Core Insights - The phenomenon of "refined poverty" is emerging among young consumers who are willing to spend significantly on high-end outdoor gear while hesitating over smaller expenses like food [1][9][11] - Outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and climbing have become increasingly popular, with a shift towards more adventurous and challenging experiences [2][29] - The entry of new participants into outdoor sports has lowered the technical barriers, while the brand standards for equipment have risen [3][4] Group 1: Market Trends - The outdoor product selection is becoming more high-end, with brands like Anta acquiring Arc'teryx and Li Ning acquiring Haglöfs, indicating a trend towards premium outdoor gear [4][6] - Sales of outdoor footwear and apparel surged by 55% year-on-year during the National Day holiday, reflecting a growing consumer interest in outdoor activities [6][18] - The prices of top outdoor products on e-commerce platforms have increased, with nearly half of the top 30 items seeing price hikes over the past year [6][17] Group 2: Consumer Behavior - Young consumers are increasingly prioritizing brand and price over functionality when purchasing outdoor gear, leading to a culture where expensive items are seen as status symbols [22][24] - The social media portrayal of outdoor activities often emphasizes brand names and aesthetics over practical knowledge and safety, influencing new participants to invest in high-priced gear without adequate understanding [20][28] - The trend of purchasing expensive outdoor gear as a means of showcasing purchasing power is prevalent, with brands like Arc'teryx and Patagonia becoming symbols of status among the middle class [22][25] Group 3: Risks and Misconceptions - The belief that owning expensive outdoor gear equates to expertise and safety is misleading, as many new participants lack the necessary skills and knowledge for safe outdoor activities [35][38] - The increase in outdoor accidents, as reported in the 2023 China Outdoor Adventure Accident Report, highlights the risks associated with outdoor activities, regardless of the quality of equipment [38][39] - The focus on brand prestige over actual outdoor skills can lead to dangerous situations, as many new participants may overestimate their abilities based on their gear [41][42]