“Self-promotion is bad.”

No, bullshit is bad. Self-promotion happens everywhere and it’s smart. We just don’t like it mixed with our idealistic pursuits, of which climbing is one.

“Sponsorship is selling out.”

Only if the person has previously committed to not being sponsored. Otherwise, it’s just psychological projection on the part of the critic.

“Sponsored climbers are pressured by brands to perform.”

I don’t believe it happens. If there’s any pressure, it’s self-inflicted by the athlete. I was sponsored for five years, and the only pressure I felt was what I put on myself.

“Sponsored climbers get paid.”

I wish. Sharma and Hirayama maybe. Some retainers are paid, but they are very rarely enough to live on. (Unless you live in your car, don’t put gas in it and eat dog food.)

“If I’m rad enough, they’ll just call me up and give me free gear.”

Sorry, this ain’t the NBA, sugar. If you want it, you have to go after it.

“Sponsorship has no influence on me.”

Only in a blind taste test.

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