Buyer Beware! How to buy USED GEAR

What's going on people?
In today's video, I go over what to look for when buying used ski and snowboard gear. Things to consider are age, overall condition, questions to ask the seller, and just skip buying used boots.
All questions are welcome.
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Where I get my music: www.epidemicsound.com

[@sniperd]

Great call on only buying new boots. Probably the most important piece of equipment.

[@testboga5991]

I disagree. I only ever bought used boots after testing them as rentals.

[@ktextreme]

Great vid! Ive worked in a ski/board shop for 6 years and these are all very relevant points that most people overlook when buying used gear online

[@TheGearLady]

Love that you’re recommending used gear, great solution for saving some money. A must have for new riders for sure!

[@rogerskugrud8609]

I have found the best place for the new skier to get used gear is what is commonly termed" Ski Swap". Often sponsored by Ski patrols or ski clubs or race teams. These are run by folks that are usually able to give good advice about the equipment to the buyer. You also get to handle and look carefully at the equipment. They do not sell unsafe or outdated gear. You can compare a number of different used items. Also, often the local ski shops will bring there" previous years models or models that they have a surplus of". And these will be unused but close to Half Price. And when it comes to boots you get to try them on. Swaps are good for both beginners, who can pick up equipment to get them into the Sport and allow them to spend some time deciding if they want to upgrade in a year or two. They are also great for experienced skiers to look for some great bargains on some high-end equipment that has been lightly used or just Surplus from a ski shop. I have seen the swaps take unsafe ski and binding combinations period and in this case they clearly label the bindings as unsafe. The other thing I need to mention, is that because skis have changed in construction significantly over the years. So be sure to look for the modern" shaped" skis. One of the other great advantages is for families looking for equipment for their children. As kids grow out of both boots and skis many families find it expedient to put what their kids have grown out of( which can be in very good shape) and at the same time look for some new economical for the coming year

[@joecelender831]

Duuude thanks so much for all this, was gonna buy used boots, not anymore. Hoping you keep uploading! Happy New Year

[@MountainVibes]

Cheers! Happy New Year to you too!

[@joecelender831]

Mountain Vibes i got a great deal on some boots for only 60 made by Chamonix, thanks again

[@Frissky21]

I saw both sides of this argument. I bought a pair of $500 Head ski boots for $75. NWT and original box. Bought a pair of used K2 skis and Solomon Bindings for $100. Tried to upgrade the Bindings and they're not for my skis. Spent $60 for nothing.

[@trustdre]

I like your videos, wish I saw this one before I just got some used boots on eBay. I get them today, hope they work out. I was looking at skis online too, now I think my best bet is to get new equipment or keep renting. From what it sounds like no one new to doing should buy used equipment. You just need to know so much info to get a good buy. Thanks for the info.

[@MountainVibes]

Hopefully your boots will work out. One can always buy used, just be careful and ask the right questions. You can rent until you’re ready to commit to the sport too.

[@jackdickson9653]

1st nice tips

[@MrLuckymimi]

Got almost new button board for $40 the guy bought storage auction and didn’t know what he had. So I disagree it just depends.

[@charliechristian1097]

I bought a 15 year old Lamar pro model from the thrift store for 26 bucks had a ripper of a season on it, even tho it's undersized for someone about 30 to 50 lb lighter than me, big thing with snowboards if you get them used is have your local ski shop give it a full tune, should cost around 50 to 60 bucks and it'll feel brand new. As long as there's no desalination or edge damage

[@fagyu7502]

I've just got a pair of 2017 dynastar speed zone 16 ti in beautifully condition thick edges got it sharpened waxed and I'm absolutely looking forward to skiing it seems like this brand isn't quite renowned in my country this was selling for the price of mostly just beginner and lower end skis for 150€ it was such a bargain

[@dylanskaggs2587]

This is a very underrated channel. How do you only have 1.29k subs??

