Check whether the upload already succeeded
Open your activity list on Strava and look for the combined activity before trying again. An interrupted browser session or delayed response does not necessarily mean an upload failed. If the activity exists, check its title, sport, route and visibility instead of creating another copy.
A duplicate error is different from an upload that is still processing or whose outcome is unknown. In Stitch, use the existing upload status. An uncertain upload is held for review so repeated clicks do not create multiple activities.
Why a merged activity can look like a duplicate
The merged file contains timestamps and samples already present in the original recordings. Giving it a different title does not remove that overlap. Strava’s merging guidance explains that the originals may need to be removed before uploading a combined file, losing their kudos and comments.
Stitch preserves your original times. It does not shift a recording’s date to disguise a duplicate.
Inspect a backup before deciding to replace originals
Download the merged file and, after a duplicate rejection, the backup bundle offered by Stitch. Open the bundle and confirm that it contains the expected activities. Keep original device files too if you have them.
Stitch’s backup is reconstructed from the data available through Strava. It is not an archive of the original Strava pages or a complete replacement for device files. It cannot restore photos, kudos, comments, power, original laps, swimming lengths or workout sets.
If that history matters more than having one activity, keep the originals and retain the merged download. You do not have to replace anything on Strava.
How to retry a confirmed duplicate in Stitch
Download and check your backup
Stitch requires a backup download before the duplicate-removal step becomes available. Inspect it before continuing.
Choose whether to remove the originals
If you decide to replace them, remove only the relevant source activities yourself in Strava. Stitch never deletes activities for you.
Confirm their removal in Stitch
This is a separate confirmation. Stitch checks that the originals are no longer available before allowing another upload attempt.
Review and confirm the upload again
Check the title, description, gaps and your Strava default activity visibility. After processing completes, open the new activity on Strava.
If the upload still fails, read the specific error before changing anything else. Invalid files, authorization problems and uploads still processing need different fixes. Strava documents the asynchronous process in its upload documentation.