How to Buy Used Ski Equipment

How to Buy Used Ski Equipment
Skiing is an expensive sport. Lift tickets, lodging and equipment can be pricey. Therefore, many skiers seek out ways to buy used ski equipment.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

How to Buy Used Ski Equipment

Things You’ll Need:
  • Ski boots Awareness of your skiing skill level, Measurement of your head circumference if purchasing a helmet
  • Ski boots
  • Awareness of your skiing skill level,
  • Measurement of your head circumference if purchasing a helmet
Step 1
Rent a pair of skis and then make an offer at the ski shop. This is one of the most common ways to purchase used ski equipment. In some cases, the shop will take the price of the rental off the price of the skis. However, it is easier to do this at the end of the season when stores are trying to unload some of their inventory.
Step 2
Approach the ski shop at the resort. Again, it is easier to do this at the end of the season. Resort shops often have rental skis, boots and helmets that they want to unload.
Step 3
Attend a ski swap. These usually take place in ski towns right before ski season starts, but you can also find them in major cities. At ski swaps, you pay a nominal admission fee, which usually goes to a local charity. Then, you look around and try to swap gear with other people. Ski swaps are great for families with children who are quickly outgrowing their gear.
Step 4
Check the ski message forums. Forums such as Epicski often have a gear for sale forum. However, you need to be an active member in order to participate. See the link below under "References."
Step 5
Consider eBay. If you don't like bidding, some sellers have a "buy now" option.

Tips & Warnings

 
Check the equipment carefully for damage.
 
If ordering used equipment online, make sure that the site has some type of buyer protection.

Article Written By Lisa Mercer

In 1999, Lisa Mercer’s fitness, travel and skiing expertise inspired a writing career. Her books include "Open Your Heart with Winter Fitness" and "101 Women's Fitness Tips." Her articles have appeared in "Aspen Magazine," "HerSports," "32 Degrees," "Pregnancy Magazine" and "Wired." Mercer has a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the City College of New York.

Write for Trails.com
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