They're not really at odds - as I said later, the more experienced folks tend to have upgraded to better gear, and know how to use it. End result: the good gear doesn't get trashed. (And, if it does, the more experienced know enough to pack it out.)

The newbie with good gear may not be able to use it, but having paid megabucks for it, he'll pack it out so he can get his money back using the no-questions-asked refund policies most sellers have. However, I have seen a few pieces of pretty good stuff abandoned, too - my buddy found a really good Mountain Hardwear waterproof/breathable jacket, muddy and soaked; he took it home and cleaned it, took it on his AT thru-hike, and is still using it. But that's the exception, not the rule.

I do agree that it takes more skill to make low-end stuff work (see my other comment about not pitching the fiberglass-poled tent out on the ridge.)