Choosing the Right Repair Tape
Repair tapes are an effective and simple way to patch up your gear to keep it in circulation! They’re best for use on small rips and tears (we usually say anything smaller than your thumb). For larger damage, a sewn patch will increase the strength and durability of the repair. Feel free to reach out for a quote or advice - we’re happy to help!
Which tape do I need?
There a many options of tapes, each with their own benefits. Here is our guide to choosing the right tape for your item:
| Tape | Fabric | Application Method | Pros | Cons | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tenacious Tape | Down Insulated Softshell GORE-TEX Waterproof | No heat, or iron, on low setting | Most Durable Flexible Waterproof | Limited colours More expensive than others | Try & always use this over Spinnaker tape if possible as it lasts longer |
| Spinnaker Tape | Down Insulated Waterproof | No heat, or iron, on low setting | Choice of Colours Flexible Waterproof | Frays | More colour options than other tapes |
| Grey Seam Seal | GORE-TEX Laminate | Iron, on low setting | High quaility Waterproof | A little more expensive than liquid for long lengths | Use on the inside of garment only |
| Tuff Tape | Waterproof | No heat, or iron, on low setting | Clear Waterproof Durable | Not as flexible as others Can crack over time | Use on items that need to be extra waterproof, eg. salopettes. *Tip: can put over Spinnaker tape so you get the colour & the extra Waterproof quality |
| SilNylon Patches | Silicone coated tents | Apply with hand pressure or roller. | Durable Flexible | Patch is only available in one size | Only for use on silicone coated items. |
*Tip - It’s important to use the right tape for the fabric, anything silicone coated needs a silicone based tape.
The Pros & Cons:
Pros: Durable, and lasts longer than other tapes. It’s also waterproof and flexible so great for lightweight waterproof layers.
Cons: There are not many colour options, it is also more expensive than other tapes.
Spinnaker Tape
Pros: Comes it lots of different colours, and is also flexible.
Cons: It frays after a while, so isn’t as long lasting as other tapes
Grey Seam Seal
Pros: Its very high quality and waterproof
Cons: Its more expensive than liquid seam seal for long lengths (see our liquid seam seal guide here)
Pros: It is the most waterproof of the tapes, so ideal to use on salopettes or other items needing to be very waterproof.
Cons: It is not as flexible, so not great for lightweight items. It also cracks over time.
Pros: They are durable and flexible
Cons: They only come in one size. (Remember: only to be used on silicone coated items)
Cheat sheet
| Item | Tenacious Tape | Spinnaker Tape | Tuff Tape | Grey Seam Seal | SilNylon Patches |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Insulated Jacket | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Softshell | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Waterproofs (external fabric) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Waterproofs (internal fabric) | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Tent - PU | ✓ | ||||
| Tent - Silicone | ✓ |
