By the same token, you cannot avoid making a statement. Just by being at a place and doing a thing, you're expressing some kind of value judgement. Like when I'm wearing office clothes on my bike, I'm saying, "this is a perfectly valid mode of transportation for a commuter."
Likewise, the guy who wears ordinary casual clothing on a hike is saying, "let's enjoy the nice place we've walked to," instead of "I'm on an adventure, just look at my gear!"
I see it all the time while out hiking. The group of 20/30 somethings who just went to REI, spent $300 on an outfit to go hike 3-4 miles while downing a couple beers. No trail etiquette, only there for the appearance. It's truly wild.