Planning a ski holiday to Les 3 Vallées this winter? Whether you’re staying in Méribel, Courchevel or La Tania, one of the first questions most travellers ask is: should I rent skis, and how does ski hire actually work?
At Ski Higher we’ve put together the ultimate FAQ-style guide based on:
- The most common questions our customers ask
- What travellers frequently search for before booking
- Practical on-mountain knowledge from fitting hundreds of skiers every season
Whether you want to book online, use our mobile delivery service or prefer an in-store fitting at our La Tania or Les Allues shops, this guide will help you arrive confident, prepared and ready to enjoy the mountains.
Why Choose Ski Hire Over Bringing Your Own Gear?
Renting instead of travelling with your own gear offers several advantages:
Convenience while travelling: Avoid expensive airline baggage fees and the hassle of carrying heavy ski bags through the airport, onto transfers, or across snowy footpaths.
Professionally maintained, high-quality equipment: Our rental shops offer well-maintained, modern equipment. You’ll be fitted by experienced ski technicians who can match skis, boots, poles and even helmets to your level and style, from beginner cruisers to advanced freeriders.
Access to the latest gear: Ski technology improves every season. Renting gives you access to high-performance modern equipment.
Flexibility to try something new: Want to try off-piste skiing or swap to snowboarding for the day? Renting lets you experiment and test equipment without committing to a purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ski Hire In Les 3 Vallées
Below, we answer the questions our Ski Higher team are asked most often.
Q: Should I book ski hire in advance?
If you know your holiday dates, we definitely recommend booking ahead — especially during peak periods (Christmas, New Year, February half-term, Easter).
Booking in advance means:
- A smoother arrival
- Guaranteed availability
- A wider range of equipment
- Faster fitting
- Peace of mind
We do accept walk-ins at our La Tania and Les Allues shops, but availability can be limited during peak weeks and weekends. Booking ahead also allows our Ski Higher technicians to prepare your equipment before you arrive.
Q: When should I select the start date for my ski hire?
You should book your ski hire from the first day you plan to ski. For example, if you arrive on Saturday but plan to ski from Sunday onward, reserve the skis from Sunday.
You can collect your equipment from 2pm the afternoon before your first ski day.
If you choose Ski Higher’s mobile delivery service, your equipment will be delivered directly to your accommodation on the evening of your arrival. A convenient and stress-free service that ensures you are all geared up and ready to go for your first day on the slopes.
Q: Will I receive the exact skis I selected online?
If you request a specific ski model, we’ll always do our very best to provide it. If it isn’t available, we’ll issue an equivalent model within the same rental category. If a change is necessary, we’ll contact you prior to your arrival.
Q: How does Ski Higher’s mobile delivery service work?
Our mobile delivery service is a huge time-saver, especially if you’re arriving late at the resort, travelling with children, or staying far from the ski shops.
How it works:
- Book online and select mobile delivery at checkout.
- We’ll prepare your equipment and deliver it to your accommodation prior to your arrival.
- Call our mobile team when you reach resort to schedule your fitting.
- A Ski Higher technician will come to your accommodation and make any adjustments, ensuring everything fits perfectly.
- At the end of your holiday, simply leave your equipment in your accommodation, and we’ll collect it after you depart.
It’s simple, flexible, and especially popular with families and groups.
Q: What happens if I damage or lose my equipment?
If you opt for Ski Higher’s Theft & Damage Protection, accidental damage is covered.
Without protection, a replacement fee will apply, but we’ll provide a receipt so you can make a claim with your travel insurer.
Lost equipment (often due to ski swaps on busy racks) is also an insurance matter, so we strongly recommend taking protection.
You can find full details in our Terms & Conditions.
Q: Do you rent helmets, snowshoes and other equipment?
Yes, we offer far more than just skis and snowboards. Our rental range includes:
- Children’s skis, boots, helmets and poles
- Adult helmets
- Snowshoes
- Luges (sledges) for adults and children
- Touring gear (subject to availability)
- Safety equipment
We strongly recommend helmets for all skiers and snowboarders, and they are required for many children’s lessons.
Q: Can I get my own skis serviced while I’m in Les 3 Vallées?
Absolutely. You can drop your equipment at our La Tania or Les Allues shops after skiing, and we’ll service it overnight for next-day collection.
Mobile servicing may also be available depending on your location and the technician’s schedule. Simply email info@skihigher.com or call +33 (0)4 79 00 51 70 once you arrive in resort.
Q: What if I need to change my booking once I’m in resort?
Need a different boot size or want to switch skis? No problem, just email our team or visit one of our shops.
If you have new people joining your group, they’ll need to make a separate booking, but we can prepare everything together on arrival.
Top Tips for a Smooth Ski Hire Experience in Les 3 Vallées
Book online before your trip: It guarantees availability and often gives you access to the best rates.
Bring your ski socks: Proper ski socks help ensure a comfortable, accurate boot fitting.
Choose the Ski Higher shop closest to your accommodation: If you’re staying further out, our mobile delivery service is the most convenient option.
Avoid overtightening your ski boots: Most discomfort comes from tightening your boots too much on the first day.
Store your skis safely: Ski swaps happen frequently in busy après-ski areas – always double-check before you walk away.
Use overnight boot warmers if available: Warm boots make a huge difference to comfort.
Final Thoughts: The Easy Way to Organise Your Ski Hire
Ski hire shouldn’t be stressful. With a little preparation – booking ahead, choosing the correct start date, and understanding how delivery and collection work – you can arrive in Les 3 Vallées relaxed and ready to ski.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned mountain lover, the Ski Higher team is here to make sure:
- Your equipment fits perfectly.
- You feel confident and supported.
- You spend more time skiing and less time organising logistics.
If you’re planning your trip now, booking early is the easiest way to secure the best equipment and ensure a smooth start to your holiday.
You can find further information on Ski Higher, our FAQs and pricing for the 25/26 season by visiting our website.