How to Find Deals on Snowboards

1). Get a job. One of the easiest, most dependable ways to get a great deal on a new snowboard is to get a job at a snowboard shop or with another snowboard industry employer. All shops generally offer some employee discount, and you may even get access to proforms. Manufacturers want shop employees riding their boards so that they can recommend them to customers, so proforms offer steep discount--up to 20 percent below wholesale, which would cut a $700 setup to just $280. Besides snowboard shops, working for a snowboard company directly or for a ski resort are good choices.
2). Time your buy. If you already have a job or just don't want a job in the snowboard industry, you can still find great deals but you'll have to shop at the right times. Spring, immediately following the snowboard season, is the best time to find deals. Shops are looking to clear inventory to make room for summer merchandise and generally hold major sales, as much as 50 percent off of retail.
3). Look for demos. Spring is also a great time to find boards that were demoed out during the season. Since these boards are used, they'll be cheaper and you'll also have more bargaining room, since the shop's already made some money off of them. Just be sure to check the condition of the board.
4). Look for events and sales. If you've missed the spring clear-out, don't fear. Many shops hold sidewalk and tent sales in the summer to clear out last season's gear. If the shop's a chain, these sales may even include a broad selection of boards from its various locations. You'll find great deals at these sales.
5). Shop online. If you don't have a local shop, or it doesn't have the deal or equipment you need, check online. If you're looking for a specific board use Google or another search engine--you'll get a list of various retailers and prices at the top of your search. Since online retailers have less overhead costs, they often offer better prices than local shops.Timing is still important when shopping online, although you have a bit more flexibility. Sites such as Sierra Snowboard, The House and Dogfunk generally drop prices as the season progresses (see Resources below). You can begin to find some of the best deals in mid-February to the end of the season. The longer you wait, the more prices drop, but be aware that your board may sell out. Pay attention to how many boards are left--this information is often listed on the site. Try to buy at the right time, because you don't want your board to sell out and you don't want to see it at a lower price a week later.
6). Buy used. If you're not concerned with having the latest, brand-new board you can find some of the cheapest boards by buying used. Check online auction sites like eBay, and look through your local classifieds. Check local shops, too, for any older demo or rental boards that they may be selling.