Background Information
Hopefully if you’re reading this, you’ve already picked up a pair of Heidi Garner Gaiters and want to learn more about them.
Heidi is part of my local running community, and when she learned that I was building a small business focused on trail-running gear and repairs—with an emphasis on sustainability—she took a chance on me. We collaborated to produce small batches of gaiters featuring her custom artwork.
One of my goals is transparency: I want you to know what you’re getting, how it’s made, and why certain materials were chosen. I’d also love your feedback on the product – please feel free to leave a comment below.
Fabric Information
The fabric used is K-DEER Athletic White Micro Nylon Spandex. It is moisture-wicking, breathable, and feels cool and almost weightless against the skin. You may even forget you’re wearing gaiters at all.
This lightweight fabric is ideal for hot environments, because it allows heat to escape instead of trapping it like heavier fabrics can.
Care Instructions
For best results:
- Hand wash in cold water
- Hang to dry
Avoid a hot dryer —heat will break down the fibers and significantly shorten the life of your gaiters.
While the fabric itself can handle a delicate wash cycle, the gaiters include a large hook that can snag other items in your laundry. For longevity, it’s best to rinse them in the sink or shower and hang them up to dry.
Sustainability & Sourcing
Heidi Garner Gaiters are made from deadstock fabric (see blog post: What Is Deadstock Fabric). Each pair is sewn in small batches by me, either in my home studio—or sometimes at my kitchen table.
The fabric was sourced from Surge Fabric, a small, family-owned business based in Lebanon, Missouri. They specialize in sourcing deadstock fabric from designers.
Based on my research, K-DEER was a U.S.-based yoga-wear brand that closed after supply-chain issues during the pandemic. I initially purchased just six yards of this fabric—the total available at the time. Later, I was able to acquire another fifteen yards, but once this fabric is gone, it’s gone.
If you love the cool, lightweight, ultra-soft feel of these gaiters, I recommend grabbing another pair while they’re available—they won’t be around forever. Available soon at https://heidigarnerstudio.com
Feedback
If you own a pair I want your feedback. Please leave a comment or email me directly from the ‘About Us” page. I really want to hear from you. I stand behind my work and I’m a real person. The comment tab is up by the title of this blog (I didn’t design the layout). You’ll need to enter your email to comment, but I won’t sell your information—and honestly, I don’t have time to spam you anyway.