Gear Up for Winter Sports

It happens to most of us, right about the time winter rolls in.

Things seem dull (your skate blades), and nothing fits properly anymore (their skis and ski boots). For families who ski, board, or skate, ‘tis definitely the season for new stuff.

If your family is just starting out in snow sports, or getting back into it after years away, chill out. You don’t have to be exceptionally sharp to find great spots for getting skates and skis ready, or to pick up new (to you) blades or boards. Here’s a crash course on where to get it all done in the city.

Half-back Help
If you are a novice at purchasing ski or snowboard equipment, it’s good to know that many of the big ski stores in the city, including The Sign of the Skier, Sporting Life and Skiis & Biikes, offer ‘half-back’ programs for junior skiers. Purchase a new pair of skis and boots from the store, and if you bring them back in early spring (because the kids have grown out of them), you’ll receive a 50% credit towards new equipment for next season—just remember to keep the receipt for when you go back to make that fall/winter purchase.

Demo Deals and More
Most ski stores have demo models that you can try out, with an option to buy at the demo price if you decide you like them. Although the large annual ski swaps are usually held in October, used equipment can still be found in the bigger ski equipment stores, as well as used retail spots like Play It Again Sports and Sports Swap (which also offer half-back programs). Some retail sites like Mountain Equipment Co-op swap through their online community, and you can find gear at good prices if you want to buy.

Stay Sharp
The battle of the blades begins with where to buy them. Get a great fit (and don’t forget the sharpening too) at Newson’s in the West End, and Circle Shoes & Skate Exchange on Yonge Street, both of which offer a skate exchange program. Toronto Hockey Repair sells new and used skating equipment for hockey and figure skating; Spokes and Sports sells both figure skating and hockey skates and equipment; Dukes Source for Sports is a city favourite for sharpening; and Just Hockey’s wares are self-explanatory. If you don’t mind the rink runaround, most skating rinks in the city offer sharpening (and sometimes used skates and equipment for sale), but be sure to call the skate shop to ensure they are open. Unsharpened blades can put a family weekend skate on ice.

Ensuring our kids are well equipped for life can be challenging. Equipping them for sports is much easier. Just don’t forget helmets—and a bathroom break—before heading out. Tested by Alison R., Toronto