Category Archives: Gear Care

Tricks for Washing Expensive Hiking Clothing

Take care of washing expensive hiking clothing by using products meant for the job, like Nikwax Wool Wash.
Take care of washing expensive hiking clothing by using products meant for the job, like Nikwax Wool Wash.

I’m Just back from a big trip with my friends up in New York’s Pharaoh Lakes Wilderness, so now it’s time to unpack my camping and backpacking gear and start washing everything.

I have invested a lot in high performance synthetic and wool clothing, and when washing expensive hiking clothing, I am really careful to keep its functionality.  This gear must be  both warm and breathable, and must wick moisture away from my skin so that I stay dry and comfortable.  I find that washing this type of gear with regular detergents reduces its performance.  In particular, I find that after washing a nice synthetic shirt with regular detergents, the garment will start to feel clammy when I wear it.

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Learn the Art of Backpack Repair

Neccessities of Backpack Repair: Scissors, Cordura, and Seem Grip
Neccessities of Backpack Repair: Scissors, Cordura, and Seem Grip

Most people who chose to partake in backpacking will eventually need to know a thing or two about backpack repair.  Bringing your pack into the local shop for patching up is costly, and isn’t really a practical option while you’re out in the field.  Having a few simple items in your repair kit and a few basic skills in your head can go a long way.

A few weeks ago while out on a day hike, I discovered a small tear forming on the bottom of my pack. It concerned me, so when I got home, I got right to fixing it.

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