Ski & Gear Demos
With almost all the skis they sell available to demo, it’s easy to try before you buy at Backcountry Essentials. In addition to alpine gear, they also offer backcountry demo packages with options for AT skis, boots, splitboards, and avy kits. And for the youngest generation, Backcountry Essentials offers seasonal rentals with their snowboard and ski packages.
If you’d like to channel your inner Blister Reviewer and try different skis everyday all-season long — there’s also a seasonal demo package for you.
And while we tend to put our focus on snow-related activities, Backcountry Essentials also rents camping gear (from comfy car camping to lightweight alpine gear), packrafts and accessories, crampons, ice axes, and crash pads. Bellingham is a gateway to a number of outdoor adventures and BCE is there to help you make the most of your days off. You can even make a gear reservation in advance!
Online Presence
Backcountry Essentials’ website features an online store where you can shop their inventory from anywhere. All products ship directly from Bellingham, WA, usually within 24 hours, with orders over $100 shipping for free (excluding skis and ski boots). If you live in the area or will be passing through, you can also pick up your online orders curbside or in-store.
Bottom Line
Backcountry Essentials is dedicated to helping customers get outside. Whether that means helping you pick out the most appropriate skis and gear or simply pointing you to the best trails in the area, you’ll find great customer service at this family-owned shop in Bellingham.
So if you’re in the Bellingham area, stop in and tell them Blister sent you. And if you can’t make it, head over to their website to shop their full line of gear and learn more about their favorite activities and spots around Bellingham, Washington.