make it easier to learn proper technique in less time. Beginner models come either as an integrated system with bindings or as...
Last Updated: April 28, 2025
For hitting the trail with a little one in tow, it’s hard to beat a baby carrier pack. Their supportive designs allow for a comfortable and safe ride, and we’ve spent countless hours hiking with both a happy child...
Switchback Travel is a part of AllGear Digital's portfolio of media brands.