People have been enjoying the outdoors for decades without all of the expensive equipment that we have today, so to say that more people would get into hiking if the prices where not so high is foolish. You don't need to spend $85 on a brand new titanium pot-- a $5 or $10 aluminum grease pot from Walmart or the Dollar Store works fine, nor do you need to drop $150 on a Montbell down vest to stay warm-- Goodwil, Arc etc have lots of fleeces for less than $10 that are more than adequate.

This doesn't just go for hiking/backpacking/camping. The same can be said for any sport, there are always cheaper alternatives. Fly-fishing for example, a pair of Simms waders can cost you $200-$400, but Cabela's has cheaper options that are just fine too.

All people, regardless of financial restraints, can enjoy the outdoors in any capacity that they want, and it won't break the bank.

So what was your rant again?