Winter sports are becoming increasingly expensive, with a large chunk of people's budget going to warm ski jackets, winter gloves and goggles, especially for those with young children who quickly outgrow clothing. But all these items can now be rented.
After offering rental options for sports equipment, including skis and snowboards, sports retailer Decathlon has also started renting out skiwear for adults and children, making it the first major chain in Belgium to do so.
"For us, renting skiwear is a logical next step in our rental offer, which includes bikes and bike accessories in addition to skis. These days, we notice an increasing demand for renting both equipment and clothing due to the increasing longevity," said Quentin Goffart, rental manager at Decathlon.
The organisation's calculations showed that it can be up to four times cheaper to rent ski equipment and clothing instead of buying completely new equipment. "Especially for those who only go on ski holidays once a year, have booked a winter weekend in the Ardennes or have young children who grow out of their ski clothes every year," Goffart added.
Aside from the cost-benefit, renting winter clothing is also better for the climate by extending the serviceable lifespan of items that, due to their durable and waterproof construction, do not biodegrade.
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Reservations for all winter sports equipment can be made online three days before requiring the items. These can then be tried on and collected at the 35 Decathlon shops across Belgium. The sports chain has more than 1,400 ski trousers, jackets, boots, suits and gloves for both adults and children of all ages in stock.
The minimum rental period is five days and there is no limit on the total rental time, while prices range from €2 per day for skiwear for kids to €3 per day for ski jackets and trousers for adults. After each rental period, the clothes and accessories are thoroughly washed and cleaned with ozone treatment, a technique that also has a disinfecting effect.
