Nick Mott

Nick Mott

Title: Editor (Former)

Location: Livingston, Montana

Expertise & Background

  • Topics of Expertise: Climbing, trail running, skiing & ski mountaineering, packrafting, backpacking, hunting, fishing
  • Education: Master of Arts in Environmental Journalism, University of Colorado Boulder
  • Years of Writing: 5+
  • Years of Gear Testing: 2+
  • Certifications: CPR/First Aid
  • Previous Publications: NPR, The Atlantic, High Country News, Outside, Alpinist, and more


Why I Chose This Career

Writing about outdoor gear—along with public land, climate, and wildlife issues—is a perfect way to engage with what I love and value in both my professional and personal life.


How I Began My Career

I started writing about the outdoors serving as an AmeriCorps volunteer after college doing fuels reduction and trail work in the Desert Southwest. From there, I started pitching stories to outlets like Alpinist, and soon decided to make things official by going back to school for journalism. 

Recent Articles

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Best Fitness Watches of 2025

Last Updated: June 11, 2025

Despite their diminutive size, fitness watches can really pack a punch. These modern timepieces put the power of a GPS device onto your wrist, allowing you to track your movements, follow a preloaded route, or even navigate complex terrain—hands-free...

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Best Trail Mountain Bikes Under $2,500

Last Updated: May 7, 2024

Mountain biking can be a very expensive sport: There are hundreds of excellent bikes available for $4,000 to $6,000, and those aren’t even at the highest end of the price spectrum. Fortunately, for those of us not ready to spend so much on something...

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Best Budget Backpacking Tents of 2025

Last Updated: April 17, 2025

A premium two-person backpacking tent can cost upwards of $700, but not everyone needs best-in-class performance. Casual weekenders and those just dipping their toes into backpacking can save a lot of money with a budget design. These tents are often...

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Best Mountain Bike Helmets of 2025

Last Updated: April 9, 2025

If your mountain biking gear budget has been stretched thin and you’re tempted to skimp on the helmet, don’t. Skip that extra bit of carbon instead. It’s true, mountain bike helmet prices are creeping up, but we find little reason to complain. For...