How do I Buy the Right Equipment?

It may surprise you, but if you decide to purchase your own equipment rather than hire whilst holidaying in Val d’Isere,  purchasing within the resort is your best option as there is a vast range and a lot of the shops offer you with the ability to try before you buy.

• Skis/Snowboard: Purchase within the resort itself as opposed to back at home; this allows a broader selection and enables you to try out various versions. Do research and attempt to establish the equipment you prefer before you come out to Val, the majority of snow sport magazines print regular articles about buying skis/snowboards and offer an impartial specialist viewpoint.

• Testing: As soon as you are in the resort reserve an entire day to test your new equipment at the start of the holiday. Look for a shop that is trustworthy and contains a dedicated test centre instead of the typical rental versions which might be out-dated and worn. Make certain they have knowledgeable employees who speak English; speak to them regarding your possible purchase and supply details regarding your preferred design, capability and fitness, as well as your budget. Be ready to try out alternatives especially if they are recommended by the shop staff as they are usually all ski and snowboard enthusiasts.  In the end,  slim down your choices to three versions to test because more than this makes things too complicated.

• Boots: Again, purchase within the resort so that you can try out the ski boot and, if you have probelms, you can take it back to the shop to adjust or to replace – so much easier than suffering with sore feet for a whole week and then being left with boots to sell on.