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Downhill Skis and Boots: 3 Tips to Save You Money
If you want to ski
every weekend or every other weekend it's to your advantage
to get the most out of your skiing dollar. You know
the slopes, now it's time to learn the ropes. Here are
three tips to help you save money so you can ski more
often this winter.
Shop at the Right Time and Place
You might think that the Christmas week
starting with Boxing Day would be a good time to pick
up a bargain on a new pair of skis or boots. Think again!
It's true that during this time of the year, you can
find big discounts on items like clothes and electronics.
But ski equipment and accessories are different. Why?
Because this is not the end, but the
beginning of the ski season, and most retailers will
not put their ski gear on sale this early. That being
said, you might find some bargains if you venture over
to your local Sporting Goods store.
However, most of these places do not
have a complete range of skis nor do they have experienced
boot fitters on staff. It's best to visit the Ski Shops
that specialize in ski gear and accessories in the winter.
They also have trained boot fitters so you can get a
customized fit if you need ski boots.
You can always get a deal in the spring
at most Ski Shops providing they still have the type
of skis or boots that you are after in stock. However,
begin your search in mid-February, since most of the
shops begin dropping their prices around this time of
the year, which is closer to the end of the ski season.
In addition, you are more likely to find the skis or
boots that you had your eye on earlier in the season.
Take Care of your Boots
Ski boots are very durable, but they
are also expensive, so you want to extend their life,
especially if you have custom-fitted boots that fit
comfortably and perform well. Avoid walking through
parking lots after the snow has melted away. Rough surfaces
will eventually wear the plastic soles to the point
that they will no longer fit in your bindings properly,
which brings us to the next tip.
Many boots now come with removable pads
on the toe and heel, which can be replaced before they
wear down beyond the safe limits. If you are in the
market for a new pair of ski boots, make sure you buy
boots that have replaceable pads, especially on the
heels. Replacing a pair of worn, heel pads will save
you a ton of cash versus buying new, ski boots.
Get a Lock for your Skis
When you buy new skis and if you do
not already own a lock or your old lock will not fit
your new skis, buy one before you leave the shop. Why?
Because, you may forget to get one before
you lay the first tracks with your new boards. You will
definitely be putting your skis in jeopardy of being
stolen when you prop them up in a ski rack and head
into the lodge for lunch. New skis are an easy prey.
It's better to be safe than sorry.
Spend a few extra bucks up front for
a ski lock to protect your initial investment for skis
and bindings. It would be very painful to head back
to the shop to replace a pair of skis that have been
pilfered. Ouch!
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