Your closets are filling up with small jackets and old skis or snowboards from last season. Spokane’s annual Ski Swap is a good way to get rid of old gear or pick up inexpensive gear for the new season.
The Ski Swap, held on October 25 through the 27 at the Spokane Fair and Expo Center, is hosted by the Mount Spokane Ski Patrol. The Ski Patrol is a non-profit organization and one of the oldest patrols in the country. Everyone on staff is a volunteer. The Ski Swap funds the patrol’s medical equipment, first aid supplies, and the required 200 hours of training.
The very first Ski Swap was out of the back of a pickup truck between three people. With advertising and the ski and snowboard-crazed residents in surrounding areas, the Ski Swap took off. Now there are over 200 volunteers.
“It’s the perfect kick off to ski season,” said Mount Spokane Ski Patrol Director, Kevin Voss.
Not only does the history make the Ski Swap one of a kind, but also the variety.
“We have the widest range of items available,” said Voss. “A pair of skis can range anywhere from $15 to $1000 depending on the condition and name brand. Used and new items are sold here for any member of the family.”
Ski Swap is also one of the few places that you can go to and sell your used equipment. All equipment must pass the current safety standards, and broken items will not be accepted.
The Mount Spokane Ski Patrol also hosts a VIP Pre-Swap Party on October 25 from 8-11p.m. Tickets to this are $50 and include pre-swap shopping, beer, wine and a smaller crowd which gives buyers a better chance at scoring deals before they’ve been picked over.
Ski Swap tickets can be ordered online for $12, and buyers can also get early entrance along with a $10 voucher to Liftopia and a FREE Thursday Mt.Spokane lift ticket. Or you can pay $5 at the door and stand outside in the line.
New to The Swap this year is a Learn To Ski Ramp where kids can test out skis or learn to ski for no charge.
“Kids will absolutely love it!” said Ski Swap Coordinator, Katie Vantine. This is a new attraction at the Ski Swap. Season passes to Mt. Spokane will also be available for purchase.
“The Ski Swap has definitely increased the tickets sold at Mt. Spokane,” said Vantine. “Do not miss out on this opportunity to be involved in Spokane’s history as well as a great bargain!”