Last week, I posted some amazing lift ticket deals available in North America for the upcoming season. Along the same line of frugal alpine sport practices, I have continued to search for ways to get amongst the sliding action on the cheap. This year, I propose hitting up a local ski swap near you to find gently used equipment for a fraction of the price. It’s a great excuse to wander, but you can also feel good about it, as many swaps profit local charities, ski patrol associations and a variety of other non-profits.
As technology changes, it’s important to replace your gear periodically to enjoy the best that downhill sports have to offer, but that doesn’t have to mean forking out for brand new gear. Hit up a swap and you are likely to find some really decent set-ups from skiers that like to be height of technology or fashion. In regards to the latter, you may be surprised to know that many companies will issue the same models year after year with modifications as superficial as top sheets graphics.
This is by no means an extensive list of the best ski swaps in North America, but here are a few to get the ball rolling. I fully encourage you to do some quick online searches to find one near you.
1. Boston.com has a great blog full of ski news and events in the Eastern states. Recently, the Ski Guru blog posted a listing of ski swaps across New England.
2. Ski Magazine recommends the Park City Ski Swap as “one of the best ski swaps in the country (USA)”. No surprise there, what with one of the most upscale ski areas as it’s backdrop. The 41st edition is set to take place from November 8-10th at the Basin Recreation Field House in Park City, Utah. The organizers require that participants offer equipment no older than 5 years, guaranteeing that you won’t be swindled into buying grandpa’s equipment. No offence, Pappy.
3. For the largest equipment swap in Canada, check-out the Toronto Snow Show, on this year right now until October 20th. Not only will you be presented with an overwhelming amount of options, you will be supporting Canadian Ski Patrol training programs nationwide.
Know of any swaps in your area? Comment and share below!
Winter is coming,
K