The Gear re-Store Blog
Dive into the heart of sustainability, innovation, and outdoor adventure with the Gear re-Store blog! This is where we share stories, insights, and updates that inspire action and spark meaningful conversations.
New Leadership in Canada: Meet Cecilia!
As of August 2024, Gear re-Store’s Canadian operations are moving into a new chapter—with a familiar and trusted face at the helm. We’re excited to officially announce that Cecilia has stepped into the leadership role for our Canada location!
Cecilia’s journey is a global one, with roots in Hong Kong, a university chapter in Winnipeg, and more than two decades of experience in the consumer products industry under her belt. After moving to Calgary in 2022, she joined Gear re-Store in 2023 and has been a steady, positive force ever since—always ready to support both customers and her team, even when the work gets tough.
What makes this transition extra special is how deeply aligned Cecilia feels with our mission. “I like being here,” she shared, “because what we’re doing is meaningful to the environment. It’s a down-to-earth business—even if the repairs can be a bit challenging sometimes!” Case in point: Cecilia and the team recently took on what might be our repair of the year—transforming a jacket by building a brand new shell from scratch. From carefully rebuilding each sleeve to reengineering the pockets, flap, and front zipper, the process took nearly 20 hours. The result? One seriously happy customer—and a perfect example of Cecilia’s quiet leadership in action.
She brings a quiet determination and thoughtful leadership style to the team, focused on creating a positive, collaborative space. And while she humbly describes herself as on the shy side, her dedication and empathy speak volumes.
Outside of work? You’ll find Cecilia exploring the great outdoors around Calgary—when she’s not being lovingly overbooked by her two energetic kids, of course. “Unfortunately, my kids are killing my time outside of work,” she joked, with a smile that only a parent could give.
We’re grateful for Cecilia’s leadership and excited to see how she helps shape Gear re-Store’s future in Canada. Please join us in congratulating her on this next step!
March Newsletter
February Newsletter
Giving Back with Purpose: Gear re-Store’s 1% for the Planet Donations
At Gear re-Store, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the reason we exist. Every jacket patched, zipper repaired, and piece of gear given a second life is a small step toward reducing waste and protecting the places we love to explore. And once again this year, we’re proud to back our mission with action by contributing to 1% for the Planet.
In December, we made our annual donations, supporting the same two incredible organizations we partnered with in 2023:
KORE Outdoors
KORE is a grassroots nonprofit based in the Kootenay region of the Columbia Basin, focused on building a thriving community of craft outdoor gear makers and innovators. Through workforce development, gear-focused fab labs, and industry networking events, KORE is fostering a new kind of outdoor manufacturing economy—one that’s creative, sustainable, and deeply rooted in local culture. We’re proud to support an organization that uplifts regional makers while staying true to environmental and community values.
FOESA – Friends of Environmental Stewardship Alberta
Founded in 1994, FOESA is a volunteer-driven nonprofit stewarding a wide range of campgrounds and forest recreation areas in Alberta’s Eastern Slopes. With over 2,700 members, they work closely with Parks Canada and Alberta Forestry to maintain access to backcountry spaces while protecting the natural environment—especially in areas popular with horseback riders and outdoor recreationists. Their hands-on efforts in campground stewardship, trail maintenance, and sustainable land use are a model for grassroots conservation in action.
As a member of 1% for the Planet, Gear re-Store donates 1% of annual revenue—not just profits—to vetted environmental nonprofits. It’s how we invest back into what matters most.
Thank you for helping make this possible! Every repair, every reuse, and every bit of support you give Gear re-Store contributes to something much bigger—and we’re proud to share this mission with you.
Expanding Our Reach: Tactical Gear Brands Supported!
We’ve got exciting news—Gear re-Store officially supports tactical gear brands, such as Tomahawk Performance and Striker, as part of our growing list of partners!
From rugged field packs to heavy-duty outerwear, tactical gear is built to last, but even the toughest gear breaks sometimes. That’s where we come in. Whether it’s worn-down zippers, torn seams, or a durable water repellent application, our team is equipped and ready to handle repairs on tactical items with the same care and detail we bring to every project.
This expansion is especially meaningful to our founder, Russell McPherson, whose time in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserve sparked a lifelong appreciation for well-made gear and the importance of maintaining it. His passion for durability and repair is woven into the very DNA of Gear re-Store.
