zoom wrote:
$700, to you, may seem a lot, but not to others. That's why you see folks driving BMWs and Yugos on the freeway. Same reasons why you see folks live in McMansions while others live in run down apartments.
I have a friend, super wealthy. She purchased a top of the line wetsuit once. She didn't like the fit. Instead of returning it, she gave it away and then bought another top of the line one from a different brand. She has done the same thing to a few pairs of cycling shoes.
People like to spend money on things that they are passionate about. For some, it's an uber bike. For others, it's golf clubs. They have the best golf clubs that money can buy, but can't break par. Don't hate them for rocking the fancy stuff without the fitness or skills to back it up. They must be doing something right to not blink twice about purchasing stuff that you consider expensive.
I agree, plus the casual observer has no idea what the full story is. I am midpack, typically, and although I don't have the fanciest gear out there, I can afford some nice gear. I have done two IM (no tattoo) and have developed some health problems that have not done my appearance any favors. On some days, I feel great, but on days like Sunday, I cut my run short after less than two miles because I didn't think I could make it any farther. I am sure that I look like a complete poseur with the watch and the bike or whatever, but I am also not going to stop using the good equipment that I have just so it matches my body and appeases some stranger.