About
Discover Gear re-Store – Our Story and Impact
What Makes Us Stand Out
At Gear re-Store, we do more than repair gear—we restore trust, memories, and a sustainable future. Our commitment to quality repairs, innovative technology, and exceptional service ensures your gear gets back to what it does best: helping you explore the great outdoors. Here’s our secret: we listen.
Our current repair turnaround time of 2-3 weeks isn’t just a claim—it’s a promise we deliver on year-round. Whether your gear needs minor stitching or major overhauls, we’ve built our facilities, systems, and team to handle every challenge efficiently and with care.
Innovation Meets Responsibility
From trailer-high docks supporting high-volume work to industry-leading logistical solutions, we invest in the infrastructure to keep your gear moving. But it doesn’t stop there. We’re proud to collaborate with partners and customers alike to reduce the outdoor soft goods industry’s environmental impact. Ask us how we’re doing our part!
Comprehensive Services Across North America
Gear re-Store is the only third-party repair company with full North American coverage, proudly operating out of Calgary, Denver, and Philadelphia. We specialize in aftermarket repair, restoration, and Durable Water Repellency (DWR) treatments, working with top brands like Patagonia, Canada Goose, and Helly Hansen. Whether it’s repairing waterproof membranes or reapplying water-repellent finishes, we ensure every item is restored to peak performance.
Proprietary Gear Tracer Technology
We go beyond repairs with Gear Tracer, our innovative RFID software that tracks every item in real time. From intake to repair and return, you’ll always know the status of your gear. Gear Tracer also offers versatile applications for businesses, from inventory management to life-cycle analysis.
Your Gear, Our Mission
We’re not just fixing gear; we’re crafting a story of innovation, care, and responsibility. Explore how Gear re-Store is redefining the repair experience—one zipper, button, and seam at a time.
Russell McPherson
Founder/Visionary Leader
Russell McPherson is the heart and soul behind Gear re-Store. With a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Manitoba and an MBA from Queen’s University, his journey has been guided by a love for learning and a drive to create meaningful change. He spent over 25 years as a Certified Management Accountant, building experience with companies of all
sizes—startups, large corporations, private firms, and public organizations.
During his time in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserve Force Russell developed a deep appreciation for gear that stands the test of time. Maintaining and repairing essential equipment sparked a passion for extending the life of quality items—a philosophy that now drives Gear re-Store’s mission.
Eventually, his passion for innovation and his love for the outdoors came together, and Gear re-Store was born. His goal was simple: build a company that not only excels at repairing gear but also helps reduce the impact on the planet.
Outside of work, Russell is a hands-on family man and an active member of his community. You’ll often find him hiking, camping in the mountains, attempting to grow the perfect tomato, or tinkering with his beloved electronic accordion.
Angelica Gonzales
General Manager of U.S. Operations
Angelica Gonzales is the General Manager of U.S. Operations for Gear re-Store. She studied Entrepreneurship at Metropolitan State University and has extensive knowledge of sewing techniques and outdoor gear construction.
She has had the opportunity to grow within the organization, starting as a sewer and progressing through roles in logistics, repair supervision, site supervision, and most recently as the Human Resources Manager. These experiences have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of our operations and a deep appreciation for the collaborative relationships we share with our partners. She is passionate about supporting her team and educating others on the importance of restoring gear.
Born and raised in Colorado, Angelica loves spending her time with her dog and husband, off-roading, and camping. When she’s not in the mountains she spends her time sewing and sharing her love for sustainable fashion by managing an online thrift shop.
Joseph Stern
Director of Business Development and Sales
Joseph is the esteemed Director of Business Development and Sales at Gear re-Store. His primary focus is finding comprehensive solutions by asking, “how can I be of service to you?” Joseph prioritizes effective communication to build enduring relationships with new clients and vendors. His main objective is to embody an experience that showcases the company’s cutting-edge technology, top-notch products, exceptional quality, and a personalized customer service experience akin to that of a dedicated concierge.
