There are many good reasons to get the most out of your outdoor gear. Data from the Environmental Protection Agency suggests that 17 million tons of textile waste ended up in landfills that year. Reducing that amount through proper care and repair helps the environment and is a little easier on your wallet.
At Esker, sustainability is a top priority. Here are a few suggestions for getting the most out of your active clothing and shoes by extending their lifespan.
CLEAN BEFORE STORING
Putting your gear away dirty will wear fabrics more quickly and draw in moisture - creating mildew, corrosion, and rot.
Always follow the recommendations for the product provided by the manufacturer. General rules include hand-washing in cold water using mild or better detergents. Hang dry but avoid direct sunlight. If your outerwear is wetting, consider re-apply a DWR product after cleaning.
REPAIRS
A tear or broken zipper in a Gortex jacket can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the product. Duct tape, Tenacious Tape, and iron-on patches are a quick and easy fix for tears. For zippers, try your local tailor.
If you don’t have any luck, brands like Arc'Teryx and Patagonia offer repair services for their garments.
Good quality boots can often have soles replaced, and uppers fixed if you’ve blown a seam. Missing or broken eyelets can be fixed as well.
INVEST IN A BOOT DRYER
A boot dryer is an excellent investment for anyone who spends a lot of time being active outdoors. They use low heat to dry footwear of all types without damaging the glue and rubbers that bond the footwear. This process extends the life of your footwear by preventing the growth of mould and mildew, which can damage materials - and make your shoes stink!
BUY NEW INSOLES
Are you considering replacing your old hiking boots or biking shoes because they have “packed out” or stretched and no longer offer the stability and support you’re looking for?
If the footwear is still in good shape - plenty of grip left in the soles and no holes in the uppers - consider replacing the insole. It’s an easy and far less expensive solution.
Consider using a product like the Approach by Esker. It is plastic-free, made from wool and can significantly extend the life of your outdoor shoes while providing you with the renewed support your feet need. From the arch support to the naturally anti-bacterial and anti-odour properties of wool - these insoles can make an old pair of boots feel brand new again.
WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE ESKER INSOLES?
Our goal is to provide our customers with everything they would expect from a premium, supportive orthotic insole combined with the technical performance and comfort of wool. Shop now and breathe new life into your old boots or shoes!
