Skiing is an expensive sport. It's no wonder that many skiers choose used equipment. Buying secondhand skis and other gear is also doing something good for the environment. So, there's nothing wrong with that, right? Almost. As is often the case, there are arguments for and against. We'll explain what you need to consider when buying used skis.
What you should know in advance
If you plan to buy used equipment, you should inform in advance which type of ski or snowboard is suitable for you, i.e. which skis or which board for your riding behavior and are appropriate to you. It is best to do this on the internet or in sports retailers. So you know exactly what to look for.
If you want to buy used skis, you should also be aware that winter sports equipment is subject to wear and tear. This means that the materials will degrade over time. As a general rule, skis and snowboards should be no older than 5 seasons with moderate use, and no older than 3 seasons with regular use. It is also important to know what core material the skis have. A wood core is significantly more stable and durable than a foam core.
When buying used ski boots, you should know that they adapt to the wearer’s foot over time due to thermoforming. As a new owner, it can therefore be difficult to find boots that fit well and are comfortable. The newer the boots, the easier this becomes.
Where to buy used skis?
Whether directly from the manufacturer, at events, or on online platforms—the range of places where you can buy secondhand skis is vast. A popular option is buying former rental skis from sports shops. These are often offered at steep discounts with the promise that they’ve only been used for one season. However, even if the skis were only used for one season, they are typically used much more frequently than by private individuals. During peak season, rental skis are in use almost every day—often by beginners who may not handle them properly. As a result, they tend to be heavily worn.
If you're looking to buy used skis online, you'll benefit from a wide selection of offers. However, the downside is that you can't closely inspect the equipment. Damage and material fatigue can be difficult to spot in photos—or may not be disclosed at all. It's therefore advisable to always examine the product in person if possible.
Flea markets, swap meets, and events where private sellers and manufacturers sell equipment on-site are recommended. The advantage here is the personal exchange with the previous owner, who can explain how much the gear has been used. This is the best way to avoid buying skis that are too worn out.
💡 NAKED Optics tip:
When inspecting used skis, pay particular attention to the following points:
- Edges: These should not have been ground down too many times and should not be too thin. Any detachment of the edges is a definite red flag—hands off in that case! Light rust can be removed with a proper service, but you should avoid skis with deep or widespread rust spots and dents.
- Camber (Ski Tension): Lay the ski flat on the ground. This is the best way to check whether it’s warped.
- Bindings: What boot size are they set for? Avoid repositioning and re-drilling the bindings, as every new hole weakens the material. Also pay close attention to wear on the toe and heel pieces, and ideally test how well the binding holds the ski boot under pressure.
Used ski equipment for children
Children grow quickly and therefore need new, properly fitting winter sports equipment more often. This makes it especially practical to buy used ski boots and skis for kids. Unlike with adults, the equipment is subjected to less wear and tear due to their lower body weight. On top of that, skis and ski boots are often only used for one or two seasons. That’s why we strongly recommend buying secondhand snowboard or ski gear for children.
What you can easily buy secondhand
Ski clothing and ski poles are excellent items to buy secondhand. Purchasing them used can save you a lot of money. When it comes to ski poles, make sure your elbows form a right angle when you're holding the poles. As for clothing, ensure that you have full freedom of movement and that nothing feels tight or restrictive.
What you shouldn't buy used
Some pieces of equipment are well worth buying secondhand. However, there are also items that are better purchased new. This includes all gear with a protective function, such as helmets and ski goggles. Helmets should be replaced after any hard fall, as impacts can compromise the integrity of the material. When buying a used helmet, there’s no way to know how many times the previous owner may have crashed while wearing it.
The same goes for older goggles. Over time, anti-fog and UV protection coatings can wear off. If the foam padding isn’t properly maintained, it can become brittle, and the goggles may no longer fit securely or comfortably. If you still want to save money when buying your ski goggles, you can simply send in your old pair to the NAKED online shop. As a thank you, you’ll receive a discount on your new goggles.
Credits: Mathäus Gartner