Hey there, adventurer! We know your outdoor clothing and gear are essential for all your exciting journeys. With a little TLC, these items can last for years. Plus, taking good care of your gear is not only good for your wallet but also better for our planet. Let us show you how to keep your clothing and gear in top-notch condition so you’re always ready for the great outdoors!
Our top three care tips
Read the care instructions
Always check the care label on your outdoor clothing and gear. These instructions help you keep your items performing their best and lasting longer.
Skip the fabric softener
Fabric softeners can mess with the technical fabrics in your gear, making them less effective. Steer clear of them to keep your clothing breathable and water-resistant, and to be kinder to the environment.
Air-dry as much as possible
Whenever you can, let your gear air dry instead of using a dryer. High heat can harm the materials and shorten their lifespan. But remember, the dryer is essential for down clothing and reactivating the DWR treatment.
Repair & Revive
Even the best gear can face wear and tear, but that doesn’t mean it’s the end of the road. Repairing and reviving your outdoor clothing and gear can extend their life and keep them performing like new. We offer handy repair kits for quick fixes, as well as DWR spray and wax to restore water resistance. By taking these steps, you can ensure your gear stays reliable and ready for all your outdoor activities, while also being kind to your wallet and the environment.
How to care for your gear
What does the washing symbols mean?
Washing
The washtub symbol indicates how to wash your garment. If it’s machine washable, the recommended highest temperature will be shown inside the symbol. A hand inside the washtub means the item should be gently washed by hand to avoid damage.
Bleaching
The bleaching symbol provides guidance on whether and how to use bleach. However, we do not recommend bleaching any of our clothing or gear.
Ironing
The iron symbol shows if and how to iron your garment. Dots inside indicate the heat level: one for low, two for medium, and three for high. A crossed-out iron means do not iron, as it could damage the fabric.
Dry Cleaning
The circle symbol relates to dry cleaning. We do not recommend dry cleaning on any of our clothing or gear.
Drying
The square symbol provides drying instructions. A square with a circle inside means the item can be tumble-dried, and the dots indicate the heat setting. A crossed-out circle means do not tumble dry.
Caring for your outdoor clothing
The care label is your gear's best friend. It holds the secrets to keeping your clothing in top shape, so always check it first! And don’t overwash your gear. Air it out after each use and spot-treat stains. Washing only when necessary extends the life of your clothing.
Washing at lower temperatures is a win-win. It's gentler on your clothes and saves energy – up to 60% per wash! That's good for your gear and the planet. Use a gentle detergent, and skip the fabric softener. Softeners can actually coat technical fabrics and hinder their performance (like breathability and water repellency).
Avoid stuffing your washing machine. Overcrowding can lead to abrasion and prevent your clothes from getting properly cleaned, which is especially important when washing bulky outerwear. Turning clothes inside out before washing also protects buttons and details while ensuring a more thorough cleaning.
Air drying is the gentlest way to dry your gear. It helps maintain the fabric's integrity and performance. (Exception: Down-filled garments and when reactivating DWR treatments may benefit from a tumble dry.)
Proper storage is key. Don't store your gear compressed, as this can damage the loft of the insulation and trap moisture. A cool, dry, and dark place with good airflow is ideal. Your gear will thank you by being ready for your next adventure!
Stains & Smells
Oops! Stain Happens. Here's What to Do
The sooner you address those pesky stains, the easier they are to remove. Always test any treatment on a hidden seam to avoid surprises. Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth instead of rubbing to avoid spreading it. For many stubborn stains, pre-treating with an enzyme-based detergent or a vinegar solution before washing works wonders.
However, some stains require special attention. For example, rinse blood stains immediately with cold water and then soak them for 30 minutes in cold water before washing. To tackle oily messes, blot the excess oil with a clean cloth, then sprinkle with cornstarch or baking soda to absorb the oil before washing.
Stinky Gear? No Problem!
To banish those unpleasant odors, wash your sweaty clothes as soon as possible. Use a high-quality detergent designed for activewear – it’s formulated to break down sweat and bacteria. For stubborn odors, give your gear a pre-soak in a solution of cold water and white vinegar or baking soda before washing.
Did you know that hot water and fabric softeners can actually trap odors? Wash those smelly clothes in cold water and skip the fabric softener. It might make your clothes smell nice initially, but it's just masking the problem and trapping the odors within the fabric. Don't forget to let your clothing and gear dry completely before storing them. Damp, compressed gear is a breeding ground for bad-smelling bacteria.