[@MountainVibes]

Thanks so much! Beats me 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@AmyStoneYT]

Good video. Only thing I wish was added was some physical examples for those of us who are beginners looking for a used board and boots.

[@yaxman8163]

Before you buy used gear I would always recommend to check for end of season sales first, you can get some really good deals. I just purchased brand new pair of ski boots and ski googles for half the price each.

[@Rynriley]

Josip Rubinić what website do you buy your gear from?

[@matzpimp]

I guess I've been lucky I bought a really nice pair of boots for 30 bucks and they were a little bet up they were just fine for me. Also got older skis thats looked good and did the binding my self. Not hard if u got a drill

[@mendellang8379]

Once bought a used pair of skis that was a little bit scratched up. Went to REI to do a bindings release test. They said they wouldn’t perform the test because the bindings where not stable enough. So I purchased new bindings and brought them back to REI. To Wich they said sorry can’t remount these because the ski has been mounted in to many places. So basically bought skis and bindings that no tech would work on

[@MountainVibes]

Brutal! Sorry to hear you wasted your time and money, and got nothing out of it.

[@scottamu7816]

Ski shops (not all...) have basically become car dealerships - in terms of turning over perfectly fine used models in order to sell new ones, rather than repairing/maintaining products that will last for decades...

[@mendellang8379]

@@scottamu7816 100% true. They’re greed is a big part of what’s raising the costs of skiing. Now skiing is a full on rich persons sport

[@MountainVibes]

Unfortunately, skiing and snowboarding have generally been elitists sports. Regardless if you wish to purchase gear or not, the cost of lift tickets/ season passes, rentals, transportation all add up. Buying gear is just one aspect of the overall cost.

[@nonelost1]

Why didn't they tell you that the skis have been mounted in too many places the first time you brought them in?

[@tejasnaidoo3585]

really helpful

[@mattjax1330]

I love your vids they are well done wish ya could post more content but I’m sure you’re busy with life lol

[@MountainVibes]

Thanks. I’m reevaluating and will have new stuff for next season.

[@Caysonator007]

I need to know where to get cheap gear in / near Denver or copper mountain. Me and my gf are driving there day after tmrw. But we are from Florida, so we need to buy some gear as soon as we get there. Do y’all know of any good IN PERSON stores that would have the best prices or used gear. Or any particular thrift type of store there that usually has ski gear? We mainly need pants, or a one piece. And maybe some goggles, gloves, jackets, or base / mid layers.

[@32srt32]

i have an old lamar the top sheet cover is peeling up and brittle. thinking of taking off the topsheet cover completely.

[@32srt32]

new boots and bindings with old board for beginners until you are good enough to know what kind of board you want to ride.

[@lamesamebame8476]

As a teen i always buy used gear because i have to change it every single year, thanks for the guide!

[@lamesamebame8476]

Update: im fucking sad my dad told me to only spend 50 dollars on ski boots that have already been rented and are now selling and i am 172 and gotta ski with 148 skis while my dad has his rly good 110 new boots and amazing dynastar skis. Thats my christmas gift that I have to pay for.

[@lamesamebame8476]

please someone write why buying not second hand but ALREADY RENTED trash boots isnt good for improving my carving

[@XobeyxQxmanX]

Just picked up a board from 2009 sick graphic with with 2023/24 bindings for $140 I think I got a good deal

[@Sokolva]

Is there a reason you didn’t talk about buying new bindings for skis? You could always potentially buy older skis if you wanted to and then brand new bindings, even high quality bindings are usually not that high of a price.

