Ciss Outdoors

There’s no denying it – I love outdoor kit. I enjoy clever design features. I appreciate performance fabrics. I admire pieces that go the distance on long hikes and wild camps. But here’s the thing, I don’t believe great gear has to cost the Earth, in any sense of the phrase.

The outdoor industry has achieved significant progress in championing sustainability. Still, what is the most sustainable choice we can make as individuals? Use what we already have. Or, if we need something to expand our kit, give quality preloved kit a second chance.

Finding Gems in Unexpected Places

I’ve had some real secondhand wins over the years. My go-to North Face Thermoball jacket? I picked it up in a charity shop for £1.99. It had a tiny tear near the hem. One sew-on patch and wash later, it was as good as new.

Another score was a Mountain Equipment down jacket. I found it looking a bit sad and unloved in the men’s section of a local charity shop. The down was clumped from poor care, but I figured it was worth a shot at reviving. After a careful wash and a cool tumble dry, it fluffed up beautifully. One of the baffles has some loose stitching, but for £12? That jacket has years of life left in it.

Then there’s the sentimental stuff, like the jacket my mum no longer wore that she passed on to me. Not only is it functional and in perfect condition, it’s got a story, which makes me love it even more.

A Nod to Sustainability: Why Secondhand Gear Makes a Difference

When we reuse kit that already exists, we’re keeping them out of landfills and reducing the demand for new manufacturing. That means fewer resources are used, fewer emissions are created, and less waste overall. It’s a small action that adds up, especially in a world where gear is often thrown out too soon.

And honestly, it’s not just about the planet… it’s about people too. Buying secondhand can make quality kit more accessible, and that’s something I’m here for. Everyone deserves to feel good and be well-equipped outdoors, whatever their budget.

Repair, Rewear, Repeat

Sometimes a piece of kit needs a little help to get back out there. But, honestly? Repairs don’t have to be perfect. Yes, you can sew on a patch so discreetly that no one will even notice. If you’re feeling bold, however, make a feature of it. A contrasting colour or patterned patch can give your gear personality. A badge of honour that says, I’ve been places.

Quality brands often offer repair services if you don’t fancy tackling it yourself. Here are some examples (there are plenty of others):

• Alpkit – Offer a Repair and Wash service.
• Berghaus – Provide a dedicated Repairhaus service for their products.
• Rab – Have a comprehensive Service Centre offering repairs, washing and spare parts.
• Montane – Offer a repair service for their products.
• Scarpa – Have a boot repair and resole service.
• Alt-Berg – Specialise in footwear repairs and resoling.
• Mountain Equipment – Offer a Wash & Repair workshop.
• Keela Outdoors – Have a specialist Clothing Hospital in their UK factory.

It’s always worth contacting a brand if you think an item you have could be repaired. Chances are, they want it to last just as much as you do.

The Value in Vintage: How to Find Great Preloved Outdoor Gear

Buying secondhand can be a bit of an art. You need to know what to look for, be willing to give things a clean, and sometimes show them a little TLC. But the reward? High-performance pieces for a fraction of the cost. They often have more character, too.

If you’re looking for simple, low-cost outdoor activities, I’ve put together a guide filled with ideas that don’t require expensive kit or travel.

I use Vinted to pick up bits of kit. I also use it to pass mine on when it’s no longer getting the use it deserves. It’s all part of keeping gear in circulation. This is not an ad, there are many other secondhand marketplace-type websites you can use. I’d suggest trying different ones out and see which ones works best for you.

Also check out Preloved Sports, a Community Interest Company who have kept over 2,300 kg of sportswear from reaching landfills to date. They resale, redistribute and repurpose secondhand sportswear to make fitness more accessible.

If you’re shopping in person? Target charity shops in outdoorsy towns! Visit places like Aviemore, Keswick, or Fort William. You are more likely to find a down jacket or waterproof shell there than in your average high street.

Performance That Lasts

What I love about all of this is what it says about the kit itself. I’m still finding jackets, fleeces, and rucksacks secondhand that are ready for new adventures. This is a testament to the brands making them. When gear holds up after years of wear, it shows a commitment to quality that I respect. It makes me far more likely to consider investing in brand-new pieces from the same company.

My Message to You

Secondhand kit will always have a place in my outdoor wardrobe. It’s practical, sustainable, and often more meaningful than something bought brand-new.

If you’re spending time outdoors on a budget, it doesn’t have to hold you back. Great outdoor gear is still within reach. You just have to put a little more effort into sourcing it.

Always remember, no one on the trail is checking tags. Whether your jacket is brand-new or just new to you, it’s still getting you to the summit. That’s what matters.

Related reading:

Adventure on a Budget: How to Make the Most of Your Outdoor Hobbies

New To The Outdoors? Where to Start