Michael Murphy's Outdoor Recreation Gear & Expert Recommendations
Rock Climbing Instructor and Business Owner
Philadelphia, PAIf it's worth doing, it's worth over-doing. -The Mythbusters, probably
Michael’s passion is to share the outdoors with anyone and everyone. Since 2018, he’s been working on honing his craft as an instructor. After helping to assist the rock climbing program at the summer camp he worked at, he received his AMGA Single Pitch Instructor certification. In March of 2020, he was ready to take over their climbing program. After two trips as the lead instructor, the pandemic shut everything down. In December 2023, he recertified as an AMGA Single Pitch instructor, and in 2025, he completed his Rock Guide Course. He has explored the sheer granite in the Wasatch, Potrero Chico’s soaring limestone cliffs, the Wind River Range, the Tetons, and many of the best routes the East offers. He is beyond psyched to get nerdy and talk about the nitty-gritty of gear, anchoring techniques, and all things climbing. When he’s not climbing, he’s usually hanging out with his wife, Maddy, or playing video games with his friends.
Discipline: Outdoor Recreation
Specialty: Rock Climbing, Hiking, Backpacking, Being Stoked about anything outdoors
Incredibly average, which means that you too can do stuff like me. Onsighted Epinephrine in Vegas in 12 hours, car to car. Walked the entire Maryland AT in a 16 hours. ~43 miles.
Expert Gear Picks from Michael Murphy
Expert outdoor recreation gear recommendations from Michael Murphy, Rock Climbing Instructor and Business Owner, based in Philadelphia, PA.
Michael Murphy's Clothing
I've been in the outdoor industry professionally for 12 years, and an avid outdoorsman since I was old enough to be outside. These items are tried and true.
Michael Murphy recommends the Darn Tough Darn Tough Men's Stride Micro Crew Ultralightweight Socks
Michael Murphy recommends the Backcountry Alpenglow Hooded Shirt - Men's
Michael Murphy recommends the Line of Trade Utility Pant
Michael Murphy recommends the Patagonia Men's R1® Fleece Pullover Hoody
Michael Murphy recommends the Black Diamond Men's Access Down 2.0 Hoody
