The Psychology of Tough Miles: Why We Crave Type II Fun

You know the drill. The rain’s been falling for hours, your socks are soaked through, and your pack feels like it gained five pounds with every mile. In the moment, it’s brutal. You swear you’ll never put yourself through this again.

But a week later? You’re telling the story with a grin, scrolling maps to plan your next trip, and chasing that same kind of “never again” suffering.

So why do we do it? Why do hikers, backpackers, and outdoor wanderers keep coming back for the hardest miles?

The Science Behind the Suffering

Psychologists call it retrospective revaluation - the way our brains reframe uncomfortable experiences into meaningful memories. The same miles that felt miserable in the moment get remembered as pride, accomplishment, and growth.

There’s also effort justification at play: when we struggle, our brains tell us the reward must be worth more. The summit feels higher, the view brighter, the bond with trail friends stronger - because we had to work for it.

And let’s not forget the dopamine hit. Overcoming a tough climb or a storm-drenched day gives us a chemical reward our brains want to chase again and again.

Why Type II Fun Matters

Type II fun - the kind that feels terrible in the moment but great in hindsight - gives us stories worth retelling. It teaches resilience. It deepens our connection to the trail and to ourselves. And it reminds us that comfort zones are meant to be stretched.

Without the blisters, the storms, the false summits, and the long slogs, we’d miss out on the pride that only comes from pushing through.

Gear That Makes Hard Miles Possible

We designed the Type II Collection, the Cima 15, Grit 28, Skala 38, and Piku Sling, with those hard-earned memories in mind. Ultralight, durable, and purpose-built, these packs don’t just survive the tough miles - they thrive in them.

Because the right gear can’t make the trail easier. But it can make it possible.

👉 Explore the Type II Collection