Let’s face it: skiing isn’t cheap.
It’s an investment to even get started. You need boots, skis, poles, goggles, a jacket, pants, gloves, a helmet…and an expensive ski pass on top of that. If you’re just starting out, it starts adding up quickly.
As much as brands want us to believe that the newest equipment will make a world of difference in your skiing, this is mostly just good advertising.
You don’t need the shiniest, newest gear to start skiing and for a beginner, you won’t notice a significant performance difference between a 2021 model vs. a 2014 ski. My first skis were even older than that and look where I am now. 😉
I love a good bargain and have been fortunate to find some excellent used gear over the past few years, so here’s my best advice on how to buy ski gear without breaking the bank.
Hey girl. I’ve got some hot tips for you.
Five ways to find cheap ski gear:
- Local Facebook groups
- Used gear stores / gear exchange markets
- Off season sales
- “You have not because you ask not”
- Befriend other skiers
Pro Tip: Before embarking off to a thrift store, visit a local gear shop (like REI or evo) and talk to their product experts. Get an idea of what size skis you need and get fitted for what size boots you need. Knowing your sizes will make your search for used or discounted gear much more efficient.
1. Local Facebook Groups
Facebook groups are great options for looking for used or lightly used gear. If you live in an area where skiing is nearby, there’s a high chance there’s some great Facebook groups you can join because your local market will be more saturated with used gear to begin with.
In the Pacific Northwest, there’s a Facebook group called: “PNW Gear Exchange.” I found it just by searching different keywords on Facebook, and it’s been a great resource. When I wanted to get into ski touring, I used that group to find my setup (pictured above). I got Salomon QST skis, frame bindings, and skins for $100 from a woman who used them as a ski patroller. They were a little beat up but have worked great. Considering new skins alone go for $150-300, this was an amazing deal.
For ski gear, I’ve found Craigslist to be a little more hit or miss, and I haven’t used Facebook marketplace (same idea to Craigslist), but these are also resources you can search for gear.
2. Thrift Stores or Gear Exchange Markets
If your town has any used gear stores, they can be a great place to look. Seattle has a store called Wonderland Gear Exchange, which sells high-quality used gear. They can still be a little pricey in my opinion, but I have found some good stuff.
Another thing to look for are gear exchanges. A lot of times local ski clubs will organize an annual gear exchange or sale where folks can bring the gear they don’t want anymore and sell it at severely discounted rates. If you have kids, these can be great resources as well, as they’re often hosted by families who are looking to sell gear that’s become too small and find new gear that’s larger.
My entire getup, except my ski poles, was thrifted. Besides the retro goggles, I have to say, it was pretty stylish. Fun fact: I paid more for the poles than my skis.
I found my ski boots and ski outfit at a thrift store in Austria, and the rest of my gear at a ski club sale. If I remember correctly, I spent less than 200 euros total on outfitting myself (yes, that included skis and boots). These “ski bazars” (as they’re called in Austria) are common there, but I’ve also heard of them happening in Seattle. Again, Facebook is a great place to find out about these events.
3. Off Season Sales
If you can wait to buy items, the spring and summer are great times to shop for gear. Stores will be clearing out their inventory and usually have a lot of sales or items on clearance.
The only pair of brand new skis I’ve bought were ones I got in the spring. They were discounted several hundred dollars!
Of course, there are a couple of caveats with this option. First, inventory might be lower or go faster during a sale. If you have your heart set on a specific model, color, or brand, you might not be able to get it. Similarly, finding the right size may be more difficult.
Secondly, shopping sales only works if you’re able to plan ahead. If it’s the start of the ski season, you don’t want to wait until spring to get your gear.
However, if you can wait to buy, the spring is a great time to shop for gear–especially for accessaries or clothing like jackets, bibs, snow pants, goggles etc. Last season I knew I needed a new ski helmet and night goggles but also knew I could hold off awhile before I was desperate. I waited until late summer and got these items for 50% less than the original listing price.
This option requires a bit more planning and gamble, but it can be worth it.
4. “You have not because you ask not”
If there’s one tip you take away from this post, let it be this one! One of the easiest ways you will find great, affordable gear is simply by asking.
How did I find out about the used ski exchange happening in Austria? I asked a coworker where to buy gear and they told me about it.
How did I find out about the used gear stores in Seattle? Someone told me about it.
How did I find my ski tour setup? I asked in the Facebook group if anyone was looking to sell an old pair, and voila someone decided they wanted to sell their skis to me!
In other words, it doesn’t hurt to proactively ask and put the word out that you’re looking for something. People like to be helpful, and chances are you’ll find out about sales or other options not publicly advertised.
5. Befriend people who ski
I’m a big believer in the generosity of people, and skiers typically like helping other skiers.
I love taking people skiing for the first time, and I’ve often loaned extra gear to friends if it’s the right size. Most folks I’ve met through skiing are equally generous in this regard.
Chances are, people who have been in the ski industry long enough have an extra pair or two of skis lying around that they’re willing to loan someone.
This ties back to point #4: don’t be afraid to just ask. It’s highly probable that someone has extra gear or knows someone who does, and you might end up with loaned or gifted gear for the entire season, just by asking and being nice.
It is possible to find quality used gear. Once you’ve been skiing awhile, you’ll have a better idea of what sort of gear you like best. That way, if you decide to invest in something newer, you’ll know what you want.
It is possible to start skiing without it breaking the bank, but you do have to invest a more time and effort looking for it. Most likely, you’ll have to be less picky about style and brand, but the tradeoff will be saving hundreds of dollars.
If you take away anything from this post, it’s that you shouldn’t be afraid to ask around and talk to people–you’ll find out about sales, used gear shops, and people will mention things like, “Oh my buddy might have a pair of skis in your size.”
Good luck in your search!
Sarah the Adventurer 