Best Ski Rental Service Worcester Near Me

Julie Goldberg: I cannot reccomend highly enough! I have been skiing about 3x a year for 4 years. I finally bought my own equipment this year. I have very athletic legs and always had a difficult time with boots. I just assumed they were suppose to feel like a torture device. I live in NYC, but was in town and figured I'd go to Strand's because I grew up in Worcester and I've known the name for years. The $75 I spent to have them work on my boots is literally the best $75 I have ever spent in my life. My abilities have progressed tenfold this year with correctly fitted boots. Everyone was a delight to deal with. Thanks so much, Strand's Ski Shop!

John Klimas: I bought some Nordica Navigator 85s in Jan/23. The price was very good, but most importantly, these really are just the right skis for me. This was the recommendation of the staff and I'm glad I put my faith in Joe. Look around at other ski shops but once you work with Strands you won't ever need to go anywhere else for skis, snowboards, gear or advice.

Corey P: Not a kid friendly place

Chris Toomey: Love getting my stuff from Strand's!The staff is super helpful and doesn't try to "upsell" you into the most expensive gear. They're very helpful in finding the right fit for whatever price you're looking to spend. They also take the time to set up your gear right in the shop to make sure you're ready to go as soon as you hit the mountain

Cameron Cox: Best Ski Shop in the area. Large selection at a variety of prices. Excellent service and even better staff. Shop here for any and all of your Ski or Snowboarding needs whether you are a beginner or a veteran.

Todd Ingersoll: Knowledge and passion for skiing and equipment abound. Old school and very thorough. We left with awesome equipment perfectly fitted and ready to go. Most of the negative comments here have a common thread “we didn’t buy our stuff here and wanted them to service it”. We couldn’t of been happier with our experience!

Joshua Aube: Will was fantastic. Brought out a few pairs of boots and each pair was better than the last.They know their stuff.

Adriano Soares: Strands is not the shop for anyone on a modest budget. Several times over the years I have come here; they have made it clear I am not welcome. If you aren't comfortable spending large sums of money on boots or skis, don't waste your time here.For example, I recently brought in a pair of boots (bought online) for my younger brother, who is brand new to the sport. The gentlemen rudely berated us for requesting a fitting on a pair of boots we didn't buy at Strands. I don't take issue with his opinion, but rather the way it was communicated - we left feeling "unworthy" of the tech's time for a simple, respectful request. Most everyone at the shop oozes this pretentious attitude as well.In the end, Strands can choose to run their business however they like. However, perhaps you should be wary of a business that only treats a customer respectfully when they spend enormous amounts of money. Catch my drift?If that doesn't bother you, and you have highly expendable income, I have no doubt in the quality of the work at Strands. They are clearly experienced techs with lots of know how.Otherwise, I would recommend the Sport Loft in West Boylston for your tuning needs. And for boot service, there are many shops in Vermont ski towns (Killington, Okemo Valley) that do a great job. This is not your only option if you live in Worcester!

Jeffrey Horn: Great boit fitting experience. If you are looking at APEX boots, this is place to go..

Isaiah Giese: Amazing place. Go here for your ski gear

Priscilla Eastty: Pros: The shop has a great variety of ski wear and accessories for men, women and children. The staff is very knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly. Cons: The parking isn't the best and the prices are on the high side.

Katy M: Amazing service! I came because other good reviews about boot fitting. They were right. The team at Strands went above and beyond to get me into the right fitting boot and help me pick out skis and bindings for my skill level. I especially appreciated the thorough boot fitting experience which comprised of trying on multiple boots and adjusting to my width, as well as all the detailed info on ski types to consider. Super stoked to get out on my new skis this seasons. Thanks team Strand!

Brian Bigda: Used to shop here a loooong time ago for my skis with my parents, and just have not been back because of a skiing hiatus and because we no longer live that close. On the way back from Wachusett stopped in to find skis for our son that were becoming a little hard to locate. The folks at strands had what we needed (they actually have an incredible selection - largest I've seen), were very knowledgeable, helpful and, communicative (granted we arrived at kind of an off time and it was a fairly quiet when we were there), pricing was competitive, AND they actually mounted and got the skis ready for us while we were there in less than 10 -15 minutes so that we would not have to drive back. Outstanding experience. Pretty much sold on making Strands our go-to-ski-shop (even thought it's a bit of a drive) for any future ski purchases. Job well done!

