Finding affordable sports equipment in Spokane doesn’t mean compromising on quality. Whether you’re a parent outfitting a growing athlete, a weekend warrior testing a new hobby, or a seasoned pro looking for backup gear, buying used can stretch your budget while delivering reliable performance. To help you navigate the local market, we’ve compiled the top spots to score pre-owned sports gear in Spokane, backed by insights from community reviews and trusted sources like The Spokesman-Review and consumer surveys.
Play It Again Sports: Certified Quality and Expert Curation
A staple for budget-conscious athletes, Play It Again Sports (1403 N Division St) specializes in gently used gear across 20+ sports, from hockey sticks to cycling helmets. Their team inspects every item for safety and functionality, offering warranties on select products—a rarity in the secondhand market. Prices average 30-50% below retail, with seasonal sales slashing costs further. According to recent Google reviews, customers praise their knowledgeable staff and transparent condition ratings. Pro tip: Trade in old equipment for store credit to offset costs.
Goodwill & Value Village: Hidden Gems for Patient Shoppers
Thrift stores like Goodwill (9114 N Newport Hwy) and Value Village (9114 N Newport Hwy) are goldmines for low-cost basics like cleats, yoga mats, and lightly worn athletic apparel. While inventory varies daily, savvy shoppers report finding premium brands like Nike and Under Armour for under $10. A 2023 survey by Spokane CDA Consumer Reports found that 68% of local thrift shoppers discovered sports gear here monthly. Visit mid-week mornings for restocked selections, and don’t overlook youth gear—parents save up to 80% on outgrown items.
Facebook Marketplace & OfferUp: Hyperlocal Bargains
For time-sensitive deals or bulk purchases (e.g., home gym equipment), platforms like Facebook Marketplace and OfferUp connect buyers directly with Spokane sellers. Recent listings show discounts up to 70% on treadmills, kayaks, and golf clubs. Verify sellers’ profiles with ratings/reviews, and meet at public spots like the SPOKANE VALLEY YMCA parking lot for safety. Bargaining is common; data from OfferUp’s 2024 resale trends report shows 42% of local sellers accept reasonable offers.
Spokane Valley Youth Sports Association: Community-Driven Sales
Nonprofits often host seasonal swap meets—ideal for youth gear. The Spokane Valley Youth Sports Association’s biannual sale (next event: Sept 14-15 at CenterPlace Regional Event Center) lets families sell outgrown items commission-free. Expect soccer shin guards for $5-$8 or baseball gloves under $20, with proceeds funding scholarships. Follow their Facebook page for early access passes.
SidelineSwap: Online Convenience + Local Pickup Options
While primarily an online marketplace, SidelineSwap allows filtering sellers within 50 miles of Spokane (Zip Code 99201). Used skis, snowboards, and camping gear dominate listings here, with prices benchmarked against eBay averages. Sellers must provide authenticity proof for high-ticket items like Trek bikes or Bauer hockey gear. Opt for local pickup to avoid shipping fees—over 300 listings offered this option last month.
Pro Tips for Smart Secondhand Shopping
- Inspect Thoroughly: Check seams, soles, and moving parts for wear; request original purchase receipts for electronics like GPS watches.
- Time Your Purchase: Ski gear floods markets in April; bikes peak in October post-summer.
- Compare Retail: Use Amazon/REI’s price history tools via CamelCamelCamel to gauge fair resale value.
- Sanitize Gear: Clean helmets/mouthguards with EPA-approved disinfectants; replace worn-out grips or insoles.
By prioritizing trusted vendors and verifying item conditions, you can build a full sports arsenal at a fraction of retail costs—without sacrificing durability or safety. For deeper insights into product lifespan, reference the Washington State University Extension guide on sporting goods maintenance (updated June 2024).