Emily Malone
Title: Freelance Writer & Gear Tester
Email: [email protected]
Location: Chattanooga, TN
Writing for Switchback Travel allows me to blend creative storytelling with my love for the outdoors, helping others discover the tools, trails, and gear that make adventure more accessible and enjoyable for all people—beginners, and seasoned explorers alike.
I began my career in social work and part-time marketing/outdoor adventure instructing, eventually transitioning into full-time creative storytelling. My lifelong connection to the outdoors—and years spent hiking, camping, and leading youth trips with programs like Young Explorers Society—naturally led me to write about gear and outdoor life.
Last Updated: May 9, 2025
Beloved by backpackers for years, REI Co-op’s Half Dome received some notable updates this year: The latest version uses thicker fabrics, boasts a larger floor area, and features an updated pole design to provide even more head and shoulder room. I...