John Almeter: While on a recent trip to NH, my wife and I decided to stop overnight in Worcester MA. She needed a new pair of boots. Of course, we Googled and came upon Strand's Ski Shop. I read the reviews and was taken back a bit by some of the comments but determined we needed to get this task off of our list before getting up to the mountains so off we went to pay them a visit.We walked into the shop and immediately felt the energy of its history. Everyone was busy and focused on their current customer with complete attention on their needs. We browsed around while we waited. The sounds of skis being sharpened, the clanking of boots as customers tried them on; it was exciting. They had lots of equipment. Clearly a shop with experience and ready to accommodate every class of skier.We patiently waited and it really didn't take but 5-10 minutes before we were greeted with "is there something I can help you with?" It was Joe, one of the half dozen or so people waiting on customers. My wife explained her situation, a bunion on her right foot. Ok, if you've read this far, I'm glad coz your question as to whether this place is worth it or not is about be answered.It was at this point that my wife and I experienced what a truly professional ski shop is all about. Joe was joined by Leif and the two of them went to work testing boots, looking at her existing boots and explaining her options. They took full interest in this women's needs and didn't accept simple answers. They drilled down on her responses to ensure they solved my wife's boot problem completely. It was obvious to me that their interest was doing the job right, not turning over as many customers as possible by shilling anything that will turn a buck. Their interest was in making sure they performed their duty as professional ski equipment advisors and fitters as well as it could be performed.The experience was amazing the staff were friendly and fun. Throughout the process we enjoyed great conversation about skiing and other topics. Joe was a consummate professional and he made all the difference. To top it off they bought back my wife's old boots, which they didn't even sell to her!I guess when you carry the moniker of the oldest continuously operating ski shop in the COUNTRY, (yes that's right - over 90 years at the same location,) it comes with a responsibility and they take it seriously. So, if you're able, treat yourself to this place and don't worry, they're cognizant of your budget. Ask about the Tuckerman's Revine picture from 1937, it features Leif's dad. You will not be disappointed.To be clear and make sure I'm not mischaracterized, I don't know these folks, have never been there before nor heard about them. I'm not paid by them or anyone for my comments. I just happened to land there today and felt compelled by the experience. I hope the mini-book will help someone!

Robert K: On the surface it isn't a refined ski shop like some in 2022 would expect, but the knowledge is deep! Not hung up on old ideas either. The ski selection is unreal for Stockli which I consider some of the best skis made today. The more you talk to some of the old timers in there the more you realize how current they keep there KnowledgeBase yet applying knowledge from years past. I bought a pair of boots for there 4 years ago and was the best decision I made in a life time of skiing and racing. I recently purchased new AT boots there and it was yet again a great experience.Things to consider when shopping is the boot price typically includes foot beds and boot work. Beds are anywhere from a $40 to $200 dollar value. If buying race boots you get full custom beds valued at $125 minimum.Side note: Two years into my first boot purchase my ankles started yelling at me at the end of long days. They pushed the boot ankles out for me and didn't charge a dime. Service you don't get everywhere and honestly hard to find in 2022.

Amie Humphrey Facendola: I will never not buy my ski boots here again. These guys are experts at boot fitting, better than I have found anywhere else. And everyone was very nice and helpful. Highly highly recommend!

Arthur Swanson: I've bought many and multiple pairs of skis over the last 30 years. Excellent service and knowledgeable staff. I love the 2 pairs of Stroltz boots. Now I'm looking for Volkl race skis. This is the best shop around for skis, boots and everything you need.

D M: Great people, this is the place to go for expert advice on ski equipment in Central mass! the golden retriever is so friendly too! Prices are on the low side also really really good value highly recommend

Pamela Dietz: This is the ONLY place I’d go to get ski equipment. Period.

Paul Todaro: I’ve been riding since I was 5. I’ve been to mountains across the country and dozens here in the northeast and many ski shops in between. Strands is the best of them all. They know their equipment, they listen, the price is always fair. Unless disaster strikes and I need gear out of state due to an accident I will not buy my gear anywhere else. Can’t say enough good things about the place, family owned and a staple of the community.

Ethan Ferrari: Fantastic spot, bought ski boots from them years ago. They did a great job picking and fitting them based on my foot shape. I never have complaints about pain or discomfort, even after a few days of skiing. I continue to return for their tune ups/wax, and just recently bought a helmet. They reduced the price on the helmet (likely because it’s late in the season), but little do they know how much it helped me out!

