Ski season is well underway and, whether you’re a season regular or just getting into the sport, you may find be asking the same question: should I buy or rent my gear?
Skiing is already a hobby with a fairly big price tag, so it’s important to know how to get the most bang for your buck. However, the decision to rent or buy your skis and boots is far from straightforward. There are pros and cons to both approaches, so we’ve broken down a few additional details you should consider.
Let’s talk boots.
For first time skiers, renting boots makes sense. After all, you need to make sure skiing is something you enjoy before you make any bigger purchases. However, if you’re someone who enjoys skiing on regular (or even just yearly) basis, buying your own boots is the right choice.
Consider this: a well-fitting boot can make or break your skiing trip. Even lodge rental boots in your correct size can have uncomfortable variables. Since they’re designed to fit “any” foot, they’re more likely to be wide and deep. Plus, with overuse, rental boots may wear out long before they’re actually replaced, so you run the risk of renting a boot without adequate support. At best, this will make skiing less than pleasant. At worse, it could lead to an injury.
In this case, visiting a ski shop and getting properly fitted for boots is a good investment.
What about skis?
Now, when it comes to whether you should buy or rent skis, the answer gets a little more complicated. Here are a few factors to consider:
- How often will you be skiing every season? If you’re a casual skier who typically manages one to two trips each year, renting is likely in your best interest. That way, you don’t have to worry about transport or maintenance, plus you can try out the latest model every time you hit the slopes.
- How far do you have to travel to ski? If there’s a plane involved, you’ll need to take transportation difficulties into account.
- How serious of a skier are you? If skiing is more than a hobby for you — or if it’s a hobby you take really seriously — than owning skis that you can get to “know” and feel extra comfortable on is important.
Regardless of what you decide, we’re wishing you great conditions this ski season. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to hit the slopes!
Need ski socks? We’ve got you covered.