Outdoor Equipment — Inspection & Maintenance Guide
Using this gear carries inherent risks. Always inspect before every use.
Important Safety Notice
Platform Responsibilities
- StompGear provides marketplace only
- Owners responsible for equipment condition
- Renters responsible for proper use
Key Warnings
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- Training Required
- Legal Risk
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- Regular Maintenance
- Safety Gear
Terrain & Environmental Hazards
Trail Conditions
Check weather, trail closures, and surface conditions before riding
Emergency Prep
Carry first aid, communication device, and emergency supplies
Navigation
Know your route, have backup navigation, inform others of plans
Essential Checks (Before Every Use)
Tents & Shelters
- Poles intact, shock cord not frayed, no bent sections.
- Fabric free of major rips/holes; zippers slide smoothly.
- Stakes, guy lines, and rain fly included and functional.
Sleeping Systems
- Sleeping bags loft properly; zippers work; liners clean.
- Pads hold air (no leaks); valves function.
Stoves & Cookware
- Stoves test-fired safely; no leaks at valves or fuel lines.
- Correct fuel supplied and clearly labelled.
- Pots, pans, and utensils clean.
Water Treatment
- Filters flow correctly; cartridges not expired.
- Chemical treatments in date; bottles sealed.
Standard Maintenance Procedures
After Every Use
- • Dry tents, sleeping bags, and pads completely before storage.
- • Clean cookware; empty fuel; check stove seals.
- • Rinse and dry water filters.
- • Knock snow/ice off snowshoes; dry straps/bindings.
Weekly/Monthly
- • Re-proof tent flies and shells with DWR treatment.
- • Inspect sleeping bag loft; wash if needed (front-load washer or professional).
- • Check snowshoe hardware and poles for wear.
Seasonally
- • Service stoves (replace O-rings, clean jets).
- • Patch or replace worn tent fabric or zippers.
- • Rotate/replace filter cartridges.
Annually
- • Retire gear that has aged beyond manufacturer guidance (e.g., 10+ years for tents, 5–7 years for many filters).
- • Professional cleaning for down sleeping bags.
Essential Gear Checklist
The 10 Essentials (recommended for all trips)
- Navigation (map, compass, offline nav app such as Gaia GPS, Avenza, FATMAP)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm)
- First-aid kit
- Knife/multitool & repair kit (duct tape, zip ties, spare cord)
- Fire (matches/lighter in waterproof container, firestarter)
- Shelter (tent, tarp, bivy, or emergency blanket)
- Extra food
- Extra water / water treatment
- Extra clothing layers
Safety & Emergency Protocols
First Aid
Communication
Navigation
- Always wear appropriate safety gear
- Ride within your skill level and conditions
- Inform others of your route and expected return
- Carry emergency communication device
- Know local emergency numbers and procedures
Training & Certification Standards
AST/AIARE
Avalanche Skills Training
First-Aid
Wilderness First Aid
Personal Safety
Bear / Animal Spray
Local
Training Programs
Legal & Liability Notes
This guide is for reference only. Users assume all risks associated with bike operation.
StompGear provides marketplace services only and does not warranty equipment condition.
Renters and owners are solely responsible for equipment inspection and safety compliance.
Local laws and regulations may apply. Consult legal counsel for specific requirements.