Why Buying Used Outdoor Gear Is Better for the Planet

Buying used outdoor gear isn’t just a great way to save money — it’s one of the easiest things you can do to support the planet and reduce waste. At Second Wind Sports Bend, sustainability is central to our mission. We believe that gear should get a second (or third!) life, not end up in a landfill.

Whether you’re outfitting for a weekend hike or an entire ski season, here’s why shopping used gear is a win for you — and the environment.

The Environmental Impact of Outdoor Gear

Outdoor gear — from technical jackets to carbon-frame bikes — is resource-intensive to manufacture. Here’s what goes into making that shiny new jacket or bike:

High water usage in textile manufacturing
Petroleum-based materials in synthetic gear
Global shipping emissions for imported products
Waste when gear is discarded after a few years of use

By purchasing lightly used gear, you reduce the demand for new production and help extend the life of products already in circulation.

5 Reasons Buying Used Gear Is a Smart, Sustainable Choice

1. Reduce Waste

Tons of usable outdoor gear are thrown away each year. By choosing consignment or secondhand, you help divert gear from landfills and give it new life on the trail, river, or slopes.

2. Lower Your Carbon Footprint

Used gear has already “paid” its carbon toll during production. Reusing it means fewer emissions and less resource depletion compared to buying new.

3. Support Circular Economy Practices

Secondhand shopping keeps resources circulating within the local economy. It also supports small, community-based businesses like ours, not just large manufacturers.

4. Save Big Without Sacrificing Quality

Many high-end brands build gear to last. That Arc'teryx jacket or Trek bike you buy secondhand is likely just as functional — at a fraction of the cost.

5. Make Outdoor Adventures More Accessible

Keeping gear affordable means more people — especially families and younger adventurers — can explore and enjoy the outdoors.

What You Can Find Used at Second Wind Sports Bend

We carefully curate lightly used, high-performance gear in great condition. Some of our most popular secondhand items include:

Mountain and gravel bikes
Technical outerwear & fleece
Hiking boots & trail shoes
Paddle gear (seasonal)
Backpacks, helmets, and more

See something you love? Our inventory changes daily — visit us in-store at 725 NW Columbia St, Bend or call for availability.

FAQs

Is used gear safe and reliable?

Absolutely. We inspect every item before accepting it on consignment. You’ll find trusted brands and quality items that are trail-ready.

What if I have gear I want to sell?

Great! Learn how to get started on our Consignment Page – https://www.secondwindbend.com/consign.

Is used gear really that different from new?

In many cases, no. A gently used jacket or bike may have minor cosmetic wear but is fully functional — and far more sustainable.

How You Can Help Promote Gear Sustainability in Bend

Buy used when possible
Donate or consign gear you no longer use
Take care of your gear so it lasts longer
Encourage others to shop sustainably

Every item kept in use reduces the environmental strain of manufacturing something new. It’s a simple yet powerful way to make a difference.

Visit Bend’s Hub for Sustainable Outdoor Gear

Second Wind Sports Bend is more than a gear shop — we’re part of a community committed to outdoor living and environmental stewardship. When you shop with us, you're making a smart choice for the planet and your wallet.

Call us: (541) 797-0487
Visit: SecondWindBend.com | 725 NW Columbia St, Bend
Email: info@secondwindbend.com

Buy used. Stay outdoors. Keep gear out of the landfill.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Gear Up Sustainably: Why Buying Used Is Better for the Planet