Allison LeMay: This was our second order with the Ski Barn and couldn’t be happier with our experience. Dave is knowledgeable about all his products and put together a great ski package for my husband and son. All at a reasonable price! Why rent skis when you can be comfortable in your own equipment? Thanks again Ski Barn!

sumit koul: The owner of this store is very rude . He has no manners to talk to customer .

Ashley Phelps: Amazing customer service, great skis, even better prices. We went for our boys seasonal rentals and we’ll be back for years to come!

Cody Faucher: The guy was really nice had a lot of tips and he also knew what he was talking about and helped us with our ski rentals we will definitely be going back here

Abner Cavalcanti: Fantastic. The staff knows their stuff.

Jennifer S: What a wonderful experience I had at Ski Barn. My son decided this is the year he will be snowboarding. I knew nothing about what you need to get to begin. Luckily I went to Ski Barn! Dave came right over to me when we entered the store and knew exactly what we needed. In less than 15 minutes we had boots, board, goggles and a helmet. Our board was all set up in a day ready to pick up. It was one of the easiest shopping experiences I have ever had. I know my son will be safe on the slopes in properly fitted and set up gear. Very professional and fantastic customer service!!

Quentin Carmichael: I took my skis and snowboard in for a tune. While evaluating my skis (which were very well-used from racing and over a decade old, yet I was happy with), they mentioned I may only have a couple more tunes left in there because the edges were almost gone, but said they could make it work. I asked the question about what today’s skis were like and that started a very informative discussion about modern technology and included questions on my ski style, experience, etc. I have been skiing for over 30 years and they clearly know their products and the physics of the interaction between hill, skier and equipment. I was really impressed with the personalized recommendations. I initially left without buying anything, but came back later and updated my whole setup with their recommendations after thinking about and researching it. Zero pressure, rock solid recommendations and legit expert knowledge. This is my new shop. Highly recommend.

Gavin Merrill-Skoloff: This place is friendly, fast, and good at what they do.

Connor Locke: I went into ski barn after not skiing in years. Brennan helped me out and after taking my skis out for a try I fell in love. He did a great job in assisting me and making sure to find equipment that was right for me.

Holt Murray: I've skied my whole life, but have not kept up in latest skis, bindings etc. They took the VH time to walk through everything and get me back up to speed, which will help me make great decisions for my future gear.

Sarah Jensen: This place was fantastic. Such great service and helpful advice. Definitely would recommend this place for any ski rentals or purchases! They even tuned my skis early so I picked them up the next day. Awesome place!

Mike Z: Came here only wanting to buy boots and spoke with who I assume is the owner, refused to sell me only boots unless I bought an entire ski, bindings, boots package? Doesn't make any sense. Then he brought it as far as blaming it on "supply chain" that he couldn't sell things separately... He threw away a $400 boot sale because he wanted to be greedy and try to scoop more money out of us, 0 stars, don't recommend. Every other ski shop in the area will sell things separately

David Mooers: Great ski shop. Friendly helpful staff.

Golden Gate Sharpening: I'm from California and was visiting some friends in Massachusetts for a ski trip. My friend recommended this place and I'm very glad I made the trip here! I'm a hockey player with years of experience working in a hockey store, so I know the importance of fit when it comes to any form of boot. By coincidence, Dave the salesman that assisted me also plays hockey! He fit me in a nice pair of ski boots and we had a good chat about hockey as well. He did not pressure me into spending a ton of money, but fit me for the correct boots at the budget I was looking for. I'm a novice skier that did not want to use the dreaded rental boots and Dave's fit was spot on! My ski boots felt like slippers as soon as I hit the slope. 5 stars for Dave and 5 stars for the whole shop - I'll be sure to return once I visit again this winter.

