A hole in your shell jacket or a zip that has stopped closing does not mean the garment is finished. With the right approach, you can repair most damage yourself – and save both money and the environment.
A hole in your shell jacket or a zip that has stopped closing does not mean the garment is ruined. With the right approach, you can repair most damage yourself – and save both money and the environment.
Why repair rather than buy new?
A good outdoor garment is an investment, and most damage can be fixed without sending the item back to the manufacturer. Tears, minor holes and faulty zips are usually quick, inexpensive repairs you can do yourself at home – or out in the field with the right kit in your pack.
What you need in a basic repair kit
- Repair tape (preferably a heavy-duty type with woven threads)
- Self-adhesive nylon patches
- Fabric or silicone adhesive designed for textiles
- Scissors or a seam ripper
- Baking paper and masking tape (for gluing at home)
- A small piece of spare nylon fabric, for example from an old repair kit
How to repair tears and holes in shell jackets
Tears and holes are easily caused by branches, ski edges or sharp rocks, and should be sealed as quickly as possible before they grow larger.
In the field (temporary fix): Cut a piece of repair tape that covers the entire tear with a good margin. Dry the jacket if it is wet, then press the tape down firmly. This will usually hold for the rest of the trip, but is not a permanent solution.
At home (lasting fix):
- Clean and thoroughly dry the area around the damage.
- Cut a patch slightly larger than the damage, and round off the corners so they do not lift or come loose.
- Apply a thin layer of fabric or silicone adhesive around the edge of the damage, or use a self-adhesive repair patch.
- Attach the patch to the inside of the garment first, so that the tear is held together.
- It is also worth placing a patch on the outside for extra protection and a neater result.
- Place a sheet of baking paper over the patch and press firmly with your fingers to remove air bubbles and excess adhesive.
For larger damage, or if you want a patch in the same colour as the garment, a dedicated repair kit from the manufacturer may be worth the investment.
How to fix a zip that will not close
Zip problems are one of the most common reasons good jackets are put away far too early, but most faults are straightforward to put right.
The zip opens after being closed: This usually happens because the slider (the part you pull) has become too wide and no longer presses the teeth together. Use a flat-nosed pair of pliers and gently squeeze the slider from the sides. Test by pulling it up and down – repeat gently if it still comes apart.
The zip is stuck: First check whether fabric or dirt has become lodged in the teeth. Brush or rinse it clean, then apply a little candle wax or specialist zip lubricant along the teeth for smoother movement.
The slider has lost its pull tab: A new pull tab can be bought as a spare part, or you can easily make one yourself using a key ring or a piece of cord.
The zip needs to be replaced entirely: If the zip coil has come away from the tape, teeth are missing, or the bottom stop is broken, the entire zip must be replaced. This normally requires sewing and is a job for an alterations shop or tailor, though enthusiastic hobbyists can also do it themselves with a sewing machine, a new zip of the correct length, and a little patience.
When should you use a professional instead?
Some repairs are worth leaving to the experts:
- Replacing an entire zip on expensive or technical garments
- Damage to the membrane in Gore-Tex and similar shell materials
- Larger tears that significantly affect the garment's waterproofness
- Repairs that affect the manufacturer's warranty
Many manufacturers offer their own repair services, and local tailors often have considerable experience with technical outdoor garments.
Prevention is the best repair
Proper maintenance reduces the need for repairs. A re-proofed outer shell withstands wear better, and regular cleaning keeps zips and seams in good condition for longer. Do have a read of our guide to down clothing care for tips on how to extend the life of your outdoor garments.
Summary
Most damage to outdoor clothing – tears, holes and zip problems – can be repaired yourself with the right equipment and a little patience. A good repair kit in your pack can save a trip when things go wrong, while a more thorough fix at home gives the garment many new seasons. When the damage is too great to fix yourself, it is reassuring to know that professionals and manufacturers can often help.
Browse our range of repair equipment and maintenance products at Jobb og Fritid, and find everything you need to keep your outdoor gear in good condition season after season.
