Buying used gear saves money. Some used gear is smart. Some is a mistake. Three rules separate the two.
The insole rule Insoles are personal. Don’t buy used insoles. Not from your cousin. Not from a yard sale. Your kid’s foot is his. His arch is his. His pressure points are his. A used insole is shaped to someone else.
Buy used shoes. Replace the insoles. Fifteen dollars for new ones. Problem solved. This applies to soccer, baseball, basketball, everything. New insoles, every time.
The helmet rule Helmets expire. Not technically. Functionally. The foam deteriorates. After three years, even if it looks fine, the protection is gone.
Used helmets under two years old: check the shell for cracks. None? Buy it. Used helmets three years or older: pass. The risk is not worth the savings.
Football helmets, lacrosse helmets, hockey helmets: all the same rule. Skateboard helmets: same rule. The foam you can’t see is dying.
The bat rule Bats don’t expire unless they break. A ten-year-old bat that hasn’t been hit works fine. Buy used bats without hesitation. Check for dents or cracks. None? It’s good.
Bats are made of wood or composite. Both last. Neither expires. Ignore the year. Go on condition.
What else is fine used Gloves. Spikes. Cleats. Shin guards. Shoulder pads. Football pants. Any piece of protection that hasn’t deteriorated gets a second life. Check the seams. Check for damage. If it’s clean and intact, buy it.
What to always buy new Mouthguards. Socks. Undergarments. Anything that goes on skin. The cost is low. The hygiene is real. Buy new.
Used gear is smart. Used gear rules are the difference between saving money and making a mistake. Know the three rules. Use them.