REI has a yearly "garage sale" where high quality camping / hiking gear goes for 50-60% off (sometimes more). I'm going to one this Saturday - check your area for a store, ask them when the next garage sale is and consider a $20 membership.
One tip - my store opens at 10am, and if you want the really good stuff (e.g. $700 mountain bike for $300), you have to get there at 6:30 and get in line!
This is a really good idea. Much of the gear that goes on sale in the springs falls into three categories:
1. Rental gear. Some has been used hard and some not so hard. Inspect carefully, but don't rule it out.
2. Last year's models. New gear that was the best stuff on the market last spring.
3. Winter over stocked items like ski gear, winter clothing, etc. These are also new items that they just ordered too many of and they don't want to store them until next fall.
Good luck.
KC
