Bats — Your run-scoring partner

Our workshop performs daily miracles and can repair almost anything, but if your bat’s spending more time with us than in the middle, you’re probably better off investing in a new bat. Here are a few signs that your bat’s ready for retirement:

• Cracks or splits you can’t ignore
• Dents that change how it feels off the middle
• That dreaded "dead” sound when you nail one

How long they last: With good care, a top-quality bat can see you through a few seasons, depending on usage. Proper care is crucial to maximise its lifespan and performance on the field. If you’re in the nets three nights a week and playing all summer, expect 2–3 years. Remember though, one rogue shot, even on its first outing, can cause damage, even with the highest quality bats.

Cricket Express tip: Treat your bat well. Regular inspections, a light sand and oil and fixing small damage early can buy you another season.

Pads, Gloves & Helmets — Your silent protectors

Pads with compacted foam or dodgy straps? Gloves with palms worn paper-thin? It’s time to upgrade. The typical lifespan of pads and gloves is around 1–2 years, but sooner if they’ve lost their sting-reducing magic.

Helmets aren’t a "buy once, keep forever” kind of thing. For your safety, they should be replaced every 5 years or straight away after a big hit. Even if it looks fine, the protection might not be.

Shoes — Don’t wait until they’re flat

Once the spikes are gone, the ankle support’s shot, or the soles feel like cardboard, it’s time to make a change. Regular and younger players usually need a new pair every season. Your knees and shins will thank you.

Clothing — Keep the whites, white

When your "whites” are more cream… or beige… or you’ve got that one grass stain that’s become part of your personal brand, it might be time for a refresh. Most players grab new gear each season.

An extra note for junior cricketers (and their parents)

If you’re kitting out younger players, the timing for upgrades can be a bit different. Kids often outgrow their gear before it wears out, especially pads, gloves, helmets, and shoes.

With juniors, the priority is fit and protection:

• Pads that sit too high or too low can leave shins exposed.
• Gloves that are too big make it harder to hold the bat properly.
• Helmets must fit snugly so they don’t move on impact.
• Shoes that are too tight or too loose can affect comfort, movement, and even cause injuries.

So while adults might get a few seasons out of a bat or set of pads, younger players might need to upgrade more often to keep their kit safe, comfortable and suited to their game.

How to make your gear last longer — Cleaning

• Clothing: Cold wash after every match, mild detergent and avoid the hot dryer.
• Pads & Gloves: Quick wipe down post-game and a deeper clean with a soft brush when needed.
• Helmet: Damp cloth outside and gentle detergent for the padding.
• Bat: Dry cloth only — water is the enemy.

How to make your gear last longer — Storage

• Cool, dry place (the back of your car boot in January = bad idea).
• Silica gel packets in the kit bag help fight moisture.

How to make your gear last longer — Regular check-ups

• Give your gear a once-over every couple of weeks.
• Fix small issues early — it’s cheaper and less annoying than buying replacements mid-season.

How to make your gear last longer — Off-season deep clean

• Turn pads inside out to wash the liners.
• Spray your bag to banish the classic "kit smell.”
• Air-dry everything in indirect sunlight.

The Wrap-Up

Look after your gear and it’ll look after you. Replace it when:

• It’s no longer protecting you
• It’s holding back your performance
• It’s so worn it could tell stories from seasons past

Treat your kit well, check it often, and when it’s time to retire it, upgrade to something that makes you want to get straight back out there!