The popularity of sport is now absolutely massive. There is a wider variety sports, more coverage, more competitors and a lot more money in the industry. Sadly, that money doesn’t really filter down to the grass roots level and so we often have to buy our own equipment and accessories if we want to practice or even compete. Couple this with the fact that as equipment becomes more technically advanced, prices are going up as well and sometimes the best gear seems out of reach. However, if you can consider buying used gear, rather than always new, there are plenty of bargains to be had.
A second hand mountain bike is most certainly one of those items that you can get a really good deal on. There are thousands of bikes on the market because the sport is so popular and this works to drive the price of second hand ones down. Additionally this means that should you need a replacement component, there are usually lots around. Steer clear of cheap brands as they won’t last but the better bike names make bikes to last, and they are more often than not as rid able as the day they were bought.
If you’re into surfing then getting a number of second hand surfboards is a must. You will more than likely find some of top deals in the areas close to the sea, its a simple matter of supply and demand, and shops frequently have a good range for sale also. There are many different surfing conditions and most wave junkies carry a selection of different surfboards at all time, buying second hand boards to complete their ‘quiver’. Also, you can test sections of water that you wouldn’t normally do with a new boards for fearing of doing any damage to it. Avoid heavily water-damaged board or ones that have large cracks or puncture marks.
Second hand kayaks definitely are a more sturdy beast altogether. You can frequently pick up high quality second hand ones as they really are not that easy to do any lasting damage to. Ask for some details of the boats previous usage and do not buy one if you see a hole, however tiny. Holes weaken the hull and even if repaired are not worth the risk