Gear maintenance (ZZ from |Wanderung| Newsletter)

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Gear maintenance
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Your gear goes through a lot over the course of a season, and there comes a time
when it simply has to be cleaned or repaired. This time of year is ideal for
carrying out these chores.

Arc'teryx has a couple of articles about washing and caring for down and Gore
Tex jackets:

https://blog.arcteryx.com/five-tips-washing-your-down-jacket

https://blog.arcteryx.com/5-sign ... r-arcteryx-gore-tex

Since sleeping bags and other down products usually require a front-loading
washing machine and large dryer, consider getting together with a few friends to
share the costs at a local laundromat. Plus you get to hang out with your hiking
friends and share plans and stories!

In addition to washing instructions, Patagonia is also promoting how to repair
your outdoor wear. From fixing simple tears to installing a new zip, check out
their page on keeping your gear in top condition:

http://www.patagonia.com/us/worn-wear-repairs

Many manufacturers have online care and maintenance advice for their gear,
including MEC, REI, Marmot, Mammut, Meindl, Therm-a-rest and more. Check out
your gear manufacturer's websites for further info.