The Best Used Snowboarding Gear: Get Started Now!
Snowboarding season is here, and it’s time to start giddying up for your sunny days on the slopes. Of course, you want to make sure you have the best equipment possible to ensure that you get the most out of your shredding experience, but you’re not sure if you can afford to buy all of the latest snowboarding gear. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to get the best used snowboarding gear at a fraction of the cost.
Used snowboarding equipment is, by far, the most budget-friendly way to get out and enjoy this amazing sport. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced shredder, you can find quality used snowboarding gear that’ll perform as good as something new. Before you start your search, check out this guide to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck.
Benefits of Purchasing Used Snowboarding Gear
When it comes to snowboarding, everyone’s different. While some prefer to have the latest and greatest gear, some prefer having a trusty, older setup. There are plenty of benefits to purchasing used snowboarding gear instead of brand new equipment, including:
Cost Savings: Buying used snowboarding equipment can save you lots of money compared to buying new. Since snowboarding gear gets updated and improved every year, previous year’s models of the same product can offer you a big discount, while still giving you all the features and performance you’re looking for.
Unique Pieces: When you shop new, you’re usually stuck with the same color and design from major brands. However, when you shop used, you can find customized setups, vintage designs, and one-of-a-kind pieces.
High Quality: Just because something’s used, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s low quality. Most of the time, used snowboarding gear is only lightly used, meaning you can get some high-end gear without having to pay the price.
Finding Used Snowboarding Equipment
Now that you know all the benefits of getting used, it’s time to start your search. Here’s a few tips and tricks that help you find all the best used snowboarding gear.
Local Online Marketplaces: Look for online marketplaces that specialize in snowboarding gear. You can find dozens of listings in all price ranges, plus you’ll get to meet the seller and pick up the gear yourself.
Sports Thrift Shops: Look for your local sports thrift shops to see if they have any used snowboarding gear. You’ll usually find lightly used or rarely used gear from past seasons, or even from popular shops that accept returns.
Ski/Snowboard Swap Events: Swap events are a great way to buy used snowboarding equipment. These events are usually held by resorts or ski/snowboard shops, and offer a wide variety of used gear from boarders who have outgrown or upgraded their ride.
Used Gear Websites: For the ultimate selection of used snowboarding equipment, check out the used gear websites like eBay and Craigslist. You’ll find more used items than you can shake a stick at, and make sure you use the “used” filter to make sure you don’t miss any hidden gems.
Making Sure You Choose the Right Gear
Now that you know where to look for used snowboarding gear, it’s time to make sure you’re buying the right thing. Here’s a few tips that you can use to make sure you’re getting the best used gear possible.
Size: Make sure the size of the board, boots and bindings is the right size for you or the one you’re buying for.
Age: Generally, it’s not advisable to buy a used board that’s more than five years old, as it may not keep up with the performance of newer gear.
Condition: When you’re getting gear from a local seller, make sure you inspect it firsthand to see if it’s in good condition. Check for any signs of damage and make sure all the components are still working.
Warranty: If you’re buying from an online store or a big retailer, check if they offer any kind of warranty on used gear. Usually, they’ll include a limited warranty to make sure the gear you get isn’t defective.
Getting the Right Setup
Once you’ve chosen the right used gear, it’s time to make sure it’s properly set up. Before you hit the slopes, make sure you check a few things:
Binding Angles: Make sure your bindings are mounted with the right angles and that they aren’t loose.
Edge Tunes: Most used gear won’t have good edge tunes. It’s usually a good idea to have your board tuned professionally at a local ski shop.
Stance Width: Did you get used boots? Make sure you adjust your stance width for your new boots before taking your run.
Enjoy the Slopes
Getting out and shredding on used snowboarding gear can be a great way to improve your skills and save you some dough. Now that you know where to find the best used snowboarding gear and how to properly set it up, it’s time to get out and show the slopes who’s boss. Good luck!
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