Being in the public eye has its perks and its pitfalls. One common gripe we hear is the scepticism about the legitimacy of sponsored content. Pat recently addressed this head-on, and we thought it was high time to share his perspective with our community.
When you’re a recognizable figure in the 4X4 world, your social media posts are bound to attract a slew of comments. Some are supportive, others not so much. A frequent criticism is the claim that sponsored endorsements are inherently biased or unreliable. Let’s unpack that a bit.
Yes, Pat, and the rest of the Mr 4X4 family are sponsored. The vehicles he drives and the accessories that kit it out are all part of sponsorship deals. But does this make them inferior products? Absolutely not. In fact, the opposite is often true.
Pat’s rig isn’t just for show—it’s his workhorse. Every accessory has to perform flawlessly because, without them, he can’t do his job. A carpenter wouldn’t attempt to build a house with a $2 nail gun just because it was given to him. Nor would a top-tier Formula 1 driver sign a deal with a car company they don’t think can get them on the podium just because they offer a little more than their current ride.
Pat’s business is TV, a blown shock absorber, a dodgy set of tyres, or a bull bar that rattles off puts his business at risk. Not ideal when he’s on the road for two month stints filming.
In over 25 years of industry experience, Pat has seen his fair share of products. Some didn’t make the cut. He’s been candid about it—if something fails to meet his standards, it gets dropped, no matter the sponsorship deal. This ensures that only top-quality products make it to his vehicle and, by extension, his recommendations to you.
We’re talking about brands like Engel, Outback Armour, and ARB—names synonymous with reliability and durability in the 4X4 world. These are not just endorsements; they’re partnerships built on trust and proven performance. When a product appears on his rigs, it’s because it has been rigorously tested and has proven itself worthy.
So, if you notice a product no longer featuring on our show, it’s likely because it didn’t meet the tough standards required for tackling places like the Canning Stock Route. These are gruelling environments where subpar gear simply won’t survive.
Yes, sponsorship is part of the game, but it’s also a mutual relationship that benefits everyone involved. Our sponsors get the visibility they need, we get the support to fuel our adventures, and you get honest, reliable recommendations for your own 4X4 travels.
So next time you see a sponsored product on our show, know that it’s there for a reason. It’s been tested, trusted, and proven to withstand the toughest conditions. And that’s something we’re proud to stand behind.