By welcoming tactical gear into our repair lineup, we’re supporting those who rely on their equipment most—while continuing our mission to extend the life of quality gear and reduce environmental impact.
Got a piece that’s seen better days? Reach out—we’re here to help get it back in action.
If you’re a company looking to offer warranty repairs, we’d love to chat about how Gear re-Store can support your customers and extend the life of your products.
December Newsletter
November Newsletter
Galvin Green (galvingreen.com) Hires Gear re-Store as North American Warranty Repair Partner
Excited to support this brand of premium waterproof golfwear in their North American expansion. Galvin Green offers clothing designed to provide optimal comfort that will help golfers perform at the peak of their ability, in any weather.
“As with every serious golfer, we never compromise on what we do or what we believe in.”
KORE Presentation
I was honoured to be asked to speak at the second annual KORE (Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise) Summit, focusing on sustainability and circularity. Absolutely blown away by the Summit and all the work that went into it. Big thanks to Kevin, Executive Director of KORE, and the many volunteers who made this event a success. Clearly the sustainability message resonates. I was humbled to learn that feedback from attendees was that my presentation was voted as the best of the Summit. Aw, shucks…thanks everyone! Hope to see you again next year. Although I don’t know what I can do for a topper….
Canada’s Top Growing Companies
For a second consecutive year, Gear re-Store has been recognised by the Toronto Globe & Mail as one of Canada’s Top Growing Companies. Big shout out to our brand parnters…without their faith in us, this growth would not be possible. And of course a big thanks to our repair, laundry, technology, and EO1L teams in Calgary, Denver and Philly for processing tens of thousands of units per year…couldn’t do it without you. Hope to be on next year’s list as well!
Durston Gear (durstongear.com) Selects Gear re-Store as North American Repair Partner
Gear re-Store is proud to announce that Durston Gear will be working with us to support their tremendous growth. We will be providing warranty and off-warranty repairs in both Canada and the U.S. Designed in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Durston gear is focused on creating more functional ultralight gear to genuinely improve your backcountry experience. Thanks for placing your trust in GrS, Dan!
Gear re-Store Adds Fjällräven to Warranty Repair Partnerships
We are happy to be working with Fjällräven for the provision of warranty repair services to their U.S.-based customers. Fjällräven is an outdoor clothing and equipment company that is committed to making nature more accessible. In true Swedish style, they focus on simplicity and practicality, and have the utmost respect for the environment. They are best known for their iconic Kanken Bags and outdoor trousers.
Gear re-Store Adds Alps & Meters to Warranty Repair Partnerships
We are happy to be working with Alps & Meters for the provision of warranty repair services to their U.S.-based customers. Since inception, the Alps & Meters mission has been to build a brand on a set of traditional values that reflect their and their customers’ deep appreciation for authentic alpine sport and to create timeless alpine apparel with uncompromising performance.
Halfdays (halfdays.com) to Work With Gear re-Store on North American Repairs
Halfdays lineup includes snow jackets & snow pants, as well as lightweight jackets & accessories. In their words, “We like getting outside. What we don’t: the pressure of ‘hard-core’ outdoor culture, coupled with ill-fitting outdoor apparel for women. Founded by an Olympian + designed by the best – we’re here to do things differently.”
Gear re-Store Expands Partnership With Norrøna
Gear re-Store has been selected to provide warranty and off-warranty repairs for Norrøna’s U.S. customers. GrS and Norrøna have been working successfully together in Canada for 7+ years, and we are happy to expand our partnership. Founded in 1929, Norrøna is a Norwegian brand producing premium outdoor products, with a mission to create the greatest outdoor products. The company concentrates on outdoor clothing and expedition equipment for a variety of sports including skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, climbing, hiking, trekking, hunting , and arctic skiing.
Gear re-Store Adds KJUS to Warranty Repair Partnerships
We are happy to be working with KJUS for the provision of warranty repair services to their U.S.-based customers. KJUS is a provider of top-quality ski, golf, and lifestyle products, developed with the best fabrics and high-end technology. Originally founded in Switzerland, their headquarters are now located in Boulder, Colorado, USA.
Gear re-Store Adds Klättermusen to Warranty Repair Partnerships
We are happy to be working with Klättermusen for the provision of warranty repair services to their winter outerwear customers in both Canada and the U.S. Klättermusen is an established Swedish maker of innovative and understated mountaineering equipment, with the highest standards and minimum impact on nature.
