Ah the pain of putting a big rip in waterproof gear. The feeling of water slowly trickling in makes it even worse… Or how about the fit not just being quite right? A zip that has finally died a death?
There are a number of options available to repair and alter outdoor equipment though... Save money and fix a jacket or overtrousers that have minor problems, and keep otherwise good gear out of landfills.
http://www.tundra-repairs.co.uk
Based in Tyne & Wear, this company specialises in technical fabric repair and alteration. Not only are they a licensed Gore-Tex® repairer, they also cover fleeces, gaiters, rucksacks, ski/snowboarding clothing, and golf clothing. They even have a recommendation from BMW's motorcycle clothing department...
Repairs are guaranteed for 10 days, and the service is very sharp, with a 10 day turnaround.
http://www.lancashiresportsrepairs.co.uk/
LSR is also a licensed Gore-Tex® repairer, but also cover a wide range of outdoor gear, from hiking boot and rock climbing boot repairs to sleeping bags and tents. Alterations to your equipment can be carried out too, so you can get an even better fit on your new coat.
As news reports fly in that the Isle of Wight festival is underwater, we are reassured that the Great British summertime has arrived!
Hardcore festival goers may not have their spirits dampened by the rain, but here are a few waterproof festival essentials which will keep everything else dry. Happy festivalling!
Kind of an essential if you want to survive a festival weekend. This good looking little tent is easy to assemble, easy to take down and the bright colours will mean your temporary abode will be easily identifiable when you’re stumbling back to bed. Warning: This is not a real Tipi, please do not light a fire in the middle.
Photo courtesy of http://www.easy-camp.com/en
You can fit a surprising amount into this little cylinder and it is great for keeping your valuables and fiddly items all in one place. It is also waterproof so any accidental spillages or precipitation will not be disastrous.
Photo courtesy of http://www.gearpods.co.uk/
If water damage to your smart phone would ruin your festival and your bank balance, then one of these is a no brainer. You will still have full functionality of your phone including calls, texts and camera, but without the worry of the weather. These bad boys are designed to keep your phone dry at up to19m under water, so even if the campsite and all your possessions are floating away, at least you know you will be able to ring the lifeboat...or your dad.
Photo courtesy of http://www.over-board.co.uk/
A pair of wellies are a festival "must-have" if you want to avoid trench foot and a fashion faux pas. By now Hunter Wellies are an iconic festival brand, and their latest range of neon wellies are bang on trend. Sure to be popular with celeb festival goers - I want a pair…
Photo courtesy of www.hunter-boot.com
The ultimate festival essential! The Mac in a Sac Waterproof Poncho packs away into its own front pocket, and has been known to double as an emergency pillow. It comes in a range of bright colours and is 100% waterproof, designed to keep you dry in the worst of weather so you can party on until your heart’s content. Buy one right here!
Lucy Stevenson
Author