You know ski season is around the corner when the Warren Miller film tour launches, the Snow Travel Expo opens its doors and Decathlon and ALDI battle it out for snow sale of the year.
ALDI’s Snow Sale is officially back after a 2020 hiatus due to Covid. Doors will open on Saturday May 22 with the ALDI Premium range and Crane Snow Extreme outerwear (scroll down for range).
Of course the ALDI sale always opens up chatter within the ski industry. More so in 2021 than any other year. Debate remains from those in the snow as to who skiers and snowboarders should support this year – larger off shore mainstream stores that offer lower pricing or Aussie snow retailers with highly technical gear and knowledge. The same retailers who were, especially in Victoria, shut down during 2020.
But entry level price point gear does exist for a reason and it helps grow the sport. Stores like ALDI and Decathlon create a funnel for those new to snow sports to trial skiing and snowboarding at a lower cost. They also make snow holidays more accessible for families who then pass on their love of snow through generations.
Once hooked, many newbies go on to obsess over tech, form and function and seek out snow specialist retailers and technical outerwear and hardware brands to help improve their skiing by upgrading their equipment.
Show us the ALDI gear
The supermarket blurb is that the gear was designed in Austria to stand up to all extreme weather conditions, boasts renewable sourced DUPONT™ SORONA® wadding for insulation, breathability, moisture resistance and heat retention.
You can expect six varieties of snow jackets, ranging from a light knit jacket ($39.99) and soft shell jackets ($59.99) all the way to windproof, waterproof, breathable shell jackets with a removable inner jacket ($119.99).
Four varieties of snow pants boasting PFC free waterproof finish, pre-shaped knees, adjustable waist and leg cuffs with abrasion-resistant reinforcement ($99.99)
Add the usual thermals and accessories including the Ski Fleece Twosies, hooded pull over and matching pants ($19.99).
For kids you’ll find five varieties of snow jacket appropriate for 2-14 years old, with adjustable sleeve cuffs and PFC Free water repellent finish ($19.99-$34.99) Two varieties of snow pants appropriate for 2-14 years old with PFC Free water repellent finish ($29.99)
Did someone say accessories? Adult and child thermoboots with four-layer fleece lining, TPR outsole, ten Tex waterproof membrane and 3M Scotchlite reflectors ($19.99-$29.99) and a full range of face masks, beanies, neck warmers, cabin socks, gloves and balaclavas ranging from $4.99 to $34.99.
