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

Teaser Image

Hoka Anacapa 2 Low GTX Hiking Shoe Review

Last Updated: April 3, 2024

Hoka is best known for their road and trail running shoes, but they’ve made a big push into the hiking space over the past several years. Now in its second iteration, the Anacapa is a real winner for those who stick to established trails and prioritize...

Teaser Image

Best Men's Winter Jackets of 2025

Last Updated: November 16, 2025

When the seasons change and the snow starts to fall, it's time to grab a serious jacket. Below you'll find our picks for the best men's winter jackets and parkas for 2025, which include super warm down puffies and expertly insulated synthetic and...

Teaser Image

Best Camping Sleeping Bags of 2025

Last Updated: July 17, 2025

No matter where your travels take you, from national parks to backwoods to back porches, a camping sleeping bag can be a trusty companion. Since space and weight are not at a premium when you can drive to your destination, the comfort dial can get...

Teaser Image

Ski Jackets: Shell vs. Insulated vs. 3-in-1

Last Updated: October 21, 2024

Today’s ski jackets are well made and built to handle many seasons of use in foul weather. They can also be big investments, with even entry-level jackets often setting you back a couple hundred dollars or more. With so many styles to choose from, it...