Buying Used Snowboard Gear — What's Safe Secondhand and What Isn't

Buying used is one of the smartest moves a beginner can make. Snowboard gear is expensive new, and a lot of secondhand kit was barely ridden before its owner upgraded or gave up. But some items are great used and others are a false economy. Here is where the line sits.

Safe to Buy Used

• Boards. A board with sound edges and a clean base has loads of life left. Run your finger along the edges for cracks and check the base for deep gouges that reach the core.
• Bindings. Durable and easy to inspect. Flex every strap, ratchet, and highback, and make sure no plastic is cracked.
• Outerwear. Jackets and pants are often nearly new. Check the zips and that the waterproof coating still beads water.

Buy New (or Be Very Careful)

• Boots. Used boots have packed out to someone else's feet, and the support breaks down with use. Fit is too important to compromise — buy these new if you possibly can.
• Helmets. A helmet that has taken one big impact is compromised even if it looks fine. Unless you fully trust the seller's history, buy new.
• Wrist guards and protection. These do their job once. Buy fresh.

Inspecting Before You Pay

1. Examine edges and base in good light.
2. Flex everything that should flex; nothing should crack or feel loose.
3. Ask why it is being sold and how many days it has seen.

Score a good used board and bindings, then plan their debut on Bonvo.Ski's 3D maps — pick a forgiving resort with long beginner runs to put your bargain setup through its paces.