Richard Furtado: During the month of February I visited this establishment in hopes to renting ski boots and to set up my skis. Calling ahead the salesperson (who I assume is the owner) swore up and down they would have my size and to come in. Upon arriving this tune immediately changed. This same salesperson went from sweating they had my size to swearing that they did not. I will preface this by saying I am a first time skier and an in effort to support a local shop I trusted the (who I believe is) owner. This is where I made a vital mistake. The owner became pushy and coerced me to purchase boots from him as he assured me it was the better option than “used old rental boots.”I tried on the recommended boots in the store and immediately shared they were too tight. The owner again started pushing swearing he’d adjust them and “promised” they would fit me perfect after he was done. He explained they would be ready the next day in the afternoon. I asked multiple times if they were the right size because I’m a size 12 shoe which I know roughly is a 30 in boot size. The owner shared he only had one size left in stock, the one on my foot, but assured me again that after he was done they would fit fine. I noticed afterwords it was a 29.5 . Before leaving I became uneasy as the owner admitted he “targeted” me on the phone and knew he’d sell me something. My trust immediately became strained.The next day the afternoon came and I received no call from the shop. I began to run errands before receiving a call within an hour of their closing time. Arriving the boots were still not done and the owner seemed rushed to give them to me. From that point the owner than seemed pushy and rushed me out the door sharing what I feel now is a sob story about “working all day and not having time during season.” I left the shop purchasing a mask, poles, ski goggles, as well as the boots.I then made it to the slopes and put the boot on for the first time since “adjustment” and the same tightness was felt. Now I know ski boots aren’t comfy as clouds do I tried them out on the bunny slope. Again prefacing I’m a first time skier. I made it down twice and was overcome with unbearable pain. I took the boots off and observed bruising all around my calves. With this my left foot was so tightly pressed in the boot to the point I began to lose feeling. From this point I left the slope for the day and lost a day of skiing giving me an absolutely horrible first experience.the next day I was forced to rent and didn’t use the boot.After returning from my trip I called the shop to which the owner picked up. I explained the situation and as I did was met with immediate attitude and unprofessionalism. The owner accused me of trying to return a used boot further questioning how he’ll make money off of a “used product.” I retorted explaining I had purchased more than just boots and was only looking to return them based on a promise he made that was not kept. I further explained I was even willing to take less than what I paid back as a return which I felt was fair. The owner continued to attempt to fight with me over the phone cresting a story that I said “they fit in the store before I left” which I never did. The owner then said he “guess’ I could bring them in and see what could be done. Maybe a store credit.” After my experience I declined this and requested a partial refund to my form of payment. The resistance then ensued. It was in this moment I realized I was taken advantage of and was seen as a floating dollar sign rather than a customer.This establishment does not run on honesty and instead prey on inexperienced enthusiast interested in starting a new hobby, possibly ruining their experience in the process. I will absolutely not return and I will make it an effort to steer everyone away if I am asked. I just hope no one further is taken advantage of like I was.

Matthew George: Decent but not tons of selections

Nicole Esposito: Dave was fantastic, he educated us on best options, as well as what made sense price wise. We thank you for your excellent customer service, and ability to get my son right on the slopes!

Bill Holm: Didn't know what I wanted but they helped me out very nice people

Ridvan Husic: Very poor selection on snowboard gear.

Dan: Excellent service. Very informed staff.

joseph zack: Needed a water pump, they were open the earlier then anybody else, they are reasonably priced

Lance Miller: Best place to rent gear. Better prices than Lowes or home depot. The staff there really helped me out with suggesting the right equipment for my many projects that I've taken on over the summer.

John Hanson: I rented a saw for 300 a day. It dud not cut well and eventually the belt broke. I had to drive two hours round trip and wait for 45 min it to get it fixed. Rather than admitting the belt was worn the blamed it on me and refused and discount. Won’t make the mistake of using them again

Carl Kirker-Head: The good news is that the company has a website that you can book equipment on outside of regular hours. The website says a company representative will then call back within 2 hours to confirm and finalize. I booked my equipment (showing as available) online on the weekend but no one called back till the Monday morning when I was told the equipment actually was not available for a week.

Peter Leo: I had a very good experience renting a man lift from this Sunbelt site.

Peter Boudreau: Great place

Seth Jajliardo: This used to be a great place to rent boom lifts, now the new manager is price gouging. He charged me more for a 35-foot tow-able lift for than I paid for a 50-foot tow-able four times this year alone! When I backed up to hook up, the manager said "You need to get out of the truck." When I asked if this was a new requirement, he said, "I don't know of anyone who just stays in the truck. Are you going to help?" Unbelievable. So also expect unprofessional service on top of 30%, no-notice, same-year price hikes. I am very motivated to spend my hard-earned money anywhere else. I recommend you do the same and would welcome your recommendations.

Monique Hines: Very helpful and knowledgeable

Kevin Mcgeoghean: Great people. Buy far the best rental place of them all......

Mark C: Response to our needs has been great.

Kaitie Proctor: very helpful staff

Tad Jaillet: From the delivery to the pick up everything worked out well. Thank you

brian halstead: very good equipment, very good service.

