A group of well-equipped hikers camping in the wild
In recent years, outdoor hiking has gradually gained popularity. Reporters learned from several local outdoor gear shops and outdoor sections in malls that, besides selling related products, these stores also run their own QQ groups, Weibo accounts, or forums, and frequently organize hiking trips for customers.
Some outdoor gear shops display posters with messages like “Looking for travel buddies, join us,” and many shop owners are themselves outdoor enthusiasts. They sell gear while making friends, and different types of customers can choose shops based on their specific needs. For example, outdoor shops near Jiefang Park in Wuhan cater to beginner-level hikers, while those who enjoy off-road driving might opt for a store near Hanyang Railway Station; kayaking enthusiasts may want to check out shops in Hankou Riverfront Park; and rock climbing fans could visit smaller shops around Huiji Road.
“Previously, most customers were hikers, but now it’s becoming more mainstream,” said a shop owner surnamed Deng. In recent years, more people have been drawn to independent travel, leading to increased purchases of basic outdoor gear. These hobbyists usually have limited experience in outdoor sports, so they are eager to join outdoor activities organized by retailers. This way, they can make new friends and look out for one another during outdoor adventures. According to Boss Deng, this approach helps stabilize the customer base. Seventy percent of the shop’s customers are repeat clients, and a small number of “outdoor enthusiasts” are willing to spend hundreds of thousands of yuan on high-end gear.
Mei Yong, a lawyer from Hubei Chengming Law Firm, explained that based on the principle of fault, hikers who suffer accidental injuries can hold other hikers liable for tort. Participants in outdoor adventure activities are all natural persons with full civil capacity, and although they voluntarily take part and there is no contractual relationship among them, this does not exempt hikers from their duty to ensure each other’s safety.