Mary Andino is a regular contributor to GearJunkie. A history PhD turned journalist, she has been writing about backpacking, hiking, climbing, and gear for years. She is passionate about growing the sport of climbing and coaches the next generation of athletes at her local gym. During the fall and spring seasons, you’ll find her at Jackson Falls in southern Illinois, her favorite crag.
Topics of Expertise: Climbing, Backpacking, Camping, Hiking, National Parks, Land Access Years in This Expertise: 6+ Number/Types of Products Expert Has Tested: Packs ranging from 20L to 75L, ultralight sleeping pads, over 30 different climbing harnesses, and the newest climbing shoes to hit the market.
Education & Certifications
Education: BA in History, College of William & Mary. MA and PhD in History, Washington University in St. Louis Years of Writing: 5+ Previous Publications:Climbing, Backpacker, and Terrain.
A Word from Mary Andino
As a California native who grew up in a family of Boy Scouts, the outdoors have always been central to my life. Nothing makes me feel more powerful and confident than going on solo backpacking adventures. Since falling in love with climbing in my mid-20s, I’ve become a weekend warrior who is always at the crag, working on a sport climbing project. My two senior dogs, Olive and Bailey, are my constant outdoor travel companions.
The PAKA Mayu Ultralight jacket is warm, comfortable, packable, and insulated with the brand’s proprietary blend of traceable alpaca fiber and synthetic fill.
