SPARE PARTS

If all you need is a replacement part, check if the manufacturer supplies spares. Pole-makers LEKI guarantee the availability of replacement parts for at least 10 years after they were last produced, while most rucksack brands sell individual buckles, cord locks and straps. And if you can’t track down an exact part, you might find a passable substitute from Sea to Summit, whose repair buckles come in various sizes and cost from £3 (seatosummit.co.uk).