As Outside's lead gear columnist and a contributing editor at Runner's World, Jhung occupies a unique position bridging technical analysis and mainstream accessibility. Her work focuses on three key pillars:
Jhung's career trajectory mirrors the evolution of outdoor sports media itself:
"The updated Nike Vomero isn't just a shoe - it's a revolution in energy return that makes technical trails feel like springboards," Jhung wrote in her 2024 analysis, capturing both technical specs and runner experience.
This 2024 magnum opus redefined gear journalism through its rigorous methodology. Jhung coordinated 42 testers across 14 states, tracking metrics from sole wear patterns to impact absorption. Her team's discovery of unexpected performers under $100 caused major manufacturers to rethink pricing strategies. The article's "terrain-specific recommendations" framework became an industry standard for comparative reviews.
Jhung's 2023 psychological approach to endurance training blended behavioral science with personal anecdotes. By introducing concepts like "micro-adventure routing" and "achievement stacking," she helped redefine post-pandemic running motivation. The piece's downloadable training templates were shared 18,000+ times within the first month.
Her 2025 deep dive into carbon-plate trail shoes settled the debate about their safety on technical terrain. Through slow-motion gait analysis and interviews with orthopedic specialists, Jhung identified the 6° heel-to-toe drop as the "sweet spot" for injury prevention. The article's "Stability Index" rating system is now used by three major gear retailers.
Jhung's gear reviews always center on how real people interact with equipment. A successful pitch might highlight: "Our new hydration pack features a magnetic sternum strap that single-parent trail runners can operate one-handed while managing toddlers." This aligns with her Outside column's emphasis on practical innovation, as seen in her 2024 piece on kid-friendly adventure gear.
Her Runner's World article on running's role in Indigenous land preservation rituals demonstrates interest in cultural dimensions. Pitches could explore: "How urban trail networks are revitalizing Native American trading routes" or "The rise of running-based grief rituals in military families."
Jhung's shoe testing methodologies show her appetite for quantifiable insights. Manufacturers might propose: "Our 12-month study tracking 500 runners' gait patterns reveals unexpected correlations between lacing techniques and IT band health."
With her focus on diverse testing panels, pitches should emphasize inclusive design. Example: "Our new hiking pole grip was developed with input from arthritis patients and features adaptive pressure sensors."
Her Yoga Journal collaboration on runner-specific yoga sequences shows interest in cross-disciplinary approaches. A physical therapist might pitch: "How backcountry ski techniques are informing new Parkinson's rehabilitation protocols."
Recognized for developing the first standardized diversity rubric in gear testing, this award cemented Jhung's role in pushing the industry toward inclusive product development. Her protocol now influences testing panels at 7 major publications.
This peer-nominated award celebrated Jhung's ability to make technical shoe design accessible to casual runners. Judges particularly noted her use of cooking analogies to explain midsole foam densities.
While not a formal award, Jhung's persistent coverage of recyclable trail shoe materials was credited with accelerating three manufacturers' eco-friendly production timelines by 18-24 months.
We tested over 75 trail shoes across hundreds of miles of rocky singletrack, sandy paths, and muddy forests. These 14 stood out as the top performers.
How to Enjoy Running So You Keep Clocking Miles
These off-road-ready supershoes provide pop while adapting to tippy terrain
At PressContact, we aim to help you discover the most relevant journalists for your PR efforts. If you're looking to pitch to more journalists who write on Sports, here are some other real estate journalist profiles you may find relevant:
