Used Sporting Goods Near Me: Where to Buy and Sell Second-Hand Gear

Sports can be expensive. A youth hockey player can outgrow skates every season, a new set of golf clubs can cost hundreds of dollars, and specialized gear for skiing, lacrosse or baseball adds up fast. Buying used sporting goods can save families a lot of money while keeping good equipment out of landfills. Here is where to look and how to buy smart.

Where to find used sporting goods near you

Resale sporting goods stores

Specialty resale stores buy gear from the public and sell it at lower prices. The best known in the US is Play It Again Sports, a franchise with stores across the country that buys and sells used and new equipment for many sports. Local independent resale shops exist in many towns too. Search maps for "used sporting goods" or "sports consignment" to find them near you.

Online marketplaces

• Facebook Marketplace and local buy-and-sell groups – great for bikes, hockey gear, golf clubs and fitness equipment, with local pickup.
• Craigslist – still useful in many cities for large items such as treadmills and basketball hoops.
• eBay – good for specific items such as golf clubs, baseball gloves and collectibles.
• SidelineSwap – an online marketplace focused on used sports equipment, with many listings for lacrosse, hockey, baseball and golf.

Outdoor retailers' used programs

Some outdoor retailers run used-gear programs where they resell returned or traded-in items, such as camping gear, bikes and skis. Check the websites of large outdoor stores in your area.

Thrift stores and garage sales

Thrift shops and garage sales often have balls, rackets, bats and fitness gear at very low prices. Selection is random, but bargains are common.

Team and club gear swaps

Many youth leagues, schools and ski clubs hold gear swaps before the season, where families trade or sell outgrown equipment. Ask your league or club whether one exists.

What to buy used and what to buy new

Usually fine to buy used	Better to buy new
Golf clubs	Bike helmets and any helmet that may have taken a hit
Hockey sticks, pants and gloves	Football helmets without current certification
Baseball gloves and bats (check league rules)	Mouthguards
Bikes (after inspection)	Running shoes (they mold to the owner)
Skis and snowboards	Car seats and child bike seats
Weights and fitness equipment	Climbing ropes and harnesses
Tennis rackets	Anything with unknown safety history

Helmets are the main safety concern. A helmet may have hidden damage from a previous impact, and football helmets need to meet current safety standards and reconditioning requirements. When in doubt, buy protective headgear new.

How to inspect used gear

• Bats – check for cracks and dents, and make sure the bat has the certification stamp required by your league.
• Golf clubs – look at grips, shafts and grooves. Grips can be replaced cheaply.
• Skates – check blade condition, boot support and fit. Sharpening is inexpensive.
• Bikes – check the frame for cracks, test brakes and gears, and look at tire wear.
• Skis – check edges and bases, and have bindings inspected by a shop.
• Fitness equipment – test machines before buying and check cables and belts.
• Smell test – used pads and gloves may need a good wash or sports-gear deodorizer.

How much can you save?

Used gear commonly sells for a large discount compared with new prices, sometimes half or less. The biggest savings are usually on items kids outgrow quickly, such as skates, cleats and youth hockey gear, and on expensive items like golf clubs, skis and bikes that last for years.

Selling your old gear

1. Clean the gear and take clear photos.
2. Research prices for similar items online.
3. Sell to a resale store for quick cash or store credit, or list it online for a higher price.
4. Bring outgrown kids' gear to a swap at the start of the season.
5. Donate items you cannot sell to charities, schools or community programs.

Safety tips for local sales

• Meet in a public place, such as a police station "safe exchange" zone.
• Bring a friend for large items.
• Inspect before paying and avoid sending deposits to strangers.
• Use payment methods with buyer protection when possible.

Why buying used is good for sports

Lower-cost gear helps more kids try sports, especially expensive ones like hockey, lacrosse and skiing. It also reduces waste. Many coaches encourage families to pass gear along, which keeps the cost of youth sports down and helps new players get started.

Taking care of what you buy makes it last longer. See our guides to cleaning and polishing golf clubs and choosing a baseball bounce back net.