[@jagdishrana82]

Good bro

[@faceinthecrowd5810]

I have skied in used gear for decades. Boots, skis with bindings included. I am a skier of 60 years on the hill with 35 years in an EPSIA ski school, an “expert skier”. I say that just to say I do understand ski equipment and have preached safety over and over. Do your research, learn what the skis are, what condition is critical and if the price is super good I have skied top shelf gear for CHEAP!!! I just bought a set of K2 Rictor with marker bindings in like new shape for…..$100. Also picked up a pair of Elan Amphibio with fusion 14 bindings, a $1200 retail in 2014 excellent condition for……FREE! At used prices I don’t care if they fall apart in 1 season. Or they are stolen, as long as I’m cool with not skiing this years gimmick lagging behind the technology curve I can put my savings into lift tickets. I am very particular especially with boots. They MUST fit right and be safe including being less than 2 years old due to the break down of plastic shells. But that being said I just retired my Full Tilts after 12 years of perfect service. No matter what you ski on learn how to test , maintain, repair, and adjust all your equipment. Study, study, study.

[@MountainVibes]

Someone's been lucky over the years... Thanks for the comment!

[@faceinthecrowd5810]

@@MountainVibes been part of the ski community for my whole life, amazing people and used gear being passed on to someone who will appreciate it has helped myself and many others to thrive in an ever increasing expense industry. Our family has all worked in the industry just to afford the sport……never ever pay retail or buy a full price pass if possible.

[@lukezaleski2398]

Great video! I bought skis that have already been drilled through multiple times. Are they still good or should I cut my losses?

[@MountainVibes]

You have to make sure theres enough ski to drill into. In most cases when skis have been drilled multiple times, there simply isn't enough room to drill a new set of holes to put the binding in the desired position. I suggest taking them to a shop, and see what your options are.

[@MakeupByTink]

Hey there... can i ask why you would bypass the ones that say "sitting in my garage for years"? I'm looking at a used board that looks perfect for me - she's only used it for a few weeks (15 days total) back in 2016-17... condition looks great - no cracking of edges or sidewall, no splitting between edge & wall or anything like that... she bought it to go snowboarding with her boyfriend but never really did anything other than bunny slopes so it's almost as new, but has been stored and not touched for 3.5 years... :-/ Is this a red flag, do you think?

[@MountainVibes]

Thanks for the question Sarah. I was referring to boards that are ancient, closer to 20 years old +. The board you're looking at is quite recent, and if there is no structural damage, I'd say go for it. You'll just have to pay to get it tuned up (wax + sharpen) to make it hill ready. Good luck.

[@MakeupByTink]

Mountain Vibes thanks so much! Picked it up. It’s in great condition. Your channel is great. Subbing. ☺️ thanks again

[@barrettlee9287]

Is 2017 too old now? Just need them to last 2 seasons before we move back home with no mountains. Looking at some Rossi P100s with Look Xpress 10 bindings.

[@MountainVibes]

Nope, you're good to shred! Have fun!!!

[@danieldalcorso3474]

How about buying last season’s demo skis from a ski shop?

[@MountainVibes]

That’s a great way to go. Demo skis are usually lightly used, and maintained.

[@TheXenogias]

do you think it's safe to purchase a set of used skis that have been used for 7 seasons (about 10x per season)? im a boarder but want to try skiing but only recently heard about all of this stuff about binding liability.

[@MountainVibes]

Bindings that are 7 years old are getting close to that age where shops wont touch them due to liability. You may be told to get new bindings, if the current ones can be removed.

[@romanalyon7764]

I actually bought a set of 20 year old Atomic skis and tuned the binding myself. I followed the guidelines for my weight and level online. Release when they need to. They're great. No one will recommend this to you, but it worked for me.

[@javidmagray2487]

Sir I am from India can you deliver a snowboard here in India.

[@kevinwach9179]

What about used snowboard bindings. How old is it safe to use?

[@MountainVibes]

There is no expiration, or age to safely use. Just inspect them to make sure all bolts are tight, and the ratchets function properly.

[@kevinwach9179]

@@MountainVibes thank you. I bought a snowboard that’s in really nice shape. And it came with flow fl5 bindings. On them they say rental. Are rental bindings more sturdy?

