Your child is about to begin their first tee ball, soccer, or tennis season. You can’t wait to cheer for them from the stands or help coach their team, but before you become a team parent, there’s something else pretty important you’ve got to take care of: your child needs sports equipment.
If you’ve ever scored a goal on the ice, or traveled with your soccer team, for example, you know that playing sports can be pricey. And every parent wants their kids to have the best, but your budget might not allow for that. Here, we’ve compiled some ways you can purchase sports equipment on a budget without sacrificing quality. Dig into our tips below and see how you can save.
Check out Local Cleat Banks and Other Free Options
If your child’s sport requires them, the first stop on your sports equipment buying tour should be the local cleat bank. A cleat bank is where people donate the cleats their kids have outgrown so that others may enjoy them for free. You’ll find gently used cleats that still have plenty of play left. Children’s feet grow so quickly that most kids get only one or two seasons of use from a pair of cleats.
Ask Around
Other parents in your league can be a great resource. They might suggest places to find used equipment for a low price, or perhaps a neighbor across the street has exactly what you need and is willing to let you borrow it for free. Collaboration is key! Hearing what other parents have done can help you find exactly the solution you need.
And don’t just stop at other parents. Coaches and other leaders are also a wealth of knowledge about where and what to buy.
Shop Around
Don’t settle for the first price you see – shopping around can make a big difference. Check thrift stores, local sporting goods stores, discount retailers, and online marketplaces to compare prices. Some stores may even offer great trade-ins or seasonal promotions, helping you get more for less.
$ave with $ales
Keep an eye out for big sales during Black Friday, Christmas, back-to-school, and summer shopping seasons. If you think ahead to what your child will be growing out of and into, you can bank some major savings.
Ask Your Dentist or Orthodontist About Free Mouthguards
If your child plays a sport with a stick, such as hockey, field hockey, or lacrosse, or other contact sport, they may be required to wear a mouthguard to protect their teeth. Some dental and orthodontic offices provide free mouthguards to kids as a goodwill gesture. If yours doesn’t, ask other parents in your league if they know of one that does.
Buy Your Sporting Equipment with Our Cash Back Credit Card
You can increase your savings when shopping for sports equipment simply by using our Founder’s Card, which earns you cash back* every time you swipe. We think that’s a pretty big win!
*You can earn 1.5% cash rewards on purchases. You can earn 2% cash rewards on purchases if you maintain a PSECU checking account and qualifying monthly direct deposit(s) of at least $500. Some exclusions may apply. See the Visa® Founder's Card and Visa® Alumni Rewards Card Rewards Program Terms and Conditions for full details.
The content provided in this publication is for informational purposes only. Nothing stated is to be construed as financial or legal advice. Some products not offered by PSECU. PSECU does not endorse any third parties, including, but not limited to, referenced individuals, companies, organizations, products, blogs, or websites. PSECU does not warrant any advice provided by third parties. PSECU does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided by third parties. PSECU recommends that you seek the advice of a qualified financial, tax, legal, or other professional if you have questions.