Is Your Bank Account Too Thin for Snowboarding? Discover Cheap Gear Alternatives Now!
Are you dreaming of hitting the slopes this winter but the thought of the expenses associated with snowboarding gear holding you back? Snowboarding can be an expensive hobby, but that shouldn’t deter you from hitting the powder this season. In this post, we have compiled some tips to help you save money on snowboarding gear without sacrificing quality and performance. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Snowboards
The most essential piece of equipment for snowboarding is, of course, the snowboard. There are various options in the market, ranging from cheap to incredibly expensive. However, finding a low-cost board doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality and performance. Here are some tips to snag a snowboard on a budget:
- Buy second-hand: Check online marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Ebay. You will find many snowboarders selling their boards with minimal use and in excellent condition. Go for a board that’s a few years older, but still in good condition to save money.
- Rent: If you’re just starting out or don’t plan on snowboarding often, renting may be a more economical option. Renting a snowboard costs a fraction of the price of buying one – plus, you don’t have to worry about storage.
- Buy end-of-season: At the end of the winter season, prices of snowboards are heavily discounted. You may even be able to nab a top-of-the-line board at a fraction of the price.
Boots
Having comfortable snowboard boots is critical to having an enjoyable experience on the mountain. The good news is, there are plenty of affordable options in the market that can compete with premium brands without compromising on comfort. Check out these tips for finding budget-friendly snowboard boots:
- Buy second-hand: Like snowboards, boots are also available for purchase in second-hand markets. Make sure to thoroughly inspect the boots for any damage or excessive wear before buying them.
- Bargain shop: Check out discount stores like Marshalls, TJ Max, and Sierra Trading Post for discounted snowboard boots. It’s also worth checking out seasonal sales or searching for online discount codes.
- Try and bargain at a shop: Many snowboard shops will offer discounts on previous season’s footwear, or stock that is not selling well. It’s always worth trying to bargain with a shop or ask for current promotions/discounts.
Bindings
Bindings connect your boots to your snowboard and make a huge impact on how responsive your board is. However, you don’t have to break the bank to get great bindings. Here are some tips to find affordable bindings:
- Buy last season’s bindings: Just like snowboards, expensive bindings prices drop significantly at the end of the season. However, you won’t miss out on performance quality, as the only difference between model years can be small.
- Go for less-known brands: Well-known brands for bindings like Burton can be pricey, but it doesn’t mean there aren’t bindings from lesser-known brands that perform just as well at a fraction of the cost.
- Buy second-hand: Snowboard bindings are not as frequently replaced, so it’s safe to assume many second-hand bindings are in great condition. Like snowboards, online marketplaces are the best bet for finding cheap bindings.
Outerwear
Outerwear is essential when it comes to snowboarding – it keeps you warm, dry, and looking stylish. But buying expensive brands doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting better quality – you can find quality outerwear for a good price by following these tips:
- Bargain shop: Similar to snowboard boots, discount stores regularly stock discounted outerwear. You might be able to find trendy and useful items at a fraction of the price.
- Buy off-season: When winter season comes to an end, stores will deeply discount their winter inventory, which includes snowboarding gear. Don’t hesitate to buy off-season clothes – they’ll still do a great job of keeping you warm the following winter season.
- Shop around: Do some research online to find out which stores sell cheaper items besides the regular outlets. Read reviews of other customers before you go to the store and make a purchase.
Accessories
Having the right accessories can make snowboarding more comfortable and fun. So, here are a few tips for finding affordable snowboarding accessories:
- Borrow: If you’re a beginner, you may want to consider borrowing equipment from friends and family. Make sure to familiarize yourself with any gear before using it. This would also help you in discovering whether the sport is the right fit for you before investing in expensive gear.
- Shop at discount stores: Discount stores generally have an abundance of accessories, like goggles or gloves, at discounted prices. Don’t forget to check seasonal sales or hunt for online coupons.
- DIY repairs: If you have any damaged gear, try and fix it yourself. Online tutorials or guide videos are an excellent source of guidance for repairing or repurposing old equipment.
Maintenance and Repairs
Regular maintenance and repairs can help keep your snowboarding gear in good condition and increase its lifespan. Here are some tips to do it inexpensively:
- Waxing: Regular waxing can help the board move smooth and prevent damage to the base. Instead of opting for a waxing service, learn to wax your own snowboard. Many online tutorials cover everything you need to know about waxing, and it’s much cheaper to do it yourself.
- Edge tuning: Keep your edges sharp and free of burrs and rust by using a simple edge tuning kit. Kits cost very little and save money and time on unnecessary repairs.
- Shop around: It’s worth taking the time to shop around for a good deal when it comes to maintenance and repairs. If you’re not feeling confident in making repairs yourself, try going to local shops and get a quote before making a decision.
Snowboarding on a Budget – You Can Do It!
Don’t let the high cost of snowboarding gear deter you from hitting the slopes this winter. With our tips, you’ll be able to find affordable, quality gear that won’t break the bank. Remember to check out discounted seasonal items, shop around, and take care of them – as it results in cheaper maintenance costs. Happy shredding!
FAQs
Are cheap snowboarding equipment made of low-quality materials?
Cheap does not necessarily mean low quality. Budget-friendly brands nowadays offer excellent quality and performance that can rival expensive brands. You just have to be strategic in finding them.
How often should I replace my snowboarding gear?
The frequency of replacement depends on the amount of use and damage. It’s ideal to replace boots, bindings, and outerwear after 100 days of use, while snowboards are replaced every two to four years.
How can I make sure the second-hand equipment I buy is safe to use?
Make sure to inspect the equipment thoroughly for any damages or excessive wear before making the purchase. It’s also best to buy from trusted sources and ask for the history of the equipment, which could provide a clearer idea of the product’s condition.
Image Credit: Pexels