Ski Rental and Snowboard Rentals - Gearhouse 2026
Ski rental gives you everything you need for a day on the mountain—skis, boots, bindings, poles—without buying gear you might use twice a year. For Seattle skiers heading to Snoqualmie or Stevens Pass, renting means skipping the storage problem and the upfront cost while still riding quality equipment.
This guide covers what's included in rental packages, how pricing works across daily to seasonal options, and how to pick the right setup for resort days, cross-country trails, or backcountry touring.
What's Included in Ski and Snowboard Rental Packages
Ski rental prices typically fall between $60 and $90 per day for a standard adult package, though the exact cost depends on gear quality, how long you're renting, and where you're picking up. A rental package bundles everything you need for a day on the mountain—skis, boots, bindings, and usually poles—so you're not hunting down individual pieces or wondering what fits with what.
If you've never rented before, packages simplify the whole thing. You pick your activity, choose your dates, and the kit shows up ready to go. No compatibility questions, no guessing games.
Full Alpine Resort Ski Kit
This is the standard setup for lift-accessed skiing at places like Stevens Pass or Snoqualmie. Here's what's included:
- Skis: Sized to your height and ability
- Bindings: Already mounted and adjusted to your boot size and weight
- Boots: Fitted to your foot for comfort and control
- Optional poles and helmet: Available to add on
Snowboard Gear Rental with Boots and Bindings
The snowboard package covers the essentials: board, bindings, and boots. Bindings get set to your preferred stance—regular or goofy—so you can focus on riding rather than adjusting hardware. Helmets are available as an add-on if you want one.
Cross-Country Nordic Ski Kit
Cross-country skiing works differently than downhill. You're gliding across flat or rolling terrain instead of descending steep slopes, and the gear reflects that—lighter skis, flexible boots, and a focus on endurance. The Nordic kit includes classic XC skis, boots, bindings, and poles.
Backcountry Ski Touring Equipment
Backcountry touring means skiing outside resort boundaries. You earn your turns by hiking uphill, then ski down through ungroomed terrain. The setup includes touring skis with AT (alpine touring) bindings, touring boots, climbing skins for uphill grip, and optional poles. This gear works best for experienced skiers who are comfortable navigating variable snow and terrain.
Splitboard Rentals for Backcountry Snowboarding
A splitboard is a snowboard that separates into two ski-like pieces for climbing uphill, then reconnects for the descent. The rental includes the board, bindings, climbing skins, folding poles, and optional crampons for icy conditions.
Premium Snowshoe Kit
For winter hiking without the learning curve of skiing, snowshoes offer a straightforward way to explore snowy trails. The kit includes snowshoes and poles. Microspikes are also available for icier conditions.
Avalanche Safety Gear and Airbag Packs
Backcountry travel calls for avalanche safety equipment—this isn't something to skip. An avalanche rescue kit includes a beacon (for locating buried skiers), shovel, and probe. Airbag packs add another layer of protection by helping you stay near the surface during a slide.
Questions about safety gear or availability? Text us at 206-466-0575.
Ski and Snowboard Rental Pricing by Day, Week, or Season
Rental pricing depends on what you're renting and how long you're keeping it. Here's how different rental periods typically work:
Rental PeriodBest ForDailyDay trips, first-time skiingWeekendQuick getaways to nearby resortsWeek-LongSki vacations and multi-day tripsSeason-LongFrequent skiers who want gear all winterDaily and Weekend Ski Rentals
Daily rentals work well if you're testing the waters or visiting town for a quick trip. Select your dates online to see current pricing and availability—no phone tag required.
Week-Long Ski and Snowboard Rentals
Planning a ski vacation? Week-long rentals give you flexibility for extended trips without returning gear mid-adventure.
Season-Long Ski Rentals in Seattle
For frequent skiers, season rentals often make the most sense. The gear stays with you all winter—no repeated pickups or returns between trips.
Browse seasonal rental options
Why Rent Ski Gear Instead of Buying
You might be weighing whether renting makes sense compared to buying your own equipment. Here's where renting often wins:
- Try before you commit: Renting lets you test different gear and ski styles before spending hundreds on equipment you might outgrow
- No storage problems: Ideal if you live in an apartment without garage space for skis, boots, and poles
- Current equipment: Rental fleets get updated regularly, so you're not stuck with outdated gear
- Skip maintenance: No tuning, waxing, or binding adjustments to deal with
- Room to progress: Upgrade to different gear as your skills improve without selling old equipment
For people who rent often, Gearhouse membership unlocks deeper discounts—sometimes bringing rental costs close to what you'd spend on annual maintenance for owned gear.
Types of Ski and Snowboard Rentals for Every Skill Level
Different types of skiing and snowboarding call for different equipment. Here's how to match your rental to your plans.
Resort and Downhill Ski Rentals for Beginners to Experts
This is what most people picture when they think of skiing: chairlifts, groomed runs, ski lodges. Resort gear is built for lift-accessed terrain and works for everyone from first-timers to advanced skiers carving black diamonds.
Snowboard Rentals for All Mountain Riding
All-mountain snowboarding covers the full range of resort terrain—groomers, powder stashes, and everything in between. The boards we rent handle varied conditions, whether you're learning to link turns or exploring the whole mountain.
