Snowboarding on a Budget: Tips for Finding Affordable Gear

22 June 2025

Let’s face it — snowboarding isn’t exactly known as a cheap hobby. Between lift tickets, travel costs, and gear, it can start to feel like you need a second job just to hit the slopes. But here's the thing—it doesn’t have to be that way.

If you're itching to shred powder without shredding your wallet, you're in the right place. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get started or a seasoned rider trying not to max out your credit card (again), I’ve got your back.

Let’s break down how you can get geared up and ready to ride—without going broke.

Why Snowboarding Is Expensive (And Why You Don't Need to Pay Full Price)

Snowboarding gear is loaded with tech: waterproof fabrics, layered insulation, high-quality bindings, and boards designed for all kinds of snow conditions. That stuff adds up. And the big brands? They know how to charge a premium.

But here’s the inside scoop—just like with smartphones or cars, last year’s model does just fine. You don’t need to pay top dollar for the latest design when solid, affordable options are within reach if you know where to look.

So, how do you get that Instagram-worthy setup on a peanut-butter-and-jelly budget? Let’s dig in.

1. Set a Budget (And Stick to It)

Before you even browse online or walk into a shop, figure out what you can realistically spend on gear. Write it down. Prioritize what you need the most.

Here’s a quick breakdown to give you some perspective:

- Board + Bindings: $150–$300 (used or budget brands)
- Boots: $50–$150
- Outerwear (jacket + pants): $100–$200
- Helmet + Goggles: $50–$100
- Gloves + Layers: $50–$100

Set a hard cap, and work from there. It’ll help you avoid impulse buys and keep your bank account happy.

2. Buy Used Gear — It's a Game Changer

Let me say it louder for the people in the back: used gear is your best friend. Snowboarding gear is built to last, and plenty of people sell barely-used stuff after one or two seasons.

Where to Find Quality Used Snowboarding Gear:

- Facebook Marketplace – Tons of local listings. Don’t be afraid to negotiate.
- Craigslist – Still alive and kicking. Look for sellers who know their stuff.
- Play It Again Sports – These stores often have well-maintained gear at great prices.
- eBay – Just check seller ratings and be cautious about shipping costs.
- Reddit’s r/geartrade – Great for crowd-sourced deals and honest reviews.

Before buying used, make sure to check the board for cracks, delamination, or serious edge damage. A few scratches? No biggie. But major cracks? Run away.

3. Go for Last Season's Gear

Here’s your secret weapon: last season’s inventory. Retailers need to clear it out to make room for new stock, which means huge discounts for you.

Pro Tips:

- Check out sites like Evo, The House, Backcountry, and REI Outlet.
- Shop in spring or summer for the best deals.
- Sign up for newsletters to get discount codes and early-sale access.

Sure, last season’s jacket might not be neon pink with futuristic zippers, but who cares if it keeps you warm and dry?

4. Don’t Sleep on Outlet Stores and Clearance Racks

Yes, you can strike gold in outlet malls and local sporting goods clearance racks. Look for:

- Ski & Snowboard shops during off-season
- Brand outlets like Burton, Columbia, and The North Face
- Warehouse or sidewalk sales before the season starts

You’d be surprised how often people overlook these spots just because they assume they’ll only find odd sizes. Sometimes, that’s true — but digging through racks can feel like treasure hunting (and your wallet will thank you).

5. Rent Smart (But Not Forever)

If you’re just getting started, renting might be the way to go. Buying gear before you know if you love the sport doesn’t make much sense.

Rent Tips:

- Avoid slopeside rentals — they’re convenient but usually overpriced.
- Look for local shops or seasonal rentals — often much cheaper.
- Ask about demo days — some shops let you test out high-end boards, and they usually sell those boards later at a discount.

Once you know snowboarding is your jam, you can invest in your own gear (and save in the long run).

6. Mix and Match Apparel

You don’t need a full snowboarding-specific outfit to stay warm and dry. A lot of hikers and mountaineers use similar gear—and it often costs less.

What You Actually Need:

- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms – skip cotton.
- Insulation Layer: Fleece or down depending on how cold it gets.
- Outer Shell: Waterproof and windproof jacket + pants.

You might already own some of these. Check your closet before spending money on duplicates. And remember—layering is your best friend. It’s like building your own wearable insulation system.

7. Take Advantage of Package Deals

Some shops and websites offer deals when you get a full setup—board, bindings, and boots in one bundle. These packages often shave off a good chunk of the total price.

Look for beginner bundles—they’re not only cheaper, but designed for easier control and learning.

Bonus: some places throw in free waxing or a binding install, which is just one less thing for you to worry about.

8. Check Out Budget-Friendly Brands

You don’t have to go all-in on Burton, Lib Tech, or Ride to have a blast on the mountain.

Budget Brands Worth Knowing:

- Camp Seven
- System MTN
- Salomon (for entry-level gear)
- Rome SDS (mid-tier pricing, great value)
- DC or ThirtyTwo (for solid, affordable boots)

These brands may not have the flashiest marketing, but they deliver seriously solid gear without charging yacht prices.

9. Keep an Eye on Coupons, Cashback, and Reward Programs

- Install browser extensions like Honey or Rakuten – They find coupons or cashback while you're shopping online.
- Cashback credit cards – Only if you’re not carrying a balance, this can earn you 1–5% back on purchases.
- Loyalty Programs – Retailers like REI and Evo reward repeat customers with discounts.

A few extra clicks could save you $20–$50 or more on your purchase. It adds up—especially when buying multiple items.

10. Join Snowboarding Communities

Last but not least—talk to your fellow snowboarders. Online communities and local Facebook groups often post gear for sale, trade, or even give it away.

Beyond gear, these groups are amazing for finding ride-shares, cheap lift tickets, and advice from real people who’ve been in your boots (literally).

Some Places to Start:

- Reddit’s r/snowboarding
- Facebook groups: “Snowboard Gear Buy/Sell/Trade [Your Area]”
- Local snowboarding clubs or ski resorts

Snowboarders are a tight-knit bunch. Get into the community, and savings (and friendships) will follow.

Final Thoughts: Ride Smarter, Not Richer

Snowboarding on a budget isn’t just possible—it’s actually kind of fun. With a bit of patience, some clever shopping, and an eye for deals, you can build a killer setup without the killer price tag.

So don’t let sticker shock stop you from hitting the slopes. There are plenty of ways to make snowboarding affordable with the right mindset and strategy.

Remember: it’s not about how fresh your gear looks—it’s about how much fun you have carving that powder.

See you on the mountain!