WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING USED SKIS & GEAR IN UTAH:
Outerwear
When it’s snowing and everyone is about to ski the most beautiful line of the season you don’t want to be the one drying your jacket in the lodge’s bathroom. It’s as simple as it sounds to check the waterproofing of a jacket that has been worn. You can sprinkle some water on the jacket. You’re ready to go if the water beads on your fabric form small droplets. The material’s waterproofing has been lost if it starts to soak in. If you’re in Utah and it’s dumping, don’t make the mistake of buying the wrong used ski gear!
Zippers
Even though wearing an open jacket might make you look cool to the 14-year old kids who ride the park, adults should zip up their coats. Make sure to check the pit zips.
Stitching
Rips can be repaired, but make sure to give the seams a tug to ensure that nothing is coming undone.
Pockets
Check out the pockets in your newly purchased used ski jacket. Don’t let an overlooked hole cause you to lose your wallet, both literally and figuratively.
Helmets
Never buy a used helmet. The risk of being hurt is too great, no matter how many times the previous owner claims they have only ever crashed once. The general rule of thumb is to replace your helmet every five years. When it comes to buying used ski gear, this is the one item to avoid.
Skis
There are three things you need to look at with used skis: the base, edge and the topsheet. Look out for core shots and deep gouges in the bases. Don’t believe anyone who claims that they have professionally filled core shots. It doesn’t matter if your friend does it in his garage to make a six-pack. A pair of park skis that are less than a year old can make a huge difference in terms of edge quality. If you are buying park skis for late spring skiing, don’t buy any older than a few years. While chipping on the topsheets is not necessarily a problem, excessive abuse can cause internal water damage and other problems.
Boots
You can skip the tedious process of putting on new boots. It’s not unusual for someone else to have become quite familiar with the inside of your liner. Many liners can be remolded several times or you can purchase new ones. A pair of boots that are less than a year old is a good way to save money, as long as the boot smell doesn’t bother you.
Need some used skis in Utah? Know what to look for before you make the purchase and you’ll be just fine!
Utah Ski & Golf offer high quality used skis in the great state of Utah.
