Vista Bahn Ski Rentals
Vista Bahn Ski Rentals
4.5
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
About
3 Generations of Family Owned & Operated. Established in 1977, Vista Bahn Ski Rentals is one of the last owner-operated ski shops in Vail. The Gros family — Joël, Jane, Sacha and Dominique — have lived the ski life for over 40 years and are proud of their ski heritage in Vail, Colorado. Vista Bahn Ski Rentals is the Skier’s Ski Shop. Our unique location next to Vail Ski School and Gondola One at Vail Mountain means you can ski right to our door! Our knowledgeable and friendly staff provides the highest level of service to our customers. We not only offer the highest quality ski rentals, but we provide quick repairs, ski tuning and advice about boots and gear right on the spot. Our other convenient services include overnight precision tuning of your skis and lots of ski storage including full size ski lockers, baskets and coin-operated lockers.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
36 reviews
Excellent
32
Very good
1
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
2
EKMD
Livingston, NJ61 contributions
Dec 2020
I was renting for a full week for a family of 5, so I did my due diligence before the trip. The great reviews here, all turned out to be spot on. It was a family-type atmosphere, and the people who work at Vista Bahn could not be more helpful. They stored our skis, boots, and we rented a basket to store our shoes during the day, and our helmets at night. On top of that, they had the best prices on the mountain.
Written January 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
jasonhavens
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL28 contributions
Nov 2021
We agree with the numerous other glowing reviews of Vista Bahn Ski Rentals. Sacha and his team fitted our entire family, including our sons (only one of whom had skied). The equipment was very good. They were so flexible, and even allowed us to travel with everything to Keystone for a few days because their ski school opened earlier than Vail (beginning of ski season last fall). They also credited us because one of our sons had a tennis injury and only skied a couple of days. We definitely would recommend Sacha and the Vista Bahn team, and plan to rent there again.
Written February 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
MIT629
Saratoga, CA85 contributions
Dec 2022 • Couples
Before our trip to Vail, I called Epic Mountain Rentals and the guy I spoke with didn’t want to help me, he flat-out told me to go to the website (WOW! Such personal service). I called Vista Bahn and Dominique helped me. She answered all my questions, took my reservation over the phone and had us set up before we arrived. When we came to Vista Bahn, the team helped us with everything we needed and made it all so easy. I love Vista Bahn and will always go to them for my skiing needs while in Vail. As for Epic Mountain Rentals - everything “Epic” is really not that Epic.
Written December 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
CurlyQ1963
Philadelphia, PA66 contributions
Jan 2021
The location can't be beat - this is steps from Gondola 1. Everyone was very helpful - they even offered to store my son's rental boots overnight. However, they failed to mention that he would need to RENT a locker or basket to store his shoes during the day. I was very surprised at the additional charges when we turned in our skis.
Written February 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Rick
Michigan1 contribution
Jan 2022 • Friends
Reservation made online, in advance. Demo package. Skis we requested were ready when we arrived. After first day no problems switching boots for a better fit. Staff was knowledgeable and helpful. We stored our equipment in the shop overnight. The boots were dry and warm in the morning.
Written January 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Ginger G
West Palm Beach, FL1 contribution
Mar 2015 • Family
Before deciding which place to rent our ski/snowboard equipment I read the various reviews and found that Vista Bahn had positive reviews and accordingly expected the treatment that I read in those reviews. Unfortunately our experience was very disappointing. First, we arrived with a very enthusiastic attitude and were met with a less than positive attitude from the lady who took care of us, I believe her name was Dominique. Our entire group could not believe what a downright unfriendly demeanor this lady had- not at all welcoming. We proceeded to rent our gear and gave them the information required as to the type of skier, etc. They recommended that we rent the demo package (latest and best equipment and obviously more expensive). We left with our gear and happy to start our week of skiing/snowboarding.
