Re: snowboarding equipment
Sorry folks, I am going to say stay away from internet sales for stuff like ski/snowboard equipment. If you do not know what you are looking at, you could end up with stuff that does not work for you. What happens if you end up with a binding that is to weak for your sons weight. Going down the hill the binding breaks, what is his knee worth to you?
I do not think much more of most big box stores, but you will be getting equipment that will work for its intended job.
If you are looking for a bargin, try your local ski/snowboard shop. Often they will have one of three routes to go.
1. A seasonal rental, new or nearly new equipment, that at the end of the season you return. You know up front the cost, and what you have next year (Nothing!)
2. Buy used equipment, they often have trade-in equipment. Next year what does not fit, can be traded in again. (Expect to get 25% of what you paid, for trade-in)
3. Buy New, trade in next year. Some shops will give you a set price that they will give you next year for trade in. normally closer to 50% of what you paid, they know it is only one season old. They make thier money back on reselling it used and on your next purchase.
Don't worry he will stop growing pretty soon. My daughter is 15, this is her third year on this set of skis, but new boots every year! The year I bought these skis, a week later she said, oh I want to snowboard, now she has both. (Yes spoiled, but she earns it! 15 and has had the same part time job for two years)