Meet the 2013 BACKPACKER Reader Reporter Team

I would have to agree with Thom on this one. I am 29 years old and I have been hiking almost my whole life. I have ran into older folks on the AT -- AT is my backyard in VA -- and learn a lot more from them. I feel being so young you don't have that much experience and failures with gear or your self. If it was me that got picked, I would be on the Rollercoster -- AT -- during all types of weather.

While some other readers find it troubling that the age group is so young, I find it inspiring. It is a comfort to know that these young adults are so enthusiastic of the outdoors and will be the future backpackers of the world. I am interested in what they have to say and stand behind what they produce 100%. Good Luck to each of you, and stay persistant in your dreams!

First of all, congratulations to the new team! BUT I agree with Thom. How is an entire backpacking/hiking population of all ages supposed to rely on the "expert" advice of a 19 or 21 year old? I'm sure these kids have all had great experiences (probably thanks to mom and dad's funding) but it doesn't say "LIFE experience" to the rest of us. How many attempts and failures have they had? At 19, how many pairs of boots can one actually own and compare? There should be a representative that everyone can relate to, look up to, and trust because they have years of experience. Part of the fun is trying out your new gear and then deciding what you like and don't like. This generation is into "instant gratification", so how can "experience" even be a factor here? I'm 57 and NOT old, and would be more likely to trust the opinion of someone with some outdoor WISDOM, and that comes with age and experience, successes and failures. 19 year olds are not WISE yet. Sorry.

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While I enjoy reading what other hikers have to say about equipment they have actually used, your demographics in the MEET THE 2013 BACKPACKER READER REPORTER TEAM seems very limited. As a member of the 60+ generation, I would be much more interested to here from a broader age group, than from a group totally made up of outdoor enthusiasts younger 30.

Yeah Brokeback! Looking forward to seeing all the posts from OR.