When children outgrow clothing and equipment between winters, it’s a good idea to consider renting ski gear and winter clothing for your next single parent ski holiday. But what can you reasonably hire, and what’s best to buy?
Ski rental: Advantages of renting v. buying
A standard rental package in European ski resorts includes skis, boots, and poles but contents can differ from hire shop to hire shop. Helmets are often included for children but must usually be rented separately by adults.
Advantages of hiring your ski gear:
- Airlines charge for carrying your own winter sports equipment
- Taxis might charge extra for transporting skis from airport to resort
- You don’t need to worry about your kids outgrowing their skis or boots
- You don’t waste money if your kids don’t take to skiing
- Professionally waxed skis and bindings that are set to the exact weight and ability of each family member
- You can exchange boots if they hurt or skis if you are struggling with the ski’s performance
- You can try out different skis and/or the latest model every year
Advantages of having your own ski equipment:
- You can purchase better quality skis especially for younger kids (adults can rent premium level skis)
- You can buy comfortable or even custom fit ski boots
- You don’t need to become familiar with new equipment meaning faster progression
- Helmets in rental shops can look plain/unstylish and/or scuffed
- No waiting in line to trying on equipment in the hire shop
- You might save money long term if you ski frequently
Winter clothing: Should I buy or rent?
Clothing starts with base layers, then an insulating mid layer and a weather-resistant jacket and ski trousers or salopettes. In addition, you will need decent ski gloves, ski socks, and accessories such as a neck warmer and ski goggles.
Items that can be rented
Renting is more freely available in larger European ski resorts, with chains such as Intersport. Here you can hire ski jackets and trousers, but accessories usually have to be bought. Smaller resorts will often don’t have shops that rent out winter clothes. An alternative is to hire in your home country. The added advantage is that you can try on before you travel. There are some advantages to both buying and renting:
Pros of renting winter clothes:
- Your kids are likely to outgrow their jacket and salopettes within a couple of years
- Less bulky luggage if you hire in the resort
- No money wasted if kids don’t want to ski again
- You spread the cost
Pros of purchasing your own ski wear:
- Wider choice with regards to size, fit, and style
- You won’t have to reserve, arrange collection, or worry about fit
- Having your own might feel more hygienic, especially with on-the-skin items such as ski socks and base layers
- You are able to choose higher quality items
You don’t need to buy every item new before a ski trip. Start with pieces that touch the skin or need a close fit, then consider outerwear based on weather and how often your family will use it. Well-chosen clothing can also work for school and holidays.
Conclusion
For many families, renting skis, boots, and helmets makes sense when children are growing, ski days are occasional, and transport and storage are difficult. Buy or reuse clothing based on fit, warmth, rental options and how useful each item will be beyond skiing. Don’t forget that you don’t need a full new setup for a first ski trip and that you can buy more accessories locally if needed.
