What To Do With Old Skis: Best Ideas To Repurpose & Recycle

If you’re wondering what to do with your old skis, you’re in the right place. Having gone through a couple of pairs of skis myself, I can tell you there are plenty of ways to repurpose or recycle old ski equipment.

Keep reading as I share some awesome ideas for handling your retired gear.

What To Do With Old Skis 

When it comes to old skis or snow blades, you can either give them a new purpose or recycle them. Check out some cool ideas below on how to handle your unused gear.

Repurpose

Repurposing ski gear opens up a world of creative possibilities, turning retired equipment into unique and functional items for both indoor and outdoor use.

Below I have highlighted a few different unique and awesome ways to repurpose your old pair of skis.

1. Make A Coffee Table

Combine two sets of skis horizontally, securing them with a sturdy base or glass top to create a unique coffee table. The ski edges and vibrant colors can add a dynamic and outdoorsy touch to your living space, making it a conversation starter. 

As someone who really enjoys a nice coffee table and loves sipping coffee, I can say this is a pretty awesome way to display vintage skis.

2. Create A Bench Or Chair

Utilize old skis as the foundation for a DIY bench or chair. Attach them vertically for a chair or horizontally for a bench seat.

Grab some necessary tools and art supplies from Home Depot or Hobby Lobby and get prepared to sand and add a little paint to them for a polished look, and add a cushion for comfort. It’s a great way to upcycle while adding a nostalgic feel to your home.

I’ve seen benches, traditional chairs, and adirondack chairs, made from old skis, mostly at ski resorts or village restaurants. It’s always exciting to come across them and take a seat because they really add to the vibe.

3. Transform Them Into A Chandelier

Hang a cluster of your old set of skis from the ceiling, attaching them at various angles to form a distinctive chandelier. Add some LED lights or small lanterns between the skis for a cozy and rustic lighting fixture that complements a ski lodge or winter-themed room.

4. Use Them As Wall Art

Arrange skis in an artistic pattern on your wall for a visually striking display. Whether in a symmetrical arrangement or a more abstract design, old skis can serve as a unique wall art piece, embodying the spirit of winter sports.

There are plenty of creative ways to turn them into wall art. Some of the top options include hanging them on the wall in an X shape or parallel to each other.

Another idea is to use skis to frame pictures. A cool spot to showcase this could be around your staircase, in a game room, or perhaps even in a man cave.

5. Use Them As A Coat Rack

One of my favorite ways to repurpose old skis is by mounting skis horizontally on a wall, adding hooks or pegs between them to create a stylish and functional coat rack.

This repurposing idea not only gives your skis a new purpose but also helps keep your entryway organized in a distinctive way.

Another option is to stand your skis upright and connect them together. You will need to use a regular old drill bit to form small holes to add pegs or hooks to create a more traditional coat rack that sits on the floor. 

Both of these concepts provide a fun way to showcase your old skis and highlight your favorite snow sports equipment.

6. Make A Wine Rack

Stack skis vertically, securing them together to form a sturdy wine rack. This is a clever way to display your skis and a great way to use old gear to hold your wine. 

I recommend placing your playful wine rack near your bar or kitchen for a fun conversational piece with your amazing friends and family. This way everyone passing through can get a closer look at your impressive work and creativity. 

7. Transform Them Into A Bookcase

Stack skis vertically to create a bookcase or shelving unit. This unconventional book storage solution brings an element of excitement and sportiness to your reading nook or home library, showcasing your love for outdoor adventures and books.

8. Build A Fence

If you have several pairs of perfectly good skis that you have retired arrange them vertically or horizontally to build a playful and eclectic fence. This repurposing idea can be especially charming in a garden or outdoor space, creating a unique boundary that reflects your love for winter sports.

Ski fences really make colorful skis stand out surrounded by pretty greenery and it’s the perfect way to use a bunch of old skis.

9. Make A Corn Hole Board

Cut old skis to the appropriate size and shape, then mount them on a wooden frame to create a customized corn hole board. From there, you will need to create a small hole for people to toss the corn hole bags.

This DIY project not only repurposes old skis but also adds a fun and personal touch to a casual outdoor game.

10. Use Them As Ski Tip Garden Markers

Cut the tips off old skis and use them as garden markers. Label each tip with the name of the plant or herb, adding a touch of ski-themed decor to your garden.

11. Enjoy Them As A Ski Towel Rack

Mount skis horizontally on a bathroom or poolside wall to create a towel rack. Attach hooks between them to hang towels, robes, or swimsuits. 

Another option is to place your skis vertically and screw in rods to form a ladder with your skis. This is a great to have more of a ladder style towel rack in your bathroom.

I recommend placing it on an empty wall or over your toilet for a convenient and clever piece to hold your towels.

12. Make Your Own Shot Ski

If you are considering getting new skis, a lively way to repurpose your own pair of old skis is by crafting up your own shot ski. Not only is this a great way to use your own equipment but it also gives your skis new life.

Recycle

Recycling ensures you’re being eco-friendly by giving materials a second life and responsibly handling disposal.

13. Gear Swap

Participate in local gear swaps or explore online platforms dedicated to sports equipment exchange. This allows you to trade your old skis for different gear, providing a sustainable way to refresh your equipment.

14. Donate Old Skis

Consider donating your old skis to charity shops, schools, or organizations that accept sports equipment donations. This ensures that someone else can enjoy the sport without the financial burden of purchasing new gear.

15. Resell

Sell your old skis through online platforms such as eBay, Craigslist, or dedicated second-hand sports equipment stores. This not only gives your skis a new home but also allows others to access affordable equipment, contributing to a more sustainable sports community.

FAQs About What To Do With Old Skis

Continue reading below as I answer some of the most commonly asked questions about what to do with old skis.

What is the best way to sell used skis?

Explore online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, local second-hand stores, thrift stores, or ski shops that accept used equipment. Providing clear photos and details about the skis’ condition enhances your chances of selling them.

How do you know if your skis are too old?

Look for signs of wear or outdated binding systems. If you’re uncertain, consult with a ski professional who can assess their condition and advise on whether it’s time for an upgrade or whether it’s time for a tune up .

I recommend heading to a local ski shop or to REI and speaking to one of their representatives about whether you can keep riding on yours or need to invest in a new pair of skis.

How do you display old snow skis?

If your old skis are in good condition consider mounting them horizontally on a wall, using brackets or mounts for a clean and organized look. Alternatively, create a ski rack or integrate them into furniture for a unique and personalized showcase. Check out my above list for a handful of more good ideas.

What can I do with old ski poles?

Repurpose ski poles as curtain rods, coat racks, or even garden stakes. Get creative with paint or decorative elements to turn them into functional and aesthetically pleasing household items. You can also donate or resell them.

How many years can skis last?

Skis can last anywhere from one year to ten years. The lifespan of skis depends on factors like usage, maintenance, and technological advancements. Regular maintenance and care can extend their life so that you don’t have to buy new equipment frequently.

Final Thoughts On What To Do With Old Skis

Repurposing and recycling old skis offer a creative and sustainable approach to dealing with unused equipment.

Whether you choose to integrate old equipment into your home decor or pass them on to someone in need, finding new purposes for old skis not only reduces waste but also adds a little spice and touch of adventure to your home.