If you need to pack your gear up ready for the off-season, or you just need to make the most of your luggage space, then this is the article for you.
It may seem like a no-brainer, but you should never store wet or dirty clothing. Wash and allow to thoroughly dry before storing it. Wet and dirty gear will allow for the growth of fungus, mould, and bacteria. If it goes in dirty and wet, it’s going to come out stinking and damaged.
When storing, hanging is the best way to keep your gear in the best shape possible. Using a suit hanger will allow your snow gear to be stored safely, and will ensure it comes out the same way it went in.
Storing inside a wardrobe is good. Inside a suit hangar inside a wardrobe is better! If dust can get to your snow gear, it can potentially degrade the DWR coating on the outside and affect the waterproofing. Dust is mostly skin, and while it may seem innocuous, dust contains lots of oils and other substances which can adversely affect your gear over time.
If you do need to fold your gear, make sure not to lay anything on top if it will form a crease. Rolling it up is a great way to avoid this, but make sure you start at the bottom so you don’t crush or crease the hood brim!