As winter approaches, families everywhere are gearing up for ski season. When preparing for a trip to the slopes, one of the biggest decisions parents must make is renting or buying skiing gear for their children. While the thrill of purchasing brand-new ski equipment may be tempting, renting gear can offer significant advantages.

There are multiple reasons one might want to rent gear, especially as a parent. Children are constantly growing. The chances of them using the same gear repeatedly are very slim unless you’re a local, and travel to the slopes often. Even if you don’t have kids, there are multiple reasons why renting gear is beneficial. 

Recommended Gear

First let’s review the necessary gear that’s recommended for hitting the slopes.

1. Specific socks for moisture wicking
2. Properly fitted boots
3. Helmet
4. Goggles
5. Gloves/Mittens
6. Neck Gaiter/Balaclava
7. Waterproof Jacket
8. Waterproof Pants/Bibs
9. Fleece layers

COST

Ensuring you have the proper gear is essential to staying safe. When renting outdoor gear, families often have access to high-quality, well-maintained equipment without the hefty price tag. Many rental shops carry the latest brands and models, which can enhance performance and safety on the slopes. This access allows parents to ensure that their children are using the best equipment available, which can be particularly beneficial for new skiers still finding their footing.

TRAVEL

Traveling with kids is already a hassle, but when you’re all packed in the car with pillows shoved in between the seats and suitcases to the ceiling, sometimes there’s no room for extra gear. If you’re flying, that’s just more of a hassle. Who wants to check a bag just for extra gear? Definitely not me. 

Read More: The Top 3 Family Ski Resorts in Colorado

Experience

Have you ever bought something, and wore it a few times, then decided you really didn’t like the way it fit? Me too. Imagine buying an expensive piece of gear then after wearing it for a few hours, you realize, it’s not the right size, or you just don’t like the way it feels. Renting gear allows you to try it with no hassle. If you’re thinking of buying a specific piece of gear, try renting it first to see if it’s a good option for you.

If you’re visiting Colorado, and are interested in renting gear, keep in mind your location. Another thing to keep in mind is availability. Call ahead or check online to ensure your preferred size will be available at the time of need. 

Ski Rental Options In Colorado

If you’re not visiting a resort that offers gear rentals, there are options, so don’t panic if you don’t want to buy gear. 

Christy Sports Ski & Patio – https://www.christysports.com/

• Multiple Locations: Aspen, Avon, Breckenridge, Colorado Springs, Denver, Fort Collins, Telluride, and more
• Pricing: $$-$$$
• Kids 12 and under ski free with 4+ day adult rental

Rocky Mountain Ski & Sport – https://www.rockymtnski.com/

• Central Colorado – 1383 N Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO
• Pricing: $-$$
• Offers same-day delivery – serves the Colorado Springs area

Blue River Sports – https://www.blueriversports.com/

• Breckenridge – 600 South Park Avenue, Breckenridge, CO
• Pricing: $$-$$$
• Kids 5 and under free with adult
• Offers helmets, jackets, boots, skis and snowboards

Mountain Rentals – https://mountainrentalsinc.com/

• North Colorado – 401 E Eisenhower Blvd, Loveland, CO
  • NEW LOCATION – 1000 Champion Drive, Windsor CO
• Pricing: $-$$
• Offers a large variety of styles and sizes
• Closed on TUES & WED
• Rentals can be picked up the day before – due by 7pm on final day
• Offers individual gear or packages

Ultimately, the decision to rent or buy gear should be made based on each family’s unique needs and circumstances. However, there are clear advantages to opting for rentals, especially when considering factors such as cost, convenience, equipment quality, and flexibility. As you plan your family’s ski trip this season, take the time to explore the rental options available. There are multiple shops around Colorado. It may very well enhance your skiing experience while saving you both time and money.