Gear re-Store Adds Arc’teryx to Warranty Repair Partnerships
We are very honoured to announce that Gear re-Store has entered into a three year service agreement to provide warranty and off-warranty repair services to Arc’teryx and their U.S.-based guests. Arc’teryx is a high performance outdoor equipment company known for leading innovations in climbing, skiing and alpine technologies.
Gear re-Store Inks Partnership with Archive
Gear re-Store has entered into a service agreement with Archive, a complete circularity, resale, peer-to-peer, takeback platform for brands. Archive partners with brands to launch innovative, customized resale programs that meet their business and sustainability objectives. Gear re-Store will provide full logistical support, including receipt, assessment, grading, repairing, cleaning, photographing, posting to website, warehousing, and fulfilment.
Gear re-Store meets with Kootenay Outdoor Recreation Enterprise (KORE)
Kevin Pennock, Russell McPherson,
Darren Brewer
Cranbrook City Hall
GrS had an opportunity to meet with select officials from the Kimberley/Cranbrook area to discuss sustainability, circular economy relating to the outdoor industry, and social enterprise. A big thanks to Kevin Pennock, Executive Director, KORE, for the invitation and for coordinating the visits, including ride-alongs with Don McCormick, Mayor of Kimberley, and Darren Brewer, Economic Development Officer, City of Cranbrook. Discussions were centred around possible collaborations with an objective of creating employment opportunities in the East Kootenay valley, specifically in support of circularity for outdoor gear. I had a great day…thanks so much for the invite, gentlemen!
Gear re-Store Adds Head USA to Warranty Repair Partnerships
We are happy to be working with Head USA, Inc. for the provision of warranty repair services to their winter outerwear customers.
Gear re-Store Joins 1% for the Planet
Gear re-Store is pleased to announce we have joined 1% for the Planet, a global network of businesses, individuals, and environmental partners tackling our planet’s most pressing environmental issues. To date, members have given over $435 million in environmental solutions through the 1% for the Planet network. 1% connects their members with high-impact environmental partners that align with Gear re-Store’s values and add to our brand story.
Gear re-Store Supports Humanitarian Effort in Ukraine
Gear re-Store, in partnership with Vail Resorts, the U.S. State Department, Help Ukraine Centre USA, and NGO contacts in Ukraine, has sent off three pallets of winter clothing to Ukraine. Several volunteers from Gear re-Store and Vail Resorts gathered together at the Gear re-Store warehouse to sort through decommissioned Vail employee gear to determine suitability for donation. The end result is three pallets of insulated pants which will be directed toward people who are working hard to repair infrastructure. We hope to continue the program as long as necessary and for as long as we can collect items that will help the effort in Ukraine. Big THANK YOU to all who participated.
Welcome Crua Outdoors!
Crua Outdoors, purveyors of a range of unique insulated temperature regulating camping tents and hammocks, has chosen Gear re-Store to be their Canadian warranty repair partner. As well, Crua will be referring off-warranty customers to Gear re-Store. We look forward to working with Crua.
Gear re-Store Signs Service Agreement with Extend
Gear re-Store has entered into a repair partnership with Extend (extend.com). Extend allows any merchant to offer extended warranties and protection plans through their easy-to-integrate APIs or pre-built eCommerce applications. They power extended warranties both online and offline while also providing consumers with a modern, digitally native experience that eliminates the issues customers face today with legacy offerings. Gear re-Store will be providing technical repair services to Extend’s merchant partners who have sold extended warranty packages to customers purchasing active lifestyle gear.
Gear re-Store Signs Service Agreement with Vail Resorts
Gear re-Store is pleased to announce that it has signed a service agreement with Vail Resorts. The agreement will formalise the relationship, whereby Gear re-Store provides technical laundry, uniform repair, RFID technology, and end-of-first-life (EO1L) uniform management. The two companies have been working together for over six years, but this agreement will further expand the relationship for VR’s North American ski resorts.
Vail Resorts, Inc. (vail.com) is the premier mountain resort company in the world and a leader in luxury, destination-based travel at iconic locations.
Gear re-Store Opens East Coast Repair Centre to Better Serve Our Customers’ Needs
Gear re-Store is excited to announce that on October 3 we will be opening a U.S. east coast repair centre in the greater Philadelphia area. Many of our customers are concerned about the cost, time and carbon footprint associated with shipping gear to and from our Denver facility. In addition, there are many ski resorts in the northeast who will be better served with an eastern option.
