About Us
Quality products that work.
At Gear Keeper, we build more than retractable tethers—we build trust. Whether you’re in the field, on the road, or out in the wild, the moment you need your gear is not the moment to fumble. That’s why every product we make is engineered for certainty: certainty that your tools will be secure, accessible, and exactly where you need them—every time. From first responders and safety professionals to outdoor enthusiasts, industrial workers, and truckers, Gear Keeper ensures YOUR GEAR IS ALWAYS READY when it matters most.
Our History
Gear Keeper® is a product of Hammerhead Industries, a company grounded in a simple philosophy: build products that solve real-world problems and hold up in the toughest environments. For over two decades, we’ve supported those who work and play in extreme conditions—developing gear retention systems that prevent drops, damage, and downtime. Every product is engineered and built in the USA and field-tested by the people who depend on it most. If it doesn’t work in the field, we don’t ship it.
SCUBA Gauge Protectors Got Us Started
Our story began underwater. Ken and John, our founders, were SCUBA professionals who needed a reliable way to secure their dive lights and tools. Frustrated by the lack of options, they developed the first Gear Keeper retractors—not to start a business, but to meet a need. That original problem-solving mindset became our foundation. What began with securing dive gear has since evolved into a full line of mission-ready gear retention systems used in tactical, industrial, outdoor, and rescue settings across the globe.
Meet the Team
Co-Founder
As co-founder of Gear Keeper, John Salentine turned a garage-born idea into a global standard for gear retention. Drawing on his love for the outdoors and problem-solving, John helped pioneer the first saltwater-proof retractors that solved real problems in the field.Today, he leads sales, marketing, and operations—ensuring the Gear Keeper promise stays true: reliable gear, delivered with integrity.
Co-Founder
Ken is the engineering mind behind Gear Keeper. From machining dive gauge protectors by hand to inventing the first self-flushing, high-strength retractors for SCUBA, Ken’s obsession with durability and function set the tone for the brand. Now overseeing product development and manufacturing, Ken continues to innovate for professionals who can’t afford gear failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Start with your gear.
The right retractor depends on three key factors — pull force, connection, and mounting.
- Pull Force: Choose a light retraction for small tools like keys or calls, and heavier pull for items like radios or rangefinders.
- Connection Type: Match the attachment to your gear — split ring, snap clip, or lanyard.
- Mounting: Pick the mount that fits your setup — belt clip, MOLLE strap, or threaded stud.
- Material: All Gear Keeper retractors are built with corrosion-proof housings and stainless springs, but choose saltwater or tactical versions if you operate in extreme conditions.
For over 30 years, Gear Keeper has been trusted to perform in the harshest environments, by people who can’t afford to fumble. Our Unbreakable Promise is simple: if your Gear Keeper doesn’t meet your expectations, whether it’s day one or year ten, we’ll make it right. Repair it. Replace it. Refund it. Whatever it takes to keep your gear ready.
Warranty
- Lifetime Coverage: We warranty authentic Gear Keeper products against defects in materials or workmanship for as long as you own them.
- Performance Guarantee: If there is a manufacture defect, we’ll repair, replace, or refund you
- Fair Wear & Tear Repair: We’ll fix normal wear and tear when possible at a fair cost.
- Exclusions: Damage from misuse, neglect, or use outside intended purpose is not covered, but we’ll still work with you to find a solution.
- Authorized Sales Only: This warranty applies only to products purchased directly from Gear Keeper or one if its Authorized Dealers.
Returns
- 30 Days to Decide:
- Refund: Product price minus $5 flat-rate return shipping.
- Store Credit/Exchange: Full product price credited (no deduction for shipping).
- Prepaid USPS label provided for easy returns.
We take great pride building gear that lasts. It is not uncommon to get a call from a Trucker that has been using their Mic Retractor for more than 15 years and they want to get it refurbished. We are proud to offer a repair program. Just email us at info@gearkeeper.com to learn how.
