How ReGear condition grades work

ReGear grades summarise visible condition. Read the photos and item notes for wear, faults and checks. Safety-critical equipment needs its own assessment.

Condition grades versus technical ratings

A–E describes visible condition. A technical rating describes a different feature: a sleeping bag’s temperature range, a mat’s insulation or a jacket fabric’s water resistance.

Example: a Grade B sleeping bag may show very little wear but still be designed for mild nights. A warmer model in Grade C could have more visible wear. Check its comfort rating and insulation condition before deciding which suits your trip.

Words such as untested mean that function has not been checked. Repaired means work has been done to a fault; read what was repaired and any remaining issue. Neither word is an extra grade.

Start with the actual item

Read the grade alongside every photograph, the item description, measurements, included parts, visible-wear notes and any important note. Those item-specific details take priority over the short grade.

If a useful detail is missing, ask ReGear before ordering. Do not assume that a model, material, age, size or specification applies unless it is confirmed in the listing or visible on a photographed label.

ReGear's A-E grade meanings

A - New / near new

New or showing little to no visible wear. Check the listing because storage marks, packaging damage or other item-specific details may still be recorded.

B - Excellent

Very light signs of previous use. The photos and condition notes show the exact marks and included parts recorded for that item.

C - Very good

Light, honest signs of use, with no major visible damage noted. Check the photographs for the exact wear.

D - Good

Clear signs of wear, marks or repairs are recorded in the listing. Read those details before ordering.

E - Well worn — check notes

Heavy visible wear. Read the item notes for faults, checks and anything untested.

These are appearance and disclosure grades. A high cosmetic grade does not override a safety exclusion, unknown history, manufacturer service life, recall, failed check or specialist requirement.

What ReGear records separately

• Visible wear and faults
• Repairs or modifications when known
• Included and missing parts
• Measurements taken from that item
• Checks or cleaning that were actually performed
• Important safety, history or compatibility limitations

Check the complete listing for the work recorded on that item.

When to stop and ask

Ask before ordering when an essential measurement, label, included part, fault, service history or compatibility detail is unclear. For safety-critical equipment, follow the manufacturer guidance and obtain the qualified assessment you require. A ReGear listing and condition grade are not substitutes for that decision.

Browse all current gear or read how ReGear works.

Related buyer guides

• How to size second-hand hiking boots
• What to check when buying used outdoor gear
• Choosing gear for a New Zealand day walk

References for these explanations

Checked 26 September 2026. Grade meanings follow ReGear’s A–E definitions above..

Updated 26 September 2026: added plain-language explanations of ratings, terms and buying choices.