The Gear Upcycle Project
Turning old gear into new adventures.
For the past five years, I’ve partnered with climbing gyms, guide companies, and individual climbers to give retired ropes a second life. These ropes have stories to tell, from first ascents and epic falls to countless belay sessions with friends, and I believe they deserve a new chapter, not a landfill.
What started with ropes has grown. I’ve recently begun upcycling old harnesses too, and I’m constantly exploring new ways to repurpose worn-out climbing gear into meaningful, functional art and accessories.
For some folks, this is simply about clearing out closets and garages. For others, it’s a chance to keep a piece of their climbing history alive, transformed into something they can use or gift. For me, it’s about creative sustainability. Every piece I rescue is one less item wasting away in a landfill.
Whatever your reason, I want your old gear.
Look for Cactus to Pine drop-off bins at participating locations listed below. Each bin has a QR code—scan it to learn more about how you can receive store credit in exchange for your donation.
Let’s keep the spirit of climbing alive—and lighten our environmental footprint along the way.
Give your retired ropes a second life — and get something unique in return!
DROP OFF BIN LOCATIONS
TENNESSEE
Four Bridges Outfitters 315 N Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37405
NORTH CAROLINA
Black Dome Outfitters 140 Tunnel Rd, Asheville, NC 28805
REI- ASHEVILLE 31 Schenck Pkwy, Asheville, NC 28803
Does your store/gym want to host a drop-off bin in exchange for FREE products or wholesale credit???
Email us at CactustoPineGoods@gmail.com
Don't live near a drop-off bin? Mail it in!
How It Works
- Send me your old climbing rope (see address below).
- For every 50 meters of rope, you’ll receive one gift:
- Your choice of a cozie or a bowl
- I’ll cover the return shipping.
- If your rope is shorter than 50m, I’m happy to upcycle it, but I cannot guarantee credit.
- Multiple ropes = multiple gifts.
Please slip a piece of paper inside your box with:
- Your return mailing address
-
Your request
- “Gift made from my rope” (a keepsake of your own rope)
- OR “Different color” → include your email address and I’ll send you current stock options to choose from.
- OR “No gift back” → your rope will still be upcycled, and I’ll send a gift in your name to a climbing nonprofit.
I also upcycle harnesses, webbing, cordelette, and other retired gear. I can’t guarantee credit for these items, but I’d love to give them a new life
Where to mail Your Rope
Cactus to Pine - Shelby
#136
149 WEAVER BLVD
WEAVERVILLE, NC 28787