Vail Resorts Introduces New ‘My Epic Gear’ Membership Rental Program
Credit: FACEBOOK/Vail
Earlier this week, Vail Resorts introduced its new My Epic Gear program, which allows guests to participate in seasonal rentals with the ability to change gear at will.
Guests will be able to select equipment according to the season, ensuring it is available and fully customized on any given day, and will be able to try other ski and snowboard options when available. Gear will be delivered to those staying at select Vail Resorts, and for those not staying, a slope transfer will be available.
According to the company’s press release, 15 different brands and more than 50 models of the most popular skis and snowboards will be available for rent, as well as quality boots with “custom fit” insoles. Gear selection, shoe fit, delivery, and recommendations will be made available to members through the My Epic app.
Photo: FACEBOOK / Breckenridge Ski Resort
“Having the right gear is essential to the experience of every skier and racer, yet the traditional model of owning and renting gear hasn’t changed in decades. My Epic Gear is reimagining gear ownership and rental, whether guests want confidence in their gear for the season or for the day, redefining quality, service, convenience and value as one of the most important parts of the mountain experience.” Vail Resorts CEO Kristen Lynch.
A limited number of Epic Pass holders will be selected to test the program in the 2023/24 season at Keystone, Breckenridge, Beaver Creek and, of course, Vail. The program intends to expand to Whistler Blackcomb, Park City Mountain, Crested Butte, Heavenly, Northstar, Stowe, Okemo and Mount Snow for 2024/25. The membership fee will cost $50 during the season, allowing users to access a daily gear reservation for $50.
Credit: FACEBOOK/Vail
“Most gear owners keep their skis and snowboards idle, out of tune for most of the year, but they want to make sure they get the gear they need when they hit the mountains. My Epic Gear offers a much cheaper option, without the hassle of shipping, maintaining or upgrading to the latest models, while still ensuring they get the gear they choose when they hit the mountains. For gear renters, My Epic Gear brings them the best skis and snowboards, big name brands, high quality custom fit boots and the specific gear they want, ready for them when and where they want.”
Vail is not the first company to introduce such a program, and certainly not the last. However, if you’re planning on skiing four or five days a season, I’d say $250-$300 is a decent price to pay, especially if you’re allowed to change skis depending on the conditions. My main concern when renting is always ski boots. While the program claims they will be able to provide a secure custom fit, I don’t see how that would actually be possible without a complete lining and possibly shell customization.
Featured Image Credit: Keystone Resort via Facebook
