You Won't Believe the 7 Outrageous Hobbies People Pretend to Love—Number 3 Will Shock You!

In a world where social media often shapes perceptions of what’s considered cool, a recent question posed online has shed light on the sometimes absurd reality of modern hobbies. A Reddit user asked, “What’s a hobby people pretend is cool, but secretly you think is ridiculous?” The responses revealed a fascinating glimpse into human behavior and the fine line between genuine passion and performative displays of wealth or status.

From sneaker collecting to vehicles designed for off-roading but rarely taken beyond the pavement, many of these hobbies illustrate how people often chase perception over personal enjoyment. One Redditor from Colorado highlighted a trend among men who are deeply invested in the idea of overlanding—a form of travel involving off-road vehicles and camping in remote areas—yet rarely venture beyond the local supermarket parking lot. “I guarantee, if I went to my local supermarket, there would be at least 4 or 5 4Runners, Jeeps, etc., with all the gear on them and they've never seen dirt beyond the local trail parking lot,” they remarked. This raises an important question: Is owning a vehicle equipped for adventure still a hobby if it merely serves as a status symbol?

Another hobby that attracted skepticism was the fascination with new age healing practices, particularly those involving crystals and chakras. While many people are open to spiritual beliefs, one comment cautioned that this culture can sometimes resemble a fashion statement or even a predatory business model, designed to exploit the vulnerable. The visuals might be vibrant and appealing on social media, but the implication of profiting from someone’s desperation makes it a troubling hobby.

Additionally, the sneaker culture came under scrutiny. One user pointed out the irony of spending thousands of dollars on shoes that often remain unworn. “Spending THOUSANDS of dollars on shoes you never wear or are afraid to get dirty… Then they dry rot after a few years from not being worn,” the comment read. This illustrates a crucial point: are sneakerheads simply collectors, or are they more akin to Pokémon card scalpers, purchasing items merely to watch their value appreciate rather than using them for their intended purpose?

Even more peculiar hobbies were mentioned, such as the phenomenon of watching others livestream gambling. While this might seem absurd at first glance, it does offer an avenue for excitement without financial risk for the viewer. However, the question remains: does this truly qualify as a hobby if it lacks the uplifting qualities typically associated with personal interests?

On the other hand, some hobbies garnered respect for their creativity and inherent challenge. Take combat robotics, for example. One participant enthusiastically stated, "Bro, Battle bots are cool as heck. And a useful skill for the upcoming AI drone wars… Sure, your robot might get destroyed, but that’s the point." This highlights a fundamental joy in the process of creation, rather than just the end result. Unlike some others that veer into the territory of status competition, combat robotics requires skill, time, and genuine interest.

The overarching theme that emerges from these discussions is the concept of conspicuous consumption, a term coined by sociologist Thorstein Veblen to describe the practice of purchasing goods to display wealth rather than fulfill personal needs. Many of these hobbies, rather than offering joy and fulfillment, have devolved into competitions of status and identity. The joy of engaging in a hobby is often eclipsed by the need to impress others, which can ultimately undermine the experience.

As this Reddit thread illustrates, people can exaggerate their hobbies to project an image, often sacrificing genuine enjoyment in the process. Some hobbies, like amassing a collection of expensive shoes that will never see the pavement, are harmless yet absurd. Others, such as street stunts, carry inherent risks. Yet, there are also hobbies that appear ridiculous at first but hold real value, like combat robotics or silver coin collecting—activities that encourage creativity and engagement rather than mere performance.

Ultimately, the key takeaway from these conversations is to reflect on the motivations behind our hobbies. Are we engaging in these activities out of genuine passion, or are we more concerned about how others perceive us? The joy of hobbies should come from personal satisfaction and fulfillment, not from the need to showcase wealth or status. As we navigate our interests, asking ourselves these questions can lead to a more authentic and enriching experience.