Sunday, February 3, 2008

My gear is falling apart!


I just realized how poorly most of the ski/snowboarding clothing is made. I have had good luck with most of my gear over the years. However, I'm noticing that many of the other students are having issues with their stuff falling apart. From what I've seen, ski clothes only need to last for three weeks. Three weeks equals about three years for non-mountain residents. Although you have only three weeks of use, you mentally think the gear has lasted you three years.
Okay, let's list all of the items which need to be replaced.

1. Helmet (already replaced after cracking it during the first week).

2. Bindings - My 10 year old Burton Customs are finally beginning to fall appart. Right gas pedal is breaking off.

3. Jacket - My old North Face shell has a nice slice in the back from one of the guys running into me. Zipper seals are starting to show wear.

4. Pants - Old snowboarding pants are showing a ton of wear ont he knees and rear. More so recently due to the lessons where we are either sitting or on our knees.



Here is the bad news. As I already found out, bindings are about 50% more expensive here than in the states. High end waterproof jackets are >$850 and pants are >$500. Even the Euro brands such as Schoffel and Mammut are just as expensive. Unfortunately since no one plans to visit, I'm going to rely on high speed shipping so that Swiss customs doesn't tax me. I found a great North Face jacket that I tried on at the resort. The same jacket was found online in the US for ~$550. Normally I wouldn't pay that much for a jacket, but it seems like such a bargain with the prices here. Looks like the wear and tear of the season is going to put a good dent in the bank account.

All of the Brits and Scotts want me to buy things for them once I get back home!


It started to snow this weekend. We need it.

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