Why Buy Snowboard Kit You’ll Wear Once a Year? I Rented Mine—and It Was a Game-Changer
Planning a snowboarding trip after a decade off the slopes, I figured I could simply dust off my old gear and hit the mountain. My trusty baggy jacket and oversized trousers from my early thirties were surely still fine—right? Wrong on both counts. Not only had my technique rusted (I later discovered my bindings were on upside down), but my once-roomy kit had morphed into a too-snug, outdated throwback.
With just weeks to go, I had a choice: spend hundreds on new snow gear I’d wear for one week, or try something smarter—renting everything I needed. While my friend opted for a preloved outfit on Vinted, I explored the world of fashionable, affordable snowboard wear rentals—and I’ve never looked back.
In this article, I’ll share how renting saved me money, freed up suitcase space, and kept me warm, dry, and stylish on the slopes.
Hiring snowboard wear is becoming an increasingly popular choice for skiers and snowboarders looking to save money, reduce packing stress, and stay sustainable. In this article, we explore how renting gear for a snow holiday can drastically cut costs, offer high-performance options, and eliminate the hassle of buying expensive outerwear you may only use once a year.
Why Buying Snowboard Gear Isn’t Always Practical
Planning a snowboarding trip is exciting—but it’s also expensive. Flights, lift passes, accommodation, and lessons add up quickly. Throw in the cost of a proper snowboarding jacket, salopettes, gloves, goggles, helmet, and thermals, and you’re easily looking at £500+ in gear alone.
For occasional boarders or first-timers, this raises a question: Is it really worth investing in all that kit for one trip?
The Smart Alternative: Hiring Your Snowboard Wear
Instead of buying, I decided to rent every piece of outerwear for my snow holiday—from my waterproof trousers to thermal gloves. The result? A seamless experience, stylish gear, and major savings.
Here’s what I learned, and why I’ll never go back to buying again.
1. You Save a Significant Amount of Money
- Renting a full set of gear (jacket, pants, gloves, helmet, goggles) can cost as little as £50–£90 per week.
- Buying quality equivalents could set you back upwards of £400–£600.
Quick Stat:
According to Statista, the average UK consumer spends £130–£180 on snow gear per trip, even when only buying part of the kit.
2. You Get High-Quality, Technical Wear
Rental providers offer high-spec, waterproof, breathable, insulated gear—often brands like Burton, Salomon, or Patagonia.
- Perfect for people who want function without the research.
- Great for testing different brands before buying later.
3. No More Overstuffed Luggage
Snow gear is bulky. Renting allowed me to fly light—no oversized suitcase fees, no struggling through airports.
Bonus: I had room to bring home souvenirs instead of stuffing sweaty thermals into my hand luggage.
4. It’s Sustainable and Eco-Friendly
The fashion industry is the third-largest polluting industry globally. Renting gear instead of buying helps:
- Reduce landfill waste from discarded ski clothing.
- Limit the need for new manufacturing cycles.
- Promote the circular economy in outdoor apparel.
5. Styles Are Trendy and Clean
I was surprised to find modern, Instagram-ready designs—not just basic blacks. Rental services regularly update inventory so:
- You wear something on-trend and appropriate for your level.
- All clothing is professionally cleaned and sanitised.
6. Ideal for Families and Kids
Children outgrow snow gear fast. Renting:
- Saves money on frequently replaced items.
- Ensures a good fit and proper protection every time.
- Avoids storing unused gear year-round.
FAQs
1. How much can I save by renting snowboard gear?
You can save £300–£500 compared to buying brand-new outerwear and accessories.
2. Is rented snow gear hygienic?
Yes. All reputable rental services clean, disinfect, and inspect gear between uses.
3. What snowboard gear can I rent?
Most services offer jackets, salopettes, gloves, goggles, helmets, and even thermal layers.
4. Where can I rent snowboard wear in the UK or abroad?
You can rent online through services like EcoSki, or pick up gear locally at ski resorts.
5. Is rental gear good quality?
Absolutely—many use premium brands and technical outerwear suited for all weather.
6. Is renting snowboard wear sustainable?
Yes. It supports circular fashion and reduces textile waste and emissions.
Conclusion
Hiring all my snowboard wear was one of the smartest travel decisions I’ve made. Not only did I save a fortune, but I travelled lighter, stayed warm and dry, and made a sustainable choice. Whether you’re a first-time boarder or a once-a-season skier, renting your gear is easier, cheaper, and smarter.