We expect to be fully operational for technical repairs in Folcroft by the end of October, with our other services (EO1L, Gear Tracer RFID technology, and technical laundry) coming soon. We will be Gore certified. For the first few months we will continue to serve our walk-in and mail-in customers out of Denver.
Canada’s Top Growing Company
Thanks to the great partnerships Gear re-Store has with our brand partners, as well as the hard work of our dedicated employees, we have experienced strong growth over the past few years. So strong, in fact, that we have been recognized by The Globe and Mail as one of Canada’s Top Growing Companies, coming in at #181 in the country! Yay team!
And there’s more to come! We have doubled our shop space in Calgary, are adding 5,000 SF to our capacity in Denver, and will be adding 10,000 SF with our Philadelphia shop. Hopefully we will make the list again in coming years. Big thanks to all who helped make this happen!
Vail Resorts Sign up 15 Additional Resorts on to Gear Tracer
Gear Tracer, Gear re-Store’s proprietary RFID-based repair tracking tool, is in the process of being installed in 15 additional Vail resorts. The tool was previously in use by 3 Vail resorts, and based on their experience they have decided to expand their use.
Gear Tracer has multiple uses, including tracking gear through the repair process, providing visibility to individual customers, to retailers, and to brands. But it was also developed to help ski resort uniform rooms manage their uniform fleet. Vail has started by using Gear Tracer for issues and returns, but will also be using the platform to manage repairs, reduce non-returns, and uniform life cycle monitoring including re-ordering at end-of-life (or, end of first life, as we like to say at Gear re-Store!).
Gear re-Store Expands Calgary Repair Centre
Gear re-Store is excited to announce the expansion of our Calgary Repair Centre. We have taken on an additional bay to support the future growth of our Canadian repair, laundry, EO1L (end-of-first-life sustainability) and garment manufacturing businesses.
Contractors will be working in the new space throughout July and August, and we should be fully operational by the end of August. In addition to additional sewing stations, we will have a larger cutting table and just plain old more room to move around and service our customers.
In conjunction with our preparation for growth, we are pleased to announce that we have hired Lulu Drury as a Supervisor Apprentice. Lulu will be learning all aspects of the business, helping lighten the load for Jen, and preparing to eventually take on full supervisory responsibilities as we look to split out the workload down the road.
Gear re-Store Supports Vail Resort’s EpicPromise Foundation
For a second year in a row, Gear re-Store is partnering with Helly Hansen to produce goods that will be offered for sale within Vail Resorts Retail. All proceeds of the upcycled product – designed and created by our in-house talent – will go to Vail’s EpicPromise Foundation.
The EpicPromise Employee Foundation supports Vail Resorts employees and their dependents in times of need through emergency financial assistance and educational grants. The Foundation provides $750,000 annually in employee grants with donations going to employees in need. For more information watch the video here.
Gear re-Store Ups Its Sustainability Game
Gear re-Store has taken a bold step forward in positioning ourselves to support our brand partners in their sustainability objectives with the appointment of Nicole Harris as Sustainability Champion. As you can read in Nicole’s bio on our About page, she combines an extensive background in all facets of garment care – from design to repair – with a passion for sustainability.
Nicole will co-ordinate support to the outdoor soft goods industry in the areas of re-commerce, upcycling, and downcycling. She’s off to a great start, working on projects for Vail Resorts and Helly Hansen. The sky is the limit for what we hope to do to avoid landfilling and incineration as options for end-of-first-life (EO1L) gear.
Nicole is currently working on a basic catalogue of designs available for upcycling projects, but if you have any ideas you’d like to create for promotional products, company conferences, or for retail, give Nicole a call at our Thornton office. Just allow plenty of time to chat…did I mention that Nicole is passionate about sustainability?
Look for our catalogue of samples coming soon to our website. For now, here’s a sneak peek:
Gear re-Store Creates Upcycled Products for Vail Resorts
Gear re-Store is excited to have the opportunity to create upcycled tote bags, sport bags and backpacks for executive meetings at Vail Mountain and Beaver Creek. What an excellent way to use end-of-first-life (EO1L) employee uniforms as a gift to attendees! More gear avoids the landfill.
Welcome REV’IT!
Gear re-Store welcomes REV’IT! to our list of brand partners. REV’IT! is a premium European brand based out of Holland positioned for the Sport, Touring and Adventure Rider’s needs. We will be supporting REV’IT! warranty repairs in both Canada and the U.S., and will be partnering with them in their sustainability initiatives.