Cross-Country and Nordic Ski Rentals
Nordic skiing splits into two styles: classic (parallel tracks, like walking on skis) and skate skiing (a side-to-side motion, more athletic). Both are popular on local trails and at Snoqualmie area Nordic centers. Great for fitness-focused skiing without the lift ticket cost.
Backcountry Touring Ski and Splitboard Rentals
Backcountry gear is for experienced skiers and riders seeking untracked terrain outside resort boundaries. This type of skiing calls for avalanche safety knowledge—if you're new to touring, Gearhouse offers Intro to Backcountry clinics to help you learn the skills safely.
Avalanche Rescue Kit and Safety Gear Rentals
Never tour without a beacon, shovel, and probe. These are essential companions to any backcountry rental, not optional extras. Airbag packs provide additional protection for those venturing into avalanche terrain.
Text 206-466-0575 for availability on safety gear.
How Ski Rental Works at Gearhouse
New to renting? Here's the process from start to finish.
1. Browse Gear and Select Your Rental Period
Visit rental.joingearhouse.com, choose your activity (resort skiing, snowboarding, backcountry), and select your dates. Pricing and availability show up right away.
2. Reserve Online or Text Us
Book directly through the site. Looking for something specific or something that's showing unavailable? Text us at 206-466-0575 and we'll help you find what you're after.
3. Pick Up at Gearhouse Coffee Shop in Capitol Hill
Our Capitol Hill location is your pickup and dropoff spot. Staff will walk you through the gear, make sure everything fits, and answer questions before you head out.
4. Hit the Slopes
Gear is ready, you're set. Snoqualmie Pass is about an hour from Seattle; Stevens Pass is roughly 90 minutes.
5. Return Your Gear After Your Trip
Drop off at the same location. No cleaning required—just bring it back.
Why Rent from Gearhouse in Seattle
Expert Fitting and Personalized Gear Advice
Staff takes time to make sure boots fit properly, bindings are adjusted correctly, and you understand your equipment. The goal is confidence before you leave—not just a quick transaction.
Premium Quality Rental Equipment
Well-maintained, current-season gear. Not the beat-up equipment you might find at discount rental shops.
Flexible Rental Periods for Your Schedule
Select exact dates that work for you. No rigid rental windows forcing you into timeframes that don't match your trip.
Community Support and Learning Opportunities
Beyond rentals, you'll find classes, clinics, group ski outings, and a community of fellow adventurers. Whether you're learning to ski or leveling up your backcountry skills, there's a path forward here.
Ski Rental Pickup Location in Seattle Capitol Hill
Gearhouse Coffee Shop in Capitol Hill is home to the gear library, social club, and all rental pickups and dropoffs. It's near the Capitol Hill Light Rail Station—easy to reach whether you're coming from downtown or elsewhere in the city.
The space doubles as a community hub: grab a coffee, ask questions about your upcoming trip, or just hang out before heading to the mountains.
Save More with Gearhouse Membership
Frequent renters often find membership pays for itself quickly. Here's how the tiers break down:
Campfire Club for Community and Discounts
Best for people who already own gear but want community access, events, and cafe perks. Discounts on rentals when you do need equipment. $39/month, no minimum commitment.
Trail Club for Deep Gear Discounts
Significant rental discounts on the full gear library. Ideal if you rent frequently but don't need unlimited access. $95/month, 4-month minimum.
Summit Club for Unlimited Gear Access
All-access to the gear library plus guided trips, clinics, and shuttle transportation to mountains. Best value for highly active members. $195/month, 4-month minimum.
Gear Up for Good Times on the Mountain
Gearhouse exists to make getting outside easier—without the gear ownership barrier, without the intimidation, without the guesswork. Browse rentals, join membership, or text us at 206-466-0575 with questions.
Stop by the coffee shop in Capitol Hill. We're here to help you gear up for good times.
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FAQs about Ski and Snowboard Rentals
How much do ski rentals normally cost?
Ski rental pricing varies by gear type, rental duration, and location. Standard adult packages typically fall between $30 and $60 per day. Visit our rental catalog to view current pricing for daily, weekly, or seasonal rentals.
Is it cheaper to buy skis or rent them?
Renting is typically more affordable for occasional skiers, beginners still learning, or anyone who wants to avoid storage and maintenance costs. The break-even point usually comes after 15-20 ski days per season with owned equipment.
How can I get cheap ski rentals?
Gearhouse membership offers discounted rates on all rentals. Summit Club members receive unlimited gear access as part of their membership, which brings per-trip costs down significantly for frequent skiers.
What happens if I damage rental ski equipment?
Normal wear from skiing is expected—scratched bases and minor cosmetic wear are part of the deal. Contact us if significant damage occurs so we can assess and figure out next steps together.
Can I rent backcountry or touring ski gear in Seattle?
Yes—Gearhouse offers backcountry touring skis, splitboards, and avalanche safety equipment. We also run clinics to help you learn backcountry skills safely before venturing into avalanche terrain.
Do I need a reservation or can I walk in for ski rentals?
Reservations are recommended to guarantee availability, especially during peak weekends. You can also text us at 206-466-0575 to check same-day availability.