[increscent]

A notable exception to the trend of poor/unknown quality in consumer products is the outdoor product market. I buy a lot of gear for skiing, canyoneering, climbing, cycling, backpacking, and other sports. In these sports, the safety and functionality of gear is critical. And you spend enough time using and evaluating the gear that many (if not most) users become experts. Perhaps this type of market is the exception that proves the rule.