The outdoor industry has more than enough good-looking guys to enjoy, but there’s something special about a man who can carry those looks into fatherhood. To celebrate Father’s Day this week, I’ve compiled a list of the sexiest men to ever change a diaper. These dads are living proof that the more mountains you climb, the hotter you are.
1. Let’s kick things off with the one DILF who could rule them all: Jeremy Collins.
Age: 38
Children: Zion Ray, 8 and Sela Muir, 4
What he’s known for: Being artsy AF. He’s the creative genius behind the artwork featured by hundreds of magazines, film festivals and outdoor brands. Last year, he launched Meridian Line, his own clothing company. Oh, and he’s also a badass climber who has established first ascents around the world. Check out his latest book and film project DRAWN.
How he balances work and family:
“By mastering disciplined spontaneity. I try to give everything I do 100% and in some ways that works. I call it the love paradox. Knowing that each pursuit makes the others richer helps. The more time I spend with the kids, the more I cherish my time on adventures and vice versa.”
Favorite moments of fatherhood so far:
“Maybe the exact opposite of their moms- the moments our kids take calculated risks that I know pushes their preconceived boundaries. Zion just had his first lead climb recently which just so happened to be a first ascent, and last summer he did his first cliff jump at around 30 feet high. Sela regularly rides my skateboard with me saying “faster dadda faster.” Seeing them weigh risks and make informed decisions with minimum input from me is huge.”
Important lessons he wants his kids to learn:
“Be thoughtful. Be grateful. Be Brave.”
Advice for new dads:
“It’s not about you.”
Why he’s a hot dad: He’s a loving husband, great father and a total dreamboat. He’s super accomplished, humble and the tiny specks of silver that now sparkle across his facial hair give him that highly-coveted dignified DILF look. His enigmatic, sapphire eyes will stare straight through your soul, causing you to forget where you are and what you’re even doing with your life.
2. Next we have Jeremy Jones because apparently that name is blessed.
Age: 40
Children: Mia, 10 and Cass, 7
What he’s known for: Big mountain snowboarding and saving the environment. In 2007, he founded Protect Our Winters (POW), a nonprofit that mobilizes the snow sports community to fight global warming. Two years later, he launched Jones Snowboards, his own line of snowboards tailored for big mountain and backcountry riding.
Why he’s a hot dad: He has that sexy brooding bad boy look that resurrects my teen angst. But his passion for making a difference in this world is probably the hottest thing about him. He’s traveled to D.C. to meet with Congress and other key players in the climate and energy debate to lobby for a sustainable future. Also, he literally walks the talk: he doesn’t use helicopters and lifts, opting instead to hike as his sole means of transportation on the slopes.
3. And then there is Timothy Olson, who just made me lose my train of thought completely.
Age: 31
Children: Tristan, 2
What he’s known for: Sprinting up and down mountains faster than everyone else. He’s the two-time winner and record holder of the Western States 100 Mile race, with numerous other ultra-running titles under his belt. If you want to keep up with his latest adventures, you can check out his blog here.
How he balances work and family:
“It’s a challenge but my family always comes first. My wife and son are extremely understanding and supportive of my career. My wife and I balance watching our son, so some days it’s her day to run longer and other days it’s mine, I throw in some BOB stroller runs, hikes with my family, short runs while he naps and treadmill workouts to make it all balance. We all love being in the outdoors, so family hikes turn into great mountain adventures that works as some bonus training and also reminds me of how blessed I am and that my family and spending time with them is the most important.”
Favorite moments of fatherhood so far:
“Just watching him be and grow into the human he is, it’s pretty special to just sit back and watch him do his thing; making jokes, telling stories, playing, it’s pretty magical to watch. My favorite aspects of fatherhood are watching his personality and humor come out and watching him run, climb and play in the mountains.”
Important lessons he wants his kids to learn:
“To follow his truth, to be and love himself; he’s a unique and special person and I want him to figure out what he’s passionate about. I hope to just step out of his way and let him become his true self. I want him to learn the consequences of his actions and how being present, conscious and aware in each moment can position him to make positive choices for himself, others and the environment.”
Advice for new dads:
“Step out of their way, they know much more than people give them credit. Yes, it’s important to make sure your child is safe, but let them make mistakes and learn from their actions. They watch everything you do and pick every little thing up, be aware of the example you lead, be loving, compassionate and truthful and let them pick it up from there.”
