What are your thoughts on luxury brands venturing into hiking gear?

Rafe said:
Absolutely not. Good outdoor gear like MSR or Hilleberg is pricey due to its high quality, not just because of the brand.

How much more would a luxury brand cost, do you think?

@Tyler
For example, a luxury brand tent could cost thousands compared to a few hundred for a top-quality traditional tent.

Rafe said:
@Tyler
For example, a luxury brand tent could cost thousands compared to a few hundred for a top-quality traditional tent.

That’s quite a difference. Thanks for the info!

Luxury outdoor gear might be stylish and made from high-quality materials but often, it puts fashion first, making it less suitable for serious outdoor activities.

Tyler said:
Luxury outdoor gear might be stylish and made from high-quality materials but often, it puts fashion first, making it less suitable for serious outdoor activities.

That’s exactly what I was getting at. Functionality should come first in outdoor gear.

@Zen
Right, luxury isn’t necessary for outdoor activities unless you’re just after the look.

Tyler said:
@Zen
Right, luxury isn’t necessary for outdoor activities unless you’re just after the look.

Exactly, it’s all about being practical in the great outdoors! :joy:

Many luxury outdoor products end up unused and eventually thrown away.

Zion said:
Many luxury outdoor products end up unused and eventually thrown away.

It’s a waste when you think about the environmental impact.

It’s disappointing to see once-affordable brands become so expensive.

Rory said:
It’s disappointing to see once-affordable brands become so expensive.

The shift from accessible to luxury really changes how we see these brands.

I’m out when brands choose fashion over their original outdoor focus.

Mal said:
I’m out when brands choose fashion over their original outdoor focus.

It’s sad to see brands lose focus on what made them great in the first place.

Luxury brands in the outdoor space often feel more like lifestyle accessories than functional gear.

Huxley said:
Luxury brands in the outdoor space often feel more like lifestyle accessories than functional gear.

Can you expand on that?

Luxury gear often ends up being too precious to actually use outdoors. It’s more for show than practical use.

Teo said:
Luxury gear often ends up being too precious to actually use outdoors. It’s more for show than practical use.

That seems counterintuitive for gear that’s meant to be used outdoors.

If you’re serious about outdoor activities, stick with trusted outdoor brands.

Wray said:
If you’re serious about outdoor activities, stick with trusted outdoor brands.

That’s my plan, quality gear from reliable brands is the way to go!

Luxury brands target occasional outdoorsy types who value style over function.