A visitor to Adventure Network recently asked me the following question: "I seem to be forever breaking zippers: on my tent door, my right gaiter, and now my favorite day pack. Don't they make stronger zippers and can how do I make the ones I have last longer?"

Here is what I suggest: Zippers are the most under-appreciated workhorse-fastener on today's outdoor equipment. They are used and abused to such a level it is often a wonder they last as long as they do. The most important thing you can do is treat your zippers with care. Keep them clean by flushing them with water after each trip. I don't recommend using a silicon lubricant on the zipper's teeth since that only serves to attract more dirt. Pull your zipper sides together when closing your pack or tent door. Slow your zipping pace when closing a zipper, especially around tight corners.

The most common reason coiled zippers (the one's found on most gear these days) won't close is a worn slider-a slider is the bit of hardware with the tab on it that you pull on to close or open the zipper's teeth. If the teeth of your zipper stay open after a pass by the slider, reach for your pliers. Work the slider back up to the top of the zipper or the point where the zipper would be open if it was working-take your time, this can be a challenge. Now, gently squeeze one side and then the other of the slider, using equal pressure (don't over squeeze as you can jam the slider or even crush the zipper coils). Try the zipper again. Do this several more times until the coils remain closed after a pass by the slider. If this fails to work, you need a new slider and should consult your nearest specialty outdoor store for advice.