Worth buying skis over the border?

Sports and Hobbies
1
I'm about to buy some skis but wanted to know if it's worth hopping over the border to DE/A

Are there any large skis shops close to the border?

Are the prices that different? I just came back from the UK and Ellis Brigham/Snow and Rock didn't seem any cheaper than here with a smaller selection and nothing in the sale.

Thoughts please, also if you know of any good online stores that will deliver to CH.

[Yes I have searched this site and most of the threads seem more concerned with 'where to go' and 'ski clothing' (go to TKMaxx - it's ridiculously cheap) ]

2
Many online stores deliver. You'll laugh all the way to the bank when you see the price difference. Then you'll cry all the way back when you see the customs duties.

3
I have mentioned this company before:

www.snowuniverse.com

He is basically a one man band in Francem (Frank)

Some of his skis are really cheap because they are last seasons models.

He freights into Switzerland for pennies (sorry cents).

I originally found him in the UK on Ebay in England, bought the Skis but had him send them to my home in Switzerland and got the VAT back becuase VAT was 19% in France.

4
Yes, I've had a look at that site before and his range of products is smaller than Ellis Brigham.

Thanks anyhow

5
Then drive across the border to Austria. You get the 20% MWST back, and when you declare the skis to the Swiss, you only pay 7.6%. All for skis that are still 2/3 of the price.

6
Alas, I'm unfamiliar with any Austrian chain stores...what's the equivalent of Oschner, Migros XX

?

Thanks

[Yes I would google it if I could construct the query in German ]

7
One of the popular shops for snowboarders and free skiers with online sale is: http://www.blue-tomato.com

8
Blue Tomato are very good, great service ... and you don't have to drive, they will deliver. You just have to stump up the duty and 20 CHF postal tax

9
I wasn't aware that they did skis, but it looks like they only do (as you say) freeskis.

Whilst I'd love to show you my reverse back flip 720 blindfolded chainsaw juggling, I'm looking for something that's a bit more 50/50 on/off piste.

i.e. Salomon Lord or XWing stylee

10
Did you check alternative option of getting marked down gear from last year e.g. Migros, Oschner? There are few threads on the EF explaining were the members bought their equipment from. Perhaps not advice that you might be seeking for, but it also might be worth trying a few different models available from local suppliers e.g. Intersport at least to get an idea what exactely fits you as far as ski boots comfort, right ski length and binding type are concerned... just the thought.