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 90 by Zach Lovell

The Best Hydration Bladder
Searching for the best hydration bladder? Our experts have personally tested 11 of today's top models for hiking...
Editors' Choice
Gregory 3D Hydro Review
This top performer stands out for its built-in handle and burly construction. It offers a mega-flow rate and an...
Best Buy
Cherainti Reservoir Review
This high-value option offers great packability in a simplistic design for shoppers who prioritize price as their top...
Top Pick
Hydrapak Contour Review
If you need a lightweight hydration bladder, this is well worth considering, especially since it's dishwasher safe and...
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...
10 Best Water Shoes
Sick of soggy feet, or stubbing your toes on rocks while playing in the water? We've tested the best water shoes that...
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...
The Best Flip Flops for Men
Searching for new flip flops? The selection can be daunting, with a multitude of options from the biggest names in the...
The Best Rain Jackets for Men
Whether you need an all-around rain jacket or a more specialized model, rest easy knowing there's a jacket that'll fit...
Best Buy
Teva Mush II Review
This impressively low-priced pair of flip flops rose through the ranks to become one of the highest value models we've...
10 Best Softshell Jackets
Softshell jackets are a rare class of garment that offers a blend of weather resistance and breathability, making them...
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...
The Best Hiking Daypacks
Determining the ideal daypack options and selecting the best one for you, your requirements, and your budget can be...
Top Pick
REI Co-op Traverse 35 Review
Comfort mixed with big pack features and functions in a daypack size makes this an easy choice for everyday adventure
Top Pick
NEMO Persist 30L All-Adventure Review
This highly capable bag is made with 300-900 denier nylon, making it a ridiculously durable daypack. When considering...
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