What Not to Say to Bigfoot Believers
Respect the Tracks
Bigfoot believers are a unique breed—devoted to the hunt, passionate about cryptozoology, and deeply committed to uncovering the mysteries behind one of the world’s most famous mythical creatures. But whether you're new to the folklore of mysterious creatures or knee-deep in the unexplained phenomena of urban legends, there are a few things you should never say to someone who proudly sports Bigfoot apparel or displays a collection of Bigfoot hats and Sasquatch t-shirts like badges of honor.
This isn’t just about courtesy—it's about understanding the deep-rooted cultural and paranormal connection cryptid fans feel. From the Pacific Northwest Sasquatch to the Southern Bigfoot sightings, believers are bound by a respect for cryptid encounters in the wild. So let’s take a look at the most common faux pas, and what you should say instead.
1. "You mean that guy in a gorilla suit?"
Why It’s Offensive:
This joke is as old as the Patterson-Gimlin footage. Suggesting that decades of cryptid research and Sasquatch evidence are just pranks undermines the real work done by investigators, eyewitnesses, and researchers—many of whom have dedicated their lives to documenting Bigfoot legends around the world.
What to Say Instead:
“Do you think there’s a connection between Bigfoot and other relic hominids like Gigantopithecus?” Now that’s a question worthy of a What The Sas shirt.
2. "There’s no way something that big could stay hidden."
Why It’s Misguided:
People underestimate how vast and wild North America still is. The Appalachian Mountains alone hold countless unexplored pockets. From the Florida Skunk Ape to the California Wild Man, the terrain favors mysterious creatures. Believers often reference Southern Bigfoot sightings or stories from national parks where entire communities of animals remain undocumented.
What to Say Instead:
“I read that some national parks are home to unexplored regions. Have you heard any sightings from there?”
3. "You actually believe in that stuff?"
Why It’s Dismissive:
This question makes it sound like belief in Bigfoot or cryptozoology is equivalent to believing in fairy tales. But for many, this belief stems from real Bigfoot sightings, personal experiences, and Sasquatch research and evidence.
What to Say Instead:
“I’m fascinated by unexplained phenomena. What got you into this?”
4. "That footprint is obviously fake."
Why It’s Problematic:
Belittling someone’s carefully molded Bigfoot footprints (often made with a DIY Sasquatch footprint mold) is like laughing at an astronomer’s telescope. Whether cast in plaster or carefully photographed in outdoor performance shirts SPF 50 deep in the woods, every piece of evidence matters.
What to Say Instead:
“Where did you find this? Is it from a known hotspot like Ohio Grassman territory?”
5. "But there’s no scientific proof."
Why It’s Narrow-Minded:
Many cryptid enthusiasts embrace cryptozoology for beginners, yet dig deep into peer-reviewed Sasquatch research and evidence. The lack of peer-reviewed studies doesn’t negate the reality of hundreds of eyewitness reports, unexplainable audio recordings, and countless cryptid encounters in the wild.
What to Say Instead:
“Are there any new theories or field notes being circulated in the community?”
6. "Bigfoot? Isn't that just a tourist trap?"
Why It’s Misleading:
Sure, places like Willow Creek, CA, or Fouke, AR embrace Bigfoot tourism. But the cryptid community isn’t in it for the photo ops. They wear their Bigfoot hoodies and UV-resistant Bigfoot stickers like armor in the face of skepticism. What may seem like a souvenir to one person is cultural currency to another.
What to Say Instead:
“I love how some towns embrace folklore. Which ones have real sightings or legends?”
7. "You’ve never even seen one though."
Why It’s Ignorant:
Neither have most marine biologists seen a giant squid in the wild, yet we believe they exist. Eyewitness accounts, audio analysis, and physical evidence like Bigfoot footprints or hair samples (still being tested) add up.
What to Say Instead:
“Have you ever had an encounter or met someone who has?”
8. "It’s probably just a bear."
Why It’s an Oversimplification:
Yes, bears walk on two legs—but experienced trackers can tell the difference. Bigfoot footprints and evidence often show dermal ridges and stride lengths that don’t match known wildlife. Outdoor enthusiasts wearing moisture-wicking apparel from What The Sas aren’t confusing bear tracks with relic hominid prints.
What to Say Instead:
“How do you distinguish Bigfoot tracks from other animals when you’re out in the field?”
9. "I saw that on a cartoon once."
Why It’s Childish:
Yes, Bigfoot appears in cartoons, commercials, and memes, but so do historical figures. Urban legends often start with folklore and spiral into pop culture—but that doesn’t mean the source isn’t worth exploring.
What to Say Instead:
“There’s definitely a lot of pop culture around Sasquatch. How do you separate fact from fiction?”
10. "So, where’s the body?"
Why It’s Frustrating:
The absence of a body doesn’t disprove the creature’s existence. Many cryptids are elusive, and scavengers or natural decay take care of remains quickly in the wild.
What to Say Instead:
“Do you think Bigfoot is more likely to be solitary or part of a group? Where would a body logically turn up?”
Embracing the Culture Without Mocking It
If you’re chatting with someone who buys Sasquatch gifts or proudly supports a veteran-owned Bigfoot company like What The Sas, it means this isn't just a passing interest. It’s a lifestyle.
People who shop Bigfoot apparel or collect cryptid merchandise aren’t just being kitschy—they’re supporting a deep-rooted movement. From wearing high-quality cryptid shirts to taking part in Sasquatch research and evidence documentation, they contribute to a growing global community.
The cryptid world includes cryptozoology for beginners and seasoned hunters alike. Whether it’s the Pacific Northwest Sasquatch or the Texas Bigfoot, every legend matters. Tread lightly, speak with respect, and you might just be welcomed into the fold.
Whether you’re gearing up in SPF 50 outdoor shirts for your next hike or diving into Bigfoot legends around the world, understanding what not to say can open doors in cryptid culture. Respect is key.
Instead of mocking, engage. Instead of dismissing, ask. Whether you're hunting with the best Bigfoot hunting gear or just beginning your journey, cryptid encounters in the wild are real to the people who experience them. Don't be the person who ruins it with a smug comment.
And if you’re serious about exploring cryptid gear, discovering unique Sasquatch designs, or just connecting with others who believe—you're not alone.
