How to take care of your outdoor gear
Most of today's technical apparel and equipment is built from synthetic blends with a set lifespan, but how you care for it makes a real difference in how long it lasts.
The single best habit you can build is cleaning as you go. Sand, dirt, and grime will actively break down fibers over time. A quick rinse or wipe-down after each outing beats a deep-clean scramble at the start of every season.
Hint:air is your bestie ❤️
After any use, let gear breathe before you put it away. Nylon and polyester can actually degrade in sustained wet environments, and damp storage leads to mold, mildew, and fabric breakdown faster than you'd think. Store everything in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
Base layers + everyday garments
Wool, cotton, nylon, and polyester base layers need the most frequent washing. Don’t worry, they can handle it.
Turn them inside out before throwing them in the machine to prevent pilling
Run a gentle cycle with a light detergent
Less is more. Too much soap can clog the fabric's breathability just as much as leaving grime in
Hang drying is recommended. If you need to use a dryer, set it on low heat + tumble dry.
Technical outerwear
Nearly all waterproof and water-resistant shells are machine-washable.
Use a minimal amount of technical detergent, like Nikwax Tech Wash.
Avoid standard detergent and fabric softener, which coats the durable water repellent (DWR) finish with residue
Bonus: Re-treat with a DWR spray like Nikwax TX Direct or tumble dry on low after washing to reactivate the water-repellent coating
Footwear
If possible, let them air dry at room temperature. Never put them on a radiator or in direct sunlight, as extreme heat can crack leather and degrade adhesives. Remove the insoles after every use to speed up drying and reduce odor.
Have questions about a specific piece of gear?
I'm always happy to help, contact me via email or on IG and we’ll figure it out together!