Hiking equipment is the largest exposure to the civilian-versus-military-gear issue because it has the most crossover application. Camping and off-road have their own involvement, but many civilians don't need a standard military dorm tent. Civilians are unlikely to involved in driving off-road military gear unless they buy a standard Hummer or similar vehicle.
As a result, people gravitate toward personal outdoor equipment, which is dominated by hiking gear. This includes backpacks, water containers, straps and harnesses, boots, rugged clothing and similar products.
The first premise of military gear is to be durable and functional under extreme, long-term conditions and exposure to the elements. After all, the equipment is intended to be used outdoors and in war. It has to perform.
The military provides a significant amount of equipment that covers basic survival and protection for outdoor use. This includes footgear, clothing, bags, and food and rehydration containers. Because military gear is produced in such mass quantity, many times the items can be cheaper than their private-side counterpart. Just look at the cost difference between a good military rucksack and a similar backpack from top outdoor equipment manufacturers.
The downside on military equipment is the lack of comfort within it. Most military gear and clothing fall short in the comfort category. Its design is not intended for feeling good. Instead, it's designed to be used in battle.
Civilian outdoor products are created and made with personal comfort and performance in mind. The goal is to make people feel good while engaged in outdoor activities. As a result, the performance ability of many civilian outdoor products easily exceeds the same part produced for the military. But it may not be as long-lasting. For example, military boots may last for years, while civilian hiking boots may last only two seasons.
Another downside is civilian outdoor equipment can be very expensive. High-end outdoor snow jackets can easily cost more than $350, while a military winter jacket found at a surplus store costs $50.
Military surplus is one source to find quality military outdoor gear at low prices. Items can be half the price of the same item sold new from military suppliers, if you're allowed to buy from these vendors.
Used civilian outdoor gear doesn't hold up so well, and is usually sold off because something failed the original owner. It can be found in some consignment stores, but used civilian gear usually gets given away to charities and can be hard to find in good condition.
You need to try various types of equipment and find the mix that works for you. You may be in love with your high-end snow jacket, but you can also have the same passion for your military-issued backpack and boots. There's no law against using both. Find the mix that works best for you.
