Sep 5, 2008 7:35 pm US/Pacific
ConsumerWatch: Bargains For Kids' Sporting Goods
(CBS 5)
Playing sports can be one of the best things for kids. But ask any parent and they'll tell you the cost of sports equipment adds up.
"They grow very quickly. I mean we're lucky if we can even get in a full season," said Sophia Tsiplakos, a mother of two.
And with higher gas prices and a declining economy more and more parents are starting to buy used equipment. Stores such as Play It Again Sports are seeing their sales going up.
"People come here to buy used because they are looking for a value," said Steve Ferroni of Play It Again Sports.
They sell discounted new and used sports equipment at up to 60 percent off the original retail cost.
And if you bring in your old pair that's still in good condition, Ferroni said "We'll give you a $5 store credit that you can use toward your next purchase."
For example, if you're gearing up for baseball, on average a new glove is $40, but a used is $15. New baseball cleats cost around $55; used cleats go for around $10. And a bat can run as much as $50, with a used bat costing $10. All in all, buying used can save you over $100.
If you start saving that money each year from the time your child is age 8, you'll have nearly $1,700 by the time he starts college.
Also, agencies such as
Pitch In For Baseball let's you donate your old gear and will give gear to communities that are in need.
But saving money should not come at the cost of safety. Equipment such as masks and helmets should be purchased new.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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