35 percent of the Swiss population ski. This is demonstrated by a study conducted in 2020 by the Federal Office of Sports (Baspo). The popularity of skiing in Switzerland is very high compared to other countries. This is due to its proximity to the mountains.
Whether you’re skiing for a few days, a few weeks, or all season, the right equipment is essential. Depending on how often you hit the slopes, it’s worth buying or renting skis. You should pay attention to these points.
benefits of leasing
Renting is useful for skiers who don’t go to the slopes very often. Unlike buying skis, you get a different model of ski each season when renting. Beginners can test which model they use best.
Unlike purchased skis, there are no service costs during rental. In most cases, the ski shop sands and polishes the ski edges.
Children’s skis should also be rented. So you don’t have to buy a new model every year when the child grows up.
When should you rent skis?
It is best to rent at the beginning of the season, that is, at the beginning of November. Then the selection of rental products is the largest and there are good deals.
When is skiing worth buying?
SportXX from Migros recommends skiers who take a ski holiday for about one week a year and spend two or three weekends on the slopes to buy skis. After a while you get used to your own skis and they always get used to it. Buying skis for kids is only worthwhile when they’re older.
When is the best time to buy skis?
Every skier has different needs. At the beginning of the season, prices are normal or even higher, as there is a wide choice of new skis. At the end of the ski season, you can find cheaper models. You will then benefit from discounts on models that will not be offered in the next season. Ski prices vary according to the brand, brand and model.
How often should you change skis?
With average use, skis last five to six years. Endurance depends on body weight, ski style, number of days skiing and service interval. If in doubt, you can check your skis at a sports or ski shop.
How do ski models differ?
Choosing the right ski depends on your own body weight and height, and in which area you use the skis. When asked, ski retailer Stöckli explained how these models differ:
- whole mountain: This ski is very suitable for any occasion. On a newly manicured slope or in spring snow, they are versatile.
- Ladies: Here, lighter materials are processed. The skis remain very agile and light. They can be driven without great effort. Men’s ski models are mostly made of heavier materials.
- Race: As the name suggests, this ski is used in ski races. They are produced more balanced and you need more power while driving.
- free style: This ski is especially suitable for freestyle park and tubing.
- Free ride: Wide freeride skis are made for deep snow.
- Tours: Travel skis are made of lightweight material to save energy while walking. They are built wide to allow you to lift in deep snow.
- Carving: This model is a sporty ski for slopes. You can easily take corners with it. There are different types in this category.
Where can you buy used skis?
Many sports or ski shops advise their rental customers to purchase rental ski equipment at a lower price, usually from February.
Get advice and try the skis
You can get advice before buying skis in sports shops. In almost all stores, you can borrow a model to test before buying. When you try it, you will learn which ski suits you best.