Winter is here, and it’s time to pack up your snowboarding gear and hit the slopes for some fun. But the question is, where can you find affordable snowboarding gear that won’t break your bank account? Fear not, as we’ve got you covered with some great tips and tricks on how to get the best snowboarding gear without spending a fortune.
Let’s start with the basics – what do you need for snowboarding?
The first and foremost thing you need is a good snowboarding jacket. This is an essential piece of gear as it keeps you warm, dry and protected from the elements. Look for one that is well insulated and waterproof, but also breathable. You want to have enough insulation to keep you warm in colder temperatures, but not too much to make you feel uncomfortable when the temperature rises.
Next, you need a good pair of snowboarding pants. They should be waterproof and breathable, and also have a good amount of insulation to keep you warm. You should look for pants that have adjustable waistbands, so they can fit you comfortably. They should also have reinforced cuffs to prevent wear and tear on the bottom of the pants.
When it comes to snowboarding gear, the most important item you need is, of course, your snowboard. Here’s the thing, snowboards are expensive. You can easily pay over $400 for a good snowboard. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t get a good deal. Look for end of season sales at the local snowboard shop, sometimes they might be selling discontinued models at a fraction of their original price. Craigslist can be a great resource as well. You can also check out online retailers like Evo, which offers price matching and 30% off of past seasons’ gear.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk about some specific places you can look for affordable snowboarding gear.
1) Craigslist
Craigslist is a great place to find affordable snowboarding gear. You can find everything from jackets and pants to boots and bindings. The key to using Craigslist is to use it wisely. Always meet the seller in a public place and bring a friend with you for added safety. Also, inspect the gear carefully before you buy it. Make sure the gear is in good condition and doesn’t have any tears or rips.
2) Online Retailers
Online retailers like Evo and Backcountry offer great deals on snowboarding gear. Evo offers price matching, so if you find a lower price somewhere else, they will match it. Backcountry always has great deals on past seasons’ gear and offers free shipping on orders over $50.
3) Snowboarding Forums
Snowboarding forums are a great place to find affordable snowboarding gear. You can find forums dedicated to buying and selling snowboarding gear. People often sell their used gear on these forums for a fraction of the original price. You can also find deals on brand new gear from people who work in the industry.
4) Local Snowboarding Shops
The local snowboarding shop is always a good place to find affordable gear. The key is to look for end of season sales or deals on discontinued models. Many shops offer package deals where you can get a board, bindings, and boots for a discounted price. Also, if you have a good relationship with the staff, they might be able to give you a heads up on upcoming sales and discounts.
5) Outlet Malls
Outlet malls are great places to find affordable snowboarding gear. Many major brands have outlet stores where they sell past seasons’ gear at a discounted price. You can find great deals on jackets, pants, and accessories like gloves and hats.
In conclusion, there are many different places you can find affordable snowboarding gear. From Craigslist to online retailers and local snowboarding shops, the key is to do your research and be patient. Don’t be afraid to ask for a discount or try and negotiate a deal. Also, make sure to inspect the gear thoroughly before you buy it. With a bit of effort, you can find great snowboarding gear at a price that won’t break your bank account.
Image Credit: Pexels