MAIN Home Life Shopping Sports Equipment

Looking for a new set of golf clubs, a catcher's mitt, or uniforms for an entire little league team?

No matter what you're in the market for, when buying any kind of sports gear, first try to separate the facts from the hype. Sports equipment is often a key factor in performance, but sometimes claims for improving your game can go way over the top.

Golf clubs manufacturers, for example, are prone to brag about miracle shots that will be made possible with a 'new, revolutionary' design.

And, while tips on how to choose your first surfboard can fill volumes, a cheap longboard is probably all you need to begin surfing.

Just remember that "practice, practice, practice" is the key to better performance. Sports gear will get your so far, but if you're looking to really score there's nothing like more experience in the game.

So when you're out at looking for sports gear, it's always best to leave your ego at the door. You'll find yourself way ahead of the game with lots of money saved to invest in more time at the batting cage, the golf range, or on the football field.

Where & when to buy sports equipment

Parents of school-age kids can play it smart by looking for deals on Amazon. Another obvious go-to is EBay. But also think about local consignment stores, or search on Facebook for local area sporting equipment "swaps" that will save you big time. Also give Play It Again Sports.com a look for quality used baseball, football, soccer and other sporting gear at almost 300 locations nationwide in the US.

When shopping retail, WHEN to buy is another key factor for real money savings. So plan ahead, and remember to buy baseball equipment, for example, at the end of baseball season -- when prices are at their lowest as stores try to move their remaining inventory from the shelves.

Bring the kids along for the proper fit, akong with their input on style and comfort.

Safety first

The common sense exception to all the above? Don't skimp when it comes safety and protective gear.

The better, high-priced equipment is easily worth the cost to protect against injury, especially if you're playing rough contact sports like football or hockey.

For other sports paraphernalia such as shoes, hats and uniforms, use the same judgement you would when buying any other type of clothing. Look for quality materials, stitching and workmanship.

And, again, watch for clearance sales at the end of each sports season to help you score quality merchandise at bargain prices.

Sports equipment clearance sales

Also look for clearance sales offered by major retailers online throughout the year that may net you just the right stuff at a bargain basement price:

also see in Gift Ideas -> Sports Fan Gift Ideas | Gift Ideas for Golfers | Jogger Gift Ideas

More about buying sporting goods and sports equipment online:

Online, check out additional tips and expert advice on how to buy sports equipment like a pro ....

Dick's Sporting Goods Buyer Guides - Get more expert consumer tips in an A-Z list, ranging from archery, bicycling and camping to snorkeling, tennis and water sports, including how to choose equipment, gear and accessories.

Gear Institute - Check out this legit site offering honest reviews of famous maker sports equipment including running gear, fishing tackle, camping gear, ski equipment, and lots, lots more.