Over a Decade of Mountain Experience
Founder Kailey Mckenna
Growing up on the east coast my long standing dream was to be a fashion designer. Dreaming of working on runways, couture and the fashion industry. This reality quickly changed as I traded high heels for crampons and designer purses for backpacks and a lifestyle of living in the mountains.
After relocating to Colorado, I discovered my love for backcountry skiing, mountaineering, climbing and trail running. Not long after this shift I dedicated my personal and professional goals toward making a life and career out of being in the mountains. I have worked in the outdoor industry for over a decade as a guide, educator and administer across the mountain west.
During this time I have seen firsthand how overwhelming preparing for an expedition, climbing trip or a ski vacation can be. Having the right gear makes all the difference in the world, and I love helping clients achieve success in the mountains with dedicated preparation.
Striving to make this process easier has been a main focus of mine as guide and administrator. Feeling prepared, comfortable and confident are our goals at Elevated Gear Consulting. We will strive at every step to elevate your preparation process.
Mountain Guide Meets Personal Stylist
Having spent numerous years working and enjoying mountain activities, I grappled with the desire to conform and blend in with my co-workers, especially in a male-dominated industry. This internal struggle led me to don all-black, baggy clothing, attempting to assimilate into the industry's prevailing aesthetic. However, this choice eroded my confidence and authenticity, making me question if wearing brighter colors or clothes that suited my body shape would compromise how others perceived my competence.
It dawned on me that my love for the mountains stemmed from the authenticity it brought out in me. Realizing the need to embrace my true self, I sought a more authentic expression, particularly in my attire. I began terming outfits that resonated with my authenticity and boosted my confidence as my "power suits" – after all, who doesn't want to feel like a superhero in the mountains? While clothing is only a small external facet of our identity, it lays a crucial foundation for confidence in the mountains. Looking and feeling authentic empowers us to make choices aligned with our goals.
Upon making this shift in my outdoor wardrobe, I discovered my genuine place and voice in my mountain pursuits. With refined packing systems and layered clothing that catered to both technical and authentic needs, I was able to redirect more of my energy towards advancing my mountain objectives, such as completing a technical first ski descent in the North Selkirks and excuting a 40 ski traverse of the Teton Range.
Expedition Ready
As you prepare for your next expedition we will be there each step of the way.