John Ellings

John Ellings

Title: Editor-in-Chief (Former)

Location: Wenatchee, WA

Expertise & Background


Why I Chose This Career

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.


How I Began My Career

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!

Recent Articles

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Best Trail Mountain Bikes

Last Updated: June 26, 2024

From smooth and flowy post-work rides to rough and rowdy all-day backcountry epics, the trail mountain biking category covers a wide range. And with rapidly changing technology and an ever-growing number of options, it can be hard to nail down the best...

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Best Men's Ski Pants of 2025/26

Last Updated: October 24, 2025

Ski pants are an essential layer for staying warm, dry, and comfortable on the mountain, with options to suit every type of skier and budget. While resort riders often favor insulated designs to keep cozy on long chairlift rides, backcountry...

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Best Hitch Bike Racks of 2025

Last Updated: May 20, 2025

If you’re searching for the best way to transport bikes, hitch-mounted racks are the way to go. Securely attaching to the receiver hitch of your vehicle, they offer unmatched versatility and ease of use. There are a wide range of options to choose from...

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Best Men's Baselayers of 2025

Last Updated: October 8, 2025

While jackets are certainly a flashier and more exciting layer to shop for, staying comfortable outdoors starts with a quality baselayer. These next-to-skin pieces play a fundamental role in temperature regulation by pulling moisture away from your...