Gear Loft Basics

It’s hard enough to find great gear that carries its weight and stands the test of time. It’s a total loss when I do something idiotic that shortens the life of a piece of equipment I rely on.

Experience has taught me not to cut costs or corners in the design phase.

Want (most of) your adventure stuff to last a lifetime or similar?

Here are the top 5 things you absolutely must have before you splurge on pricey merino base layers, a new tent, a rack and a rope or a primo down puffy or sleeping bag.

1. Front-loading, best quality, large capacity washer with “handwash” and “delicates” settings. 
2. Dryer: key for reproofing apparel. You must be able to control the heat. 
3. Well-lit, climate controlled, walk-in space low in humidity. Limit direct sunlight. 
4. Ample shelving with high clearances for loosely folded tents and sleeping bags stored in cotton bags. Air must circulate freely among all items. Air mattresses (70” plus in length) must be shelved (or hung) open and inflated. 
5. Room to hang gear including all ropes, runners and jackets (no wire hangars). NEVER store climbing ropes or runners on the ground. Ever. 

And if you dive, you can’t do without a garden hose, spigot attachments and an extra large rubber trash can (100-gallon plus, with lid) for rinsing gear in fresh water.