We all lead different lives, we all do things differently and we all have different preferences. What a boring world it would be if we were identical clones. Yet when it comes to backpacking, there is a group of people, mercifully small, who believe that things should be done their way and only their way. Whether it’s Paramo (for or against), trail shoes (ditto), meths stoves, tarps, etc., etc. , there are those out there who suggest their preferences are intrinsically superior to the choices of others.
I want to state categorically, that I am not in that camp. I share my preferences and choices with you because they might be helpful in forming your own views. The fact that I prefer mid boots with liners doesn’t mean that I look down on those that chose to use unlined trail shoes. I respect their choice, but I’ve made a different selection for my own reasons.
I’m only writing this because occasionally people think I’m evangelising one way of doing things and that my way is the “right way”. I’m not. I sincerely hope that you don’t come up with the same set of answers to the choices that you face. It’s more fun and more rewarding to come up with your own answers than blindly follow someone else.
I also want to say that I value the comments that people make on this blog. It all adds to the knowledge base and many are helpful. I’m sure that they are helpful to other readers as well. I do try to reply to them if appropriate. Please don’t take offence if I disagree, it’s only a hobby. Thanks for reading.
blogpackinglight 
I’ve never found your blog ‘preachy’. You’ve got an eye for detail which makes some of your observations particularly valuable. Doesn’t mean I agree (privately) with everything you say but you’ve got a great view on things which makes this blog worth reading. Keep it up!
Thanks. I appreciate the encouragement 🙂
Why worry Robin. We all use different kit. We try it, keep it, or move-on. Share you experience. Try new kit, and if its right stick with it. Explaining why, or why you moved on all helps people to make choices.
I tried Paramo and don’t rate it. Others will rave about it. Share each and let people hear the different views and then draw their own conclusions.
Exactly. What works for some doesn’t work for others.
I love reading your blog. Don’t change a thing!
Thanks
Hike your own hike Robin. I always feel that it doesn’t matter how you do it, just go out and do it. If people can learn from bloggers experience – great but I don’t subscribe to buying gear just because that is the latest tend.
Exactly 🙂
Well said! Cheers from Australia
Robin, I’ve always enjoyed reading your blog mate and not once did I ever feel you was preaching in any shape or form. I’d have thought any one who popped on by to have a look through would be assertive enough to figure things out for themselves – much like with anything in life.
I wholeheartedly echo Mark’s comment too. 🙂
And I must admit, I admire and am always intrigued by your ‘messing about’ with shelters too 😉 In fact I think it was your Laser Comp mods that first drew me to your wee space in the virtual world and I’ve been visiting ever since 🙂
This blog is so preachy and rubbish! 😀 😀 😀
Only joking Robin. Like Terry, I love your messing about with shelters angle especially. I have picked up some great tips from you over the years and I think your writing style is balanced and well thought out. The other thing that comes through is your obvious enthusiasm, whether it be walking, camping or visiting great outdoor locations….and the messing about with shelters of course! 😉
Well said.
I have never thought you were preachy, I have always thought you have given a balanced view and given sound reasons.
Keep up the excellent blog.
Thanks for the kind words everyone 🙂
Hiking, especial solo, is a deeply personal experience, an experience that your kit choices make a significant contribution to. People have differing styles of hiking and prefer differing kit to support their own styles. I’m pretty sure that there is no right or wrong way! 🙂
Very much agree. Each to his own. There’s no right or wrong way.
Some like Marmite some don’t, personal choice.
I believe the value of blogs is to broadcast ideas, what’s worked and what didn’t, to help pass on experience and perhaps help others avoid potentially expensive errors.
Keep it up.
Marmite: a good comparison! Don’t mention Paramo!
Marmite’s wonderful stuff
Paramo????
I’m a fan of Marmite 🙂 I quite like Paramo as well, but not as a full on waterproof 😉
Robin don’t get all paranoid on what others say. Just be your self
about all the kit and kaboodle. Just like the rest of us.
Why has your blog page got dandruff ?
Dandruff 😀
Usually I read everything I can get my hands on on a subject…and then do whatever I was going to do anyway. It is enjoyable reading everyone else’s opinions though.