Smart Ways to Gear Up for Ski Season -Budget-Friendly and Sustainable Options
Our Ski Trip kit everything 20 years plus old, Pre-Loved or borrowed from a friend.
Skiing is an exhilarating sport, but the cost of kitting yourself out can quickly add up. Luckily, there are plenty of options beyond buying brand-new gear. From borrowing and reproofing old ski wear to renting and purchasing second-hand, here’s how to hit the slopes without breaking the bank.
1. Borrowing from Friends and Family
If you’re new to skiing or only go occasionally, borrowing kit from friends or family is a great way to save money. Many seasoned skiers have extra ski jackets, salopettes, or even spare pairs of gloves and goggles. Just be sure to check that items fit well and are in good condition before heading to the slopes.
2. Re-waterproofing Old Ski Wear
If you already own ski wear but it’s lost its waterproofing, there’s no need to replace it just yet. Products like Nikwax or Grangers offer reproofing sprays and wash-in treatments that can breathe new life into jackets and trousers, restoring their ability to keep you warm and dry. You can even wax your clothing yourself- link to the wonderful Nancy Birtwhistle herself below; NANCY | Giving new life to my wax jacket …. #waxjacket #greenliving #reuse #reduce #savemoney #tips #tipsandtricks #waterproofing @suesexton63 | Instagram Books by Nancy Birtwhistle – Nancy Birtwhistle
3. Buying Preloved Ski Gear
Buying second-hand is a great way to save money while also being more sustainable. Sites such as eBay, Vinted, Depop, and Facebook Marketplace often have quality ski gear at a fraction of the retail price. Many outdoor brands produce durable gear that lasts for years, so a well-looked-after second-hand jacket or pair of salopettes can be just as effective as new ones.
Additionally, some specialist retailers focus on second-hand or refurbished ski gear, such as EcoSki, which offers both rental and resale options, ensuring high-quality gear at more affordable prices.
4. Renting Ski Gear
Renting is a fantastic way to access high-quality gear without the hefty upfront cost. There are multiple rental options, both at home and in ski resorts:
Renting Before You Go: Platforms such as By Rotation, HURR, and EcoSki allow you to rent ski clothing, including jackets, trousers, and base layers. This is perfect for those who ski infrequently and don’t want to invest in new gear.
By Rotation - Rent designer The Ski Edit | By Rotation UK
EcoSki - Ski Wear Rental
Hurr - Rent Ski Outfits & Luxury Outerwear | Après-Ski Fashion | HURR
Resort Rentals: Most ski resorts offer rental options for essential equipment like skis, boots, poles, and helmets. Some also provide rental ski wear, meaning you can travel lighter and avoid the hassle of packing bulky ski clothing. Checking in advance can help you find the best deals and ensure availability.
Services - Félix Ski, ski hire Morzine- our favourite for ski, ski boots, poles and helmet hire.
Preloved Shops in Ski Resorts: Many ski resorts now have second-hand or consignment shops where you can buy or rent gear at a lower price. These shops cater to locals and visitors alike, offering everything from high-end brands to budget-friendly options. I’m a particular fan of Montagne Verte in Morzine.
5. Renting Out Your Own Ski Wardrobe
If you already own a good-quality ski kit, you can turn it into a money-maker by renting it out when you’re not using it. Platforms like By Rotation and HURR allow individuals to list their ski wear for rental, meaning your gear could help fund your next ski trip!
Conclusion
Equipping yourself for a ski trip doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. Whether you borrow, reproof, buy preloved, or rent, there are plenty of budget-friendly and eco-conscious ways to get on the slopes. And if you already own a great ski wardrobe, why not let it pay for your next adventure by renting it out? Happy skiing!