So this is probably my insecurities showing but I have an invisible disability that affects my walking and stamina. Also my body doesn’t regulate my temperature very well. I tell you all this bc when I go even on a small trail, I have a sun hat and a hydration backpack and hiking poles. If you were to see someone on the trail like that, would you think they are a try hard? Or not think about me at all? It won’t stop me but I do wonder sometimes.

edit: Thanks y’all I’m feeling better. Sometimes I’m in my own head too much for sure

  • OttersUp@beehaw.orgEnglish
    3·
    2 years ago

    I mostly wouldn’t notice. If I did think you had a lot of gear for the trail, I’d probably assume you were testing out new stuff — I’ve certainly carried poles or whatever else on trails where I didn’t really need them because I wanted to get used to them, make sure they worked for me, etc. before going on a more strenuous hike. It would not cross my mind to judge somebody for being prepared in whatever way works best for them!

  • goforliftoff@sh.itjust.worksEnglish
    3·
    2 years ago

    You do you, buddy. Honestly, when I’m on the trail I barely register folks who aren’t in my party (save the friendly wave / hello I try to offer). At the risk of sounding like an ass, I’ll fall back on the words of Don Draper: “I don’t think about you at all.”

    Seriously, though, hike your own hike and have fun. Life is too short to worry about the thoughts / opinions of someone you see for 10 seconds walking the other way.

  • Moonviola@lemmy.caEnglish
    2·
    2 years ago

    Like trying too hard to stay alive? Lol
    You hike exactly how I hike. I find poles keep my hands raised and prevents swelling, I hate the sun in my eyes and always wear a hat, and I get dehydrated very easily and always have my hydration pack accessible for instant water while I hike. I think only the ones that seem obviously unprepared for the hike may get questioned looks. But hike your own hike.