The Best Cheap Snowboarding Gear Alternatives
Are you trying to take up snowboarding but don’t want to spend a fortune on gear? While high-end snowboarding gear is usually more expensive, there are plenty of great alternatives that won’t cost an arm and a leg. Here, we explore the best cheap snowboarding gear alternatives for budget-conscious riders.
Snowboarding is an exhilarating winter sport that’s relatively easy to pick-up and enjoy. But like many other sporting activities, it can come with a hefty price tag. New boards, boots, bindings, and all the protective gear tend to be on the expensive side, so budget-conscious riders may be wondering what their options are. Luckily, there are a few ways to score great snowboarding gear without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best cheap snowboarding gear alternatives to help you save some money and still hit the slopes.
Looking for Used Gear
First off, one of the best ways to get cheap snowboarding gear is to look around for used items. Whether you go online or scour through flea markets, it’s always worth your time to check out pre-owned options. Used snowboard gear is usually of good quality and can be substantially cheaper than buying new items. Plus, you can often put together an entire setup for much less than you would normally pay.
Of course, it’s important to inspect the item first so you know what you’re getting before you buy it. After all, you don’t want to end up with damaged or unusable gear. So, if you’re going to get something pre-owned, make sure it has no visible signs of wear and tear, no broken parts, and that everything works as it should.
Shop Clearance or Online Deals
Another great way to score some cheap snowboarding gear is to shop the clearance sections of your local snowboard shops. Most stores have an area with items that have been marked down significantly. That means there is often some great deals to be had on brand-new items.
This also applies when shopping online. Always keep an eye out for online deals as they come up, since they’re often some of the best ways to get discounted snowboarding gear. It’s also a good idea to sign up for newsletters and store emails so you can stay informed about any upcoming sales or discounts.
Choose a Versatile Board
When it comes to buying a snowboard, cheaper does not always mean lower quality. There are a couple of options you can consider if you’re on a budget. A great start is to choose a board that’s versatile enough for both groomed runs and powder conditions. This will save you from having to shell out for two separate setups.
Also, think about the width of your board – a wider board is usually more stable at slow speeds and also helps with float in powder. A narrower board, on the other hand, is faster and more agile. So, depending on where you’ll be riding most, this is something to consider when choosing a board.
Look for Affordable Boots
When it comes to boots, there are a couple cheaper alternatives that offer good quality and performance. For starters, many riders opt for all-mountain boots, which are designed to be comfortable, supportive and offer good response control. What’s great is that these are usually offered at a much lower price point than the more specialized boots.
Another option to consider is renting boots. If you plan to ride several times a season but don’t want to spend money on buying your own boots, this may be a good choice for you. Many resorts offer rental packages that include boots that are usually of good quality, although they may not be as customizable as your own pair.
Find Budget Bindings
Finally, bindings are an important part of your setup and don’t need to be expensive. There are a few things you’ll want to consider when buying bindings, like the flex rating and straps, which should match your boots and riding style.
When choosing bindings, the materials and construction should be your main focus, since these will have the biggest effect on the performance. That said, there are some great budget bindings that are made with quality materials, offer good response and won’t put too much pressure on your wallet.
Bottom Line
Getting into snowboarding doesn’t have to be expensive. With a bit of digging around, you can find great gear at a fraction of the cost. Whether you’re shopping for pre-owned items, checking for online deals or looking for budget bindings, there are plenty of ways to save money on snowboarding gear. So, don’t let a small budget get in the way of your winter adventures and try out these great cheap snowboarding gear alternatives today.
Image Credit: Pexels