Renting or buying ski equipment: the five questions every skier should ask themselves
Age, frequency with which you ski, knowing how to take care of your equipment, are some of the issues to consider
According to the latest report published by the Tourist Association of Ski and Mountain Resorts ( Atudem ), the majority skier in Spain has an intermediate level, so they often doubt between the advantages and disadvantages of renting or buying ski equipment . From the association they propose five questions that every skier must ask himself to find out which solution best suits his needs.
How often do you ski?
According to Atudem's own data, the average Spanish skier goes to the resorts with a moderate frequency. Being a more or less habitual user is a key aspect to be able to assess the purchase of equipment. The association recommends renting for those who practice this sport between two and three times a season. However, the purchase of the equipment is recommended for those more assiduous skiers, with about 20 or 25 days per season.
What's your level?
The level is another issue to take into account when considering the purchase or not of ski equipment. Figures from Atudem's annual report show that the average Spanish skier is not a newcomer, but neither is he an expert. Renting can be a solution for those people who are starting in this sport. On the one hand, they will have the possibility of trying different materials, since each day of skiing will mean brand new equipment and, on the other, it will allow them to enter this specialty quietly. It is recommended to buy your own equipment for those more expert skiers . This will allow them to improve their technique always using the same tools.
How old are you?
Age can be a key question in deciding whether to buy or rent ski equipment, especially with children. The data from the association's stations indicate that 28% of its users are minors. From Atudem it is recommended to rent ski equipment when it is still in a growth period , since it has a direct relationship with the skier's physique. However, this will depend on the frequency of practice and level.
How do you get to the ski resort?
It is important to assess how the trips to the ski resorts are made. In case of doing it in a private car, the skier must have the necessary accessories to be able to carry the skis safely, such as covers and ski racks. If, on the other hand, the access is by public transport, the possibility of wear of the material may be higher, since it will probably not be placed in optimal conditions, thus reducing its useful life.
Do you have space and do you know how to take care of your equipment?
By definition, winter sports are seasonal. This means that the ski equipment purchased must be stored for a few months until the following season. Whoever considers purchasing their own equipment will have to assess whether they have the necessary space to store it in good condition. A dry and well ventilated space is recommended.
In addition, like any technical equipment, skis and accessories require minimal maintenance . It is important that once the season is over all moisture is removed, the bindings loosen and waxed. Taking care of the equipment requires a minimum of discipline every time it is put out of use, a job that is avoided by opting for rental services.
