So you're heading to the snow and facing that age-old question about whether you should buy or rent your gear. It's a dilemma that hits everyone from first-timers to seasoned shredders, and we get it. There's no one-size-fits-all answer.
At Rhythm Snowsports, we've been helping snow frothers make this call since 1985, and we've learned that the right choice comes down to your unique snow journey. Whether planning your first-ever snow trip or a weekend warrior thinking about investing, we're here to help you figure out what makes sense for your situation.
Before we dive in, we've got a little insider tip. Our Demo program lets you try before you buy, and you'll get up to 2 days of rental credit off your purchase if you end up falling in love with the gear. It's the best of both worlds!
Rent vs Buy: The Quick Comparison
| Factor | Renting | Buying |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Lower (from $90 for 2 days) | Higher ($800-$1500+ for full setup) |
| Flexibility | Try different gear, easy upgrades | Same consistent feel every time |
| Maintenance | We handle it all | You'll need to maintain (we offer free waxes) |
| Storage | No worries | Need space at home |
| Queues | Booking & pickup time | Pack at home and go |
| Kids | Perfect as they grow | Consider buying only when growth slows or doing multiple trips each season |
| Best For | Beginners, occasional trips, growing kids | Regular riders, overseas travellers, gear geeks |
When Renting Makes Perfect Sense
If you're nodding along to any of these, hiring might be your go:
You're New to the Snow Life
Let's be real, snow sports have a learning curve, and you mightn't know if you'll be frothing for more after your first go. Renting lets you dip your toes (or boots) in without the commitment.
You Don't Hit the Snow Often
If you're making one trip a year or less, the math usually favours renting. Our multi-day rates bring the daily cost down to just a few extra dollars per day.
You Want to Try Different Styles
Not all boards and skis feel the same on different terrain. Our Smiggins store lets you swap gear as often as you like during your trip, perfect for finding your style or adapting to changing conditions.
You're Travelling Light
No roof racks? Packed car full of people? Renting means no logistics headaches getting bulky gear to the mountain.
You've Got Growing Groms (Who Visit Occasionally)
If you're only hitting the snow once or twice a year with the kids, renting is your best mate. Kids outgrow everything at warp speed, and we see parents buy expensive gear only to find their little one's grown two sizes by next season. Save yourself the heartache and rent while they're still shooting up, especially boots. Just make sure they have quality socks, thermals, and gloves - comfort can make the difference between "best day ever" and "I hate skiing."
When Buying Becomes Worth It
Ready to take the plunge? Owning gear makes sense when:
You're a Regular on the Mountain
Got a season pass or hitting the snow more than 10-14 days a year? The investment starts making financial sense, especially with our Demo-to-Buy program where you can get up to 2 days of rental credit off your purchase.
You Want That Perfect Fit
There's something special about gear that's truly yours, dialled in to your exact preferences, flex, and style. For many of our customers, that consistent feel is worth the investment.
You're Over the Rental Queues
We work hard to make our rental process smooth, but nothing beats the freedom of grabbing your gear and heading straight to the lifts.
You Travel to Snowy Destinations
Heading to Japan, New Zealand, or Europe for powder? Having your own familiar setup can make those dream trips even dreamier (and save you rental costs overseas).
You Know Exactly What You Like
If you've tried enough gear to know precisely what shape, flex, and features work for your style, owning means you get that perfect ride every time.
You Want Your Groms to Fall in Love with Snow
Planning multiple trips a year and really want the kids to get into it? Investing in their own gear can be a game-changer. Properly fitted equipment that's comfortable and performs well means they'll have a much better time and progress faster. Having gear that's right for them is seriously confidence-inspiring, and sometimes that investment is what turns a hesitant beginner into a snow-obsessed grom.
Cost Comparison: Let's Talk Numbers
Let's break down the real costs of renting vs buying:
Rental Costs
- Basic ski/board rental: from $90 for 2 days
- Complete package with clothing: Add $60 for 2 days
- Multi-day discounts bring the daily rate down significantly
Pro tip: Pre-book online with Rhythm Snowsports and save a minimum 10% on your rental and time when you come into the store
Purchase Costs
- Ex-demo gear: from $350 (great value if you don't mind some cosmetic wear; check out our ex-rental skis)
- New entry-level setup: from $800-1000 (board/skis, bindings, boots)
- Premium setup: $1200+
- Don't forget maintenance: waxing, edge tuning, binding checks
Pro tip: Join our FREE Rhythm Membership and get 10% off all retail purchases plus early access to our seasonal sales and promotions
The Break-Even Point
For most casual riders, the math favours buying after about 10-14 days of snow time. But remember, this varies based on factors like
- How often you ride
- Whether you travel internationally to ski/board
- If you're still developing your riding style
What to Rent vs What to Buy
Not everything falls into the same category when it comes to the rent-or-buy decision.
Always Buy These (For Hygiene and Comfort)
- Socks: Good snow socks are a game-changer and reasonably priced
- Gloves/Mittens: Personal items that make a huge difference to comfort
- Goggles: These sit on your face all day; you want your own
- Thermals/Base Layers: These should fit like a second skin and provide proper temperature regulation
Consider Renting First
- Skis & Snowboards: Try different styles before committing
- Boots: Though if you're skiing regularly, boots are often the first purchase we recommend
- Outerwear (Jacket & Pants): Our rental gear is washed, dried, and sanitised after every use
Great First Purchases
- Helmet: Safety first, and having your own means a perfect fit every time
- Mid-layers: Versatile for snow and everyday winter use
- Boots: If you're getting serious, well-fitted boots are a game-changer
Pro Tip: Allow about 1-2 hours in the store for a proper boot fitting session - it's worth every minute to find your perfect pair!
Try Before You Buy: Our Demo Program
Not sure what you want? Our Demo program is your new best mate:
How It Works
- Rent brand new demo-quality skis or boards from our shop
- Test different styles to find your perfect match
- When you buy, we'll credit up to 2 days of rental fees toward your purchase of that snowboard or ski
Demo Days on the Mountain
Keep an eye out for our free demo days at Perisher (our next one is 21-22 July, 2025). It's the ultimate way to test the latest gear without spending a cent.
Rhythm Smiggins Advantage
Our Smiggins store offers unlimited swaps during your rental period. Conditions changing? Swap to something more suitable. Want to try different brands? No worries.
Rhythm Membership: Perks for Everyone
Whether you're renting or buying, our FREE Rhythm Membership is a no-brainer:
- 10% off all rentals
- 10% off full-priced retail goods
- Early access to sales and promotions
- All receipts are kept on file for you.
All you need to do is sign up for our newsletter & SMS. There's no downside!
The Bottom Line
Here's the honest truth: There's no wrong answer. Both renting and buying have their place in every snow lover's journey.
Many of our most dedicated customers started by renting, then bought boots first, then moved to a full setup once they knew exactly what they wanted. Others still rent skis but own their boots for that perfect fit.
The best approach? Come chat with our team. We're not just retail staff. We're riders who live and breathe this stuff, and we'll help you make the right call for your unique situation.
Whether you're renting or buying, our goal is simple: We want you to have a bloody good time on the mountain!
Ready to sort your gear? Book your rentals online or check out our latest gear.
Posted by Naomi Nevin on