Why he’s a hot dad: He’s basically a bronzed God who wears short shorts for a living. His hair game is so strong that you’ll be daydreaming of those luscious blonde locks flowing in the wind and resisting the urge to bury your face in his beard.
Not to mention he can outrun a herd of wild animals. Oh, and the fact that he spends the majority of his existence shirtless.
NEVER STOP DOING THIS, TIMMY. JUST GO AHEAD AND BURN ALL OF YOUR SHIRTS. IT’S FINE.
4. But Tommy Caldwell may just be the best father figure…
Age: 37
Children: Fitz, 2
What he’s known for: Climbing things other people can’t. He’s established some of the hardest routes in the country and free climbed 12 routes on El Capitan. On January 14, the whole world was watching as he and Kevin Jorgeson completed the Dawn Wall, the most difficult big wall ascent in climbing history (even President Obama wanted a piece of the action). In 2014, he climbed across the iconic ridgeline of Cerro Fitz Roy and its satellite peaks in southern Patagonia with Alex Honnold. You can see all the action of their epic first ascent this fall when Big Up Productions and Sender Films release A Line Across the Sky.
How he balances work and family:
“The balance part is a constant struggle. My trips away are shorter and my time spent climbing has to be more efficient. But being a dad has forced me to step up my game and that has been really good for my career. I strive to be a good example every day for the values I want to instill in little Fitz. Climbing embodies those values.”
Favorite aspects of fatherhood so far:
“Being a father brings everything into focus. It makes you view the world the way you would hope you kid views the world. It helps you to see things with wonder and joy.”
Important lessons he wants his kids to learn:
“Curiosity, optimism, perseverance, and to dream big.”
Why he’s a hot dad: He is the big wall babe of our generation. One look at his lats will have you questioning why ‘dad bod’ was ever a thing. He’s definitely a family man and it’s not unusual for his wife and son to join him on international adventures. But don’t get too thirsty – him and Becca are the perfect couple and you will never be as happy or good-looking as them:
Seriously, Becca’s Instagram makes me like I’m only one Patagucci shopping spree away from the life I’ve always deserved.
So, little Fitz, should you ever find yourself looking for a traveling nanny, PLEASE CALL ME AS SOON AS YOU LEARN HOW TO USE THE PHONE.
5. Josh Wharton is a badass climber with a secret chalk bag full of CHISELED JAWLINE.
Age: 36
Children: Hera, 1
What he’s known for: Being an alpine climbing legend and putting up notable first ascents in Pakistan, Patagonia and Peru. He’s climbed more than 80 different routes in the Black Canyon and is the three-time winner of the Ouray Ice Festival mixed climbing competition.
How he balances work and family:
“Although climbing full-time means I travel quite a bit, I also have a lot of flexibility when I’m home. During the school year (My wife teaches 3rd grade here in Estes Park) I watch Hera every Thursday and Friday, and she goes to daycare Monday through Wednesday. This gives me time to train, climb outside, and spend plenty of time with Hera. I’ve also tried to shorten the trips I do take. Productive 10 day trips, rather than extended multi-month affairs work best for all of us right now.”
Important lessons he wants his kids to learn:
“Kindness and respect; not just towards other people, but towards animals and the environment as well. Estes is full of wildlife, and some of my favorite moments with Hera have been standing quietly with her in my arms watching a deer, squirrel, or even a insect. The wonder in her face is amazing, and it reminds me to connect with the natural world.”
Why he’s a hot dad: The combination of his thirst for adventure and those big brown eyes might just leave him climbing his way into your dreams. But that jawline, though. THAT JAWLINE THOUGH. He’s a caring father, which is evident in the film The Black Binder where he holds his daughter Hera throughout the entirety of his interview. Here they are stabbing a crampon through your heart because they’re so freaking adorable together:
6. Chris Davenport, everyone. You’re welcome.
Age: 44
Children: Stian, 13, Topher, 12 and Archer, 7
What he’s known for: Basically, everything. He’s a legend among the ski community. He has numerous first descents of peaks around the world. In 2007, he became the first person to ski all 54 of Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks in less than a year. He’s produced and starred in dozens of films and written several books. He’s also a TV commentator for ESPN and ABC Sports.