Shop on-line at
www.revitsport.com
Welcome NEMO Equipment
Gear re-Store welcomes NEMO Equipment to our list of brand partners. NEMO Equipment makes gear for everyone with the drive to explore the uncharted path. We will be supporting NEMO warranty repairs in Canada.
Shop on-line at
www.nemoequipment.com
New U.S. General Manager
Gear re-Store is pleased to announce that Kyle Warden has joined the team as General Manager, U.S. Operations. Kyle joins us at a time where we are anticipating significant growth as we execute our corporate vision and strategy. Fasten your seatbelt, Kyle! For more details, visit Kyle’s bio on the About page.
I would like to personally thank Shawn Christensen for his two+ years leading the charge for Gear re-Store in the U.S. During his time, we have grown from about four employees to about thirty, have added a second shop, and have successfully integrated significant new accounts. I wish Shawn the very best as he embarks upon his next adventure.
Russell
Welcome Canada Goose
Okay, so this announcement is a bit late. But good things come to those who wait, said the master. We are so excited to (finally) announce that in January of 2020, Canada Goose selected Gear re-Store to perform all of its U.S.-originated warranty repairs. A year and a half later, the relationship is thriving and both sides are exploring opportunities for further collaboration.
We’re back, and stronger than ever!
It’s been a while since we’ve posted. Yeah, just after our last post there was a bit of a disruption: that whole pandemic thing. But we’re still here, still doing high quality repairs with quick turn-around time. Hopefully we can bring you some exciting news this year regarding new brand partners, new locations to serve you better, and new personnel joining the team.
Welcome BUCK N’ BASS
Gear re-Store welcomes BUCK N’ BASS to our list of brand partners. BUCK N’ BASS is committed to designing and manufacturing the best technical apparel on the planet for bass anglers. We will be supporting BUCK N’ BASS warranty repairs in both Canada and the U.S.
Shop on-line at
www.bucknbass.com
Welcome Terracea
Gear re-Store welcomes Terracea to our list of brand partners. With inspiration from the frigid, icy Nor’Easters and winter storms, Terracea builds gear to help you live a life without limits outside in the cold. We will be supporting Terracea warranty repairs in both Canada and the U.S.
Shop on-line at
www.terracea.com
Welcome Goldbergh Luxury Sports
Gear re-Store welcomes Goldbergh Luxury Sports to our list of brand partners. Taking women uphill or downtown in fiercely feminine style and with the freedom to move with confidence. We will be supporting Goldbergh warranty repairs in both Canada and the U.S.
US web store
https://www.goldbergh.com/us/ski/
Canada web store
https://www.goldbergh.com/ca/ski/
Welcome Jones Outerwear
Gear re-Store welcomes Jones Outerwear to our list of brand partners. Environmentally minded and movement focused technical gear built to embrace all of Mother Nature’s moods.
We will be supporting Jones Outerwear warranty repairs in both Canada and the U.S.
US web store
https://www.jonessnowboards.com/content/443-jones-sustainable-outerwear-jacket-and-pants
Canada web store
https://www.jonessnowboards.com/content/443-jones-sustainable-outerwear-jacket-and-pants?spbc=CA&shop_id=3&SubmitCurrency=1&id_currency=6
Welcome Rab Equipment
Rab Equipment selects Gear re-Store USA as their after-market repair partner. Thank you to the team at Rab for giving us the opportunity to help service your customers.
Welcome TOBE Outerwear
Gear re-Store USA is pleased to welcome TOBE Outerwear to our growing list of repair partnerships. We look forward to providing high quality and timely repairs to your U.S.-based customers, as we have been doing for your Canadian customers for several years.
US web store
us.tobeouterwear.com
Canadian web store
ca.tobeouterwear.com
Outdoor Retailer/Snow Show January 2020
Gear re-Store exhibits at Outdoor Retailer/Snow Show January 2020. Our focus on this exhibition was Gear Tracer. With new customers coming on board the platform and providing us with great reviews, we figured it was time we showcased our RFID-based technology solution. We also talked to many brands about doing repairs – especially in the U.S. – and received some amazing feedback on our proposed sustainability program, especially our prototype upcycling products
Start your repair journey now!
Bring your beloved gear back to life, by requesting a repair with us today!