Buy vs. Rent Ski and Snowboard Apparel

Buying vs. Renting Ski and Snowboard Apparel

Posted by Matt Gahman on Wednesday, March 30, 2022

Skiing and snowboarding are some of the most popular outdoor activities during the winter season. Whether you're just starting out or you've been visiting mountainsides your whole life, you want to be comfortable in the elements. That means you need the right apparel before you hit the slopes.

Most skiers and riders face a big decision — whether to buy or rent ski and snowboard apparel. While there's no wrong choice, it helps to consider a few factors.

The Essentials for Skiing and Snowboarding

Aside from having the right set of skis or the right snowboard, you'll want several snowboard and ski apparel for the best outdoor experience. At a minimum, you should have ski jackets, ski pants, a winter coat, gloves, ski socks and a helmet. This list just scratches the surface of the gear you might want based on the varying weather conditions you will face.

Plenty of skiers and riders wear insulated base layers under ski pants and ski jackets to keep them warm and dry. It's also much easier to see what's in front of you with a pair of goggles.

Who Should Rent Ski and Snowboard Apparel?

Clothing rentals are a viable option when you're a first-time or occasional skier.

Reasons Beginners Rent Ski Apparel

Renting snowboard and ski apparel is costly compared to owning, but it enables you to see how you feel about a winter sport. Families with children or first-time skiers may try renting since most resorts have rental shops with what you'll need to get by temporarily. Renting is also an option for those who arrive at the mountain only to realize they have left a vital piece of clothing behind.

Slight Convenience Factor

If you're unsure whether to rent or buy, the convenience of renting clothes should be noted for a beginner. Whether you're heading to a local mountain or you plan to take the family on a ski vacation, apparel rentals are usually accessible. However, you should be fully prepared to wait in lines, as there will be other first-time skiers and riders on the premises looking for the same sizes you need at the rental shop. 

Catered to Occasional Skiers

Renting ski jackets, ski pants and other items gives you the freedom to try out sizes and brands. It is worth mentioning that renting ski and snowboard apparel can be somewhat of a gamble, though. You may receive clothing that is worn or lower in quality depending on what's available that day.

Rent Just the Items You're Missing

You may already have a warm ski jacket and some gloves. Renting enables you to get just the miscellaneous clothing items you do need for the day, like insulated ski pants. Again, renting is a logical solution for skiers and riders that need winter clothing on an as-needed basis.

You should be prepared to receive rental apparel that fits a little tight or vice versa. Rental shops stock the most popular sizes for men's, women's and kids' clothing, so you could be uncomfortable for a good part of the day. It's more common for rental shops to distribute skis and snowboards, so you'll always have to call ahead to make sure your resort does offer clothing rentals as well.

Drawbacks of Renting Your Ski or Snowboard Apparel

Keep these considerations in mind while renting winter sports equipment:

• Renting requires planning ahead: Resorts and ski rental shops will have limited supplies available or not offer apparel rentals at all.
• Limited styles: Resorts might not have the best brands or a full assortment equipment.
• Costly long-term: Rental costs will add up if you go skiing more than three times in a season.
• Fixed rental timelines: Even if you'll ski for a few hours, most rental shops will charge you a full day.

Buying Ski and Snowboard Apparel

Owning your own ski and snowboard apparel is the best and more proactive way to get the most out of your trips to the mountain. Nothing says you're invested in winter sports like your very own setup, and most of the time you can find everything you require for an outdoor adventure at a more long-term, economical price.

Why Buying Ski Apparel Is the Superior Approach

Dedicated skiers and riders like having their own apparel for the following reasons:

A Long-Lasting Investment

Ski and snowboard clothes, such as ski jackets and ski pants, made by top-of-the-line brands last for years. You can return to the slopes each ski season knowing your gloves, ski pants, ski coat and helmet will offer a consistent fit. You'll only have to upgrade your ski clothes when you're ready for a new look. You will also enjoy the benefit of the best technical features available at your price point. Additionally, you are the only one using your apparel and accessories so it will generally be cleaner and in better overall condition.

Show Off Your Personal Style

With ski apparel purchases, you get to pick out clothing that suits your preferences. Go with a solid color scheme, or you can get creative with patterns that match your skis or snowboard. When you purchase ski and snowboard apparel, you'll always love what you wear and look forward to bundling up.

Less Waiting Around

You can head directly to the ski lift when you own your ski and snowboard apparel. Forget about reserving rentals ahead of time or waiting in lines. Spend more time outdoors doing what you enjoy with your own gear.

Easily Find Your Family on the Mountainside

Buying ski and snowboard apparel may help you stick together throughout runs. You'll know the exact colors of jackets, ski pants, helmets and gloves for everyone in your family. Find someone at the bottom of the mountain since your family's gear looks unique compared to everyone who rents.

Reasonable Prices

People often think that purchasing ski clothing costs a fortune. While purchasing apparel from a ski shop for the family is an investment, plenty of ski shops offer clearance items from well-rated companies. With careful shopping, it is possible to look fresh on the powder without your bank account taking a massive hit.

Get Your Winter Apparel From Buckman's Ski and Snowboard Shops

Buckman's has several locations throughout Eastern Pennsylvania as well as our online store. We're proud to offer ski and snowboard apparel for all experience levels as well as the latest ski products for purchase. We'll help you find the men's, women's or children's winter apparel you're looking for from leading industry brands.

Browse our collections today and feel free to contact us with questions!

Categories: Top Winter Brands