Why he’s a hot dad: His boyish good looks have survived decades of near-death experiences. He’s an extremely innovative, motivated individual with a smile that makes you want to bask in his paternal glow. He can even make a goggles tan look hot:
7. Chris Burkard, please spend more time in front of the camera.
Age: 29
Children: Jeremiah, 3 and Forest, 1
What he’s known for: Photo hunting around some of the most remote locations on the planet while turning traditional surf photography on its head. His Instagram is filled with the most stunning adventure photography in existence and more than three-quarters of a million people would agree. He’s also released a few coffee table books and viral videos. You can check out his TED Talk here.
How he balances work and family:
“Thats the toughest thing in the world. I try my best to really be home when I am home give 100% of my time to my kids. It helps living a little remote. I really work to make family time a priority so that when I am gone I know I did my best to give my kids the time they needed. I think also just working hard to make them feel like they are along for the ride is huge. They are such a big part of my life and I like to let them know where I am and what I am up to.”
Favorite aspects of fatherhood so far:
“Just watching your kids grow, feeling love I have never felt. To have kids is to really love something. It’s crazy, my wife gets to know them for 9 months and it’s a special connection, but I just meet them all of the sudden and it’s instant; you know right away you will do anything to protect this awesome little being. It’s unlike anything else I have ever experienced.”
Important lessons he wants his kids to learn:
“I don’t want them to grow up with some inherent fear off the unknown. I want to keep that incredible childish spark and curiosity as long as they can.”
Advice for new dads:
“Take it slow, put your phone down and don’t worry about tomorrow. Just soak in the good times because when the hectic screaming and 2 a.m. diaper changes come, you are gonna need something good to fall back on haha. Also, just talk to your kids. As much as you can.”
Why he’s a hot dad: First of all, just look at that face. Second of all, he leads a life that looks like it was pulled straight from the pages of a Patagonia catalog. At 29, he’s the youngest dad on our list, yet he’s accomplished more than most people would over several lifetimes. He’s a self-taught photographer who has taken the outdoor industry by storm. Hustling is hot, especially in such a competitive work environment. Thanks for the daily inspiration, Chris. And for your perfect smile. Also, please call me the minute you decide to get into boudoir photography.
8. Then we have Jimmy Chin, who is just a straight-up fox.
Age: 42
Children: Marina, 1
What he’s known for: Being an award-wining photographer/filmmaker who has led dozens of climbing, ski-mountaineering and exploratory expeditions around the globe. He’s one of the few people to ever climb and ski Mt. Everest from the summit. Not only have his photos been featured in Outside Magazine, but his beautiful mug has graced the cover several times in the past decade. Check out his most recent feature documentary Meru, which won the audience choice award at Sundance Film Festival.
Why he’s a hot dad: He’s strong, fearless and radiates positive energy everywhere he goes. Unfortunately, he has to hide that buff bod of his underneath a ton of layers since the majority of his adventures take place in frigid terrain. In Meru, he managed to retain his sexiness, despite the fact that he was constantly battling frostbite while on the brink of starvation. Plus, he can totally rock a man bun.
9. Sonnie Trotter Yes. OK. Sold.
Age: 35
Children: Tatum Rein, 1
What he’s known for: Mostly sport and trad climbing, establishing hundreds of first ascents throughout his career. He was the first Canadian to win a US National and to climb 5.14c and 5.14d. Him and Matt Segal made history in 2006 when they free climbed The Shadow 5.13b, The Grand Wall 5.13b and The Black Dyke 5.13b on the Stawamus Chief in a single 12-hour push.
Why he’s a hot dad: He’s a rugged Canadian hero. His body is in peak physical condition and he’s good-looking enough to pull off the mustache + headband combo.
Here he is, casually defying death while rocking that classic dadcore style:
10. Conrad Anker is basically the George Clooney of Alpinism.
Age: 52
Children: Max, 26, Sam, 22 and Isaac, 18
What he’s known for: Conquering mountains that are too long, steep and technically challenging for mere mortals. He’s achieved the seemingly impossible, putting up first ascents in the mountainous regions of Alaska, Antarctica, Patagonia and the Himalayas. He’s the team leader for The North Face and serves on the board of the Conservation Alliance, the Rowell Fund for Tibet and the Alex Lowe Charitable Foundation. He’s also BFFs with fellow hot dad Jimmy Chin and you can see them in action together in the feature documentary Meru.
Why he’s a hot dad: Besides the fact that he’s matured from sexy ginger to a grade-A silver fox, he’s one of the manliest men to ever grace the planet. He’s well-spoken and carries himself with a profound sense of wisdom from spending years learning lessons in the alpine. He is definitely the dad I would most want to give me tough yet worldly advice on life and love.
