Alex Tzelnic

Alex Tzelnic

Alex Tzelnic is a teacher, coach, mindfulness director at Belmont Day School in Massachusetts, and freelance writer with expertise in gear and outdoor equipment.

As Alex puts it himself, "Engaging with the natural world is how so many of us find balance, bravery, and connection, and as the coach of my school's Outdoor Adventure and Mountain Biking teams I know how important it is to be well-equipped. I believe gear is both aspirational and inspirational. When I'm not teaching, coaching, or writing I'm attempting to transfer this passion for activity to my two kids, practicing mindfulness, or curling up with a book about someone else's adventure."

Alex also contributes to Outside, Yoga Journal, Trail Runner, The Daily Beast, Gear Junkie and works

He also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from Skidmore College and a Masters Degree in Mindfulness from Lesley University.


Recent articles by Alex

Glacier Glasses: History, How They Work & the 10 Best to Trust in the Wild

Glacier Glasses Guide: History, How They Work & The 10 Best to Trust in the Wild

Designed to protect eyes from the extreme solar radiation at high altitudes and UV reflections from snow, glacier glasses make function look stylish

Down Fill Power Guide: Everything to Know About Down Apparel Insulation

Down Fill Power Guide: Everything to Know About Down Apparel Insulation

Experts answer what down fill power means and explore goose down vs duck down, fill power vs fill weight, sustainable synthetic alternatives, and more

Chef Brad Leone on Early Days, Elk Steaks, and Treacherous Surf Breaks

In Search of Elk Steaks and Surf Breaks with Chef Brad Leone

A conversation with the culinary outdoorsman on getting started flipping burgers at a ski resort, tips for cooking outside, reincarnation, and more

Danner Joseph Sandal Review: Testing the Bootmaker's First Adventure Sandal

Legendary Bootmaker Danner Now Makes a Sandal. Here's How It Performs

We took the all-new hiking sandal for a test in the water and on land to see how the FIDLOCK buckle, leather straps, and Vibram outsole stack up

Inside the Rise of Hemp in Outdoor Apparel

Hemp is Hot: Why This Versatile Plant is Popping Up in More Outdoor Apparel

More and more outdoor gear companies are turning to this super plant for its breathability, strength, and eco-friendly growing practices

Why the Trails are Trending: A Deep Dive Into the Rise of Trail Sports

Why the Trails are Trending: A Deep Dive Into the Rise of Trail Sports

What data can and can’t tell us about the ongoing increase in interest and participation in trail running, gravel biking, and other trail activities

Is "Cotton Kills" Outdated Advice for Outdoor Adventure?

Could That Old Saying "Cotton Kills" Be Outdated Advice for Outdoor Adventure?

In a plastic-filled world, maybe it's time to challenge the idea that cotton is a poor material for hiking, camping, running, and exploring outside

8 Best Tote Backpacks for Travel and Everyday Use in 2024

The 8 Best Tote Backpacks for Travel and Everyday Use

From commuting to wandering foreign locales, these totepacks will help keep you organized and stylish during your adventures

The 9 Best Parkas for Men, According to Professional Adventurers

The 9 Best Parkas Ready to Tackle Every Kind of Winter Adventure

Adventure photographers Alex Strohl & Chris Burkard, Everest guide Garrett Madison, and more share their picks on the best winter jackets

Mountain Gazette Issue 200 Establishes a Path Forward for the Revived Rag

Mountain Gazette Issue 200 Establishes a Path Forward for the Revived Print Mag

The once legendary, twice shuttered magazine founded in 1966 is back to celebrate mountain life in all its sentimental and irreverent glory once again

The 12 Best Hiking Pants for Men in 2024

The 12 Best Stylish Men’s Hiking Pants for Casual Adventures & All-Weather Activities

Style meets function—and stretchy, rugged, water-repellent, cargo pocket-equipped designs—in these trail-worthy bottoms

Topo Designs x Danner Release Colorful, Wearable Collab for Fall

Topo Designs and Danner Join Forces for Limited-Edition Adventure Collection

For their fourth collaboration to date, the two outfitters bring a colorful palette to a range of limited-edition footwear and apparel for daily wear

The 10 Best Sunglasses for Any Adventure

The 10 Best Sunglasses for Hiking, Biking, Traveling & More

With removable side clips, vintage-inspired frames, and more, these shades have what you need for any adventure

Best Daypacks for Hiking: Our Top 12 Picks for 2024

The 12 Best Daypacks for Hiking & Short Adventures

A deep dive into the world of daypacks designed for short day hikes, quick mountain ascents, commuting around town, and everything in between

Oakley x Satisfy Drop Futuristic Eyewear and Apparel for Trail Running

Oakley x Satisfy Collaboration Blends Modern Performance with Throwback Vibes

The second round of collab apparel for trail running, mountain biking, and everyday wear hits digital shelves in characteristic style

The 13 Best Hiking Shirts of 2024, Tested & Approved

The 13 Best Trail-Ready Hiking Shirts of 2024

Lightweight trail tops that wick moisture, resist abrasion, protect you from the sun, and even supply style points