We had a new snowboarder who was taking lessons. On her second snowboarding lesson (first day in Vail, second day at Beaver Creek), the instructor noticed that she was not set up right on her board. He kindly gave her one of his boards to use (at no charge) and set it up accordingly. She had been set up as a lefty (goofy) and therefore one of the reasons she was having a hard time on the board. As for me and my husband, we have been skiing for over 20 years and consider ourselves advanced skiers. I noticed that my skis were not handling going fast on the steeper slopes and I felt I had to slow down to avoid getting injured. My husband complained of the same. We searched the type of skis we rented and found out that I was given beginner skis and my husband was given skis described as woman skis.
We tried returning the gear on the second day but because they close at 6 p.m. and we had been skiing Beaver Creek we arrived after the shop was closed. We went back to Vista Bahn on our third day and instead of meeting with helpful attitude, we were told that it was our fault - that basically they showed us the gear and that was what we accepted. I could not believe that they could fit a person wrong on a snowboard and make this claim. At this time we had spent three days of our ski time and money on ill fitting gear. They gave me and my husband new skis and said it was our fault for not asking for this particular type of skis. Remember we had paid for Demos. The second set of skis were definitely a huge improvement and made our skiing more enjoyable. We returned the snowboard and rented another from Buzz rentals, where she was set up correctly.
The place I read on the reviews is definitely not the same as the one we walked into and would NOT RECOMMEND Vista Bahn rentals to anyone. It costs too much money as it is for a week of skiing and the last thing anyone wants is to spend it on the wrong gear and get treated terribly when trying to remedy the situation. On our final day when we returned the gear- the attitude was not much different.
We had a new snowboarder who was taking lessons. On her second snowboarding lesson (first day in Vail, second day at Beaver Creek), the instructor noticed that she was not set up right on her board. He kindly gave her one of his boards to use (at no charge) and set it up accordingly. She had been set up as a lefty (goofy) and therefore one of the reasons she was having a hard time on the board. As for me and my husband, we have been skiing for over 20 years and consider ourselves advanced skiers. I noticed that my skis were not handling going fast on the steeper slopes and I felt I had to slow down to avoid getting injured. My husband complained of the same. We searched the type of skis we rented and found out that I was given beginner skis and my husband was given skis described as woman skis.
We tried returning the gear on the second day but because they close at 6 p.m. and we had been skiing Beaver Creek we arrived after the shop was closed. We went back to Vista Bahn on our third day and instead of meeting with helpful attitude, we were told that it was our fault - that basically they showed us the gear and that was what we accepted. I could not believe that they could fit a person wrong on a snowboard and make this claim. At this time we had spent three days of our ski time and money on ill fitting gear. They gave me and my husband new skis and said it was our fault for not asking for this particular type of skis. Remember we had paid for Demos. The second set of skis were definitely a huge improvement and made our skiing more enjoyable. We returned the snowboard and rented another from Buzz rentals, where she was set up correctly.
The place I read on the reviews is definitely not the same as the one we walked into and would NOT RECOMMEND Vista Bahn rentals to anyone. It costs too much money as it is for a week of skiing and the last thing anyone wants is to spend it on the wrong gear and get treated terribly when trying to remedy the situation. On our final day when we returned the gear- the attitude was not much different.
Written March 25, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
We thank you for renting at VBSR and are disappointed to hear of your continued concerns as we believe they had been remedied on your return to the shop on day 3, as well us providing a $200 rental discount and complimentary snowboard wax at week’s end. Spring conditions can be trying and we welcome swapping out equipment should you find it doesn’t suit your preferences. The shop phone # is on equipment so you can reach us quickly. Upon request, we’ll stay open beyond hours to accommodate your return from nearby resorts.
To clarify, the VBSR demo fleet includes all-level skis from beginners to expert in current and previous year’s models. While we base equipment selection on your skier self assessment, it is a joint effort based on what the customer requests and what we recommend. Ski hiccup aside, we hope your trip was enjoyable and welcome you back in the future.
