Zach is a professional Mountain Guide, climber, and skier who dabbles in most outdoors sports. While he calls Colorado home, he travels extensively across North America, Europe, and sometimes Asia whether working or playing. Zach has also worn many hats in administrative roles including content manager, copy writer, marketing manager, website designer, photographer, and program developer. He is an IFMGA licensed/certified guide and has created his own curriculum at many universities, where he still teaches. Zach’s writing, photography, and mountain exploits have appeared in publications such as the American Alpine Journal, Planet Mountain, Alpinist, and Gripped.
Zach started working in product testing over a decade ago and is thrilled to be part of Gear Lab. When he’s not playing outside or on a computer, Zach plays pickleball, music, or (most importantly) spends time with his partner Syd and their dog Benny.
Author Profile
Zach Lovell
Review Editor
Showing 1-15 of 176 by Zach Lovell
10 Best Hiking Pants
A pair of well-fitting hiking pants can be the difference between having a great day out on the trail and turning...
10 Best Mountain Bike Pedals
If you want to enjoy your mountain bike rides even more, consider upgrading your bike pedals, which can make a world...
The Best Backpacking Stoves
We've been testing the best backpacking stoves for over a decade, and this current review has our favorites. We...
Top Pick
JetBoil Zip Review
The Jetboil Zip is a lightweight, compact integrated canister stove that packs easily, prioritizes simplicity over...
Top Pick
MSR PocketRocket Deluxe Review
The MSR PocketRocket Deluxe is a favorite among our testers, pairing its ultralight 3.3-ounce weight and generous pot...
10 Best Sandals
Trying to figure out what type of sandal the one you need is? We've spent years testing hundreds of pairs of flip...
10 Best Insulated Jackets
A synthetically insulated jacket can be a more versatile, durable and affordable alternative to down. We tested the...
The Best Rain Pants
Over the last several years, our gear experts have put dozens of rain pants through the wringer, leaving no stone...
10 Best Fleece Jackets
Over the last ten years, we've bought and tested more than 170 fleece jackets to bring you the best options on the...
The Best Fleece Jackets for Men
Looking for a new fleece for the colder months? We purchased the top 18 fleece jackets and rigorously tested them to...
Editors' Choice
REI Co-op Trailmade Review
This is a well-priced layer that boasts exceptional value. With comfortable material and decent standalone warmth...
Best Buy
Amazon Essentials Full-Zip Polar Fleece Review
This fleece delivers exceptional value as an ultra-budget option, offering soft comfort and good mobility at a...
Best Buy
Patagonia Micro D Fleece Pullover Review
This is an unusually affordable, ultralight fleece pullover that sacrifices pockets and some warmth, but is ideal for...
10 Best Rain Jackets
If wet weather is keeping you cooped up inside, get your hands on a top-ranked wet weather winner from our lineup of...
Top Pick
Rab Ascendor Light Hoody Review
This is a breathable, mobile fleece built for high-output use, now with improved pockets and a dialed fit for all-day...
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