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 Men's Snowboard Jackets of 2025

Last Updated: March 18, 2025

A snowboard jacket is about more than just looks: It's your first line of defense against freezing winds, deep powder, and unpredictable mountain weather. Whether you’re lapping the terrain park, carving groomers, or heading into the backcountry, the...

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Best Rain Jackets of 2025

Last Updated: October 2, 2025

With a long history in the Pacific Northwest, the Switchback team knows a thing or two about rain. From months of daily drizzle to heavy downpours in the mountains, we're acutely aware of the benefits of a quality waterproof and breathable shell—not...

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Outdoor Research Foray II GTX Rain Jacket Review

Last Updated: April 11, 2024

Seattle-based Outdoor Research is no stranger to creating quality rain jackets that can fend off the elements, and we like what they've come up with in the Foray. This do-it-all shell is light and packable for hiking and backpacking yet tough enough to...

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Best Backpacking Tents of 2025

Last Updated: May 30, 2025

In choosing the right backpacking tent, you have a wide range of options from minimalist ultralight shelters to inexpensive and heavier entry-level models. Uses and budgets vary, and the ideal tent for beginners and those taking shorter trips differs...