5 Steps to Properly Maintain Your Gear
We at Specialty Outdoor Solutions know that quality gear plays a crucial role in ensuring mission success, safety, and operational efficiency. For members of the U.S. military, special operations units, and government organizations, properly maintaining this equipment is not just about extending its lifespan—it’s about readiness and reliability in high-stakes situations. Below, we break down five essential steps to keep your tactical gear in top condition, with recommendations for products and brands that can support your efforts.
Step 1: Regular Cleaning and Inspection
The first step to maintaining your tactical gear is regular cleaning and inspection. Dirt, sweat, and grime can compromise the performance and durability of your equipment, making cleaning a non-negotiable part of maintenance. Inspection allows you to identify any wear and tear that could escalate into a critical failure if left unchecked.
Cleaning Tips:
- Fabric Gear: For items like backpacks, and clothing, use mild detergents and lukewarm water. Brands like Osprey and Mystery Ranch often recommend using non-abrasive cleaners to preserve fabric integrity.
- Footwear: Clean your boots with a soft brush to remove dirt and debris. Consider products like Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel for leather and synthetic boots from brands such as Salomon and Merrell.
- Metal and Plastic Parts: For gear with buckles, zippers, or clips, clean these areas with a damp cloth and use a silicone-based lubricant to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
Inspection Tips:
- Check for frayed straps, loose stitching, or tears in fabrics.
- Inspect zippers, buckles, and fasteners for functionality.
- Assess waterproof coatings and reapply treatments as necessary.
Step 2: Proper Storage
Storing your gear correctly can significantly extend its life and ensure it’s ready when you need it. Improper storage, such as leaving gear in damp or dirty conditions, can lead to mold, corrosion, and degradation of materials.
Best Practices:
- Dry Your Gear: Before storing, ensure everything is completely dry to prevent mold and mildew.
- Use Storage Solutions: Products like Pelican Cases are ideal for protecting sensitive equipment like electronics, optics, and tools. Their watertight and crushproof construction ensures your gear stays safe in any environment.
- Organize by Frequency of Use: Keep everyday items like hydration packs and utility pouches accessible, while less frequently used gear can be stored in sealed containers.
- Temperature Control: Avoid exposing gear to extreme heat or cold, which can damage materials over time.
Step 3: Reapply Protective Coatings
High-end gear often comes with specialized coatings for water resistance, UV protection, and more. Over time, these coatings can wear off and need reapplication to maintain performance.
Key Products:
- DWR Treatments: Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coatings are essential for outdoor gear. Brands like Nikwax and Gear Aid offer sprays and washes to restore water resistance.
- Leather Conditioners: For leather boots and gloves, use a high-quality conditioner like Obenauf’s Leather Preservative to maintain flexibility and durability.
- UV Protectants: Prolong the life of fabrics exposed to sunlight by applying UV protectants from brands like 303 Products.
Application Tips:
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying treatments.
- Test the product on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility.
- Apply coatings in well-ventilated areas and allow adequate drying time before use.
Step 4: Repair Minor Damage Immediately
Small issues can quickly escalate if not addressed. Tackling minor repairs promptly can prevent more extensive damage and extend the life of your gear.
Repair Tools:
- Fabric Repairs: For tears and rips, use adhesive patches like those from Gear Aid or sew them with durable thread like Sterling’s Mil-Spec Cord.
- Zipper Fixes: Broken zippers can be replaced or repaired using zipper repair kits available from brands like YKK.
- Replacement Parts: Brands such as The North Face and Arc'teryx offer replacement buckles, straps, and clips to restore functionality.
Pro Tips:
- Carry a basic repair kit with you during missions or training.
- Use heavy-duty adhesives for quick fixes in the field.
- If repairs are beyond your expertise, consult a professional or contact the manufacturer for service.
Step 5: Schedule Regular Maintenance Cycles
Maintenance should be an ongoing process, not a one-time event. Scheduling regular maintenance ensures your gear remains in optimal condition and avoids last-minute surprises.
How to Schedule:
- Weekly Check-Ins: Set aside time to inspect and clean high-use items like boots, gloves, and packs.
- Monthly Deep Clean: Perform a more thorough cleaning and inspection of all gear, including items like tents and sleeping systems from Sea to Summit or Big Agnes.
- Pre-Mission Prep: Before any deployment or mission, inspect every piece of gear for functionality and ensure you have backups for critical items.
Maintaining your gear is an investment in your safety, readiness, and performance. By following these five steps—regular cleaning and inspection, proper storage, reapplying protective coatings, addressing minor repairs immediately, and scheduling maintenance—you can ensure your gear is mission-ready at all times.
