Jenny Abegg

Jenny Abegg

Title: Senior Editor (Former)

Location: Leavenworth, WA

Expertise & Background

  • Topics of Expertise: Climbing, mountaineering, trail running, hiking and backpacking, backcountry skiing
  • Education: Masters in Education
  • Years of Writing: 9
  • Years of Gear Testing: 9
  • Certifications: PCGI certified Lead Guide
  • Club or Association Memberships: American Alpine Club, Access Fund, Austrian Alpine Club
  • Previous Publications: Climbing Magazine, Alpinist, Sidetracked, Adventure Journal, REI Co-op Journal


Why I Chose This Career

It feels like the other way around—this career chose me. I've always loved writing and have a fairly analytical brain, but my biggest fascination in life was with the mountains and the experiences I could have within them. Luckily, I get to combine the two!


How I Began My Career

Way back in the day, I was full-time rock climbing and living in my van and needed some extra cash to support my dirtbaggery. It made sense to write about the gear I was using and the life I was living! Fast forward almost a decade and I'm still doing just that, although my "house" got a little bigger and is no longer on wheels.

Recent Articles

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Ski Jacket Construction: 2L vs. 3L

Last Updated: September 23, 2024

If you’ve ever shopped around for a ski jacket (or pants), you’re bound to have seen the terms 2L and 3L (short for 2-layer and 3-layer) again and again. These refer to the style of construction used in a waterproof jacket’s shell, including the face...

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Best Climbing Helmets of 2025

Last Updated: August 14, 2025

A climbing helmet is an essential piece of gear for outdoor climbing, whether you’re headed to the mountains or top-roping at the crag. Climbing helmets protect your head from both rockfall and side impacts (such as hitting your head during a lead fall...

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Best Climbing Backpacks of 2025

Last Updated: May 19, 2025

Gone are the days when climbing consisted of swami belts, hobnailed boots, and weeks spent nailing pitons into swaths of granite. Current trends in climbing gear have moved toward functionality, performance, and thoughtful design, and packs have...

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Best Women’s Hiking Pants of 2025

Last Updated: May 9, 2025

Women know the struggles in finding a good pair of hiking pants: Fit, comfort, and storage considerations all can be difficult to dial in. But the market has improved significantly of late, with a range of designs that offer impressive performance and...