A common question holidaygoers in Canada ask is, “Should I buy ski gear in Vancouver or Whistler?”. Where is more cost-effective and worth your time? Should you buy it before heading up the mountain or just get it whilst you’re there?
Whilst I was living and working in Whistler for the winter season, I was able to figure out where my money was best spent and if I should save it for the mountain or wait until I was in the City!
In this article, I debate whether you should be spending your money in Vancouver or Whistler when buying ski or snowboard gear.
So let’s jump in!
Table of Contents
Is Ski Gear Expensive In Whistler
Short answer, yes. You’re definitely paying for convenience and location.
Whistler Retail definitely has a mountain tax. You will find yourself paying an increased price for ski gear and clothing.
Whistler knows that if you’re buying clothing and gear on the mountain, then often it’s because you broke, forgot, or lost something, and that you have little choice but to buy their stuff.
As you’ll find out reading my working and living in Whistler guide, life in the mountains in generally pretty expensive and you definitely need to try an save where you can.
However, it’s not all doom and gloom! There are benefits of buying ski gear in Whistler and there are also a few hidden bargain stores!
How To Shop Cheaper In Whistler
Whistler Blackcomb Outlet Store
This small shop located in the Village Square has awesome discounted prices on name-brand ski and snowboard gear plus clothing and accessories!
Everything they sell in store is discounted! I was able to buy a brand new pair of Smith goggles for %50 off!
They keep the store stocked throughout the season but if you see something you like, BUY IT! It won’t stick around for long!
Re-Use-It Centre
The Whistler Re-Use-It Centre is a charity donation shop located just outside the village. 5-minute drive, 30-minute walk or you can catch a 13-minute shuttle bus.
This shop is great for picking up the odd bits of gear, especially if you don’t want to spend money on brand new stuff.
They often have quality gear and clothing that has been donated by other people.
It’s definitely worth checking out!
End Of Season Sales
As the winter ski season comes to an end, stores are desperate to get rid of their winter stock.
At the end-of-season sales, you can grab name-brand gear and clothing for a fraction of the price!
Epic Pass Holders
If you have an Epic Pass, then you’re entitled to discounts in certain retail stores in Whistler and Blackcomb.
These discounts can change every year, so keep your eye on any updates.
Benefits Of Shopping In Whistler
Unless you find crazy good discounts or deals in Whistler, then I would leave your clothes shopping in Vancouver.
However, if you are looking to buy ski or snowboard gear, then I’d suggest having a look in Whistler.
In Whistler, you are able to demo skis and snowboards. This is great if you know you want to buy new gear but are just not sure which is best for you.
You are able to try multiple different options covered under the initial cost.
Whistler is home to expert boot fitters, who dedicate their winter season to finding customers the best fitting boots. If you have any issues with them, you can go straight back to the boot fitter and they will re-adjust them for you, free of charge!
This is a great benefit of buying boots in Whistler instead of Vancouver!
Definitely Cheaper In Vancouver
Without a doubt, it is cheaper to buy ski gear in Vancouver. You won’t be hit with a location price tag but you will have to lug all your new ski gear up the mountain.
I personally think it’s worth organising your trip to shop in Vancouver to save yourself a couple hundred bucks!
I, very unwisely, bought a Volcom ski jacket in Whistler for around $380 CAD. A couple of weeks later I visited Vancouver and saw the same jacket being sold for around $260 CAD! Ouch! Wish I had waited!
Vancouver prices stay lower because of the endless amount of ski stores in the city! There’s way to much competition for stores to sell gear at ridiculously inflated prices.
Vancouver has a better variety of gear and clothing. You’ll find an array of stores that carry all the big-name brands and even some boutique shops with unique pieces. I love this about shopping in Vancouver because you won’t end up looking like the rest of the clones out on the mountain!
Where To Shop In Vancouver For Ski Gear
It’s super easy to find ski shops in Vancouver. Just search ‘ski shops’ in goolge maps and you’ll see the map light up with hundreds of options!
I found that along West 4th Avenue there is a great cluster of outdoor shops, including Patagonia and Arc’teryx, that have great ski and snowboard gear and clothing!
Consider Renting Ski Gear
If you’re only planning on hitting the slopes for a short trip, renting might be a smart option. Don’t fall into the trap of needing to buy new!
It can save you the hassle of lugging gear around and the cost of buying and maintaining it. Plus, you can always test different equipment and styles before committing.
If you’re an Epic Pass holder then you are entitled to 20% off rentals!
If you don’t have an Epic Pass, then Spicy Rentals has the best prices and a wide range of gear!
In the end, it all comes down to your budget, style, and how often you hit the slopes. Vancouver has affordability and variety on its side, while Whistler offers the convenience of being right there, plus potential end-of-season bargains and discounts for Epic Pass holders!
