How To Find The Best Used Snowboarding Equipment.
Having the right snowboarding equipment can make all the difference between having an epic day on the slopes or spending the day struggling with ill-fitting boots and a poorly-suited board. Purchasing a high-quality, reliable setup can be an investment – especially for those launching into freeride or backcountry terrain. But, Fortunately, with some savvy shopping, savvy buyers can score the perfect setup without straining their budget. Below, we explore the benefits of shopping for used snowboarding equipment and key tips on how to find the best setup for your individual needs.
Benefits Of Used Snowboarding Equipment
It may seem counterintuitive to purchase pre-owned, secondhand gear – but there are a number of advantages to choosing to go down this route. Firstly, used snowboarding equipment can be much more affordable than buying new, allowing you to kit out with quality parts while keeping your costs low.
Secondly, used equipment may provide a better fit. While new gear sizes are limited to small, medium, and large – older parts are often available in more specific sizes. This will make it much easier to find the perfect fit to suit your individual measurements.
Finally, by investing in used snowboarding equipment, you are both contributing to sustainability and reducing the environmental footprint of your time spent on the slopes.
Where To Go To Source Good Quality Used Snowboarding Equipment
One of the advantages of going down the used snowboarding equipment route is that it does not necessarily mean having to settle for second-rate gear. There are a variety of online shops as well as individuals selling quality equipment at competitive prices. Let’s take a closer look at the main sources for purchasing quality second-hand snowboarding gear.
Online Sports Stores
Online retailers are a common go-to for those looking for new and pre-loved items. The main advantage to going down this route is the sheer variety available to shoppers. Brands like Reervde and The-House stock pre-owned snowboarding equipment from both well-known names and less-famous brands.
Online Auctions
Getting involved in online auctions is fun and can often result in a bargain. Ebay is often known as the mecca of second-hand retailers and is great for hunting down pre-loved snowboards and other pieces of kit. There are also other retailers such as Gear Trade and Gear Exchange which feature a variety of quality snowboarding equipment. Do bear in mind that when buying through Ebay, you should double check returns policies, as you are dealing with an individual seller as opposed to a professional online retailer.
Ski Swap Events
Ski swap events are an excellent way to get your hands on quality pre-loved gear at low prices. You will find a variety of different pieces of equipment from dozens of vendors, usually all gathered in one place. Ski swaps are typically organized by ski clubs and community organizations and typically occur at the start of the ski season.
Consignment Shops
Consignment shops are another great option for good quality second-hand items. You can find a range of pre-loved equipment in these stores, including snowboards, bindings and any other items you require. Do bear in mind that prices may be a bit higher than other sources due to the extra cost of presenting the products in a shop and staffing the store, but they do offer the peace of mind of purchasing in-store.
Online Classifieds
The internet is awash with classifieds locations that feature individuals selling used snowboarding equipment. Be sure of your purchase and ensure that the equipment is trustworthy by checking the sellers’ reviews, looking up information on the item, and asking lots of questions. If you do decide to purchase from a private seller, make sure that you meet in a public place and you bring along a friend for added security.
Getting fitted properly
When buying pre-owned snowboarding equipment, the most important thing is to make sure that you get a proper fit. This is something that is vitally important and should never be overlooked. Finding the best used snowboarding equipment to buy is one thing, but finding a good fit is another. Boots, bindings, and boards all need to be properly sized.
If you are buying from a store, ask to try the product on before you purchase it. Even if you are shopping online, you can use specific sizing charts and measuring techniques to get a good fit. Do your research and make sure that you know exactly what size you need – don’t just guess and hope for the best.
Final Tips
When purchasing used snowboarding equipment, always ask questions. Be sure to check out reviews and test the item when possible. Make sure to factor in the cost of any necessary refurbishment into the price (for example, some items may need to be waxed). Finally, don’t rush into buying. It may take you quite some time to score the best setup to suit your individual needs, but taking your time to shop will ensure that you end up with a reliable, quality setup that will provide you with years of enjoyable snowboarding.
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