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Step 1
Do your research to determine what brand or style of ski you are after. By equipping yourself with a little knowledge before you begin shopping for used skis, you will have a better idea of what kind of performance you can expect from them. You will also know what a good price should be for used skis by that particular maker.
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Step 2
Check with the local ski rental shop. Each season, ski manufacturers release new, slightly different ski models and rental shops turnover last year's rental models in exchange for the new ones. You may find a bargain, as well as some useful advice when you buy used skis from a professional ski shop.
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Step 3
Check for wear to the bindings and the waist of the ski. If you already have ski boots, check that they are compatible with the bindings or you'll be investing even more money in a new pair of boots.
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Step 4
Look for deals on used skis out of their typical environment. Park and powder skiing is more popular on the West Coast, making for less of a market for the more narrow skis like downhill and cross-country. The opposite is true on the East Coast.
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Step 5
Buy skis online through a reputable ski shop website. Armed with your knowledge of what brand and style as well as the relative popularity of certain kinds of skis throughout the country, you may be able to strike a bargain on used or even new versions of last year's models.
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Step 6
Check your local paper or community bulletin board for garage sale postings. Because ski equipment is more of a specialty item, sellers may capitalize on this and include more specific information in their listings.
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Step 7
Buy used skis on eBay (see Resources below). Read the seller's return policy carefully before you make a purchase. You should be able to return the skis if they are not as they were represented, don't work with your existing gear or are in less than ideal condition.
