Gear Cache Tier System
Because the gear we carry is so dang solid, it can go through quite a bit of cosmetic abuse before it stops performing like it should. We will make sure the gear you buy from us meets your expectations and functions as designed, regardless of whether it's new or used. That's why we've come up with a 4 tier rating system for our used gear; Admired, Liked, and Loved.
All items that were once part of our rental fleet will be numbered with black sharpie on the inside, regardless of condition. If you have further questions, feel free to check our Gear Cache page, or contact us! Also, keep in mind our return policy is different for Used gear!
Practically new, likely never worn outside, just left alone and admired. Recent gear (within the last 5 years), preferably with tags.
Light outdoor use, only worn a few times. Recent gear (within the last 5 years), with very light wear.
Substantial outdoor use, probably about a season, and clear evidence that someone has loved this gear. Worn enough to be undoubtedly "second-hand."
Apparel
Tier 1 - Admired
NO: stains, patches, broken zippers, matted material, down-less spots in puffys, cut out tags, fading etc.
Tier 2 - Liked
Very light use: some fading, small markings, minor stains, minor scuffing, minor linting, minor discoloration.
NO: rips, tears, broken zippers, drawstrings, big/dark stains, patches, etc.
Tier 3 - Loved
Moderate use: noticeable stains, fading, scuffing, broken drawstrings, markings, pulling, matting. Patches acceptable.
NO: tears, rips, broken zippers, etc.
Shoes and Boots
Tier 1 - Admired
NO: scuffing, stains, faded color, torn soles, rips, bad laces, etc.
Tier 2 - Liked
Very light use: some dust (but should be cleaned beforehand), minor creasing, minor scuffing, minor scratching, minor stains, minor debris, minor pulling.
NO: rips, tears, broken laces, big stains, holes, worn tread, etc.
Tier 3 - Loved
Moderate use: visible creasing, stains, scuffing, pulling, indentations, discoloration, dust, debris, etc. Significant wear on tread.
Gear and Hardwear
(No weight bearing or safety items such as: harnesses, ropes, helmets, cord, carabiners, ice screws, trad gear, etc.)
Tier 1 - Admired
NO: Broken straps, stains, broken zippers, broken buckles, holes, rips, etc.
Tier 2 - Liked
Very light use: minor discoloration, stains, scuffing, pulling, etc.
NO: rips, tears, broken zippers, buckles, straps, mesh, major stains, etc.
Tier 3 - Loved
Moderate use: stains, scuffing, pulling, discoloration, very minor rips and tears, dirt, etc.
NO: broken zippers, buckles, straps, or mesh.