Heading: Where can I rent the sickest snowboarding gear in town?
As winter approaches, many snowboarders are excited to hit the slopes, but maybe the thought of buying new gear is daunting. Fear not, snowboarders! The solution is simple: renting your gear. But where can you find the best rental shops and the sickest gear? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Fortunately, snowboarders have many options when it comes to renting gear. Before selecting a rental shop, it’s important to consider a few factors, such as location, pricing, and gear quality. In this post, we’ll introduce you to the shops with the best gear, as well as some budget-friendly options.
First, let’s explore what makes good snowboarding gear.
What makes good snowboarding gear?
Quality Gear: High-quality gear can make or break the snowboarding experience. Good snowboards come in all shapes and sizes, including rocker, hybrid, and camber. Make sure the board you rent is the right size and shape for the type of riding you plan to do.
Boots: Boots are arguably the most important piece of gear, as they are what connects your body to the board. Make sure they are comfortable and fit snugly but not too tight.
Bindings: Bindings are the piece of equipment that connects your boots to your board. Make sure they are appropriately sized and easy to adjust.
Helmet: Safety first! It’s always important to wear a helmet when snowboarding. Look for helmets with good ventilation that fit properly.
Jacket and Pants: Wearing appropriate clothing is important for staying warm and dry. Look for waterproof or water-resistant jackets and pants with good insulation.
Now that we’ve covered what makes good snowboarding gear, it’s time to explore the best rental shops in town.
Best Rental Shops
1. REI
REI is a popular outdoor store that offers top-of-the-line rental gear, including snowboards, boots, bindings, helmets, and outerwear. Their rental equipment is available in a range of sizes and styles, so you can find the perfect fit. They also provide helpful advice on gear selection and maintenance.
Location: REI has more than 150 stores across the United States, so chances are there’s a location near you.
Price Range: Prices vary depending on location, but rentals typically start at $40 per day and go up to $60 per day for high-performance gear.
2. Christy Sports
Christy Sports is known for its excellent rental program and skilled staff. They offer a wide variety of snowboarding gear, from beginner to performance level. Plus, their online reservation system makes it easy to reserve gear ahead of time.
Location: Christy Sports has 50 locations across the United States, with a strong presence in Colorado.
Price Range: Prices vary depending on location and type of gear, but rentals typically start at $35 per day and go up to $55 per day for performance gear.
3. The House Outdoor Gear
The House Outdoor Gear is one of the largest online retailers for outdoor gear, and they also offer a rental program for snowboarders. They carry a range of gear from beginner to advanced, and they’ll ship directly to your location.
Location: The House Outdoor Gear is based in Saint Paul, Minnesota, but the rental gear can be shipped anywhere in the United States.
Price Range: Prices vary depending on type of gear, but rentals typically start at $25 per day and go up to $60 per day for high-performance gear.
4. Burton
Burton is a well-known snowboarding brand, and their rental program is no exception. They offer a variety of boards, boots, and bindings in a range of sizes and styles. Plus, they offer a “try before you buy” program, which allows you to rent gear and then apply the cost of the rental to the purchase of new gear.
Location: Burton has several store locations across the United States, as well as partnerships with other stores.
Price Range: Prices vary depending on location and type of gear, but rentals typically start at $45 per day and go up to $60 per day for high-performance gear.
Now that we’ve explored the top rental shops, let’s discuss some budget-friendly options.
Budget-Friendly Options
1. Craigslist
Craigslist is an online marketplace where people can buy and sell items, including snowboarding gear. The downside is that you’ll need to know exactly what you’re looking for and be cautious of scams. However, if you do your research, you may be able to find some great deals on gear.
Location: Craigslist is available in most cities across the United States.
Price Range: Prices vary depending on the seller, but you can find complete set-ups for as low as $150.
2. Local Ski and Snowboard Swap
Many ski resorts hold an annual ski and snowboard swap, where people can buy and sell used gear. This is a good option if you’re looking for a deal and want to see the gear in person before buying.
Location: Ski and snowboard swaps are typically held at ski resorts across the United States.
Price Range: Prices vary depending on the seller, but you can find complete set-ups for as low as $100.
Final Words
Renting snowboarding gear is a smart way to enjoy the sport without breaking the bank. Before selecting a rental shop, consider the gear quality, location, and pricing. REI, Christy Sports, The House Outdoor Gear, and Burton are all top options for quality gear.
If you’re on a budget, Craigslist and local ski and snowboard swaps are great options for finding deals on used gear. Whatever your budget, remember that a proper fitting board, boots, and helmet are essential for an enjoyable and safe experience on the slopes.
Now that you know where to find the best rental shops and budget-friendly options, it’s time to hit the slopes! Happy shredding!
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