I know that equipment changes can be made at any age, for a variety of reasons. But as we get older, let's say 50+, we often make changes or adjustments with regard to our physical state. I'll start.
I'm 66 now (but I still feel like I'm 60!) In the last dozen years or so, I've made my drumming experience a little easier in a few ways. I split-up a heavy trap case by separating the cymbals, hardware, and seat & pedal into 3 lighter weight bags. I had already begun using old Ludwig lightweight cymbal (1400) and snare (1355) stands because they were compact & light and fit nicely in the trap case tray. I added a roller cart that allows me to make one trip in & out of a venue as opposed to the usual two trips. I later swapped my old HH stand for a Yamaha Crosstown, which shaved off 5 lbs from the hardware bag. I'm far from weak, but I don't mind lightening my load a bit.
A few tours ago, I downsized from a fairly weighty stick (Vic Firth X5A nylon, akin to a 2B) to the VF 8D nylon with a 5A/5B vibe. Less weight/length meant that I could maintain speed and conserve energy, and since the drums were mic'd, I let the FOH due the work in case the volume wasn't enough (although I'm pretty sure it was fine.) I immediately noticed that I wasn't as tired after a nearly two-hour show, and sometimes I didn't even break a sweat. For some local gigs I use the 8D stick, but I'm also comfortable with the lighter AJ5 jazz stick with a wood tip. I don't get quite as much bite out of them, but sometimes that's better in bars and small clubs.
My vehicle choices have always been in consideration of hauling drums, but last time I bought a new car (2013) I paid closer attention to the load-in height. I went from 2 smallish pick-ups in a row to an Odyssey with a lower deck, and my back thanks me every time I load in & out!
I'm 66 now (but I still feel like I'm 60!) In the last dozen years or so, I've made my drumming experience a little easier in a few ways. I split-up a heavy trap case by separating the cymbals, hardware, and seat & pedal into 3 lighter weight bags. I had already begun using old Ludwig lightweight cymbal (1400) and snare (1355) stands because they were compact & light and fit nicely in the trap case tray. I added a roller cart that allows me to make one trip in & out of a venue as opposed to the usual two trips. I later swapped my old HH stand for a Yamaha Crosstown, which shaved off 5 lbs from the hardware bag. I'm far from weak, but I don't mind lightening my load a bit.
A few tours ago, I downsized from a fairly weighty stick (Vic Firth X5A nylon, akin to a 2B) to the VF 8D nylon with a 5A/5B vibe. Less weight/length meant that I could maintain speed and conserve energy, and since the drums were mic'd, I let the FOH due the work in case the volume wasn't enough (although I'm pretty sure it was fine.) I immediately noticed that I wasn't as tired after a nearly two-hour show, and sometimes I didn't even break a sweat. For some local gigs I use the 8D stick, but I'm also comfortable with the lighter AJ5 jazz stick with a wood tip. I don't get quite as much bite out of them, but sometimes that's better in bars and small clubs.
My vehicle choices have always been in consideration of hauling drums, but last time I bought a new car (2013) I paid closer attention to the load-in height. I went from 2 smallish pick-ups in a row to an Odyssey with a lower deck, and my back thanks me every time I load in & out!
