We just released our 25th edition of Sierra Rec Magazine—our Spring Gear Guide packed with new products, innovations, and gear we genuinely love.

But this episode asks a different question:

Do we actually need all of it?

In this conversation with Ron Donchez of Thacker NYC, we step outside our normal Sierra-focused storytelling to explore something bigger—how the outdoor industry operates, how we consume gear, and what role we all play in that cycle.

This isn’t about calling anyone out. It’s about taking a step back and thinking about:

• How much gear we really use
• Why we feel the need to upgrade
• The rise of secondhand and reuse
• And whether the system we’ve built is actually working

As someone who reviews gear and publishes guides, this one hit close to home.

Maybe it will for you too.

If you’re heading into a new season of hiking, backpacking, or just getting outside… this is a conversation worth having.

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What’s one piece of gear you bought… and didn’t really need?
We’d love to hear your take.