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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Sleeping Pad Weight Comparison Chart

Last Updated: May 5, 2016

There are a number of ways backpackers trim total packed weight, but one of the simplest and most affordable is their sleeping pad. And the beauty in getting a...

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Merrell Moab 3 Mid Hiking Boot Review

Last Updated: July 3, 2024

Merrell’s Moab is about as classic as hiking boots come and an extremely popular first pair of hiking footwear for many (including multiple editors on our staff). We tested one of the best-selling variations—the mid-height waterproof model—which checks...

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How to Choose All-Mountain Skis: Length, Width, Flex & Profile

Last Updated: August 27, 2025

Picking an all-mountain ski can be a daunting task. The category covers a wide range of styles from groomer-oriented skis to more powder-friendly designs...

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Best Backpacking Stoves of 2025

Last Updated: April 18, 2025

Backpackers need a stove that's lightweight, dependable, and will get the job done quickly after a long day on the trail. Thankfully, the market is full of both time-tested models and newer, more innovative designs. From all-in-one stoves made...