Ski rentals in Pennsylvania is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. There are enough options out there that it’s pretty rare for someone’s trip to get ruined by not being able to get their hands—or feet—on skis. On the other hand, if you don’t put at least some forethought into it, you’re unlikely to land on the best solution for you and your trip. Often, the best shopping strategy finds a middle ground. And this is a big part of what we do: Putting essential tips and information in front of you so you can make solid decisions about your ski plans with greater speed and confidence.

General Tips for Pennsylvania Ski Rentals

If you’re thinking that discounts are available for ski rentals by planning ahead and shopping online, you’re almost surely right. We’re generally able to find and offer 20% discounts through major rental companies in the state. But no matter how you obtain your skis, know that you’re going to pay more than you need to by taking whatever rentals are available at the resort when you show up. Planning ahead of time isn’t just a money-saver. Knowing where you’re going to get skis and how much they’re going to cost is one less thing to worry about during the trip itself.

You’re also not going to notice a difference in quality between ski shops and the resorts. More than likely, you’ll be able to find the same skis and a wide variety no matter where you pick them up. Moreover, you need to be quite serious and experienced to notice and care about the performance that comes with the most expensive skis. Personal preference and price point typically mean that skiers buy their own helmet, goggles, and other gear before making the plunge of buying their own skis.

Why Skis Cost more at Resorts

The luxury and convenience of not having to haul your skis to the resort is the big reason the resorts can charge more. For some, this does present a logistical challenge. In fact, before investing in skis themselves, you should think about a ski rack for your vehicle. After all, your own skis aren’t going to do you any good if you can’t get them to the mountain, or if they create an unsafe driving hazard. With a rack, you can start saving on your ski rentals this year while saving toward your own set of skis down the road.

Alternately, if you’re coming in from out of state, the best plans for ski rentals often depend on the rest of your travel plans. For example, many out-of-towners like to try out Blue Knob, a resort with arguably the most challenging skiing in the state. This resort is slightly closer to Harrisburg, but a lot of people fly into Pittsburgh anyway. Along with cheaper airfare, there are several ski rental options along the way from Pittsburgh. By renting an oversized vehicle, you can more than recoup the cost of the upgrade, while knowing that you have the horsepower and all-wheel drive to reliably get you to the resort.

Have another idea or question you want to run by us? Just write to us, and we’ll get back to you with an answer.

Local Pennsylvania Ski Rentals

Fox Chapel Ski and Board

Peak Ski and Snowboard

Cycle Sport and Ski

Thrifty Ski Rental

Ski Den Sports

Route 31

Kenmac Rentals & Sales

Idlewild Ski Shop

Bear Creek Ski Shack

County Line Ski Rental

Buckman’s Ski and Snowboard Shop

Wick’s Ski & Sport

Salters Ski and Winter Sports

The Ski Bum

Outfitters Ski Shop