Alli Hartz

Alli Hartz

Title: Freelance Writer & Gear Tester

Location: Bend, OR

Expertise & Background

  • Topics of Expertise: Running, skiing, travel
  • Education: Bachelor of Arts, International Studies and Spanish (2006), Juris Doctor (2009)
  • Years of Writing: 15
  • Certifications: AIARE Course Instructor, AIARE Pro 2 Certificate of Training
  • Club or Association Memberships: American Avalanche Association, American Mountain Guides Association, Central Oregon Avalanche Center
  • Previous Publications: 1859 Magazine, Bend Magazine, iRunFar, Men’s Journal, Source Weekly, The Avalanche Review, Travel Oregon


Why I Chose This Career

I love the outdoors, sharing experiences with others, and writing.


How I Began My Career

I began my career as a lawyer before making the shift to the outdoor industry, where I started as a copywriter. After 10+ years in marketing and content management, I began working as a freelance writer for my own personal enjoyment and creative fulfillment, in addition to ski guiding and teaching avalanche courses. In 2022, my side gigs became my full-time job—now, I split my time between guiding/avalanche education in the winter and freelance writing in the summer and fall.

Recent Articles

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Patagonia SnowDrifter Ski Jacket Review

Last Updated: February 11, 2025

Patagonia offers a jacket for just about every type of skier and terrain, from insulated, resort-ready designs to lightweight hardshells built for the backcountry. The SnowDrifter slots in as their most affordable touring option with in-house...

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Black Diamond Guide Ski Gloves Review

Last Updated: October 31, 2023

Black Diamond's Guide Gloves are a longtime favorite for those who put a premium on warmth and protection. We recently put a new pair to the test (after using and abusing a previous pair for seven...

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Best Backcountry (Touring) Ski Bindings of 2025

Last Updated: November 13, 2024

Whether you're new to backcountry skiing or have been earning your turns for decades, selecting an alpine touring binding can be a particularly intimidating task. For the 2024/25 season, the market is absolutely flooded with options, ranging from...

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Patagonia SnowDrifter Ski Bibs Review

Last Updated: February 18, 2025

After testing Patagonia's SnowDrifter Bibs throughout a full season of backcountry and resort days in central Oregon, we came away impressed with how well they toe the line between weatherproof and breathable. Though not as premium as Gore-Tex...