Let’s Talk about Your Gear
Full disclosure, some of you are not going to like what I have to say, but it needs to me said.
You’re paying too much for your hiking and backpacking gear! There, I’ve said it. Still with me? Ok, now that it’s out there and you’ve had some time to digest, let’s get into it a little more.
If you’re anything like me, you can’t help yourself when you hear about a new hiking or backpacking gear. The thrill of seeing a new pack or learning about a new tent is just too much to resist. Perhaps you’ve been binge watching gear reviews or gone down the rabbit hole of trying to decide what micro-fleece really is the best.
Every year and each season the outdoor gear industry presents us with the latest and greatest innovations in gear, tech, and apparel. To add to the fun, your favorite influencers come out with their ‘top gear of the year’ or ‘5 must have items’ videos, and we can’t help but binge watch each and every one of them. The next thing you know, it’s 3am and you’re now logged into your favorite outfitters site seeing if you can afford to purchase that new puffy jacket that you’re now convinced will make your hiking experience so much better.
Don’t get me wrong, I love those video just as much as the next guy. heck, I’ve made those videos and will continue to do so! But let’s be honest with ourselves. Will a new water bladder or UL headlamp really improve our hike? Or will it just scratch that impulse buy itch?
Here’s the truth my friends. Not all gear is created equal, and yes, some gear will improve your comfort and safety on the trail but chances are you don’t need it. Modern inovations have dramatically improved hiking gear over the past decade. the gear we grew up with is not the gear of today. Backpacking gear is lighter, more comfortable, and technologically more advanced than anything we’ve seen in the past.
Because of those advancements, we have reached a point that we are no longer seeing huge improvements from season to season or even year to year. the improvements are micro-improvements which means, last year’s fleece is probably just as good as this year’s. Last year’s backpack may be 10grams heavier but it’s still just as comfortable.
Then there’s the whole other converation about brand name verses generic. Often times, the generic products are made in the same factory as the brand name and can be purchased for a fraction of the price. If you’re wanting top quality handmade gear, I highly recomend you turn to your local cottage gear companies. This will allow you to not only support a local small business but also have th epeace of mind knowing that the gear your purchasing was crafted by fellow adventurers who know and undersatnd what you really need.
If you’re just starting out, or are on a budget, don’t feel like you need to spend top dollar on high end gear. For most weekend adventurers, a good pair of shoes, a comfortable pack, and a reliable communicaion devise are all that you really need. Once you’ve developed your personal style then you can look at supplementing your kit with key items that you know you’ll love.
Check out this week’s video for a more in-depth discussion.
