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Where Can I Score Sick Gear for Shredding the Pow?
Hey, fellow snowboarder or skier! Are you looking for some fresh gear to enhance your style, comfort, and performance on the mountain? Want to ride with confidence, warmth, and durability? Need to upgrade your old gear or impress your friends with the latest trends? Then this post is for you! We’ll explore some of the best places to score sick gear for shredding the pow, including online and offline stores, brands, deals, and tips. Let’s jump in and ride out!
Section 1: Online Stores
Online stores can be a convenient and affordable way to shop for snow sports gear, especially if you live far from a physical store or prefer to compare prices and products. Here are some of the top online stores for snowboarders and skiers:
1. Evo
Evo is a well-known online retailer that offers a wide range of snowboards, skis, boots, bindings, goggles, helmets, jackets, pants, and other accessories from various brands, such as Burton, K2, Salomon, Volcom, Dakine, and Oakley. Evo also has physical stores in Seattle, Denver, Portland, and Whistler, which can provide a more personalized and hands-on service. Evo offers free shipping on orders over $50, a price match guarantee, and a 100-day return policy.
2. Backcountry
Backcountry is another popular online store that caters to outdoor enthusiasts, including snowboarders and skiers. Backcountry offers a vast selection of gear from over 1,000 brands, including some niche and exclusive ones, such as Jones, Lib Tech, Gnu, and Holden. Backcountry also offers free 2-day shipping on orders over $50, a price match guarantee, and a 30-day return policy. Backcountry also has several physical stores in Utah and Colorado, which can provide local expertise and support.
3. The House
The House is a Minnesota-based online retailer that has been selling gear for snowboarding, skiing, and other outdoor activities since 1982. The House offers a broad range of products from major brands, such as Rossignol, Salomon, Rome, and Oakley, as well as some lesser-known and affordable ones. The House also offers free shipping on most orders over $50, a low-price guarantee, and a 100-day return policy. The House also has a few physical stores and a demo center in Minnesota, where you can try out gear before buying.
4. REI
REI is a well-established outdoor retailer that has been around since 1938, offering gear for camping, hiking, cycling, paddling, and snow sports. REI offers a decent selection of snowboards, skis, boots, and other gear from trusted brands, such as Dynafit, Fischer, Black Diamond, and Mammut. REI also offers free shipping on orders over $50, a price match guarantee, and a 1-year return policy. REI also has over 160 physical stores in various states, where you can attend classes, events, and outdoor trips.
5. Amazon
Amazon is a giant online marketplace that sells almost everything, including snow sports gear. While Amazon may not be the first place you think of when it comes to quality and specialized gear, it can be an excellent option for finding bargains, deals, and accessories. Amazon offers free shipping on eligible orders over $25, and has a vast network of sellers and reviews that can help you find the right gear for your needs and budget. However, be mindful of counterfeit products, inaccurate sizing, and non-returnable items, and read the reviews carefully.
Section 2: Physical Stores
Physical stores can provide a more immersive and tactile shopping experience, as well as more personal and local service. Moreover, physical stores can offer unique deals, discounts, and demos that online stores may not have. Here are some of the top physical stores for snowboarders and skiers:
1. REI
As mentioned above, REI has over 160 physical stores across the US, where you can not only buy gear, but also attend workshops, classes, and outdoor trips. REI stores often have a friendly and knowledgeable staff that can help you find the right gear for your skill level, style, and terrain. REI stores also have demo and rental programs, where you can try out gear before purchasing or rent it for a day or a season. REI also offers REI Co-op membership, which can provide access to exclusive deals, dividends, and events.
2. Burton
Burton is one of the most iconic and innovative snowboarding brands, founded in 1977 by Jake Burton Carpenter. Burton has several flagship stores and outlets in various cities, such as New York, Boston, Tokyo, and Munich, as well as many other retail partners around the world. Burton stores are known for their stylish and functional design, featuring not only gear but also apparel, accessories, and lifestyle products. Burton stores often have professional boot fitters, custom board builders, and demo centers, where you can get a personalized and exceptional experience.
3. Snowboards.com
Snowboards.com is a Michigan-based retailer that has been serving the snowboard community since 1990, offering a wide range of boards, boots, bindings, and other gear from various brands, such as Arbor, Ride, Nitro, and 686. Snowboards.com has a large physical store and demo center in Brighton, Michigan, where you can test gear and get expert advice from their staff. Snowboards.com also offers free shipping on orders over $49, a lowest price guarantee, and a 60-day return policy.
