Imagine you’re standing on top of a snow-capped mountain, snowboard strapped to your feet, ready for an exciting downhill adventure. You feel an adrenaline rush, but there’s only one thing missing: the perfect snowboard didn’t cost an arm and a leg. This article will guide you through different ways to source a budget-friendly snowboard that doesn’t compromise on quality so you can have your winter thrills without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned snowboarder, we’ve got tips and tricks galore, a comprehensive yet straightforward roadmap to making a savvy purchase.
There’s a common saying that goes, “You get what you pay for”. This applies to almost everything in life, including snowboarding gear. Before diving headfirst into making a purchase, it’s important to understand what goes into a snowboards pricing.
Importance of research before purchasing
You might be eager to hit the slopes, but first take some time to do your research. Going in blind when buying a snowboard could lead to you either overpaying for a board, or ending up with a sub-par product. Therefore, before leaping to the checkout, give yourself a thorough understanding of what it is you’re buying.
Factors affecting the price of snowboards
Snowboard pricing is typically determined by factors such as the brand, construction quality, materials used, and the technological features of the board. Bigger, more reputable brands may charge more for their snowboards due to their expertise and experience in the industry. Meanwhile, snowboards constructed with high-quality materials and advanced features can cost a pretty penny, but they often provide higher performance levels.
Difference between cheap and expensive snowboards
Price doesn’t always equate to quality, though. Cheap snowboards can still offer good rides, even if they don’t come with the bells and whistles of more expensive models. Conversely, some expensive snowboards may offer more advanced features, but if you’re a beginner, these might not be necessary. In essence, expensive snowboards may be better suited for advanced riders, while cheaper ones can fit beginners perfectly.
Online Stores To Buy Cheap Snowboards
If you’re looking for a bargain, online marketplaces offer a vast array of choices.
Amazon
Everyone’s go-to online marketplace, Amazon, is chock-full of cheap snowboards. With options across all price ranges, Amazon is the perfect place to compare prices and review feedback from other customers.
eBay
eBay, another online giant, is a wonderful platform for buying both new and used snowboards, often at a reduced price. Just make sure to scrutinize the seller’s ratings before making a purchase.
Backcountry
Backcountry is an outdoor gear website with a wide variety of snowboards. They regularly hold sales, making it a great spot to snag a deal.
The House Outdoor Gear
The House Outdoor Gear is another site known for its great deals on snowboarding equipment. They often have blowout sales where you can score top-notch gear at bargain prices.
Evo
Evo is a reputable online outlet for discounted snowboarding gear. They have a long-standing reputation and are known for their good customer service.
Snowboards.com
Dedicated to all things snowboarding, Snowboards.com offers a wide selection of boards at every price point. They have frequent sales and offer detailed info on all their products.
Physical Stores And Snowboarding Shops
One of the benefits of shopping in brick-and-mortar stores is the ability to physically examine the snowboard.
Local sports equipment stores
Local sports equipment stores often carry a good selection of snowboards. They also have knowledgeable staff who can provide advice and answer any questions you may have about different board types.
Snowboarding shops
Specialist snowboard shops are ideal for those looking to talk to experts in the field. They may not have the cheapest options, but the advice they provide could be invaluable.
Second hand stores
Don’t discount the potential of second-hand stores. Though it might take some time to sift through their stock, you could stumble upon a hidden gem at a great price.
Benefits of buying in-store
In-store purchases let you see the snowboard’s condition, feel its weight, and even size it up. In addition, you can get professional guidance from the staff regarding the best board for your skill level.
Purchasing From Snowboarding Events And Expositions
Getting your hands on a cheaper snowboard is also possible during snowboarding events and expos.
International ski exposition
International ski expositions typically showcase an array of new and innovative snowboarding gear. Brands often slash prices during these events, making it a fantastic opportunity to get a quality board at a reduced cost.
Local snowboarding events
Similarly, local snowboarding events often have their own pop-up shops selling equipment at discounted rates. Plus, you get to enjoy the event itself!
End-of-season sale events
End-of-season sales can be a gold mine for those seeking a bargain. Retailers often need to clear their shelves for new stock, leading to slashed prices on some really great boards.
Buying From Rent-A-Gear Shops
Renting snow gear is pretty common, but did you know you can also buy from these places?
Rent-to-own options
Some rent-a-gear shops offer rent-to-own options. This means you can try out the snowboard before deciding to purchase it.
Used gear sales in rent-a-gear shops
As these shops frequently renew their inventory, they often sell off their used equipment at reasonable prices.
Directly From Manufacturers Or Brands
Another avenue to consider when hunting for a cheap snowboard is buying directly from the manufacturer or brand.
Factory outlets
Factory outlets often sell last season’s gear at a discounted price. Plus, you’re guaranteed that the products are genuine.
Online brand stores
Brands also have their own online stores where they often have sales, especially during the off-season.
Clearance sales
When brands need to clear out inventory, their clearance sales offer some of the best discounts around.
Checking Out Snowboarding Forums And Communities
Snowboarding forums and communities are great online resources for both expert opinions and secondhand gear.
Benefits of buying from forums
One of the key benefits of buying from forums is that you’re dealing with fellow snowboarding enthusiasts. They can provide honest insights and experiences regarding the gear they’re selling.
Snowboarding forums to checkout
There’s a wealth of information in forums like Snowboarding Forum, Reddit’s r/snowboarding, and Snowboarder Community Forums.
Communities for buy and sell of gears
In these communities, you can also find buy-and-sell sections where members list their used boards for sale at competitive prices.
Seasonal Sales And Discount Events
Take advantage of seasonal sales and discount events to score a bargain on a snowboard.
Black Friday sales
Black Friday, right after Thanksgiving, offers large discounts on a range of products, including snowboarding gear.
After Christmas sales
Post-Christmas sales can offer excellent deals as well. Many retailers have surplus stock they need to get rid of after the holiday season.
End of season sales
As mentioned earlier, end-of-season sales are an excellent opportunity to pick up some cheap snowboarding gear as stores clear out the last of their winter stock.
Auctions And Estate Sales
People often overlook auctions and estate sales, but they can be amazing opportunities to snag a high-quality snowboard at a fraction of the price.
Online auctions
Online auctions, like those on eBay, can offer very competitive prices on both new and used snowboards. Just ensure you set yourself a budget to avoid getting carried away in the bidding.
Estate sales
Estate sales can turn up some unexpected treasures. If the previous owner was a snowboarding enthusiast, you might find some high-quality gear at a bargain.
How to find snowboard auctions and estate sales
Regularly check auction websites, and look out for listings in local newspapers or online resources like Craigslist for estate sales.
Ensuring The Cheap Snowboard Is Worth It
Finally, purchasing a cheap snowboard is only a good deal if it suits your needs.
Understanding the specifications of the board
Consider your own skills, size, and weight when choosing a snowboard. Make sure you understand the specifications of the snowboard and how they’ll impact your ride.
Knowing the condition of the board
Whether the snowboard is new or used, assess its condition. A used snowboard might be cheaper, but if it’s severely worn, it may not last long.
Checking the compatibility with your skill level
Finally, ensure the board is right for your skill level. There’s no point buying a high-end, expert-level board if you’re just starting out.
In conclusion, you have plenty of options available when hunting for a cheap snowboard. By doing your research and knowing where to look, you’ll score the perfect cheap snowboard that suits your needs and budget.
Hello, we're part of the editorial team, alongside Jamie. We're absolutely thrilled to be sharing our expertise, reviews and useful outdoor tips with you.
