Ex-demo skis are one of the best-kept secrets in the ski world. They offer current-season technology at a fraction of the retail price, with only a handful of days of use. Here's everything you need to know.
What are ex-demo skis?
Ex-demo skis are skis that were used by ski shops or resorts for their demonstration (demo) programmes. Customers rent demo skis for a day or two to test models before buying. At the end of the season, shops sell off their demo fleet at significant discounts.
The key difference from regular used skis: demo skis are typically current-season models that have seen 5–20 days of use across multiple riders. They're maintained by the shop between demos (tuned, waxed, bindings adjusted), so they're in good shape despite the usage.
How much do ex-demo skis cost?
Ex-demo skis typically sell for 20–50% off retail, depending on:
- Timing — early spring clearance prices are higher; late summer prices drop further
- Brand and model — premium models hold value better
- Condition — more cosmetic wear means a lower price
- Bindings included — demo skis usually come with demo bindings, which adds value
| Retail price | Typical ex-demo price |
|---|---|
| $600 | $350–$480 |
| $800 | $450–$600 |
| $1,000+ | $550–$750 |
Pros of buying ex-demo skis
- Current-season models — unlike typical used skis which may be several years old, you get this year's technology
- Shop-maintained — demo fleets are regularly tuned and maintained by the selling shop
- Significant savings — 20–50% off retail for skis with minimal structural wear
- Bindings included — most demo skis come with bindings, saving you an additional $150–$300
- Good selection — shops demo their best-selling and highest-performance models
What to check when buying ex-demo skis
Cosmetic vs structural wear
Ex-demo skis will have cosmetic wear — light base scratches, small topsheet chips, and minor edge marks. This is normal and expected. It does not affect performance.
What you should check for:
- No deep base gouges — surface scratches are fine; exposed core material is not
- No edge cracks — small nicks are normal; full edge cracks compromise the ski
- No delamination — the topsheet should be firmly bonded to the core
- Bindings function properly — test that toe and heel pieces release and lock correctly
Bindings: demo vs personal
Demo skis often come with demo bindings — these have adjustable track systems so shops can quickly change the boot sole length between customers. Demo bindings are perfectly functional but heavier than personal bindings.
Check:
- The DIN range covers your needed setting
- The brake width matches the ski's waist width
- All adjustment mechanisms move smoothly
- Boot sole compatibility — verify the binding accepts your boot sole type (alpine, GripWalk, touring)
Asking the right questions
If buying online, ask the seller:
- How many demo days did the skis see?
- Were the skis tuned before listing?
- Is there any damage not shown in the photos?
- What's the binding's DIN range?
Best time to buy ex-demo skis
The ex-demo cycle follows the seasons:
- March–April: Shops start listing demo stock as the season winds down. Selection is best but prices are highest.
- May–June: The sweet spot. Shops are motivated to clear inventory and prices drop. Good selection still available.
- July–September: Lowest prices but limited selection. The best models sell first.
- October–November: Very few ex-demo skis remain. New season demo stock isn't available yet.
Where to buy ex-demo skis
Online marketplaces
Boardom has a dedicated section for ex-demo skis with condition ratings and buyer protection. Sellers include ski shops clearing their demo fleets and individuals who bought ex-demo and are upgrading.
Direct from ski shops
Many ski shops list their demo fleet on their website at the end of the season. Some shops offer "demo day" clearance events where you can inspect skis in person and negotiate prices.
Ski swaps
Annual ski swaps at resorts often include ex-demo gear from local shops. These events let you inspect gear in person and often offer the best prices on demo stock.
Ex-demo skis vs used skis vs new skis
| Ex-demo | Used | New | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | 20–50% off | 30–70% off | Full retail |
| Age | Current season | 1–5+ years | Current season |
| Condition | Light cosmetic wear | Varies widely | Perfect |
| Warranty | Usually none | None | Full manufacturer |
| Bindings | Usually included | May or may not | Separate purchase |
| Selection | Popular models only | Everything | Everything |
The verdict
Ex-demo skis are the best value proposition in skiing for riders who want current technology without paying full price. You get a nearly-new ski at a meaningful discount, usually with bindings included. The light cosmetic wear has zero impact on performance.
Browse ex-demo skis for sale on Boardom, or check out all skis for sale to compare ex-demo with other options.