Soon-To-Be Dads
When a hot guy has a baby, he mutates into a DILF. Here are the top three mountain men we should all look forward to going through this transition:
1. John Dickey, who has that charming boy next door thing going on.
Age: 40
What he’s known for: Climbing, storytelling and taking photos for some of the biggest names in the outdoor industry. His latest short The Black Binder featured good friend and fellow DILF Josh Wharton and recently premiered at Telluride Mountainfilm.
Due date: Expecting Genevieve on October 22
What he’s most looking forward to about fatherhood:
“Making her smile and laugh.”
How he plans to balance work and family:
“Focus on one thing at a time and give everything the energy it deserves.”
Important lessons he wants his kids to learn:
“Happiness is a choice.”
Why he’s going to be a hot dad: If you think he looks good holding that puppy, just wait until it’s a tiny baby he’s cradling in his arms. Not only is he strong, fast and savvy enough to document notable international first ascents, but he also has the added challenge of carrying the extra camera gear weight. Plus, he has dreamy green eyes and clearly loves animals:
2. Pep Fujas, who is a total backcountry babe.
Age: 32
What he’s known for: Growing up in a yurt and becoming one of the biggest players in the world of freeskiing. He was one of the first skiers to land switch in powder, and he has his own signature trick called the Pep Roll. He’s appeared in more than 20 films and travels the world to explore other cultures through skiing.
Due date: Expecting Zoe Gardner on June 29
What he’s most looking forward to about fatherhood:
“Sharing my love for the outdoors and the natural world with her while teaching her valuable skills and watching her grow.”
How he plans to balance work and family:
“Planning and adaptation will be paramount in raising my child and staying close to my partner. I’m very lucky in that my career is pliable. There are obligations that are somewhat out of my control but for the most part I am the master of my schedule, which will allow me to plan and balance. I realize that what I have in mind is very idealistic but I plan on achieving it and think it’s realistic. The plan is to be working on projects half of every month during the ski season while spending the other half of the time at home being with my family. My partner Claire works a full-time job that isn’t very flexible at this current juncture but we are hoping that in time her and Zoe will be able to travel with me on some of my adventures.”
Important lessons he wants his kids to learn:
“Respect, responsibility and balance.”
Why he’s going to be a hot dad: Watch any footage of Pep and it becomes evident that his style and confidence is unrivaled. His smile is brilliant and his hair flow is on fleek due to his ability to appear perfect at all times.
3. That awkward moment when you see Andy Mann and your pants fall off.
Age: 35
Due date: August 1 – “We’re planning for a natural home birth and letting the gender be a surprise.”
What he’s known for: Taking photos in exotic locations, climbing, filmmaking, swimming with sharks and writing and performing his own music. He also has his own signature line of Mountainsmith camera bags. You can follow all of his latest adventures on Instagram.
What he’s most looking forward to about fatherhood:
“I’m looking forward to having family adventures and creating memories that last a lifetime. There are so many lessons in adventure and travel and I’m keen to let that be an early impact. I’ve always wanted to be father who inspires and a person who is looked to for strength, love and compassion. I look forward to being a kick-ass dad. I’ve wanted to have a family since I can remember.”
How he plans to balance work and family:
“I don’t think there is an easy way. It’s all about teamwork. Decision will be made differently for sure. Orien is my greatest support and partner, so I think, tighter, I can balance it. Family will come first but my wife and I both agree that we’re bringing a companion onto our journey and are comfortable continuing to achieve our personal goals and needs for adventure. I’m inspired by families who parent this way. I see more (awesome) family expeditions in the future!”
Important lessons he wants his kids to learn:
“Respect, for people of this earth, no matter the differences. Respect for the earth and the balance. Respect for one’s self and ability to change the world with a single hand.”
Why he’s going to be a hot dad: Despite being a rugged outdoorsmen, his vest/hat/scarf game is always on point, reminding us all that he has major potential to be a sexy college professor one day. That mischievous smirk? I can’t even.
Here is a photo that proves just how adorable he is with tiny humans. This is good because JESUS, HE IS HOT and humanity should be grateful for his contribution to the gene pool:
Now let’s just end with a shirtless Tommy Caldwell, Josh Wharton and Sonnie Trotter in Sicily.
Have your ovaries exploded yet?
