Kyle Hates Hiking your editing skills are way better than you give yourself credit for! I only know how to do jump cuts 😂 Shoot me an email if you ever really wanna pick my brain to see what’s in there! Danbeckeroutdoors@gmail.com
Dan, I’ve never understood the hate you get simply because you’ve never presented yourself as something you’re not. Actually, I think Kyle nailed it. They’re just jealous of your success derived from the reasons he mentioned.
Dan fills that void between the bushcrafters and the through hikers perfectly. Face it, he's pretty much just like most of us who can't do through hikes.
As a woman myself, I find that this is a bit derogatory. So what if she has built a following. It takes a lot of nerve for a woman to go out onto a trail alone. So maybe don’t get your panties in a wad over this reply. Maybe if you do not like her, do not watch her. No one is forcing you to watch her videos.
Love Dan. Most hiking videos are coming from a through hiker mentality. There are way more weekend worriers and small section hikers then high mileage hikers. I believe we “weekenders” can relate to him better then other you tubers because of that. Another thing I personally like about him is he’s not a gram counter.
@@tamie341I could not agree more. He is really geared towards people who backpack but do small miles and get into camp early so him and his friends can sit around in their camp chairs. I realize a lot of people do this, so that is who watches his videos. Dan also has a very nice personality. His side kick he does videos with, the one in did the Grand Canyon trip with is much worse. He calls himself an expert. I think it’s mostly a commercial for Outdoor Vitals and Dursten gear.
As someone who has been hiking for years but is getting back into now, Dan's videos have been great. It's amazing to not know about any of this drama and after hearing about it, it frustrates me so much. Not all of us have $2500 and 4 months to thru hike the PCT. It's great to have more practical advice from a "weekend warrior"
There are a lot of long-distance hikes that don't take four months to do. The Long Trail in Vermont or the Colorado Trail are examples that can be done in a less than a month. You could also break these trips up and do them over a few trips. There are lots of trails that don't get much airtime that are great. Take care.
Don't like him because he admitted that he doesn't plan his trips or hikes he just has a guy do all that for him. He just survives them (barely) and then videos it
Dude I appreciate the kind words and shout out!! 😍 Dan is a stand up guy and always has been kind to me. Enjoyed the video bro. Great break down and commentary 🙌 Keep up the awesome content!
Rad! I truly feel that viewers of youtube channels have an expectation for the person behind the channel, standing in front of the camera to be perfect and a complete expert on every aspect of the topics they are talking about. I saw another video that was presented opposite of yours, that broke down one of Dan's videos and shamed him for how he was presenting some information. The reality is, that all of us who create content, in what ever medium we choose, is a human trying to express something we are passionate about. Someone taking the time to troll, hate, and attack someone for sharing something they are passionate about, stepped into the wrong the second they started typing, or filming a video to react to the content. Dan and I have become great friends the past year, and talk very very often. He's simply a good person, and he's helped a lot of people find motivation to get outside, helped them make smarter gear choices, and he's provided entertainment. Cheers to Dan, and you, Kyle!
Very well said, he's very passionate about backpacking much like many of us and deserves respect for his creative take on how to share the love of backpacking! It seems as though he has a lot of followers who are not backpackers and serves as an inspiration!
I concur Devon. Dan is positive force for good giving and I would choose to hang out with him every day of the week. People who spend the time to tear down are torn down people themselves looking for attention and significance and they seek it in criticism. It hurts my soul.
He doesn't take himself too serious. He's personable...he doesn't switch out a titanium spork with an aircraft aluminium spork to shave a half gram. He's a casual hiker...thru hikers forget what that's like and often come across as condescending with their constant tips and telling peeps what they don't need.
You nailed it, Kyle. Dan's success is because he is the Everyperson, the hiker that has a full life and escapes to hike a weekend or a week at a time. No time to spend a half year hiking. He does a good job on camera and editing, and he can tell a story. We want to share beers with him. Dan also studied the platform and gets the thumbnail, the title, the description, the tags, the subject selection. He probably spent a little time watching Video Creators, one of Sean Cannell's channels, Sunny Lenarduzzi, Amy Schmittauer Landino, Roberto Blake, it another of the handful of good "how to TH-cam" channels. It's mostly science, very little magic, and Dan has the necessary magic if the science is applied. Anyway, great video. I don't understand any of the haters, must be miserable people. You got my sub 👊
I subscribe to a bunch of hiking channels and enjoy them all for different reasons. Dan is eminently relatable and has an air of integrity. I'm happy for his success. Not everybody can be Craig Mains:)
I think you nailed this assessment! Let's face it, most people have jobs and families and can't through hike. Finding a backpacker that fits that demographic who gives great tips, is personable, and has good quality videos appeals to a large number of people.
Question: Why does there seem to be so much shade thrown to “weekend warriors” by thru hikers? In the majority of videos by thru hikers, there’s a little hint of pretentiousness when mentioning section hikers or WW. Idk man, just seems weird. We all just wanna walk in the woods and enjoy nature. Why create a divide? It’s weird.
I think there is less shade being thrown then you may think... it's a very small amount of thru hikers. Most thru hikers I know like to hike around section hikers because they often give us free food :)
Probably because they can no longer relate to a hiker that will bring "luxury items" to be comfortable, and may like the camping aspect of hiking and don't really harp on getting from point a to point b in the quickest, lightest way possible. I mean...they call stuff luxury items. Lol 2nd vid of Kyle's I've seen and I caught that same vibe...and this vid is about dan becker lol
Wally Taggart it’s not even just in this video though. I’m on a few groups on Facebook for various trails (The Florida Scenic Trail for example) and there’s even that same vibe there in the comments and posts. It’s weird. Also, there may not be face to face animosity, but there is definitely a behind the glass screen superiority complex. It’s undeniable, my friend.
@@KyleHatesHiking So there is a THEY and an US. Why thinking so much in compartmentalization? (not talking about you in general, I'm talking about a general vibe I feel while watching a lot of thru-hikers' videos). Try to find time to hike for 5-6 months having a family in your 30s or 40s, or you're running a company which can't exist without you, whatever. It's mostly not possible. 10 years ago, when they maybe had more freedom to do a thru-hike, thru-hiking hasn't been the big thing which it is now. Being regularly outside for the weekends while you are working and having a family is respectable as well. Maybe they are doing it for decades and maybe by the end of their lives they walked way more miles than a thru-hiker. Or they just started with hiking in general, how great, embrace that mindset. I often get this vibe of American thru-hikers feeling superior than other hikers. I'm from Europe and I've never experienced something like that in our hiking community. We cherish each person who loves nature and wants to be outside. Maybe because our thru-hikes are not that long, who knows. Of course people should be absolutely proud of doing a thru-hike. But why not letting people be and do what they love, why all that cringing, judging, laughing about gear which isn't the gear that oneself prefers,... ? It often seems so negative. But by saying that I'm kind of judging myself, right? It's just very strange to me. That said, I've just watched two of your videos and I'm looking forward to watch more, especially your interviews.
@@KyleHatesHiking TRUTH! I'm one of those section hikers 😁! I started by doing day hikes while peak bagging, moved to overnighters while doing more than one peak on a trip, weekends, then extended weekends to week long trips, and now I try to knock off as many miles per trip while I try to finish sectioning the AT, usually taking two weeks or more per trip. The more information that I get, the more I am responsible to use to help others. Maybe I'll throw up a few videos when I have some spare time (attempting to retire in the fall, but I'll have to live below the poverty level...)🙁
Truth is I like both Dan Becker and Darwin and yes I'm old. 58 and have been Hiking and Camping my whole life and even put on a couple miles in the Marine Corp. But I hike to see new country and experience it not just to blow through it. I have considered doing a through hike like the AT because I have hiked many days on it because as a Corporate Pilot I spend a lot of time in Johnson City TN and while the people I fly down do there work, Me and my Copilot hike the AT and to different waterfalls when I'm out there. I just don't have 5 months vacation and I'm close to retirement 4-5 years , now in retirement who knows. Kyle I do like your videos telling people you don't need high priced gear to hike, I went to Alaska last year and my rain coat and down coat bought on Ebay why just what I need a high priced coat around a camp fire, can I say burn holes as this always happens.
I’ve camped with Dan. And I talk to him all the time. He’s a great guy. He’s definitely a gear head. He loves backpacking gear!! Dan is a down to earth great guy. Cool video Kyle.
He seems like a great dude! Just not what most of us are looking for in a backpacking youtuber. Just because people don't like his videos, doesn't mean its some conspiracy by all the "haters".
At 53, I'm definitely in Dan's demographic. People in the age range you talk about probably enjoy his videos because they can relate to him and do enjoy interesting gear. We also have something most in their 20s don't have....decent paying careers. We can drop $500 on some crazy DCF tent if we wanted to but we can't take off for 6 months for a thru hike. Most of us also have spouses and kids that keep us from taking off every weekend. However, we try to get out as much as we can and when we do we try to make the most of it. That doesn't mean we don't enjoy your videos, or Dixie, or Darwin. You're pretty f'ing funny. Dan also drops dad jokes, so he's got that going on.
Hang in there and take could care of your body. Soon the kids will be gone and you can hit the trial on much longer trips if that is something you want to do. I am well into my 60s and hiking more than ever. There are a lot of trials that are fairly long but don’t take months it complete. Take care
@@gregmortonoutdoors First off congratulations that’s awesome. Second not everyone wants to do those trails for a variety of reasons. I did the Long Trail in Vermont this year and another 350 this year around New England. Next year I am planing on doing the Colorado Trail. I don’t think for many people quitting their jobs and leaving their families works for everyone. Also most people don’t want to spend four plus months hiking. I spent about 20 days doing the LT and it was a great time. That said I am not sure if I want to hike for months on end. Next trip Erin be longer and after that I will reevaluate things then. I would like to like but I also want to keep my marriage. It’s a delicate balance. Take care and again congratulations.
Hi Kyle I like your channel. This is a good video and I’d like to point out the main reason why I watch stuff that Dan Becker does. It’s because he has kids hence why he is a weekend warrior like a lot of his Fanbase. I think that’s really important to know why his demographic is really attracted to him. Our time is limited and we want to maximize the time that we spend out there by ourselves or with others.
Dan Becker has kids = have children. can relate Dan Becker is a Weekend warrior = have job. can relate. Dan Becker is a Gear junky = have job. can research gear. can buy gear (more gear than I can use). can relate. Dan Becker = clean youtube channel = have kids. can appreciate Other hiker youtubers = hike for a living. can't relate Other hiker youtubers = foul language = don't want that around the kidos. Other hiker youtubers = no kids. no responsibilities. can't relate So yeah, you nailed it.
Definitely agree. It is awesome when your kids want to go out with you. That time is some of the best I get to have with mine. I'm glad my daughter loves it.
Dan is great! And yes you are right on all of your observations. As a 40 something hiker i think he relates more to me than some of the other. Not to much 'ultra light snob' and not to much 'bushcraft baby'. Advice is practical and timely. Gear reviews are a big help and seem to be honest. And he hikes. Maybe not like Darwin or Dixie, but he does actually go out there. I will continue to be a "Dan Fan".. (all rights reserved.)
The reality is, most hikers who see themselves as some sort of trail genius, thru hiking guru will want to be Dan when they get older. All of us older guys with families would love to spend more time on the trail, but you have to balance your priorities when other people depend on you. I am a weekend warrior now, but was a trail junkie in my youth. Young hikers criticizing family guys who are weekend warriors now aren't considering the lifetime of experience we have that precedes where we are currently. I'd love to thru hike the AT now, but that's not going to happen. I can't put my life on hold for 5 months. When I had that option, I could never have afforded the gear you see on the trail now. It's all a matter of perspective.
I watch Dan for the no fuss clear information that he gives with a well thought out review. When you've been away from hiking for a while it is good to get upto date info, tips and hacks that work for others. Also for some it is the actual hiking trail and camping out with the gear they are reviewing or advice they are giving. One of my favourites isn't even human. Gotta love Monty the poor sweet ever suffering collie. (Clearly adored though and the voice haha why do we always give our dogs a voice?) As for the hate, folk will attack others because they don't agree with them or because they have some perceived fame that they don't have and others jump on the bandwagon while not knowing anything of the subject, person or anything else. Sadly, it is all part and parcel of being in the "limelight".
Great video! Very balanced. Dan is a great guy who is super supportive of everyone. It’s really a shame that some people have an issue with him because he’s more successful than they are. If they’d get out of their own way, they could benefit from Dan’s knowledge and he’d be happy to help them. As you can see by his comments on this video, he’s a great guy.
The niche for weekend backpackers is definitely being filled by You Tubers like Dan Becker..... Like I have said before, not every (worthwhile) adventurous hike is the Appalachian Trail, PCT, or the CDT. Another one of my top favorites is Adventure Archives...Precisely, because it documents good quality weekend hikes in an easily followed format.
So to recap: your premise is 1) Dan Becker is appealing because he has found an audience that trusts him 2) He produces quality, i.e. watchable, content that is enjoyable to his audience 3) Dan Becker has a compelling personality that people want to watch 4) He offers advice that his audience can apply usefully in the backcountry. I look forward to your forthcoming analysis: "Why 'Kyle Hates Hiking' Has a Firm Grasp of the Obvious." LOL. Love your channel, Kyle; I watch all the time, but I'm bummed that I can't get my 15:57 mins back.
I used to think there is difference between weekend warrior hikers like my self and "real hikers" through hikers but really there is not. I didn't even know till recently that through hikers stop and get rides off trail to sleep in and rest at hotels or whatever and then come back to trails to continue. What's the huge difference between random hikers hiking every week and through hikers then ? maybe sleeping in shelters and tents now and then ?
Great insights. Lost count on how many times you said “Dan Becker” though. Haha. For real though, Dan is killing it and it’s awesome to see. Cheers Kyle. Subbed.
There are channels that get a million views for NOTHING, just garbage. I can't say I understand that. I am glad there are some gems floating on top of the sewage pile.
I am sure that those 4 things are all part of his success. But actually I think the real reason he got successful is because he started the luxury item challenge that basically made it to every single hiking TH-cam channel including Dixie. Almost every one acknowledged that Dan started the challenge, including Dixie who also obviously has a huge following. Just like she tagged Second Chance Hiker which helped put him in the map for his season on PCT. That challenge put him on the map. The other things helped him grow from there. His channel does have more gear reviews and less trip videos... but he’s a dad with another job. It’s pretty hard to hike all the time when you have other responsibilities.
Great video young man. Dan is certainly a solid dude. I find the most interesting group was the thruhiker crowd as you stated. There does seem to be a bit of a “what the hell do you know, you only hike weekends” kind of attitude out there. When I was weekend warrioring a portion of the PCT it was very interesting to see how the younger US men wanted nothing to do with me an my buddy Matt while the girls both US and foreign, and the older US men and foreign men were some of the coolest people we had ever met. It was just an interesting dynamic that I immediately noticed. For the record it was not the first time I’ve noticed it while being on the trail. Any who off to work, great video.
I will say that when you're thru hiking you meet so many other hikers that it becomes tough to relate to every single one... as a result you tend to gravitate towards the other thru hikers. Maybe some of the PCT hikers you met were just jerks, but I'm willing to bet than most of them we're simply on the grind and didn't feel like talking.
Hi Kyle, first time commenting. TH-cam seems to be just like fb, there will always be keyboard warriors both in the trail community and armchair critics. Great advert for Dan Becker, never heard of him before your jokes and this. I'm going to go over and take a look at what all the hype is about.
I’m sixty plus and he is one of my go to to consider gear changes. I hope he has tough skin because he deserves his success. I think most haters are jealous. I’m betting your numbers go up as you hoped because of his name. Smart on you, I subscribe! Lol
I had never paid attention to the fact I tend to watch videos of hikers I identify with in some way, but it makes sense. Dixie was the first TH-cam hiker I found and binge watched.
We subbed each other when he first started TH-cam with his Pictured Rocks video. Dan is a great guy and he supported me the most on facebook last May when I was hiking the SHT.
I started my channel right around the same time as Dan Becker. I have certainly asked these same questions myself. I think you hit the nail on the head. Great points. Obviously the dude spends a lot of time working on TH-cam. And hes good at it, for all the reasons you listed. I have a lot of fun with my channel, but Im just not ready to trade my time surfing, fishing, and hiking for a higher subscriber count. Not that I would have the same success even if I did. I really have no problems with Dan, although I certainly have made a few jokes. Im not gonna lie. If he's influencing people in a way that gets them off the couch and into the woods, I say hell ya thats a good thing. Great video dude. Oh yea...listened to the IBTAT episode yesterday. Good stuff.
@@KyleHatesHiking I remember listening to that first episode on my way to New Jersey for a liitle thruhike of the Batona Trail. Seems like a long time ago....🤣
Getting people unstuck is what I think Dan is good at. I talk with people all over the country as I travel for work and many of them think they don't know how to start. They are afraid they don't have the perfect gear and so they never do anything. Instead, what I hear in Dan's videos is just go do a fun, safe weekend with what you have and slowly get better stuff once you have some experience. That is why I like his videos.
Never heard of Dan Becker (sorry, Dan) until watching your videos. Definitely going to check him out as I'm a "weekend warrior" and pretty much obsessed with gear. I generally got to the bush to relax and get away from civilisation for the day, night or a few nights. That doesn't mean I don't enjoy watching vids by bushcrafters who like to lug in 356 varieties of axe and folding saw and spend months building 3-storey bushcraft shelters from logs, or long-distance hikers who're more focussed on travelling as far and as lightly as possible. At the end of the day, we're out there enjoying the wilderness in the way that best suits ourselves. And when I'm at home, I love watching what sorts of wilderness adventures all sorts of people from all around the world are having. I can see there are overlaps as well as differences.
I came into this video expecting you to tear Dan up, but gratefully found something totally different. I appreciate your balanced perspective on his success, and wanting to learn from it so you can improve as well. I know this video is 3 years old, and you’re still working on growing your channel. I’m following you, and hope you hit your goals. I’m squarely in Dan’s demographic, dreaming constantly of finding the freedom to cut bait and through hike for months at a time. But, I’m a weekend warrior for now, appreciate Dan’s content for what it is, and yours as well. So…thanks for having a mature, balanced perspective, and I’m hoping I don’t end-up finding a newer video that smashes everything in this one that I just praised. Keep it up! If I could do what you’re BOTH doing, I would!
I like Dan Becker for all the reasons that you mentioned. Most people can only go backpacking, or any other activity on the weekend because they actually have jobs that require them to be working during the week and or have family obligations. I can only speak for myself, but I would love to be able to just go backpacking for an entire spring, summer, and fall! I think that most conflict in all aspects of life is caused by what I call the J factor. When you peel away the onion at the center you’ll find jealousy. And I think you can boil it down to anybody that is hating on Dan Becker is nothing more than jealous. Kyle. I am enjoying your videos. Have a blessed week. John
No one these days wants to listen to some imbecile tell millions of people that if they aren’t a thru hiker then they aren’t a real hiker. The reality is, the majority of people want to throw on their pack, get out on the weekends, be comfortable and enjoy the outdoors. Or in my case, section hike, because I have a full time job. Dan’s channel is the go to channel for the person who wants to find a way to get out there and enjoy the outdoors without being stressed out. I will now be subscribing to your content. I am liking your stuff as well.
Kyle...you are a funny guy. We would have a lot of laughs if we met up. Keep it up. You, me and Dan Becker should do a thru hike together over a three day weekend.
I like Dan because I can identify. Yes age, weekend, but also location. Born in SD, lived in MN most of my life and now IL. Anyway, MN and WI are absolutely beautiful. To me it’s easy to know where he is coming from.
He made interesting videos, and still does. That's how he got popular. For most campers and hikers, we are never gonna spend months hiking the AT. We gotta work for a living. So all the tips, gear, stories, etc about hiking the AT doesn't really apply to us. Some of us might even go car camping every now and then. So there ya go
I think you are right. Dan is fun to watch, and he knows his stuff. Dan is also a real person. He isn't plastic. He doesn't try to be something that he is not.
I think a majority of hikers out there are weekend warriors so It's no surprise to me that someone like Dan has as big a following as he does! In fact, it's probably scary how much they outnumber thru hikers and those who are attempting a thru hike. Before I set foot on the AT last year I heard some very wise words from a podcast "you're attempted a thru hike, not a thru hiker... until you complete the journey". what bothers me is if you currently are or have thru hiked it gives you a sense of superiority.... meaning as a thru hiker you know better. As someone who is now a thru hiker, that Shit can just go out the window and burn in the 9 levels of Dante's inferno. I like Dan, but I like you better! will the fates turn?? Ill let the video's decide... also nice choice in beer!
Kyle you’re basically the better looking version of Mr. Beast , for backpacking. If you want to grow your channel: video title “I gave a homeless man $1000 “ and you give a backpacker on the trail a $1000 Cuban fiber rain fly. And another where you thru hike with the most expensive shoes ever made(for hiking) and a follow up where you hike with just $100 dollar bills taped to your feet(as many as would protect your feet.) and see which holds up better dollar for dollar.
I'm here on this vid years later just to both understand your sense of humor better (initially I didn't catch your remarks as sarcastic, so ya had to keep popping up in my recommended for me to keep giving ya a chance before subscribing xD) but I also wanted to understand the "lore" behind the Dan Becker comments. My genuine input as I do agree with the points made in this vid - Regarding weekend warriors and obsession with gear, good gear is really expensive. I watch gear review vids, because my money is valuable and I can't afford to purchase things that simply will not work or I will hate. Having someone that tries different gear and gives input (like I struggle to get good sleep on trail, so some vids from Dan regarding sleep pads has been immensely helpful for me rather than going for the lightest pad for the season). There was one vid too where he tried out a sleep pad I was looking into and he was struggling to stay warm; I guess due to it not being 100% inflated the entire night. That video saved me from buying a sleep pad that was going to give me an uncomfortable night's sleep and a potentially dangerous one. My main focus for backpacking is actually camping with my dog sled. So I have a few additional things to consider than most backapcker channels out there, but overall keeping the sled light so the dogs can still get me from point A to point B is a big deal; because if the sled breaks from a fall or lort forbid an encounter with a curious or scared animal, I have to carry that stuff back depending on the damage to the sled. While my ultimate goal is a thru hike, I have medical issues that has taken a lot from me; so gaining more confidence before getting out and also tossing my money in places and into gear that I won't regret is super helpful to getting out and feeling good with good sleep, gear that won't let me down, and gear that won't weigh me down. I think production quality and comfort on camera is a huge portion more than anything else why there was an eruption in success for the channel. Cracking jokes that help those that are maybe a bit tentative about their safety and comfort on trail helps people like myself feel like I'm not a failure and that is a normal thing to experience or feel.
I know why all the h8t. 😂 Remember two sides to every story 😉 Dan seems cool though. Hard to fake who you really are on youtube. Heard the shout out and call in on schill bros 5hour stream. Great stuff subed👍👊
I feel like the thru-hiker youtubers are just upset that the youtube community doesnt find them entertaining as they find themselves. I feel like everytime I finish a Dan Becker video I learn something new. Might be something small or something on a piece of gear but its always something. Most of these thru-hiker channels have some amazing content but how many times do they expect us to watch them film a river, tree or mountain scape? I feel like the personality is what keeps the viewers coming back and it seems as if Dan doesnt even put any effort into it, like thats how he really is. But I feel like if some of these youtubers put more of themselves into their content, it might take off a little more than the landscape shots on repeat. Also I kind of cringe when these thru-hikers start talking about "real" hiking. I think you have to be incredibly privileged with health and money to dedicate months and months of your time hiking across the country and lots of people know their lives would be upside down if they left work or their families for that long. Im sure tons more people would be giving it a shot if it wasnt so physically demanding and expensive. Id much rather be at a campsite with the Dan Becker types than these "real" hikers who are patting themselves on their back a little too hard lmao. I like your channel, man. You have a good personality that I think will hook a good amount of viewers. Good luck to you brother.
This is 3 years later, and I think you've discovered your target audience...by accident maybe. Your sub numbers have skyrocketed by 150k in just 3 or 4 months. Here, your audience is TELLING YOU what they want to see. How easy is that?!! I just LOVE your new content too. Please keep up the good work. If it's creepy, we wanna hear about it!
Dan channel is fine, but you are right its geared towards the weekend hiker who does not mind carrying overweight crap. I don't watch it much because I am into long distance hiking and his gear choices and his low miles I can't relate to. He seems like a really nice guy and creates good content. Nothing to hate for sure. The hiking channel that has really taken off is Kraig Adams, he has over 700,000 subscribers and rarely talks. He does short hikes, 100 miles or so all over the world. His filming is the next level I must add. Your channel is growing, congratulations.
I'm not a thru hiker. But I love to watch both of you guy's channels. I just do regular backpacking trips but I'm a smaller dude so I like to incorporate some aspects of ultralight backpacking to make my pack lighter. However I'm not an actual ultralighter since I do still like luxuries and don't need to do insane amounts of miles. so I like taking tips and gear recommendations from both sides.
He's eloquent and informative in his content in comparison to some TH-camrs. His production values are decent. His topics are usually interesting and he doesn't "make sausage" just to have something to throw on TH-cam as content.
Early on in Dan's YT career he FB messaged me to talk shop. This was when he had less subscribers than I do. He and I have completely different objectives when it comes to YT, but I gave him advice on what I thought made a good YT channel, which isn't necessarily what is good for growth. He decided to go with the growth route and he is using an approach that is widely available if you just read a few books on youtube strategy. He does have the personality and on-camera chops that many people lack, but aside from that anyone could do it with the right discipline and focus.
Dan Becker IS ACTUALLY Rob Corddry's little brother. I heard he was on the set of "Hot tube time machine". He was not in the movie but he was able to hang out on set get the stars drinks and give foot rubs.
Didn’t know he got some hate. Haha but I’ve watched a lot of his videos, and I think the thing that kinda rubs me a little weird is now that he’s successful and stuff, seems like he’s getting stuff thrown at em and now just seems like a sponsored channel. You can see the transition from the stuff he wears...now he posts a lot about cottage vendors which is great, but it seems like this is the case only now as a means to push products. If he’s had so much experience I’m surprised he didn’t own stuff before, especially being in that demographic. This is my only thing but I love his channel, but I do feel like he’s kinda selling out. Lol But you can’t deny that he puts out great content and fantastic production! Oh! And it was pretty hilarious to see him push the ultralight thing for a while and then all of a sudden quit ultralight. Lol
Also, the dude could do voiceover work for John Krasinski. There’s a built in familiarity there to go along with his charisma and solid editing and knowledge of the outdoors
I watch many different channels for backpacking content. I want to backpack more often and want to go on longer hikes but I can't get away long enough to do that just yet. Many of my trips are usually two nights and three days. I understand that those kinds of trips are different than a long through hike so I may pack more like a Dan Becker. The reason I like to watch your channel Kyle is to gain knowledge in how to do a through hike while laughing because your channel is hilarious! I just try to take pieces of advice from many different people while finding out what works for me. Backpacking is constantly evolving and so is my strategy in preparation for a trip. I continue to learn and that will never change.
This was amazing! I dig dan becker’s channel, dixie, darwin and syntax! I watch all these guys! Some folks sort of don’t like Darwins style, but I don’t mind it. He just tells it like it is! And he’s a damn good editor. I also really dig a bunch of bcraft utubers out of Sweden. There’s one that uses a drone and the reel that he gets from that is amazing. But I totally fit the dan becker fan profile. Middle aged weekend warrior who doesn’t go out enough and works too much. Last year at one point my boss sat me down and told me he wanted me to go camping or whatever it is that you do out there! Crazy! Mathew Poss, he’s kinda funny! Another utuber that grew really big realky fast. It’s the collie he hikes with and his sort of “relaxed” demeanor. Good shit! Love this vid dude! Kater!
Funny video. It's unfortunate there's so much hate in this world and Dan gets so much of it. He seems to take the high road and not even give it the time of day. Respect.
Great video man! It’s a little funny to me that people get so upset over his success. Do they not realize they are helping him to the top by viewing his videos and leaving feedback? If you dont like someone or something, stay away. Simple
I wish DB, much success! I think he I'd going full time. I must say some some long trail hikers have an elitist attitude. I will never due a thru hike, but certainly my hiking significant. I enjoy that I only have a few day at a time, the return to home life. I enjoy DB.
Not a hater because I have never seen him until I just now watched his rescue in the GC video. My immediate response was to let him know that he was ABSOLUTELY NOT READY to make the hike they had planned. He's not in adequate physical condition. As I watched, I hoped that he would tell the hike leader that they should just sleep overnight at the ranch after the 7 mile descent. After the first night they needed to take a whole day of complete rest. So, he is able to elicit such comments from someone who has seen him for the first time.
He's a likeable gearnut who may be an amateur hiker but has definitely researched his gear. I guess that 1) throws people off 2) annoys those that had to learn it the hard way out there 3) he's not afraid to call out the establishment on their (perceived) bullshit. I think it's very nice for weekend warriors to hear someone say overall comfort is priority number one and knows how to talk about it as well.
I'll never understand why a person isn't allowed to say "shit" on the internet (it's bleeped in every video) but "asshole" is allowed ? Can anyone explain to me why ?
Not gonna lie...I bought a Nemo Tensor over the Big Agnes Q-Core SLX because of Dan's reviews. I really enjoy his videos. Great summary of Beckers channel...I think you are spot on.
Great way to break this down. Dan seems like a super nice guy and unfortunately certain things come with getting in front of the camera. But he handles the negative people pretty well from what I have seen.
Love this! You know me better than I know me!
Oh, and if I bought you a $700 drone for Christmas, you’d be pretty excited. 🤣🤣
Thanks for the video!!
Ayy there it is. Big fan of your thumbnails! What do you think of Dan Becker thug life?
Kyle Hates Hiking your editing skills are way better than you give yourself credit for! I only know how to do jump cuts 😂
Shoot me an email if you ever really wanna pick my brain to see what’s in there! Danbeckeroutdoors@gmail.com
Everyone that post hiking videos hate Dixie and Darwin because of their success. This video has that vibe.
Thanks Dan
Dan, I’ve never understood the hate you get simply because you’ve never presented yourself as something you’re not.
Actually, I think Kyle nailed it. They’re just jealous of your success derived from the reasons he mentioned.
Dan fills that void between the bushcrafters and the through hikers perfectly. Face it, he's pretty much just like most of us who can't do through hikes.
Hey Ya'll. Dixie Here.
Good one
She gets on my nerves.
@@jeffcmo1957 I think she's cute. 🤪😎👍
Dixie constantly looks like she has a dip in.
As a woman myself, I find that this is a bit derogatory. So what if she has built a following. It takes a lot of nerve for a woman to go out onto a trail alone. So maybe don’t get your panties in a wad over this reply. Maybe if you do not like her, do not watch her. No one is forcing you to watch her videos.
Love Dan. Most hiking videos are coming from a through hiker mentality. There are way more weekend worriers and small section hikers then high mileage hikers. I believe we “weekenders” can relate to him better then other you tubers because of that. Another thing I personally like about him is he’s not a gram counter.
People hate Dan Becker because he’s beautiful. People love Dan Becker...because he’s beautiful.
He is indeed a beautiful soul.
I eat because I’m unhappy... and I’m unhappy because I eat . It’s a vicious cycle you know?
Well not everyone that dislikes his videos are "haters". Think he has a great personality but his knowledge and advice is seriously lacking.
@@tamie341I could not agree more. He is really geared towards people who backpack but do small miles and get into camp early so him and his friends can sit around in their camp chairs. I realize a lot of people do this, so that is who watches his videos. Dan also has a very nice personality. His side kick he does videos with, the one in did the Grand Canyon trip with is much worse. He calls himself an expert. I think it’s mostly a commercial for Outdoor Vitals and Dursten gear.
"Miles under your belt," and more "experience hiking" doesn't always equate to more experience being a decent human.
Unfortunately this is true.
PREACH! 😉
As someone who has been hiking for years but is getting back into now, Dan's videos have been great. It's amazing to not know about any of this drama and after hearing about it, it frustrates me so much. Not all of us have $2500 and 4 months to thru hike the PCT. It's great to have more practical advice from a "weekend warrior"
There are a lot of long-distance hikes that don't take four months to do. The Long Trail in Vermont or the Colorado Trail are examples that can be done in a less than a month. You could also break these trips up and do them over a few trips. There are lots of trails that don't get much airtime that are great. Take care.
Don't like him because he admitted that he doesn't plan his trips or hikes he just has a guy do all that for him. He just survives them (barely) and then videos it
Dude I appreciate the kind words and shout out!! 😍 Dan is a stand up guy and always has been kind to me. Enjoyed the video bro. Great break down and commentary 🙌 Keep up the awesome content!
I appreciate you enlightening me on a lot of this stuff!
Rad! I truly feel that viewers of youtube channels have an expectation for the person behind the channel, standing in front of the camera to be perfect and a complete expert on every aspect of the topics they are talking about. I saw another video that was presented opposite of yours, that broke down one of Dan's videos and shamed him for how he was presenting some information. The reality is, that all of us who create content, in what ever medium we choose, is a human trying to express something we are passionate about. Someone taking the time to troll, hate, and attack someone for sharing something they are passionate about, stepped into the wrong the second they started typing, or filming a video to react to the content.
Dan and I have become great friends the past year, and talk very very often. He's simply a good person, and he's helped a lot of people find motivation to get outside, helped them make smarter gear choices, and he's provided entertainment. Cheers to Dan, and you, Kyle!
Thank you very much!
Very well said, he's very passionate about backpacking much like many of us and deserves respect for his creative take on how to share the love of backpacking! It seems as though he has a lot of followers who are not backpackers and serves as an inspiration!
I concur Devon. Dan is positive force for good giving and I would choose to hang out with him every day of the week. People who spend the time to tear down are torn down people themselves looking for attention and significance and they seek it in criticism. It hurts my soul.
Backcountry Exposure well said!
Backcountry Exposure word
He doesn't take himself too serious. He's personable...he doesn't switch out a titanium spork with an aircraft aluminium spork to shave a half gram. He's a casual hiker...thru hikers forget what that's like and often come across as condescending with their constant tips and telling peeps what they don't need.
R:/ultralight is a metric of being pointless assholes at my house. The thru hiker elitism is hilarious.
Yes, he often talks about weekend camping.
You nailed it, Kyle. Dan's success is because he is the Everyperson, the hiker that has a full life and escapes to hike a weekend or a week at a time. No time to spend a half year hiking. He does a good job on camera and editing, and he can tell a story. We want to share beers with him.
Dan also studied the platform and gets the thumbnail, the title, the description, the tags, the subject selection. He probably spent a little time watching Video Creators, one of Sean Cannell's channels, Sunny Lenarduzzi, Amy Schmittauer Landino, Roberto Blake, it another of the handful of good "how to TH-cam" channels. It's mostly science, very little magic, and Dan has the necessary magic if the science is applied.
Anyway, great video. I don't understand any of the haters, must be miserable people. You got my sub 👊
His videos are quick, clear, well written and well spoken.
...and doesn't talk incessantly.
I subscribe to a bunch of hiking channels and enjoy them all for different reasons. Dan is eminently relatable and has an air of integrity. I'm happy for his success. Not everybody can be Craig Mains:)
I think you nailed this assessment! Let's face it, most people have jobs and families and can't through hike. Finding a backpacker that fits that demographic who gives great tips, is personable, and has good quality videos appeals to a large number of people.
Question:
Why does there seem to be so much shade thrown to “weekend warriors” by thru hikers?
In the majority of videos by thru hikers, there’s a little hint of pretentiousness when mentioning section hikers or WW.
Idk man, just seems weird. We all just wanna walk in the woods and enjoy nature. Why create a divide? It’s weird.
I think there is less shade being thrown then you may think... it's a very small amount of thru hikers. Most thru hikers I know like to hike around section hikers because they often give us free food :)
Probably because they can no longer relate to a hiker that will bring "luxury items" to be comfortable, and may like the camping aspect of hiking and don't really harp on getting from point a to point b in the quickest, lightest way possible. I mean...they call stuff luxury items. Lol 2nd vid of Kyle's I've seen and I caught that same vibe...and this vid is about dan becker lol
Wally Taggart it’s not even just in this video though. I’m on a few groups on Facebook for various trails (The Florida Scenic Trail for example) and there’s even that same vibe there in the comments and posts. It’s weird.
Also, there may not be face to face animosity, but there is definitely a behind the glass screen superiority complex. It’s undeniable, my friend.
@@KyleHatesHiking So there is a THEY and an US. Why thinking so much in compartmentalization? (not talking about you in general, I'm talking about a general vibe I feel while watching a lot of thru-hikers' videos).
Try to find time to hike for 5-6 months having a family in your 30s or 40s, or you're running a company which can't exist without you, whatever. It's mostly not possible. 10 years ago, when they maybe had more freedom to do a thru-hike, thru-hiking hasn't been the big thing which it is now.
Being regularly outside for the weekends while you are working and having a family is respectable as well. Maybe they are doing it for decades and maybe by the end of their lives they walked way more miles than a thru-hiker. Or they just started with hiking in general, how great, embrace that mindset.
I often get this vibe of American thru-hikers feeling superior than other hikers. I'm from Europe and I've never experienced something like that in our hiking community. We cherish each person who loves nature and wants to be outside. Maybe because our thru-hikes are not that long, who knows.
Of course people should be absolutely proud of doing a thru-hike. But why not letting people be and do what they love, why all that cringing, judging, laughing about gear which isn't the gear that oneself prefers,... ? It often seems so negative.
But by saying that I'm kind of judging myself, right? It's just very strange to me.
That said, I've just watched two of your videos and I'm looking forward to watch more, especially your interviews.
@@KyleHatesHiking TRUTH! I'm one of those section hikers 😁! I started by doing day hikes while peak bagging, moved to overnighters while doing more than one peak on a trip, weekends, then extended weekends to week long trips, and now I try to knock off as many miles per trip while I try to finish sectioning the AT, usually taking two weeks or more per trip. The more information that I get, the more I am responsible to use to help others. Maybe I'll throw up a few videos when I have some spare time (attempting to retire in the fall, but I'll have to live below the poverty level...)🙁
It’s because he looks like The ever lovable Jim from The Office 😜😜
Truth is I like both Dan Becker and Darwin and yes I'm old. 58 and have been Hiking and Camping my whole life and even put on a couple miles in the Marine Corp. But I hike to see new country and experience it not just to blow through it.
I have considered doing a through hike like the AT because I have hiked many days on it because as a Corporate Pilot I spend a lot of time in Johnson City TN and while the people I fly down do there work, Me and my Copilot hike the AT and to different waterfalls when I'm out there. I just don't have 5 months vacation and I'm close to retirement 4-5 years , now in retirement who knows.
Kyle I do like your videos telling people you don't need high priced gear to hike, I went to Alaska last year and my rain coat and down coat bought on Ebay why just what I need a high priced coat around a camp fire, can I say burn holes as this always happens.
I’ve camped with Dan. And I talk to him all the time. He’s a great guy. He’s definitely a gear head. He loves backpacking gear!! Dan is a down to earth great guy. Cool video Kyle.
Thanks Jason! I think Dan would make a great rapper.
Kyle Hates Hiking 😂😂😂.
Kyle Hates Hiking lol
He seems like a great dude! Just not what most of us are looking for in a backpacking youtuber. Just because people don't like his videos, doesn't mean its some conspiracy by all the "haters".
At 53, I'm definitely in Dan's demographic. People in the age range you talk about probably enjoy his videos because they can relate to him and do enjoy interesting gear. We also have something most in their 20s don't have....decent paying careers. We can drop $500 on some crazy DCF tent if we wanted to but we can't take off for 6 months for a thru hike. Most of us also have spouses and kids that keep us from taking off every weekend. However, we try to get out as much as we can and when we do we try to make the most of it. That doesn't mean we don't enjoy your videos, or Dixie, or Darwin. You're pretty f'ing funny.
Dan also drops dad jokes, so he's got that going on.
Are you me? Was going to comment the exact same thing. We are truly his demographic.
Hang in there and take could care of your body. Soon the kids will be gone and you can hit the trial on much longer trips if that is something you want to do. I am well into my 60s and hiking more than ever. There are a lot of trials that are fairly long but don’t take months it complete. Take care
@@mtadams2009 I thru hiked the AT last year and CT this year. I stopped making excuses for not doing it.
@@gregmortonoutdoors First off congratulations that’s awesome. Second not everyone wants to do those trails for a variety of reasons. I did the Long Trail in Vermont this year and another 350 this year around New England. Next year I am planing on doing the Colorado Trail. I don’t think for many people quitting their jobs and leaving their families works for everyone. Also most people don’t want to spend four plus months hiking. I spent about 20 days doing the LT and it was a great time. That said I am not sure if I want to hike for months on end. Next trip Erin be longer and after that I will reevaluate things then. I would like to like but I also want to keep my marriage. It’s a delicate balance. Take care and again congratulations.
Hi Kyle I like your channel. This is a good video and I’d like to point out the main reason why I watch stuff that Dan Becker does. It’s because he has kids hence why he is a weekend warrior like a lot of his Fanbase. I think that’s really important to know why his demographic is really attracted to him. Our time is limited and we want to maximize the time that we spend out there by ourselves or with others.
Dan Becker has kids = have children. can relate
Dan Becker is a Weekend warrior = have job. can relate.
Dan Becker is a Gear junky = have job. can research gear. can buy gear (more gear than I can use). can relate.
Dan Becker = clean youtube channel = have kids. can appreciate
Other hiker youtubers = hike for a living. can't relate
Other hiker youtubers = foul language = don't want that around the kidos.
Other hiker youtubers = no kids. no responsibilities. can't relate
So yeah, you nailed it.
Very rare to find someone posting about hiking with kids, so I guess we fall into the “we hike like him” category.
Makes sense!
Definitely agree. It is awesome when your kids want to go out with you. That time is some of the best I get to have with mine. I'm glad my daughter loves it.
Didn't mention the luxury item challenge. That's what got me watching him. Plus, he just seems like a good dude.
Sent him an email; can confirm, good dude.
I'm barely even in y'all's community and I think most of you guys are entertaining and helpful.
Dan is great! And yes you are right on all of your observations. As a 40 something hiker i think he relates more to me than some of the other. Not to much 'ultra light snob' and not to much 'bushcraft baby'. Advice is practical and timely. Gear reviews are a big help and seem to be honest. And he hikes. Maybe not like Darwin or Dixie, but he does actually go out there. I will continue to be a "Dan Fan".. (all rights reserved.)
Dude your edit is insane! hahaha love the video!
Glad you enjoyed it! I've spent way more time staring at Dan Becker's face in photoshop than I would like to admit
@@KyleHatesHiking hahahaaha
judging by that beer burp, i didn't think you'd be able to say a word like "inevitable" as well as you did! great video man. very entertaining!
The reality is, most hikers who see themselves as some sort of trail genius, thru hiking guru will want to be Dan when they get older. All of us older guys with families would love to spend more time on the trail, but you have to balance your priorities when other people depend on you. I am a weekend warrior now, but was a trail junkie in my youth. Young hikers criticizing family guys who are weekend warriors now aren't considering the lifetime of experience we have that precedes where we are currently. I'd love to thru hike the AT now, but that's not going to happen. I can't put my life on hold for 5 months. When I had that option, I could never have afforded the gear you see on the trail now. It's all a matter of perspective.
I watch Dan for the no fuss clear information that he gives with a well thought out review. When you've been away from hiking for a while it is good to get upto date info, tips and hacks that work for others. Also for some it is the actual hiking trail and camping out with the gear they are reviewing or advice they are giving. One of my favourites isn't even human. Gotta love Monty the poor sweet ever suffering collie. (Clearly adored though and the voice haha why do we always give our dogs a voice?)
As for the hate, folk will attack others because they don't agree with them or because they have some perceived fame that they don't have and others jump on the bandwagon while not knowing anything of the subject, person or anything else. Sadly, it is all part and parcel of being in the "limelight".
Great video! Very balanced. Dan is a great guy who is super supportive of everyone. It’s really a shame that some people have an issue with him because he’s more successful than they are. If they’d get out of their own way, they could benefit from Dan’s knowledge and he’d be happy to help them. As you can see by his comments on this video, he’s a great guy.
Dan is the man! Dan is the man!
The niche for weekend backpackers is definitely being filled by You Tubers like Dan Becker.....
Like I have said before, not every (worthwhile) adventurous hike is the Appalachian Trail, PCT, or the CDT.
Another one of my top favorites is Adventure Archives...Precisely, because it documents good quality weekend hikes in an easily followed format.
So to recap: your premise is 1) Dan Becker is appealing because he has found an audience that trusts him 2) He produces quality, i.e. watchable, content that is enjoyable to his audience 3) Dan Becker has a compelling personality that people want to watch 4) He offers advice that his audience can apply usefully in the backcountry. I look forward to your forthcoming analysis: "Why 'Kyle Hates Hiking' Has a Firm Grasp of the Obvious." LOL. Love your channel, Kyle; I watch all the time, but I'm bummed that I can't get my 15:57 mins back.
Good video Kyle. Been following along for a while now. Dan's put in the hard work to succeed and it shows. Keep up there good work too!
Thanks!
“Middle aged 30-35 upto 55-60” middle aged at 30!! You’ve just broken my heart.
I used to think there is difference between weekend warrior hikers like my self and "real hikers" through hikers but really there is not. I didn't even know till recently that through hikers stop and get rides off trail to sleep in and rest at hotels or whatever and then come back to trails to continue. What's the huge difference between random hikers hiking every week and through hikers then ? maybe sleeping in shelters and tents now and then ?
Dude come on. Guys subconciences see Carson Daly and miss that dude. He's Carson in Wisconsin.
Great insights. Lost count on how many times you said “Dan Becker” though. Haha. For real though, Dan is killing it and it’s awesome to see. Cheers Kyle. Subbed.
Drinking game proposal: Drink every time I say 'Dan Becker'
I’m trying to growing a hiking channel and this is the best how-to video I’ve found! Even if that wasn’t your intention in making this video!
There are channels that get a million views for NOTHING, just garbage.
I can't say I understand that.
I am glad there are some gems floating on top of the sewage pile.
I can't tell if "Weekend Warrior" is meant as a derogatory term for National Guardsmen backpackers or not :P
Well played sir. You brought me in with the pretty Dan Becker pic and I subscribed. I also subscribe to Dan Becker so I know what NOT to do 😂
I am sure that those 4 things are all part of his success. But actually I think the real reason he got successful is because he started the luxury item challenge that basically made it to every single hiking TH-cam channel including Dixie. Almost every one acknowledged that Dan started the challenge, including Dixie who also obviously has a huge following. Just like she tagged Second Chance Hiker which helped put him in the map for his season on PCT. That challenge put him on the map. The other things helped him grow from there. His channel does have more gear reviews and less trip videos... but he’s a dad with another job. It’s pretty hard to hike all the time when you have other responsibilities.
Great video young man. Dan is certainly a solid dude. I find the most interesting group was the thruhiker crowd as you stated. There does seem to be a bit of a “what the hell do you know, you only hike weekends” kind of attitude out there.
When I was weekend warrioring a portion of the PCT it was very interesting to see how the younger US men wanted nothing to do with me an my buddy Matt while the girls both US and foreign, and the older US men and foreign men were some of the coolest people we had ever met. It was just an interesting dynamic that I immediately noticed. For the record it was not the first time I’ve noticed it while being on the trail.
Any who off to work, great video.
I will say that when you're thru hiking you meet so many other hikers that it becomes tough to relate to every single one... as a result you tend to gravitate towards the other thru hikers. Maybe some of the PCT hikers you met were just jerks, but I'm willing to bet than most of them we're simply on the grind and didn't feel like talking.
Hi Kyle, first time commenting. TH-cam seems to be just like fb, there will always be keyboard warriors both in the trail community and armchair critics. Great advert for Dan Becker, never heard of him before your jokes and this. I'm going to go over and take a look at what all the hype is about.
Thanks for telling me about him. I will be leaving your channel and joining his.
Later! (it's a Boston thing)
I’m sixty plus and he is one of my go to to consider gear changes. I hope he has tough skin because he deserves his success. I think most haters are jealous. I’m betting your numbers go up as you hoped because of his name. Smart on you, I subscribe! Lol
Great video. Got a new subscriber for honesty, candor, and a little bit of self-deprecation! I look forward to the next one. Great job!
I had never paid attention to the fact I tend to watch videos of hikers I identify with in some way, but it makes sense. Dixie was the first TH-cam hiker I found and binge watched.
We subbed each other when he first started TH-cam with his Pictured Rocks video. Dan is a great guy and he supported me the most on facebook last May when I was hiking the SHT.
I started my channel right around the same time as Dan Becker. I have certainly asked these same questions myself. I think you hit the nail on the head. Great points. Obviously the dude spends a lot of time working on TH-cam. And hes good at it, for all the reasons you listed. I have a lot of fun with my channel, but Im just not ready to trade my time surfing, fishing, and hiking for a higher subscriber count. Not that I would have the same success even if I did. I really have no problems with Dan, although I certainly have made a few jokes. Im not gonna lie. If he's influencing people in a way that gets them off the couch and into the woods, I say hell ya thats a good thing. Great video dude.
Oh yea...listened to the IBTAT episode yesterday. Good stuff.
Yo thanks man! And yeah IBTAT is the man, he's been on Trail Tales twice now.
@@KyleHatesHiking I remember listening to that first episode on my way to New Jersey for a liitle thruhike of the Batona Trail. Seems like a long time ago....🤣
Getting people unstuck is what I think Dan is good at. I talk with people all over the country as I travel for work and many of them think they don't know how to start. They are afraid they don't have the perfect gear and so they never do anything. Instead, what I hear in Dan's videos is just go do a fun, safe weekend with what you have and slowly get better stuff once you have some experience. That is why I like his videos.
@@ScottValler Yea. I think thats a good point.
Never heard of Dan Becker (sorry, Dan) until watching your videos. Definitely going to check him out as I'm a "weekend warrior" and pretty much obsessed with gear.
I generally got to the bush to relax and get away from civilisation for the day, night or a few nights. That doesn't mean I don't enjoy watching vids by bushcrafters who like to lug in 356 varieties of axe and folding saw and spend months building 3-storey bushcraft shelters from logs, or long-distance hikers who're more focussed on travelling as far and as lightly as possible.
At the end of the day, we're out there enjoying the wilderness in the way that best suits ourselves. And when I'm at home, I love watching what sorts of wilderness adventures all sorts of people from all around the world are having. I can see there are overlaps as well as differences.
I came into this video expecting you to tear Dan up, but gratefully found something totally different. I appreciate your balanced perspective on his success, and wanting to learn from it so you can improve as well. I know this video is 3 years old, and you’re still working on growing your channel. I’m following you, and hope you hit your goals. I’m squarely in Dan’s demographic, dreaming constantly of finding the freedom to cut bait and through hike for months at a time. But, I’m a weekend warrior for now, appreciate Dan’s content for what it is, and yours as well. So…thanks for having a mature, balanced perspective, and I’m hoping I don’t end-up finding a newer video that smashes everything in this one that I just praised. Keep it up! If I could do what you’re BOTH doing, I would!
I like Dan Becker for all the reasons that you mentioned. Most people can only go backpacking, or any other activity on the weekend because they actually have jobs that require them to be working during the week and or have family obligations. I can only speak for myself, but I would love to be able to just go backpacking for an entire spring, summer, and fall! I think that most conflict in all aspects of life is caused by what I call the J factor. When you peel away the onion at the center you’ll find jealousy. And I think you can boil it down to anybody that is hating on Dan Becker is nothing more than jealous. Kyle. I am enjoying your videos. Have a blessed week. John
No one these days wants to listen to some imbecile tell millions of people that if they aren’t a thru hiker then they aren’t a real hiker. The reality is, the majority of people want to throw on their pack, get out on the weekends, be comfortable and enjoy the outdoors. Or in my case, section hike, because I have a full time job. Dan’s channel is the go to channel for the person who wants to find a way to get out there and enjoy the outdoors without being stressed out. I will now be subscribing to your content. I am liking your stuff as well.
Kyle...you are a funny guy. We would have a lot of laughs if we met up. Keep it up. You, me and Dan Becker should do a thru hike together over a three day weekend.
I like Dan because I can identify. Yes age, weekend, but also location. Born in SD, lived in MN most of my life and now IL. Anyway, MN and WI are absolutely beautiful. To me it’s easy to know where he is coming from.
Also, he has a very clean mouth and I am never afraid to listen to his vids with the kids around.
He made interesting videos, and still does. That's how he got popular. For most campers and hikers, we are never gonna spend months hiking the AT. We gotta work for a living. So all the tips, gear, stories, etc about hiking the AT doesn't really apply to us. Some of us might even go car camping every now and then. So there ya go
Kyle I am definitely a hiking nerd and gear junkie! I love dan for me its his humor and great personality.
What made me discover Dan Becker? Your thumbnails.
Cheers to both of you.
Pretty much nailed it man. Love the youtube content as well as listening to all of the episodes on Trail
Tales podcast. Keep it up man. 🤙🏼🌲✌🏼
Thank you so much!!
I think you are right. Dan is fun to watch, and he knows his stuff. Dan is also a real person. He isn't plastic. He doesn't try to be something that he is not.
I think a majority of hikers out there are weekend warriors so It's no surprise to me that someone like Dan has as big a following as he does! In fact, it's probably scary how much they outnumber thru hikers and those who are attempting a thru hike. Before I set foot on the AT last year I heard some very wise words from a podcast "you're attempted a thru hike, not a thru hiker... until you complete the journey". what bothers me is if you currently are or have thru hiked it gives you a sense of superiority.... meaning as a thru hiker you know better. As someone who is now a thru hiker, that Shit can just go out the window and burn in the 9 levels of Dante's inferno. I like Dan, but I like you better! will the fates turn?? Ill let the video's decide... also nice choice in beer!
Kyle you’re basically the better looking version of Mr. Beast , for backpacking. If you want to grow your channel: video title “I gave a homeless man $1000 “ and you give a backpacker on the trail a $1000 Cuban fiber rain fly. And another where you thru hike with the most expensive shoes ever made(for hiking) and a follow up where you hike with just $100 dollar bills taped to your feet(as many as would protect your feet.) and see which holds up better dollar for dollar.
I'm a huge fan of your thumb nails. Always funny content💪
I'm here on this vid years later just to both understand your sense of humor better (initially I didn't catch your remarks as sarcastic, so ya had to keep popping up in my recommended for me to keep giving ya a chance before subscribing xD) but I also wanted to understand the "lore" behind the Dan Becker comments.
My genuine input as I do agree with the points made in this vid -
Regarding weekend warriors and obsession with gear, good gear is really expensive. I watch gear review vids, because my money is valuable and I can't afford to purchase things that simply will not work or I will hate. Having someone that tries different gear and gives input (like I struggle to get good sleep on trail, so some vids from Dan regarding sleep pads has been immensely helpful for me rather than going for the lightest pad for the season). There was one vid too where he tried out a sleep pad I was looking into and he was struggling to stay warm; I guess due to it not being 100% inflated the entire night. That video saved me from buying a sleep pad that was going to give me an uncomfortable night's sleep and a potentially dangerous one. My main focus for backpacking is actually camping with my dog sled. So I have a few additional things to consider than most backapcker channels out there, but overall keeping the sled light so the dogs can still get me from point A to point B is a big deal; because if the sled breaks from a fall or lort forbid an encounter with a curious or scared animal, I have to carry that stuff back depending on the damage to the sled.
While my ultimate goal is a thru hike, I have medical issues that has taken a lot from me; so gaining more confidence before getting out and also tossing my money in places and into gear that I won't regret is super helpful to getting out and feeling good with good sleep, gear that won't let me down, and gear that won't weigh me down.
I think production quality and comfort on camera is a huge portion more than anything else why there was an eruption in success for the channel. Cracking jokes that help those that are maybe a bit tentative about their safety and comfort on trail helps people like myself feel like I'm not a failure and that is a normal thing to experience or feel.
I know why all the h8t. 😂 Remember two sides to every story 😉 Dan seems cool though. Hard to fake who you really are on youtube. Heard the shout out and call in on schill bros 5hour stream. Great stuff subed👍👊
I feel like the thru-hiker youtubers are just upset that the youtube community doesnt find them entertaining as they find themselves. I feel like everytime I finish a Dan Becker video I learn something new. Might be something small or something on a piece of gear but its always something. Most of these thru-hiker channels have some amazing content but how many times do they expect us to watch them film a river, tree or mountain scape? I feel like the personality is what keeps the viewers coming back and it seems as if Dan doesnt even put any effort into it, like thats how he really is. But I feel like if some of these youtubers put more of themselves into their content, it might take off a little more than the landscape shots on repeat. Also I kind of cringe when these thru-hikers start talking about "real" hiking. I think you have to be incredibly privileged with health and money to dedicate months and months of your time hiking across the country and lots of people know their lives would be upside down if they left work or their families for that long. Im sure tons more people would be giving it a shot if it wasnt so physically demanding and expensive. Id much rather be at a campsite with the Dan Becker types than these "real" hikers who are patting themselves on their back a little too hard lmao. I like your channel, man. You have a good personality that I think will hook a good amount of viewers. Good luck to you brother.
This is 3 years later, and I think you've discovered your target audience...by accident maybe. Your sub numbers have skyrocketed by 150k in just 3 or 4 months. Here, your audience is TELLING YOU what they want to see. How easy is that?!! I just LOVE your new content too. Please keep up the good work. If it's creepy, we wanna hear about it!
Dan channel is fine, but you are right its geared towards the weekend hiker who does not mind carrying overweight crap. I don't watch it much because I am into long distance hiking and his gear choices and his low miles I can't relate to. He seems like a really nice guy and creates good content. Nothing to hate for sure. The hiking channel that has really taken off is Kraig Adams, he has over 700,000 subscribers and rarely talks. He does short hikes, 100 miles or so all over the world. His filming is the next level I must add. Your channel is growing, congratulations.
He’s also humble and honest, or at least comes off that way. I like both of y’all’s stuff.
I'm not a thru hiker. But I love to watch both of you guy's channels. I just do regular backpacking trips but I'm a smaller dude so I like to incorporate some aspects of ultralight backpacking to make my pack lighter. However I'm not an actual ultralighter since I do still like luxuries and don't need to do insane amounts of miles. so I like taking tips and gear recommendations from both sides.
He's eloquent and informative in his content in comparison to some TH-camrs. His production values are decent. His topics are usually interesting and he doesn't "make sausage" just to have something to throw on TH-cam as content.
"A little bit cheesy, a little bit corny", real cute and funny... my kind of guy. Too bad he's already married.
Early on in Dan's YT career he FB messaged me to talk shop. This was when he had less subscribers than I do. He and I have completely different objectives when it comes to YT, but I gave him advice on what I thought made a good YT channel, which isn't necessarily what is good for growth. He decided to go with the growth route and he is using an approach that is widely available if you just read a few books on youtube strategy. He does have the personality and on-camera chops that many people lack, but aside from that anyone could do it with the right discipline and focus.
I agree that anyone can grow, but I think you're understating how difficult it is to grow as quickly as he has.
@@KyleHatesHiking Not trying to understate that. I know it isn't easy.
Don’t omit another major factor... the dude is very similar to another loved personality, John Krasinski!
Dan is an everyday dude and people simply relate.
Dan Becker IS ACTUALLY Rob Corddry's little brother. I heard he was on the set of "Hot tube time machine". He was not in the movie but he was able to hang out on set get the stars drinks and give foot rubs.
Didn’t know he got some hate. Haha but I’ve watched a lot of his videos, and I think the thing that kinda rubs me a little weird is now that he’s successful and stuff, seems like he’s getting stuff thrown at em and now just seems like a sponsored channel. You can see the transition from the stuff he wears...now he posts a lot about cottage vendors which is great, but it seems like this is the case only now as a means to push products. If he’s had so much experience I’m surprised he didn’t own stuff before, especially being in that demographic. This is my only thing but I love his channel, but I do feel like he’s kinda selling out. Lol
But you can’t deny that he puts out great content and fantastic production!
Oh! And it was pretty hilarious to see him push the ultralight thing for a while and then all of a sudden quit ultralight. Lol
Also, the dude could do voiceover work for John Krasinski. There’s a built in familiarity there to go along with his charisma and solid editing and knowledge of the outdoors
I watch many different channels for backpacking content. I want to backpack more often and want to go on longer hikes but I can't get away long enough to do that just yet. Many of my trips are usually two nights and three days. I understand that those kinds of trips are different than a long through hike so I may pack more like a Dan Becker. The reason I like to watch your channel Kyle is to gain knowledge in how to do a through hike while laughing because your channel is hilarious! I just try to take pieces of advice from many different people while finding out what works for me. Backpacking is constantly evolving and so is my strategy in preparation for a trip. I continue to learn and that will never change.
This was amazing! I dig dan becker’s channel, dixie, darwin and syntax! I watch all these guys! Some folks sort of don’t like Darwins style, but I don’t mind it. He just tells it like it is! And he’s a damn good editor. I also really dig a bunch of bcraft utubers out of Sweden. There’s one that uses a drone and the reel that he gets from that is amazing. But I totally fit the dan becker fan profile. Middle aged weekend warrior who doesn’t go out enough and works too much. Last year at one point my boss sat me down and told me he wanted me to go camping or whatever it is that you do out there! Crazy! Mathew Poss, he’s kinda funny! Another utuber that grew really big realky fast. It’s the collie he hikes with and his sort of “relaxed” demeanor. Good shit! Love this vid dude! Kater!
These middle aged guys come on and have no idea how to text! Go back to playing lawn darts and practicing setting up leantos with a military poncho!!
Another great vid. Now I am going to binge watch Dan. Plans for the day are now shot.
Prepare your credit card ;)
@@KyleHatesHiking Its full, but that Duplex .........
It's because he's more real/accessible to the demographic you mentioned. Most backpackers are weekend warriors.
Funny video. It's unfortunate there's so much hate in this world and Dan gets so much of it. He seems to take the high road and not even give it the time of day. Respect.
Dan Becker ain't got time for dat shit.
Great video man! It’s a little funny to me that people get so upset over his success. Do they not realize they are helping him to the top by viewing his videos and leaving feedback? If you dont like someone or something, stay away. Simple
I wish DB, much success! I think he I'd going full time. I must say some some long trail hikers have an elitist attitude. I will never due a thru hike, but certainly my hiking significant. I enjoy that I only have a few day at a time, the return to home life. I enjoy DB.
Great channel! Just discovered it, now binge watching hahaha
I think you are doing a great job and have a lot of charisma as well
Dan Becker... taught me a LOT before heading out a few years ago. This cracks me up! Keep at it Dan. Thank you for educating us :)
Not a hater because I have never seen him until I just now watched his rescue in the GC video. My immediate response was to let him know that he was ABSOLUTELY NOT READY to make the hike they had planned. He's not in adequate physical condition. As I watched, I hoped that he would tell the hike leader that they should just sleep overnight at the ranch after the 7 mile descent. After the first night they needed to take a whole day of complete rest. So, he is able to elicit such comments from someone who has seen him for the first time.
Love the video. He’s really popular because Dan played Jim on the Office 😆
Daaaang! Who doesnt love Dan Becker!? Didn't know the guy got hate. Love you Dan!
DB...two words...charisma and passion. One you can fake, one you can't.
He's a likeable gearnut who may be an amateur hiker but has definitely researched his gear. I guess that 1) throws people off 2) annoys those that had to learn it the hard way out there 3) he's not afraid to call out the establishment on their (perceived) bullshit.
I think it's very nice for weekend warriors to hear someone say overall comfort is priority number one and knows how to talk about it as well.
If so many people are trolling his videos it just goes to show that he is successful at it. Jealousy rears its ugly head
My point exactly. Thanks Grannie!
I'll never understand why a person isn't allowed to say "shit" on the internet (it's bleeped in every video) but "asshole" is allowed ? Can anyone explain to me why ?
take a shot every time he says Dan Becker.
I would be face down. Elbow crawling to the bathroom.
The Flying Backpack within the first 5 minutes
Not gonna lie...I bought a Nemo Tensor over the Big Agnes Q-Core SLX because of Dan's reviews. I really enjoy his videos. Great summary of Beckers channel...I think you are spot on.
Great way to break this down. Dan seems like a super nice guy and unfortunately certain things come with getting in front of the camera. But he handles the negative people pretty well from what I have seen.
Yeah he doesn't let it get to him I don't think.
Somebody invite this guy into our TH-cam creators group on FB. Great video and perspective man
Hey I appreciate it!