2) Shows are usually held through out the USA in many cities. Many have a "Ski Sale" or "Ski Swap" where you’ll find last years equipment at great prices. Many shows have used equipment and a place for you to sell your old equipment. This could be a great place to save money. Arrive early for your best selection. 

A few bad reasons about Show Sales are you must know “exactly” what you want as far as manufacture, model and size. Many times there is no one to help you with your selection or answer your questions. If there is someone to help, many times they are volunteers and not trained to size or fit equipment. Also, you won't get a warranty because you didn’t purchase from an authorized dealer. The Show is a nice place to shop when you are shopping for a bargain, just be cautious.

3) The Internet has become a great place to purchase about anything. It’s convenient, informative and can save you time and money. But be cautious. Make sure the store is an authorized dealer so you have a warranty with your purchase. Alpine Accessories is an authorized dealer for every product we offer on-line.

If you do purchase ski bindings on-line, never attempt to install or adjust bindings yourself! The main reason, your safety. Ski shops invest thousands of dollars in specialized tools and equipment that is needed to install and adjust bindings properly. We send our technicians to training classes so they can get certified to install and adjust bindings. If you are going to purchase on-line, make sure you have a certified ski shop work on your bindings.

4) Sports Stores vary in looks and size throughout the U.S.A. but the idea remains the same, offer as many sports as possible in one place. Sounds great but let's take a closer look. The big disadvantage to these stores is the selection is usually limited. Sport stores concentrate their selection of gear towards the beginner to intermediate. Products many times are not listed on the manufactures web sites so you don't know what you are purchasing. They also have a lack of trained sales people and many times no in-store service department.

5) Specialty Ski / Snowboard Shop have many advantages and is usually your best choice. A specialty shop is one that sells and services only ski and snowboard products in the winter. They offer a full selection of gear from the beginner to experts and from young to old. They offer rentals, service, have a in-store repair shop and technically trained sales people. This usually results in proper gear selection which can save you money and help you enjoy skiing and snowboarding more. Many times, the store employees are skiers and snowboarders themselves and have experienced the same things you do on the slopes. Many of these shops specialize in custom boot fitting which can improve your experience.

If it comes down to price and you see it for less somewhere else, just ask them to match the price. Many shops have no problem matching a price to keep a customer.