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

Arc’teryx Macai Ski Jacket Review

Last Updated: January 3, 2024

Sitting atop Arc’teryx’s venerable ski lineup is the Macai: a Gore-Tex-equipped, down-insulated ski shell built for frigid conditions and serious resort use. Two of our testers put the Macai through a season-long test in Washington State and found it...

Teaser Image

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...

Teaser Image

Best Downhill Ski Boots of 2025

Last Updated: October 17, 2024

No matter your ability level, a comfortable boot is an absolute necessity. Nothing ruins a good groomer or powder day faster than cold or painful feet, and poor-fitting boots also run the risk of not properly transferring energy to your skis and...

Teaser Image

Best Winter Jackets of 2025

Last Updated: March 11, 2025

When the coldest winter months arrive, it’s time for a serious jacket. Our picks for the best winter jackets and parkas of 2025 are among the warmest on the market, expertly packed with down fill, high-quality synthetics, or (more than ever) recycled...