Mike Klein

ADVENTURER | PHOTOGRAPHER
OVERLAND

@kraken_defender

Mike Klein is a San Diego–based Land Rover enthusiast shaped by a childhood split between Southern California and Baja, where long days exploring remote coastline forged his belief in building vehicles capable of reaching new places and empty breaks. Since the platform’s launch, he pushes the New Defender well beyond its comfort settings and tests gear that can take real abuse — a smart move when you drive a brand legendary for capability and equally legendary for shop time. That approach has earned ambassador roles with other leading brands including FSR, Expedition One, Warn, Factor55, Diode Dynamics, Lucky8, and others.

Outside the driver’s seat, Mike is a PR pro, licensed 107 drone pilot, and lifelong photographer whose work spans rugged landscapes, global expeditions, and underwater environments. When he’s not on trail, he’s fishing, diving, motosurfing or hiking with his dog Darwin. Whether traveling abroad or heading south for long‑range overlanding, he relies on Leitner gear — which has proven critical for someone known for ambitious lines and the recoveries that usually follow.