[@scottamu7816]

BUT ALSO - If you are mechanically inclined, this is not rocket science and you can definitely figure it out without having a ski shop tell you that your 'old' (yet perfectly functional) bindings are 'obsolete' and that they 'can't work on them because they are 'blacklisted'... Sharpening and waxing are definitely owner-level acquired skills, if you care to pay attention

[@MountainVibes]

It’s not a matter of being mechanically inclined, it’s a matter of knowing how bindings are supposed to be properly setup (din setting, and forward pressure). There’s also a legal issue when it come to shops dealing with old bindings. Every year, manufactures make shops sign forms, stating they will only work on ‘workable bindings’. I have seen people work on their own binding, only to injure themselves because the bindings were not functioning properly due to age, as well as improper setup.

[@basedpatriotLT]

when you said not expensive shoes, I though max 100 usd. 200 bucks is not "inexpensive" for someone who is looking at used gear

[@danielfletcher8328]

Hey, so are you saying that the only reason not to get older skis is because the bindings will not be fixable by a ski shop? What if the older bindings, say from 2004, are in good condition? Or are you saying that the materials in the skis is deteriorating and wont perform as well thats why you shouldnt get older skis?

[@MountainVibes]

Hey there! It doesn't matter what the condition of the bindings are in. If the bindings in question are not on a manufacture's list of supported bindings, no shop will touch them. The list is referred to 'binding indemnification'. Unless you can remount a new pair of bindings on the skis, I wouldn't bother with them. Even then, most ski techs will only mount a ski twice.

[@nathanratermann9204]

I disagree as well!! I look for stuff like this!! Ski shop will turn you away or charge you a lot to fix. Well fine good for the person who can lay down the price tag. Me, three kids. I’m a bridge welder, make great money, but not going to buy new shit all the time. I have learned how to repair top sheet, base repair, wax and edge. Also learned how to repair kayaks. It’s all basic. Way easier than welding a bridge together. Shop on a budget, and learn the skills ships don’t want you to have. It’s all money to them! Always want you to buy new.

[@nathanratermann9204]

*shops

[@MountainVibes]

Good on you to learn to do the repairs yourself. Those skills do save a lot of cash in the long run...

[@Grungedude93]

Wish I would’ve watched this video before I bought a 10 yr old set. All the shops near me are just turning me away

[@MountainVibes]

Ugh... That’s rough, but you’re not the only one in this situation. Try and see if you can get a new set of bindings put on the skis.

[@isaiahbrowning6908]

I got a new pair of nordica gt 78's for $150

[@MountainVibes]

😳 wicked!

[@unike7744]

I payed 140 on a snowboard but im a child so was that a good deal

[@MountainVibes]

Seems good to me. In time, you'll probably want to upgrade as you get better. Good luck!

[@ahastar1141]

Expensive older gear or cheaper newer gear?

[@MountainVibes]

Good question. Well, generally, the expensive older gear should be better quality, but potentially in rough shape. Where the cheaper newer gear may not be that great. It all depends on what you exactly you’re looking at.

[@ahastar1141]

@@MountainVibes thanks for the reply. Been looking at getting my first set of boots and skis but have been stuck on deciding to buy cheaper new gear or slightly used more expensive gear. Seems like the expensive gear would make sense since it’s better quality but as you said, it can get a bit rough on the used market. Looking to get into some gear relatively cheaply but with decent quality, while I feel out how serious I am gonna take it. Waited 2 hours in the rental line at the hill last week, and that was enough to push me to looking at my own gear

[@MountainVibes]

@@ahastar1141 The rental situation his season is getting outta hand. I would suggest grabbing a new pair of boots. You don't have to break the bank, but make sure you get a good fitting pair. Then look for the other gear to fit into your overall budget. Good luck!

[@32srt32]

boots after 10 years the midsoles start to deteriorate. bindings after 10years will straps will start to get better.

[@JM_2019]

Shall we, shall we, shall we…

[@otitan1]

In summary, just buy new... saved you 8min

[@ccarroll4742]

What are we doing to the planet? Gear isn't recyclable. All your new gear will still be decomposing a millennia after you are dead. This video made me very sad.

[@danielfletcher8328]

explain,,,