Originally from Wisconsin, he relocated to Colorado and obtained his Bachelor’s degree in business from Colorado State University. Joseph gained expertise in leadership roles, supply chain, and distribution management at Target Corporation. With a diverse background in entrepreneurship and operations, he has initiated and managed over 15 successful enterprises. Recently, he achieved a significant milestone by completing a sale of a couple of his companies in Florida. Outside of work, Joseph is an avid outdoorsman who explores nature’s wonders, having visited over 30 national parks, climbed Machu Picchu in Peru, and swam with grey whales in Mexico. He values time with his family, volunteers for the Special Olympics, and seeks solace and rejuvenation in nature.
Esme Iglarsh
Regional Manager, Philadelphia
Esme is our East Coast-Philadelphia based Site Supervisor. She has worked in the sewing and design industry for over 15 years. She started with a degree in Visual Arts from Antioch College and followed with a more focused degree in Fashion Design from Jefferson University in Philadelphia. She fell in love with Philadelphia and decided to make it her home. She began as an urban menswear designer and continued creating everything from licensed costumes for mass distribution and stage productions, as well as bridal gowns to leather handbags. Her flexibility and broad range of experiences makes her a great match for our location in Philadelphia.
Esme spends her time off with her two dogs. She enjoys working on her home and upcycling everything from clothing to electronics to create works of art. She has used her love of plant as inspiration for building large scale planters out of material waste from local manufacturers.
Cecilia Lo
Canada Repair Supervisor
Cecilia was born and raised in Hong Kong, where her parents provided her the opportunity to study abroad. After earning her BA in Winnipeg, she returned to Hong Kong and built a successful career in purchasing, gaining over 20 years of experience in the consumer products sector. Cecilia moved to Calgary in 2022 and started working at Gear re-Store in 2023. While she tends to be on the shy side, Cecilia finds fulfillment in supporting customers and colleagues, always striving to create a positive and collaborative environment. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her two children and friends, exploring her new surroundings.
Aldo Olivarez
Patagonia Repairs Supervisor
Aldo studied Graphic Design at Denver Metropolitan University in 2014 but quickly picked up fashion at the King Center. He became a fashion designer and entrepreneur who has made a remarkable impact in the industry since 2014. Originally from Mexico and now based in Denver, CO. Aldo seamlessly blends contemporary style with urban influences, captivating both celebrities and underground artists alike. His innovative designs have graced the covers of Apple Music and been featured in prestigious publications like Forbes, Hollywood HQ, 303 Magazines, and West Word, showcasing his unique approach to the fashion industry. He has worked with Mission to create samples for Kirkland Signature as a main manufacturer for sportswear products.
Aldo loves horses, the outdoors and RC cars. As a trailblazer in the fashion world, Aldo continues to inspire others to pursue their passions, proving that with determination and vision, anything is possible.
Kaylee Cooper
Arc'teryx Repairs Supervisor
Kaylee brings over three years of professional experience in the garment industry to Gear re-Store, with a background in both manufacturing and on set tailoring. Before joining us, she served as a production manager at an apparel manufacturing facility, handling contracts with TSA, Nordstrom, and the U.S. Military. Kaylee’s expertise in large-scale production is matched by her extensive hands-on experience in garment repair and tailoring. Her keen eye for detail and craftsmanship makes her a perfect fit for her position at Gear re-Store. Outside of work, Kaylee indulges in creative pursuits in fine arts and fashion, strives to perfect her matcha-making skills, and cherishes time with her loved ones.
Itzel Espinoza
Canada Goose Repair Supervisor
Itzel is a Colorado native who channels her self-expression through painting, mixed media art, and fashion. Amidst the pandemic, she further developed her sewing skills by making face masks for loved ones. This led them into the realms of alterations and garment making. Now, with experience in both the bridal industry and at Gear Restore, Itzel’s artistic endeavors align with her humanitarian beliefs, driving her to make sustainable choices. Their dedication to art, sustainability and equality encompasses their life’s purpose.
Jeff Kimmel
Jeff Kimmel is the developer of Gear re-Store’s RFID technology, GEAR TRACER. He is a proven leader in developing and bringing new products to market. Jeff developed extensive entrepreneurial skills while working for the company HCSS. There he developed experience working with all key stakeholders, including prospects, to bring multiple products to market successfully. His innovative and keen business mind led him to develop the RFID software that is now an integral part of Gear re-Store.
Start your repair journey now!
Bring your beloved gear back to life, by requesting a repair with us today!