Written March 31, 2015
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Debora M
Wilmette, IL7 contributions
Feb 2015 • Couples
Mu husband and I have been doing business with VBSR for the past 15 years. We have a seasonal locker and just started a seasonal rental arrangement for demo skis. We love the location and the expert recommendations we have always gotten from the staff. They make us feel welcome and appreciated as customers, and have the uncanny ability to know the best skis for us. If we want of try different skis, we can always trade for another pair throughout the day. We rent our condo and allow our renters to use the locker during their stay. We have always gotten positive feedback from all our renters about their experience at VBSR; it is usually a highlight of their Vail experience.
I have read some of the negative reviews and can only think that some people do not know their true skill level and are, consequently, rented skis that may not be right for them. The staff must rely on self-reported skill level when recommending skis.
We would highly recommend VBSR for rentals, lockers, ski tuning and repair, and for the friendly, helpful, well-informed staff.
I have read some of the negative reviews and can only think that some people do not know their true skill level and are, consequently, rented skis that may not be right for them. The staff must rely on self-reported skill level when recommending skis.
We would highly recommend VBSR for rentals, lockers, ski tuning and repair, and for the friendly, helpful, well-informed staff.
Written April 23, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Russ H
Westfield, New Jersey, United States45 contributions
Dec 2018 • Family
I used Vista Bahn at the recommendation of a friend who lives in Vail on my first trip in 2016 and sought them out on recent trip in late 2018. The rental service from the very experienced staff is outstanding... appropriate and wise recommendations for my wife and daughter on getting their boots comfortable... and super efficient. And the convenience of storing both rented gear here overnight (for free!) and our own gear (for very low fee) can't be beat. Finally, their location is simply the best in Vail, literally at base of the Vail Village Gondola (#1). It was so nice to come off the bus at the transportation center and walk up Bridge Street carrying nothing and not clomping along with ski boots on... then to gear up in the warmth of Vista Bahn and only have to walk 25 steps to get on the Gondola. I will use Vista Bahn every time I come to Vail!
Written January 2, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Russ, Referrals from friends to come see us makes us smile. Nothing better! We're so glad to have you and the girls back regularly.
Written January 25, 2019
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
KG1
Minturn, CO1 contribution
Dec 2018 • Solo
This is the spot! Barclay and the rest of the staff were really welcoming and have an effortless style of getting you in the right gear and out on the mountain! Can't beat the location next to Gondola 1 either!
Written December 10, 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Glad you enjoyed your visit to VBSR. We hope to see you back in 2019 for a repeat!
Written December 18, 2018
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Henry A I
Green Pond, SC2 contributions
Mar 2015 • Family
I have known, used and thoroughly enjoyed everything about VBSR for over 35 years! I have obviously gotten to know the whole family and they are wonderful caring people. The facilities are always clean, they take great care in working on skis and as my grandchildren rent each year, they have very good equipment. Every year it is just a pleasure to come back and see all the familiar faces. I can recommend them with not the slightest hesitation.
Written April 21, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
No questions have been asked about this experience
Vista Bahn Ski Rentals (Vail) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Vista Bahn Ski Rentals
- Vista Bahn Ski Rentals is open:
- Sun - Thu 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Fri - Sat 8:00 AM - 6:30 PM
- Hotels near Vista Bahn Ski Rentals:
- (0.01 mi) Mill Creek Court
- (0.01 mi) Vail Butler | 2BR Slopeside Lodge - Ski In/Ski Out
- (0.01 mi) Heart of Village 2 Minute Walk to Gondola
- (0.01 mi) Large Deck, Grill In Heart Pedestrian Village Parking Walk to Everything
- (0.01 mi) Great location! In Heart Village, Deck, Fireplace, Parking
- Restaurants near Vista Bahn Ski Rentals:
- (0.01 mi) Almresi Restaurant
- (0.02 mi) Big Bear Bistro
- (0.02 mi) The Blu Cow
- (0.02 mi) Crespelle
- (0.03 mi) Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory