Diego Nakamura

Former nonprofit gear librarian who stretched budgets by prioritizing durable, maintainable packs. Now maps value tiers, warranty strength, and resale prospects to help readers buy fewer, better.

Real value is comfort-hours and longevity per dollar, not the lowest sticker.

In a gear library with fifteen dollars left in the quarter, I chose one well-built pack over two flimsy ones. A year later, the good one was still booking out every weekend, with a new hip-belt installed. The flimsy ones? Retired to the closet. Value shows up in calendars.

I prioritize replaceable parts, service support, and proven models over hype premiums.