4. Christy Sports
Christy Sports is a Colorado-based retailer that has been selling ski and snowboard gear since 1958, with over 50 stores and rental locations in various states, such as Colorado, Utah, and California. Christy Sports offers a broad selection of gear from major brands, such as Rossignol, K2, and Atomic, as well as some local and niche brands. Christy Sports stores often have experienced and passionate staff, who can help you find the right gear and provide custom boot fitting services. Christy Sports also offers online rentals and demo programs, as well as free ski and snowboard waxing services.
5. Sun & Ski Sports
Sun & Ski Sports is a Texas-based retailer that has been around since 1980, offering gear for skiing, snowboarding, cycling, running, and other sports. Sun & Ski Sports has over 30 stores in various states, such as Texas, California, and Massachusetts, and offers a wide range of gear from top brands, such as Patagonia, Smith, and Electric. Sun & Ski Sports stores often have knowledgeable and friendly staff, who can assist you in finding the right gear, and offer exclusive deals and events. Sun & Ski Sports also offers rental and demo programs, as well as a price match guarantee.
Section 3: Brands and Deals
While there are many brands that make snowboard and ski gear, some of them are more popular, innovative, and reliable than others. Here are some of the top brands and deals for snow sports gear:
1. Burton
As mentioned above, Burton is one of the most iconic and innovative snowboarding brands, with a wide range of gear for all levels and styles of riding. Burton is known for its high-quality boards, boots, and bindings, as well as apparel, bags, and accessories. Burton often releases new and limited editions of its gear, featuring original artwork and collaborations with other brands or artists. Burton also offers a warranty on its products, as well as a loyalty program that can provide discounts, early access, and other perks.
2. The North Face
The North Face is a well-established outdoor brand that offers gear for all kinds of cold-weather activities, including skiing and snowboarding. The North Face is known for its innovative and sustainable technologies, such as Gore-Tex, ThermoBall, and FutureLight, as well as its stylish and functional designs. The North Face offers a wide range of jackets, pants, gloves, and boots, as well as backpacks, tents, and sleeping bags. The North Face often has sales and promotions throughout the year, as well as a VIPeak Rewards program that can provide points, bonuses, and exclusive experiences.
3. Oakley
Oakley is a popular brand that offers gear and apparel for various action sports, including snowboarding and skiing. Oakley is known for its high-performance goggles, such as the Prizm series, as well as its stylish and durable helmets, gloves, and jackets. Oakley often collaborates with top athletes and designers, such as Shaun White and Markus Zusak, to create unique and innovative products. Oakley also offers a warranty on its products and a loyalty program that can provide exclusive access, rewards, and invitations.
4. Volcom
Volcom is a California-based brand that offers gear and apparel for snowboarding, skateboarding, and surfing, among other sports. Volcom is known for its funky and artistic designs, as well as its eco-friendly and ethical practices. Volcom offers a variety of snowboard jackets, pants, and accessories, as well as hats, hoodies, and boardshorts. Volcom often has sales and discounts throughout the season, as well as a loyalty program that can provide points, discounts, and other benefits.
5. Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are two of the most significant shopping events of the year, occurring right after Thanksgiving and offering massive discounts and deals on various products, including snow sports gear. While some stores and brands may have different times and offers, it’s worth checking out their websites or newsletters before and during these events to score some sick gear for shredding the pow.
Section 4: Tips and Conclusion
Here are some tips to help you score sick gear for shredding the pow:
1. Know your needs and preferences: Before buying any gear, consider your skill level, style, and terrain, as well as your comfort, protection, and budget. Research different brands and products, read reviews, and ask for advice from fellow riders or experts.
2. Try before you buy: If possible, try out gear at a demo center or rental place, or borrow from a friend, before purchasing. This can help you ensure proper sizing, fit, and performance, and avoid buyer’s remorse.
3. Look for deals and discounts: Check out online and offline stores, as well as social media groups and forums, for sales, promotions, and coupons. Sign up for newsletters and loyalty programs to stay in the loop.
4. Consider resale and rental options: If you don’t want to invest in new gear or can’t afford it, consider renting or buying used gear from reputable sources, such as demo centers or online marketplaces. This can save you money and allow you to test different brands and models.
5. Take care of your gear: Once you have your sick gear, take good care of it by following the manufacturer’s instructions, storing it properly, and avoiding unnecessary wear and tear. This can prolong the life and performance of your gear and save you money in the long run.
In conclusion, shredding the pow requires not only skill and passion, but also sick gear that can enhance your experience and keep you safe and comfortable. Whether you prefer to shop online or offline, look for specific brands or deals, or follow some tips, there are plenty of options to score sick gear for shredding the pow. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and ride!
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