Annual NM Ski Swap Kicks Off Winter Prep, Benefits Sandia Peak Ski Patrol

The largest fundraiser for the all-volunteer Sandia Peak Ski Patrol, the annual NM Ski Swap, is set to take place at Expo New Mexico on November 14-16. The event provides a massive, community-focused marketplace for winter sports enthusiasts to buy and sell new and used gear before the ski season officially begins.

Event Highlights and Schedule

The three-day event will follow this schedule at the Expo NM grounds:

• Friday, November 14: Public Gear Check-in and VIP Pre-Sale
  • Public consignors can drop off equipment for sale from 10 am – 7 pm.
  • The exclusive VIP Pre-Sale runs from 7 pm – 10 pm, with admission at $20 cash per person. Children 12 and under are free with a paying adult. This allows first access to the thousands of items available.
• Saturday, November 15: Public Sale
  • The main public sale is open from 9 am – 4 pm.
  • Admission is $2 per person.
• Sunday, November 16: Public Sale & Gear Pickup
  • The sale continues from 9 am – 2 pm with $2 per person admission.
  • Public consignors must return for gear check/pickup of unsold items and their payment checks between 10 am – 2 pm.

The event has been a New Mexico tradition since 1967 and is a key source of funding for the Ski Patrol’s non-profit operations, covering expenses for essential equipment like toboggans and medical supplies, as well as training.

Buying, Selling, and Safety

The Swap, which has grown into a major winter sports show, features a massive selection of alpine and Nordic skis, snowboards, boots, clothing, and accessories from both individuals and vendors.

Consignors benefit from free parking for drop-off and pickup, and they set their own prices for their equipment. The Ski Patrol retains a commission on all sales, which directly funds their safety and rescue operations.

A crucial feature of the event is equipment safety checks. Ski bindings are checked against industry standards to ensure they are indemnified (supported by manufacturers), prioritizing skier safety. Items deemed unserviceable or certain equipment, like old “straight skis,” are typically not accepted for resale.