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Skiing, backpacking, camping, and rock climbing—it’s no secret that the gear required for many of Colorado’s favorite pastimes is pricey. In fact, in a recent Outdoor Participation Report conducted by the Outdoor Industry Association, poll participants cited too-expensive equipment as a top reason for not getting outside. Luckily, local companies are rising to the challenge by creating rental programs that help bridge the budget gap and encourage more people to try other outdoor adventures. Here’s a look at five Colorado companies with inviting gear closets.
Feral Mountain Company
Denver-based Feral rents out most of the necessary gear needed to safely and comfortably explore Colorado’s mountains in the summertime. The independent outdoor gear shop, located in the bustling Berkeley neighborhood, boasts an easy-to-navigate online rental system that features a range of technical gear for camping and backpacking excursions. A one-person camping kit that includes a tent, sleeping pad and bag, and headlamp can be rented for just $69 per weekend. The store also rents out designated kits for backpacking, individual backpacks and tents, dry bags, bear canisters, camping stoves, and a selection of winter gear. 3936 Tennyson St.
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Outdoors Geek
At Outdoors Geek, customers have the opportunity to buy new and used gear, rent quality brand name gear, or try out different products and apply the rental cost if you choose to purchase the item. Gear and apparel can be rented individually, or in full-fledged packages (like a camping set-up or backpacking package). Items can be shipped or picked up at the store’s retail location in Denver. 4431 Glencoe St.
Neptune Mountaineering
Neptune Mountaineering has a been a staple in Colorado’s outdoor community since 1973. The Boulder-based store routinely hosts educational events and classes spanning popular outdoor activities like climbing and backcountry explorations. The company also has a large gear rental program that includes gear needed to ski, snowboard, splitboard, and ice climb. 633 S Broadway, Boulder
Mountain Threads
At Mountain Threads, getting outfitted for a day on the slopes is simple: pick out the ski-wear you need online, choose where you want to pick it up (in store at have it delivered to you), and go play. The company’s website also features helpful tools to get the right fitting gear, like sizing charts and tips on how properly layer up. Rentals start at about $33 per day for adults and $23 per day for kids. 24969 US-40, Golden
Slope Threads
A one-stop shop for ski clothing, this online-only store gives customers the opportunity to rent gear via their website and have it shipped to destinations around the globe. Skiers can get outfitted in brand name apparel starting at $35 per day. Jackets, pants, goggles, gloves and even helmets are available to rent. slopethreads.com