Rent or buy skis? The answer to this question depends on several factors, including our level of advancement and the number of days we spend on the slopes each year. Ski experts recommend that you start by renting your equipment and then consider buying your own skis as you progress.

The decision as to whether torent or buy skisis crucial especially for beginners. Having your own skis saves time and ensures that you are riding on safe, technically efficient equipment. However, this solution will not be profitable for everyone - especially if we have a limited budget and spend less than 14 days a year on the slopes.

Ski rental - to whom is it profitable?

Beginner skiers should definitely start with renting equipment. If someone has never had skis on his feet, there is a risk that he will not like this sport. Then the money spent on your own equipment will turn out to be down the drain. In addition, when renting skis, we have the opportunity to try out various models in practice - softer, harder, with a wider or narrower turning radius, carving skis and regular skis. You can only find out which type is more suitable for you while driving.

It also matters how many days in the season we usually spend on the slopes. If it's a one-week stay in the mountains, it doesn't pay to buy skis. Only for longer, over 14-day trips, it is worth getting the equipment just for yourself. However, it should be remembered that abroad (in France, Italy, Austria) the routes look different than in Poland and require equipment with different parameters. In such a situation, skis from a local rental company will be a better solution - they are better adapted to the conditions of skiing, we do not have to worry about transport, and the cost of renting them is not much higher than in Poland.

In addition, you have to take into account that progress in skiing is taking place very quickly and every year, new, improved models appear in stores. Therefore, advanced skiers who care about the best standard of equipment should also consider renting skis. After two or three years, the purchased equipment is usually already obsolete.

Buying skis - solution for advanced users

People whothey ski well, spend more than 14 days a year on the slopes and have their favorite places to ski, they can invest in their own equipment.

Before we go to the shop, however, we should consider a few things, including: where can I find a place to store my skis? How will I transport them? Before leaving, you need to purchase a special rack, because if you place your skis on the roof of your car without protection, they are easily damaged. Added to this is the issue of keeping them in good condition. The equipment must be serviced at least twice a year, and the binding must be diagnosed once a year.

This will be useful to you

Pros and cons of renting skis

Advantages:

  • is cheaper;
  • allows you to try out different models of skis in practice and to easily adjust their parameters to your own abilities and riding conditions;
  • a good solution if you are just learning to drive;
  • no need to worry about transporting and storing skis;
  • the equipment is always after servicing;
  • The offered ski models are usually of the new generation.

Disadvantages:

  • you can find a dishonest rental company and receive used or faulty equipment;
  • you need to spend time choosing and trying on the right model.

Pros and cons of buying skis

Advantages:

  • good solution for good skiers;
  • guarantees safety and technical efficiency;
  • saves time - no need to go to the ski rental every day;
  • gives greater comfort of use.

Disadvantages:

  • is quite expensive - good, company skis cost at least PLN 1000;
  • requires an additional storage space to be found;
  • generates additional costs: the need to buy a trunk with a cover, regular servicing, fees for air transport (if you are going abroad);
  • equipment is aging quickly;
  • it is not possible to adjust the equipment to the driving conditions on the slope.

What is worth buying for skis?

You don't need to buy your own equipment to ski. However, regardless of whether someone is a beginner or an advanced skier - if you intend to visit the ski slopes at least once a year, you should get the necessary accessories:

  • ski boots - they are cheaper than skis, they can last several years and will not age that quickly. With use, their underside, thanks to the use of thermoplastic materials, adaptsto the shape of the leg and guarantees a perfect fit. It is also worth buying your own pair for hygiene reasons - using used shoes usually causes discomfort;
  • ski outfit - preferably a special suit or a set consisting of pants and a jacket. Appropriate clothing will protect you from the cold and prevent soaking after contact with snow;
  • ski helmet - an indispensable element of the skier's equipment, which will ensure safety in the event of an accident. It is important that it has the perfect size and is adapted to the type of riding we do (recreational, advanced, competitive);
  • goggles - on a snowy slope, the sun is extremely powerful, so you should have goggles to protect your eyes from harmful radiation. Special glasses will also protect against wind and improve visibility, especially in unfavorable weather conditions.

Category:

Winter sports