Knowing how to repair outdoor gear and clothing yourself is something that all outdoors folk should have some kind of basic grasp of. There are far too many items that are condemned to landfill that, with a little TLC, could last another couple of years of use. Not to mention the issues that might arise if things break when you’re out in the field.
This article covers the importance of learning how to repair outdoor gear and clothing as well as tutorial videos for basic repairs of common problems. If you have a specific problem that needs fixing, just click on the appropriate item in the contents box below. Otherwise, tool up and get learning how to repair outdoor gear and clothing so that when the time comes, you’ll have some clue as to where to start.
- Why repairing your outdoor gear and clothing is so important
- How To Repair Outdoor Gear
- How To Repair Outdoor Clothing
Why repairing your outdoor gear and clothing is so important
There are so many benefits to knowing how to repair outdoor gear and clothing yourself. And while there are certain repairs that most certainly will benefit from being done by a professional, there are also loads of things you can do yourself. And some things you’ll need to do yourself. Here’s why:
01In-field repairs might save your life
Sure, this might seem a little dramatic. But a broken tent pole when camping miles from civilization in freezing temperatures and driving rain could be the difference between getting through the night or not. Likewise, a small rip in a tent, if left un-repaired, can quickly turn your tent into a wind tunnel rendering it useless as a form of protection from the elements.
Shelter in such conditions is essential for survival. So, always carry some kind of tent repair kit. But most importantly, know how to use it!
02You’ll save money
If money saving isn’t a motivator to get your needle and thread out, then at least get your damaged goods into the hands of people who can fix and rehouse the item.
However, the idea of splashing out on a new jacket because the zip has bust or there’s a hole in it spewing out down insulation, isn’t an appealing option for most. Even if you have to buy a few tools or repair equipment to mend the issue, you’ll still end up saving a ton of money. And it’s likely you’ll need those tools again in the future.
03Fixing things will make you more comfortable
It’s so easy to just ignore a small hole or slightly faulty item. But over time it will only get worse; a stitch in time, and all that! Fixing it early will not only prevent it from getting worse, but it’s likely it’ll also make the item perform better and thus, make you more comfortable.
04The planet will thank you for it
For me, this should be nearer the top of the list. But I didn’t want to lose you straight away! Yes, fixing instead of ditching stuff requires way more effort. However, when it comes to our planet, it’s almost always harder and / or more expensive to do the right thing.
Did you know that, according to WRAP, extending the life of a garment by an extra nine months reduces its carbon, water, and waste footprints by about 20-30% each. Imagine if you could make things go on for years longer than that?!
05You’ll learn new skills
Aside from turning damaged items back into functioning and usable pieces of gear and clothing, the benefits of learning how to do all the repairing goes much deeper. You’ll be improving your dexterity, patience, problem solving skills and concentration. But learning new skills also has huge mental benefits including potentially lowering the risk of dementia in later years.
06Your gear and clothing will gain character!
Every repair job comes with a story, even if it is an embarrassing account of how you fell over onto your tent and snapped the pole! Turn the repairs into more visible and colourful patches and you’ve got an instant talking point. And if nothing else, you won’t look like all the other hikers and campers in their shiny puffy jacket uniforms!
If your gear is beyond repair, too hard for you to fix or too expensive to get fixed, you don’t necessarily need to throw it away. Read our guide on recycling outdoor gear and clothing for ideas and information on what to do with old stuff you don’t want anymore.
How To Repair Outdoor Gear
Knowing how to repair outdoor gear is usually a little more important than clothing from a safety point of view. As mentioned, field repairs can be game-changing to the safety of your group. So, an essential part of the repair process is checking your gear before you use it.
How to fix a broken tent pole
Repairing a tent pole is something every camper should know how to do to ensure you are properly protected from the elements overnight. With the right equipment it’s an easy fix so long as you have a repair kit with you.
If you don’t need to do an in-field repair, then it’s worth checking the warranty on your tent as you might be able to get the section of the pole replaced free of charge. At the end of the day, a broken tent pole can only be temporarily fixed and will need to be replaced.
How to seal seams of tents and waterproof clothing
Most tents, waterproof clothing and dry bags come with taped seams. This adds a layer of protection against water from coming through the weakest parts of the items: the seams.
