Signs it’s time for new ski kit
We all love to keep our favourite ski kit going, but when is it time to replace rather than repair? Amy Marwick has a chat with the experts to find out.
Are you holding onto kit that’s really holding you back? Or are you blissfully unaware that your current ski kit might be unsafe? Turns out that sweet spot where your gear is well-loved but not actively plotting your demise is narrower than I thought in some cases.
Here’s some advice (and excuses) from the experts about when it’s time to invest in new ski kit…
You’ve dropped your helmet off the après-ski bar one too many times
Helmets are designed to absorb and dissipate the force of an impact, and the materials used inside, like EPS foam or similar impact-absorbing liners, are often single-use in that sense. “Even if there’s no visible damage on the outside, the interior can be compromised, meaning the helmet might not perform as effectively as it should,” says Robbie Paton from Sweet Protection. So, if your helmet has endured a lot of knocks – or significant impact during one single fall – it could be time for a new one.
Your touring skis are zero fun on the descent
If your touring skis are brilliantly light for smashing the ascent, but you dread the downhill for fear of a head-rattling run, it’s probably time for a change. “New mid/light touring skis have come a long way in terms of shape, construction, and dampness,” says Sean. “You can now have a lightweight ski that’s still reasonably wide and super fun to ski on in all conditions on the way back down.”
The soles of your ski boots are well worn down
All those days when you took the high road (literally) and walked to the gondola rather than getting on a ram-packed bus might be taking its toll on your soles. “As the soles get worn down the connection with the binding becomes less secure, so you get less control and become more likely to pop out when you least expect it,” says Andy from K2. “You can replace the soles in some cases, but if your boot is an older model, it might just be time for some new ones.”
Your boots don’t have a BOA
These twisty dial things have migrated from snowboard boots to usurp our beloved ski buckles… Are they worth it, though? “BOA is the new industry standard – it’s not just a gimmick. You get a better wrap around your foot, ensuring a closer fit, and the kicker is there’s significantly less pressure on your foot, so you get more power through to the ski,” says Andy Collin from K2. Time for new boots? We think it might be…
For more in-depth advice on what to buy, get your hands on a copy of the Fall Line 2025 Gear Guide. Packed with expert reviews and the latest gear insights, it’s your go-to for selecting top ski essentials.
