Just realized most gear review sites skip the long term wear and tear

Honestly, I think people give too much credit to reviews that only show gear right out of the box. Tbh, everyone seems to focus on how stuff works on the first trip. Ngl, I got a rain jacket that got great scores online, but after a few hikes, the seams started to leak. My camping stove was called reliable in videos, but it clogged up after months of use. It bugs me because real camping means using gear over and over in all sorts of weather. Reviews should talk more about how things last, not just how they look new.

3 comments

3 Comments

lucas_moore2mo ago

Even used gear photos only show wear, not how gear performs long-term.

wilson.piper2mo ago

Check used gear listings for photos, that's the only real long-term test you'll find online.

diana_thompson381mo ago

My buddy bought a used backpack that looked fine in the photos. The fabric was clean, no rips. After one hike the hip belt padding was totally flat, just a thin piece of cloth left. You can't see compressed foam in a picture. He was stuck carrying all the weight on his shoulders for ten miles.