Some seals just need to be revitalised. Using greaseproof paper and an iron, simply go over the existing seams where they have started to peel off or where air has gotten underneath them.
Where the seams have been damaged or have come off completely, you can add new tape over the seams.
How to patch a tent tear
As mentioned, fixing a tent tear early will stop the issue from getting worse. And with the right items in your repair kit, it’s an easy in-field repair to do that will prevent a potentially soggy sleep or even a ruined tent.
The same method can be applied to waterproof clothing for in-field repairs. However, both tents and waterproofs may need a more comprehensive patch or repair once you’re back home.
How to patch a sleeping pad hole
If you have an inflatable or self-inflating sleeping pad or camping mattress, it’s likely you’ve already had to or will have to patch it. Patching a sleeping pad is most certainly the repair that I’ve had to do the most over the years. But it also has a huge impact as there’s nothing worse than a slow puncture that leaves you on the cold ground in the middle of the night. Though it’s much easier to do at home, repairing a sleeping pad is still possible to do in the field, so always take a repair kit.
How to replace a backpack buckle
Backpack buckles are often hanging around unused, making them vulnerable to crushing or snapping. And it’s only when they’re broken that you realise how important they are. The good news is that they’re really easy to replace. You can easily buy generic buckles, or you might need to contact the manufacturer to get a brand-specific size or model.
A sewing machine will help make some buckle replacements much easier. But it’s still possible with a good strong needle and thick thread.
How to repair a backpack strap or gear loop
This is one of the more technical repairs you might need to do which will be much easier if you have access to a sewing machine. It’s certainly still possible with a strong needle and thick thread. It’ll just take longer and have less of a clean finish (unless you’re dead good at sewing by hand!).
This video can be applied to gear loops, tags, carry handles and tabs on backpacks, cases and dry bags, amongst other things.
How to fix a hole in a paddle board or inflatable kayak
The best and safest way to deal with a hole in your inflatable SUP or kayak is to check it before you get on the water and repair it at home. However, the most likely scenario is that you won’t notice it until you’re happily floating away from land! ALWAYS take a repair kit on the water with you. And at the first hint of deflation (you might see bubbles, feel it getting softer or hear hissing), head to the nearest land and get your repair kit out.
How To Repair Outdoor Clothing
How to patch a down jacket
Long term, down jackets and sleeping bag repairs probably need to be tackled by a professional. However, many people live with a quick stick on patch for years (I know I have!). They’re easy to do in the field and they last a surprisingly long time, preventing valuable down fill from leaking out and compromising the performance of the item.
How to repair hiking boots or shoe soles
Many outdoor footwear companies offer re-soling services for when you’ve worn your boots, literally, into the ground. But the most likely repair you’ll need before you walk that far, is sticking the soles back onto the main part of the boot. This may just be at one spot on the boot or shoe, or the whole sole. Either way, it’s a quick fix that will give them a new lease of life.
How to sew a tear in clothing or backpacks
Tears and rips in clothing or fabric items like backpacks or cases are probably the most common repair you’ll need to address as an adventurer. To attempt a repair of a tear or rip requires the use of a needle and thread. If you’re new to sewing you might want to practise on some scrap bits of fabric as it requires a good level of dexterity to get a neat finish.
How to repair a zip
Broken zips are THE most annoying thing. They practically render an item useless, even if the rest of it is in perfect condition. Before you ditch the item, give fixing it a go. What’s possible might surprise you!
There are also videos out there which show you how to replace zips completely.
How to darn socks
I’ve most certainly been guilty of condemning my holey socks to the rag bag (they’re dead useful for bike maintenance and cleaning!). Darning them has always seemed such a faff. However, I’ve recently started repairing them and it’s actually really satisfying, especially when the rest of the sock and its pair are in fine condition. It’s also a good way of using up spare bits of yarn that you might have hanging around! Have a go.
Hopefully the above videos and bits of advice will leave you armed with knowledge on how to repair outdoor gear and clothing. So, get repairing, keep your stuff out of landfill and enjoy the results of your newly learned skills!
Happy repairing, happy adventurers!
