How to buy cheap climbing gear. Rock climbers are always looking for a good deal and how to buy cheap gear. This is because most climbers are not that well-to-do. Rock climbing is not exactly golf, there aren’t many CEOs or GMs in our ranks. So most of us climbers are cheap and if there is a way to buy gear at below retail price say no more, sign us up.
How to buy cheap climbing gear
Below are 3 ways for climbers to buy climbing gear at a reasonable price.
Option 1 – Online e-commerce websites
Pros
Shopping online is great. You can search and buy cheap climbing gear from any brands you like without having to leave your home or talk to anyone. Pay online and wait for your orders to arrive at your door. Without the need for physical stores, prices from online stores are hard to beat.
Cons
Like all e-commerce websites, the price you see is not the price you’ll pay. There are issues when it comes to making purchases online. Some of the main problems of shopping online are:
Additional charges or hidden costs
You did your homework and found that the price online is a great deal. You click and just before you enter your credit card number you find that the amount is different. The additional charges and hidden costs such as handling fees and delivery charges can wipe out the savings you thought you got when making the online purchase.
Horrible exchange rates
Most mega online stores are based overseas. That means you have to factor in the exchange rates especially when the bank skims a bit off the top on the rates. When your credit card bill arrives you’ll find that you had paid more than you expected.
Quality issues
After waiting for days or weeks for your orders. It finally arrived, you open the parcel and you find that the item is damaged. You look at the deliveryman, he looks at you and he’ll tell you he’s just the delivery man, you’ll have to take it up with the company. This will result in, at least 10 to 20 email exchanges with different customer service personnel and having to explain the issue over and over again.
Unclear return and warranty policies
First of all, where the F is the return and warranty policy? Even if you found it, it’ll take you hours to decode every single word and sentence to understand the hidden meanings behind each clause. So unless you are a lawyer, if not…… enjoy.
Option 2 – Local Retail Shops
Pro
You get to see, feel, and touch the products. You get to inspect your item to make sure it’s in excellent condition before paying for it. The best thing about buying from a retail shop is if you have a problem you can go back to the store and there is an actual person to complain to.
Con
Depending on which country you are in. Buying retail can be very expensive.
Option 3 – Buy retail in countries where climbing gear is cheap
Pro
Buy retail at a lower price. The countries where climbing gear is cheaper are France, Italy, Hong Kong, Canada, and the US.
Con
You can only do this when you’re travelling to these countries. Alternatively, you can ask a friend to buy it for you if they are travelling.
Be patient and wait for sales
To buy gear at a cheap price you’ll need to be patient. To get a good deal, you’ll need to wait for sales or holiday discounts. The end of the year is always a good time to buy gear, as there will normally be year-end sales and retailers will also have discounts on last season’s gear. Both online stores and local retailers will have regular discounts and promotions so keep a lookout for great deals. You can subscribe to mailing lists or follow the retailers via their Facebook page so you can get regular updates on new products along with discounts and promotions.
Online stores to check out
If you prefer buying online these are the websites you’ll need to visit. These websites have some of the largest selection of climbing gear from different brands. Check back on these sites regularly for sales and discounts on selected items.
These are overseas websites please take note of international shipments, your orders will be subjected to applicable customs, tariffs, duties, and any required taxes based on your location.
It is also very important to read customers’ reviews of online platforms. Always buy from reputable sites. Customer service is important because, in the unlikely event that your order did not arrive, the wrong items were delivered or damaged when received. In such situations, you will appreciate good customer service.
