Hmmm. I hadn't really thought of color choice in terms of "blending" versus "standing out", but I'm new to the scene and haven't been observing it for a while. For me it was choice of color I like vs. color I like less or don't like - if it's even offered in multiple color choices. Although the thought of being trapped in a crevasse with a broken something and the helicopters not being able to spot me in my "canyon" backpack and "moss" top and "coyote" pants did cross my mind. Most of my gear is whatever color it came in from the bargain bin or ebay - which, now that you mention it is mostly blend-in colors. Greens and grays. I just got back from the store with my brand new Citron Yellow backpack - the only other color in that model was subdued Pagoda Blue, but ~everybody~ will be wearing that this season. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif" alt="" />
Standing out can have benefits, too. What you don't want to do around here is wear a backpack with a fluffy white tail and antlers...