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 Climbing Quickdraws of 2025
Last Updated: August 1, 2025
We love quickdraws. Few pieces of climbing protection can transform feelings of uncertainty and discomfort into peace and happiness as quickly and authoritatively. And yet, trying to shop for quickdraws can be as challenging as any other piece of...
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...
NNormal Tomir Waterproof Hiking Boot Review
Last Updated: April 8, 2024
Co-founded by decorated mountain athlete Killian Jornet and Spanish shoemaking brand Camper, Nnormal is taking a new—and exciting—approach to trail runners and hiking shoes. While minimalist, their designs are built to last and can be repaired and...
Best Climbing Helmets of 2025
Last Updated: August 14, 2025
A climbing helmet is an essential piece of gear for outdoor climbing, whether you’re headed to the mountains or top-roping at the crag. Climbing helmets protect your head from both rockfall and side impacts (such as hitting your head during a lead fall...