REPAIR If last year’s gear has lost its shine,
renovate and refresh your kit and it will feel as good as new for a fraction of the cost of buying a replacement. An increasing number of brands are offering in-store or postal repair services to extend product life and keep them functional for longer. On jackets, jeans and even backpacks you can wear your repairs with pride, as patches and visible mending is very much on-trend! Big ticket items like sleeping bags and down jackets can be revived by washing at home using specialist products, or leave it to the professionals if you prefer. Walking boots and hiking shoes can be brought back to life by expert resoling services.
SELL ON New purchases hold the promise of
new routes to discover, new summits to climb, and new storms to weather. Sometimes though, it just doesn’t work out and gear ends up hanging out unloved in the cupboard. From an optimistic foray into winter climbing that left you cold in the end, to kit bought for a big trip that hasn’t been used since. Give your sad old unused items a fresh start and make a bit of cash by selling them on, then spend your pennies on something you really will use.
DONATE Don’t leave good gear languishing
in the wardrobe. Its easy to feel a sentimental attachment to specific pieces of kit, after all, they’ve kept you company on your adventures. With well-loved items it’s easier to say goodbye if you know that their story will continue with someone else. There are a number of schemes around the country that collect good quality items of outdoor gear for redistribution to local charities. Waterproofs, insulation, hats, gloves, and sleeping bags can be used protect rough sleepers from the elements, or to keep volunteers warm as they work to preserve green spaces.
UPCYCLE One person’s trash is another one’s
treasure, and while your gear might have reached the end of its intended use there may be life in it yet. The outdoor world is full of ingenious
individuals that can turn your old stuff into new and beautiful creations, like chalk bags, plant holders, and dog collars. Have a clear-out and make room for new-to-you kit, or just enjoy decluttering and clearing your space.
RECYCLE If your gear really has had it and it’s
time to say goodbye, recycle as much of it as possible. Several schemes exist to dispose of items that would commonly go to landfill, including down jackets and duvets, climbing gear, and ropes. There’s even a national scheme for recycling hard hats.
BUY SECOND HAND Before heading to the shops to
purchase a brand new product, check out Facebook groups like Outdoor Gear Exchange UK and Outdoor Kit Exchange. With as many as 200 items listed each day, there’s a good chance someone might be selling on just the piece you need. Advertisers are required to upload clear pictures and information about the condition of items for sale, so you can choose the right pre-loved item for you.
SHOP NEARLY NEW While it’s good to consume less and
consider pre-loved products, it won’t always be possible to find exactly what you’re looking for. There’s still a way to save money and stop virtually unused products going to landfill. From clothing to kayaks and backpacks to bikes, a number of brands now sell ex-display or samples, lightly used and repaired products that would previously have been discarded, giving that gear a second life.
PURCHASING POWER If only new will do, exercise your
purchasing power and make conscious decisions about the brands you support with your hard-earned cash. Aim to buy fewer items and make them last. Check out a company’s environmental credentials and invest wisely, considering brands that have committed to reducing packaging, offer repairs to extend a product’s life, use recycled materials, and produce items that are ultimately recyclable.
WHERE TO GO FOR Kit Repair
- Alpkit Repair Station, Cotswold Outdoor Repair & Care, Patagonia Worn Wear, Lancashire Sports Repairs, Feet First Outdoor Footwear Repair, Montane Repair Service, Berghaus Repairhaus, Vango, Tiso, Rab Down Wash Service.
Buy and Sell
Outdoor Gear Exchange UK, Outdoor Kit exchange (Facebook groups)
Donate
The North Face Clothes The Loop, Ellis Brigham Giving Outdoor Gear A Second Life, Gift Your Gear, Mountain Warehouse reGAIN, Outdoor Gear For Good.
Nearly New Decathlon Second Life, Osprey Second Life Recycle and Upcycle
Terracycle, Green Peak Gear, Scavenger, Dirt Bags Climbing, Beal Recycle Rope Scheme, Hard Hat Recycling.
STORAGE Now you’ve cleared out your kit
cupboard, make sure you’re storing your treasured gear in the optimum conditions. A few minutes preparation when you pack your gear away can prolong its life by years. To avoid mould and fusty smells, make sure your storage area is cool and dry. Dry out tents after each outing to prevent mildew, and brush or clean off any mud or sand. Air and dry your sleeping bag before you pack it away, and to ensure down and synthetic fillings retain their loft and warmth, don’t leave them in a compression sack. Instead store them in a breathable bag, like old cotton pillow case.
CARE Show your kit some love by
reproofing waterproof items every so often, and always follow the instructions on the care label. Go the extra mile to rinse and dry boots and trail shoes, away from direct sources of heat that can damage them. Look after your kit and your kit will look after you!
Words: Anna Paxton @anna_paxton_
SUMMIT#105 | SPRING 2022 | 67
PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK
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