When you plan your ski trip to Winter Park or Fraser, one of the first decisions you'll face is where to rent your equipment. Most skiers assume that resort rental shops are the easiest option — they're right there at the mountain, after all. But convenience doesn't always equal the best experience. Locally owned ski and snowboard shops, like XSports Ski Broker in Fraser, offer a different kind of value: personalized service, better pricing, and local expertise you won't find at large resort counters.
To help you decide what's best for your next trip, here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of locally owned ski shops versus resort rentals.
When you rent from a locally owned ski shop, you're working with people who live and ride in the area every day. At XSports Ski Broker, our team spends their winters on the same mountains you do. We know how conditions change throughout the season, what gear performs best at Winter Park Resort and Granby Ranch, and how to help you get the most out of your time on the snow.
Local shops take the time to understand your experience level and style of skiing or snowboarding. Instead of handing you generic gear, we tailor your setup for your needs — whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned rider chasing powder in the trees. That kind of hands-on attention is what turns an average day into a great one.
Locally owned ski and snowboard shops focus on maintaining high-quality equipment because our reputation depends on it. Every pair of skis and snowboards at XSports Ski Broker is tuned, waxed, and inspected before it leaves the shop. We use professional tuning equipment and ensure each setup performs perfectly in Colorado's mountain conditions.
Resort rental shops, on the other hand, often deal with higher rental volumes and limited time for maintenance. Gear might be used more heavily and tuned less frequently. When you rent locally, you can expect better performance and more reliable equipment — a huge advantage, especially for advanced riders.
Learn more about our tuning and repair services on our tune page.
Another big advantage of locally owned shops is cost. Resort rentals often come with convenience markups that can add up quickly, especially for families or multi-day trips. At XSports Ski Broker, we believe great gear shouldn't break your budget. Our pricing is transparent and competitive, with ski rental packages that include everything you need at one clear rate. All of our rental pricing is an 'out-the-door' price and includes taxes and fees.
We also offer flexible rental periods, multi-day discounts, and package options for both skis and snowboards. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a weeklong vacation, renting from a local shop helps you save money without sacrificing quality.
You can browse our current rental options on the rental page.
A common misconception is that resort rentals are always more convenient. While it's true they're right next to the lifts, that convenience often comes with long lines, crowded counters, and limited gear options.
Local shops like ours are just minutes away from Winter Park Resort and downtown Fraser, with easy parking and flexible pickup and drop-off times. You can even reserve your gear online and have it ready when you arrive.
When you rent from a locally owned shop, you're not just getting great gear — you're supporting the local economy. Our staff lives here, our dollars stay in the community, and we work hard to promote outdoor recreation and sustainability across Grand County.
At XSports Ski Broker, we take pride in being part of the Fraser and Winter Park community. Supporting local means supporting the people who make your favorite ski destinations thrive.
Visit our about page to learn more about our story and commitment to the community.
The biggest advantage of renting from a resort is immediate access. You can pick up your gear steps away from the lifts, which can be appealing for travelers who don't want to make additional stops.
For those taking lessons or staying at the resort's lodging, having the shop right there can save a few minutes in the morning. However, that convenience often disappears once you factor in longer lines, crowded fitting areas, and higher prices — especially during peak weekends and holidays.
Some resorts offer bundled deals that include rentals and lift tickets. While these can look appealing at first glance, it's important to compare prices. In many cases, the combined cost is still higher than renting locally and buying lift tickets separately. Plus, resort rentals usually offer less choice in gear quality and fit.
Resort shops tend to serve a high volume of guests quickly. You'll get basic gear and a quick setup, but not much personal advice about terrain, snow conditions, or local runs. If you're new to the area, that insider knowledge can be invaluable — something local shops are better equipped to provide.
At the end of the day, the best choice depends on your priorities. If you value personal service, expert tuning, and local connection, renting from a locally owned shop like XSports Ski Broker is the way to go. If ultimate convenience right at the lift is your top priority, a resort rental might make sense for a short stay.
But for most skiers and snowboarders visiting Winter Park, Fraser, or Granby Ranch, the local shop experience offers better value, friendlier service, and higher-quality gear.
XSports Ski Broker combines the best of both worlds — convenience, professionalism, and local expertise for over 40 years. We're minutes from Winter Park Resort, offer easy online booking, and provide personalized service that large resort counters can't match. Every piece of equipment is carefully tuned and fitted to ensure you have the best experience possible.
When you're planning your next trip, reserve your gear in advance on our rental page. We'll have everything ready for you so you can spend less time in line and more time on the mountain.
Whether you're skiing or snowboarding, we're here to make your Colorado adventure unforgettable.
