Shop the Ski Swap

It is the season for swaps, and chances are that if you live within 60 miles of a ski area there is a swap going on near you. Most of us have sold or bought gear at one of these swaps - they happily accept our used gear and sell it for us so that we can justify buying new boards. For everyone who has kids who grow out of their boots every season, these sales help with the financial hit of raising rippers. 

The Ski Swap is as much a part of the fall experience for skiers and riders as going to the latest Warren Miller movie. It is when we pull out our gear and assess the needs for the coming season. It is when the talk turns to snowfall predictions and the trips we'll take.

This past weekend I helped out at the Tyrol Basin Ski Swap. I arrived to a flurry of activity with red vested Patrollers putting up fencing, building up racks for equipment, and carrying chairs and benches from the chalet to the boot tent. The Ski Patrol was out in force, and many brought along their kids to help too! They had thousands of items to check in, mark, and place for sale. Items came from the public looking to unload gear, and from shops discounting last season's equipment to make room for new inventory. SOL Alpine came because we love helping Ski Patrols raise money. Many ski swaps are organized and staffed by Ski Patrol volunteers. Swaps are also put on by other non-profit organizations, such as clubs and teams. For Patrols, these swaps serve as a major fundraiser with about 15% of the sale price of each item going to the Patrol. It is a lot of work for the Patrol, but they all seemed happy to be back with their Patrol family and excited for another season.  And the rest of us are happy to find great deals on gear while supporting our Ski Patrols.