Ski equipment - hire here or there? Post Reply

[Socialbutterfly53]

We are going on a ski holiday to the Swiss Alps this winter. Two adults and two children. Is it better to hire ski equipment here before we travel or there? (Thinking about cost, effort, ability to deal with issues on the ground, etc.) If here, grateful for any recommendations for supplier. Many thanks.

[SW11er]

Definitely there for skis, boots and poles (and even helmets if you don’t own). All accommodation providers/operators should be able to point you to the most convenient local hire shop (and sort out a discount). Or a quick search on the internet. No point travelling with all the gear (s you already own it and particularly want to use your own gear).

[szerma]

Agree with previous poster - and a much better selection in resort! Many chalets / hotels will let you prebook gear and some will even bring to your hotel / chalet. Most are open to something like 9 or 10 pm, so if there is any chance you can nip to the shop the evening you arrive (as opposed to the first day you want to ski), it will save you time and queuing on the "transfer" day when everyone is trying to get their gear.

Usually your chalet / hotel will have a particular shop they get discounts on, so best to ask.

The only time worth bringing your own gear is if you already have it (we have it and lug it every time for the adults). If you are regular skiers, I would recommend investing in your own boots and bringing those with you. Not for the kids though - they outgrow them way too quickly!

[juliantenniscoach]

I write this as someone who worked 10 seasons in ski resorts and still teaches skiing out there.  Definitely rent in resort even if it is Switzerland which is expensive.  There is no upside to traveling with all that extra luggage that you have to pay for anyway.   The only exception to this is, as the previous poster wrote, if you are regular skiers when primarily boots and secondly skis are worth the hassle.  Personally I take my boots everywhere, no matter how short the trip, skis only if I'm there for a week or more.

Have fun!

[dudette]

Rent them here?? Literally no one does that! Why would you go through the hassle of travelling with four pairs of boots and skis? The only thing you could do is go to the website of the nearest ski hire place to your accommodation and pre-booking your equipment (don’t forget helmets) - if you pay up front you will normally get a discount. Mind you if you’re going to Switzerland I’m guessing money isn’t too much of an issue