Spring Gear Refresh: DIY Fixes, Essentials & Easy Upgrades
Spring’s showing its face (even if it’s still dumping in Tahoe) and that means it’s time to give your gear the glow-up it deserves. In this week's Tips and Tiddybits, I'm diving into a full-on spring gear refresh, without talking mindset, goal setting, or any of that, just real talk and real tips to help you get outside without moldy snacks or broken zippers slowing you down.
🧽 Step 1: Start with a Gear Audit
Don’t pull everything out at once—trust me, I’ve done that, and chaos ensued. Pick one category: hiking, biking, camping, whatever you’re stoked on right now. Then go through it and make three piles:
Clean: Stuff that just needs a wash
Repair: Items that can be fixed
Donate: Still-usable gear you no longer need
TIP: Check with your local gear shop or outdoor organizations to donate items that could help someone else get outside!
🔧 Step 2: Easy Gear Repairs You Can Do at Home
Before tossing a torn jacket or funky pack, try these fixes:
NoSo Patches or Tenacious Tape for puffy jackets, tents, or sleeping pads.
Zipper struggles? Rub a pencil along the teeth!
Delaminating rain gear? Refresh with Nikwax or DWR spray.
Water bottles and bladders: Soak in vinegar + baking soda and scrub with a long brush.
Got something that needs more TLC? Check for local gear repair shops or send it in for pro patching.
♻️ Step 3: Sustainable Upgrades
When it’s time to replace, think small and sustainable. A lot of brands have their own second-hand programs these days.
Buy used: Alpinistas Re-Cover, Gear Trade, Wild Rye Redux
Women-led brands to check out: Gnara, Shredly, Dovetail
Spring swaps: Boots → Trail runners, Mittens → Sun gloves, Beanies → Brimmed hats & Buffs.
🎒 Step 4: Don’t Forget These Spring Essentials
You’d be surprised what we forget in the transition!
Bug spray (seriously)
SPF lip balm + sunscreen
Lightweight rain shell
Extra socks + dry shoes (and honestly a whole new dry outfit!) in the car
Hydration system: clean and test your bladders or flasks
✅ Spring Shakedown Checklist
Clean 1 piece of gear
Check water systems + first-aid kits
Restock snacks (Heather’s Choice, anyone?)
Repair or donate 1 item
Take a short hike or ride to test it all out
Getting ready for spring doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few simple swaps, a little cleanup, and you’re ready to roll. Let me know what gear you’re tackling first or tag me in your “spring refresh” posts @tarin.it.up.podcast I’d love to see your clean-up hauls, gear fixes, and new additions!
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