AJ Cutler, a life dedicated to the outdoors

AJ Cutler, a lifelong sports enthusiast, loves to ski, mountain bike, and hike a lot throughout the year. Originally from Idaho Falls (ID), she moved to Salt Lake City, Utah, specifically to experience the outdoors to the fullest. When she’s not outdoors, she also enjoys cooking “plant based” recipes, buying hand-me-downs, and sharing her life through social media.

2020 was a tough year for travelers and always looking for an adventure, how was it for you?

Honestly, during 2020 I explored as much as I did in previous years. Since I live in Salt Lake City, a city with a strong sports and outdoor enthusiast community, I was able to camp, hike, ski, climb, bike, and more without much trouble. I live within a 3 hour drive of many incredible places, so it’s been easy to explore while staying close to home.

How did your passion for sports and mountains come about?

Probably from my family and friends. Being surrounded by so many people who live and appreciate the outdoors, I eventually began to love it too.

Also, I think a huge motivator for me is social media. I see beautiful places near me and immediately want to visit them. I also love documenting and personally sharing these adventures, which is an extra motivation in itself.

You’ve been in so many places this year, tell us some special places in Utah!

I have lived in Salt Lake City, Utah for over 2 years now and until now I have never skied at the infamous Alta Resort in Little Cottonwood Canyon and going there for the first time this year turned out to be amazing, especially with the spectacular snow conditions! However, I must admit that I also love skiing in the areas surrounding my town, such as Brighton Resort, Solitude Resort, and Snowbird. In the summer, I enjoy mountain biking close to home following various trails around the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. Another great location is Park City, while my favorite place to train is the Trailside Bike Park.

If there was no more snow and winters, what would you do?

I would be very sad if I could no longer ski or enjoy the beauty of winter. However, I have plenty of other activities I could indulge in without the snow. Without a doubt I could train even more with mountain biking and become better at it.

“There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing,” how true is that phrase?

I think this phrase comes more from the preparation you have and not the choice of clothing. Whenever you venture out, it is increasingly important to be as informed as possible about the risks. Pack an extra pair of socks. Don’t forget the rain gear. Preparation is key for any outdoor activity.

You are the first to be a sustainable and nutrition conscious person, how did you come to make this choice?

I have slowly changed my diet over the past 5 years to become what I believe is sustainable for my body and the planet. While I am not an extremist, I do believe that daily choices can help you become a more conscious consumer in today’s society. It doesn’t have to be a choice between tofu or chicken. It can be a simple decision between packaged carrots and fresh produce from the local farmer’s market.

You had the opportunity to test Rewoolution merino wool, how did you find it?

I really liked Rewoolution’s garments! I loved that they were lightweight, but still warm and breathable. I also fell in love with the variety of options I had between garments, like being able to switch between long sleeves and short sleeve versions. Because of this feature I was able to get so many different styles that were functional for everyday life and sports.

A message to all the girls who would like to follow your lifestyle?

I think it’s important for younger girls, who want to participate in perhaps male-dominated sports like skiing and cycling, to know that they don’t have to be the “lady” on duty within a group of guys. There are so many amazing women out there who go the extra mile and it is important to know that they are not the competition. They are there to help you and motivate you to do new things.

How do you see yourself in 5 years?

I don’t care where I am in 5 years, the important thing is that I can happily live a life where I can do the things I love with the people I love.

“There are so many amazing women out there who go the extra mile and it is important to know that they are not the competition. They are there to help you and motivate you to do new things.”