Carl Kirker-Head: I booked my equipment online over the weekend at a quoted online special price which I reserved with a c/c. I then received an email confirmation that charged me $200 more than the online quote. I called the 24/7 line and the agent tried to speak with their on-duty weekend person - no answer. And when I called before picking up on the Monday morning I was told that they did not have that equipment in stock. Very polite folks but a dysfunctional reservation service.

Robert Govoni: Great place to rent or buy quality construction equipment. We constantly use United for our construction needs. The staff is great to deal with, Jim, Vicki, Todd and the whole gang are fantastic.

Ted Pyles: Great staff, helpful and instructive about the equipment they rent

Luke Powers: Excellent people and new machines to rent

Jonathan Gonzalez: Any time I need a lift its quick and easy. Always on time. Rick is the best.

James Welch: The employees were polite, profession, patient and informative, or in a word FANTASTIC!! The best rental experience that I've had.

Glenn Gregoire: On time with a quality lift.

Raul Orengo: Excellent customer service, we had 1 staffing change in which delayed delivery. This was not a issue with United. They worked with us to get the unit needed.

Lola M. Diaz: Was helped by Jake who got us what we needed. Helped us properly load up and out the door in a timely manner. All with a smile on his face. He gave us outstanding customer service.

David Cianci: Jim is Great! Everyone I deal with has been helpful, plesant and accommodating. They always seem to have what I'm looking for and always have the best price.

King Windows Cleaning / Power Washing - Lowell, MA.: Good service good machine I recommend very one

Jeff Grabauskas: Equipment delivered as promised...early even.

Joe Payne: Bill Baxter.

Mark Hanks: Excellent service, quick response to mechanical issues.

Sean Dougherty: The delivery was earlier than expected, smooth and efficient. The machine was in excellent condition and performed as expected. Coordination with Dave was easy and pleasant.

Brian Patch: Good communication.

Donald Yearick: great communication, customer service and quality equipment

Scott Patricks: staff is friendly and professional . have rented several times and my schedule and needs have always been accommodated , i would never rent anywhere else .

James Brehany: Good information from the rental personnel, and helpful instruction for operating the lift.

Alyssa Coffey: Vicky was VERY helpful, I was in a dilema and she helped me out! Great experience!

Brandon Abshier: Always a positive experience

jbgearhead: The person assisting me, (Connor Girouard) was extremely helpful, fast, responsive, polite and friendly. His professional attitude just made working with him a real pleasure.

Leon Neosh: Gave me a good deal

S Mania: Would not reccomend this company. Poor customer service, doesn't stick to agreement, and forgets what you even agreed upon. Go to Home Depot instead. Much better service.

chris sebolt: As a business owner I would not recommend Herc of Worcester. I arranged for a Lull to be delivered and they were a no call no show. This caused me a huge issue and costs associated with their lack of follow through.

Dave Felice: Great place to rent from excellent counter help very knowledgeable

Ed Lafontaine: Great food

Nick Deemer: Great service and friendly staff. Would do business with again.

Chris Mitchell: Called to see if the had a product to rent and told them machine make and model drove 45 minutes there to find out it wasn't compatible with my machine and they asked me ooh there made differently very disappointed would not go back

Shawn Young: Never had an issue renting equipment here.

Elijah A-K: NEGATIVE 100 STARS. HORRIBLE PLACE. WILL NEVER SET FOOT IN A SPORT LOFT BECAUSE OF YOUR STAFF.DO NOT SHOP HERE! I REPEAT DO NOT SHOP HERE -100 STARS. HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE. EVERYONE WORKING THEIR NEEDS TO BE FIRED.WORST RETAIL EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE.VERY AGGRESSIVE AND MEAN.I WILL NEVER COME BACK HERE. .THANK YOU FOR WASTING ALL OF MY TIME. PLEASE CLOSE YOUR BUSINESS SO OTHER PEOPLE DONT HAVE TO GO THROUGH WHAT I WENT THROUGH.

Adriano Soares: Take my skis here every year for a tune-up. Best prices in the area and they do a great job. Owner is down to earth and respectful to his customers. I would highly recommend the Sport Loft.

John Dower: Closed for the season.

John Brigham: I've been skiing a long time and am pretty particular about my tune. The dude nailed it. They were perfect, right down to the edge bezel.

Michael Petronino: Screwed up my skis when tuning....

Ballpoint: Great gear available