I dont do this is all aspects of my life but for somethings I just buy the stuff I want. In the little free time I had I didnt wanted a nice/decent bike. So glad I did. Same for some sailing gear. Part of my doesnt like spending the $$, seems frivolous, but what is it for? I dont think I'm a poster child for REI or whatever but my days of a 30lb bike and leaky tent are thankfully over.
Get in where you fit in. Ride your race... whatever. Just do your thing and dont give a chit what others think.