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Finding Cheap Snowboarding Gear Alternatives
Going out on the slopes requires two things: skill, and the right gear. Unfortunately, the latter isn’t always cheap. If you want to maximize your time on the mountain but don’t want to sink a lot of money into new gear, there are plenty of alternatives to finding cheap snowboarding gear. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get the best options available.
Hit the Outlets
Outlet stores are a great resource for finding cheap snowboarding gear. Retailers like Tanger Outlets and Banana Republic Outlet sell high-quality gear from your favorite brands like Burton, North Face, and Dakine. It’s also worth checking out online outlets from these retailers – you often get better discounts when you shop online.
Refurbished Gear
If you’re looking for even bigger discounts on snowboarding gear, find a reputable website to purchase refurbished gear. Often times gear has been returned by customers (or taken back by the retailer) and is then offered up as “refurbished.” Since the item has been used, it won’t come with a warranty, but it will come with a greatly reduced price tag. Companies like REI and Patagonia offer up high-quality gear at steep discounts.
Subscription Services
If you want to stay up-to-date with the latest snowboarding gear, subscription services might be the right choice for you. Boxes curated by snowboarding professionals are sent to your door with high-quality gear from big brands like Nike and Burton. Companies like Mystery Ranch and Arctic Chaser offer some of the best gear out there for very affordable prices.
Shop at the Right Time
Timing can also play a major factor in finding cheap snowboarding gear. Snowboard gear is often released in the fall, just as the snow season is about to start. This means there are deals and discounts aplenty for those that shop around. Companies like Siete, Blizzard and Henry’s Skates often offer huge discounts in the fall, so make sure you’re in the know when it comes to the latest snowboarding gear releases.
Hit the Consignment Shops
If you’re lucky, you might find a consignment shop near you that stocks snowboarding gear. These shops carry gear that has been lightly used and refurbished, so it’s still in great condition. They might not have the newest gear, but you’ll often find some gems if you’re diligent and have a keen eye. Plus, consignment shops are usually cheaper than most other outlets.
Buy Last Season’s Models
Don’t be too caught up on the newest gear. Last season’s models will often provide the same function as the gear that’s just been released. If you want to keep up with the trend but don’t want to spend a fortune, then opt for last season’s models, which you can often find for a fraction of the price.
Start with Affordable Brands
If you’re a beginner at snowboarding, start with some of the more affordable brands that offer entry-level gear, like Scott, Head and Bataleon. These brands have been around for decades and have offered quality snowboarding gear at an affordable price.
If you’re looking to get into snowboarding without spending too much money, these tips should help you find quality, affordable gear. Hit the outlets, shop online, and keep an eye out for last season’s models – you might be surprised at some of the gems you’ll find. With a bit of research, you can find cheap snowboarding gear that will allow you to maximize your time on the slopes.
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