If you are a new skier, or only an occasional skier, or if you just want to see if skiing is for you, you may want to rent your ski equipment. The equipment for this winter sport can be very expensive and cost-prohibitive in the beginning when you are unsure if this is something that you want to pursue. If you do decide to buy the ski equipment and then you leave it sitting in your garage for years gathering dust, it really is a waste of money. But, you may not be sure how to go about renting your ski equipment. Here are some basic suggestions: Where to rent it-You can rent equipment from the local ski shop or from the resort or ski area where you will be skiing. If you rent from the ski shop you will be assured of getting the ski equipment you want and you won't have to worry about getting it when you get to the resort or ski area. But, you will have to get the ski equipment there. This can be a problem if you are flying or you have a small car. On the other hand, if you rent your ski equipment at the resort or ski area, you will probably have to wait in line and you won't be able to head right up to the slopes. Yet, they will also store your equipment for you for a small fee so that you don't have to worry about it overnight. What ski equipment should you rent? The basic things that you will need to rent are: skis, boots, poles and a safety helmet. You don't have to rent a helmet, but it is highly recommended to ensure protection from the most serious ski injuries. You can choose from junior, beginner, or performance skis depending on your level of ability. How much will the equipment cost to rent? It can range anywhere from $20 to $50 for your rental package. You can also get half-day rates and multi-day rates. If you don't have to rent all of the equipment, you can just rent the pieces that you need. Resorts will often offer packages which include equipment rental with the cost of a lift ticket. Try to reserve your equipment in advance so that you will know that it will be there when you need it-especially when the ski season gets busy. |
