My Mom always said quality is worth paying for, and over the years I've developed an appreciation for expensive gear that is generously over-engineered. I'll expand this article later, but here are a couple of ones that come to mind:

• L.L. Bean. Clothing. Their policy has been if the item ever wears out, you can return it for a replacement. Forever.

• Briggs & Riley. Luggage and Bags. The build quality is very high, but the styling is low-key. Highly functional bags. Lifetime warranty.