Ready to Gear Up? Deals & Advice Inside 🛠️

Rent or Buy? The SoCal Skier’s Guide to Getting the Most for Your Money 🎿💰

When I was at Mammoth over New Year’s, I couldn’t help but notice a trend. Families were dropping over $100 a day per person—per person!—just to rent skis, boots, poles, and helmets. That’s on top of lift tickets. Yikes. It made me grateful for my trusty setup (my boots fit like a glove, thank you very much). But it got me thinking—how many of us are still renting when it might make sense to invest in our own gear?

Let’s break it down and figure out when to rent, when to buy, and how to save big this season. 💸

Renting: Why It Works (Sometimes)

There’s a reason the rental lines are always packed:

• Flexibility: Try different setups depending on the snow or your skill level.

• Convenience: No gear to lug around or store when you’re back in sunny SoCal.

• Great for beginners: If you’re new, rentals let you test the waters before committing.

But here’s the rub—renting isn’t cheap. For a family of four, that’s easily $400+ a day just for gear. And let’s be honest, we could all use fewer lines and less stress on the mountain. ⏳

When Buying Is Better

If you’re skiing more than 10 days a year (or even just a few long weekends), buying your own gear can pay for itself quickly. Here’s why it’s worth it:

• Comfort: Boots molded to your feet = no more sore spots or numb toes.

• Consistency: Get to know your skis and how they handle instead of starting fresh every trip.

• Savings in the long run: Own it once, and you’re set for years.

Hot Deals on Gear Right Now 🔥

This season, there are fantastic post-holiday sales. If you’re ready to commit, these picks will get you started:

For Him
Rossignol Evo 70 Ski Boots for Men – Relaxed fit for all-day shredding.

For Her
Nordica Sportmachine 3 75 W Ski Boots – Insulated and water-resistant for mountain adventures.

For the Ladies Who Shred
Rossignol Nova 2 Xpress Skis – Downhill perfection for smooth turns and speed.

For the Guys on the Go
Rossignol Experience 76 Xpress Skis – Reliable and versatile, these skis perform well in all conditions.

Stay Warm and Dry
Postropaky Men’s Waterproof Ski Pants – Comfortable, warm, and ready for any weather.

Boots and Bindings: A Match Made in Mountain Heaven 🎯

One quick reminder—if you’re buying skis and boots separately, the bindings need to match your boot type and size. Head to REI or a similar shop to make sure your setup is compatible and professionally adjusted. Your knees will thank you. 🙌

What About Transporting Your Gear? 🚙

If you’re buying, you’ll need a way to haul it all up the mountain. My go-to? The Thule Force Rooftop Cargo Box. While it’s not on sale, it’s the ultimate combo of durability and space. For SoCal road warriors, this is the investment that makes every trip easier. Check it out here.

Quick Checklist: Rent or Buy?

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do you ski 10+ days a year? Buy it.

• Tired of waiting in rental lines? Buy it.

• Still unsure if skiing’s your thing? Rent it (for now).

• No space to store gear? Rent it.

Final Thoughts

Owning your gear can save you money, time, and hassle, while also giving you more control over your experience. But for casual skiers or those still exploring the sport, rentals are a great way to keep it simple. Whatever you choose, the goal is the same: more time skiing, less time worrying. Because at the end of the day, it’s about making memories, not calculating costs. 🏔️

Proverb of the Day: “Invest in the gear you love; rent when you’re unsure.”

Save this guide, share it with your fellow shredders, or drop your thoughts in the comments. Are you team rent or team own? 🗨️

With snowy stoke,

Sasha Everett & the Ski SoCal Insiders

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