Sports gear for kids can get expensive. With rapidly growing bodies (hello, two and sometimes three new soccer cleats a year for multiple kids), and a retinue of sport interests, it would be great if you could get a deal on used sports equipment. Or, if you could pass on all those shin guards, helmets, and leotards you have taking up precious space.
But where can you buy and sell used sports equipment for your kids in Champaign-Urbana and Beyond? There are a few places our readers have recommended for sometimes scoring a bat or pants or shoes. Unfortunately, we don’t have a business in CU that solely focuses on selling used sports equipment. You’ll have to go to Decatur for that.
Editor’s Note: We sourced these recommendation from our readers on our Facebook page in February, 2015. Chambanamoms.com does not endorse these businesses.
Buying and Selling Used Sports Gear:
Play It Again Sports, Decatur: A chain of sporting goods stores selling new and gently used sporting goods, way back in the way back, we had a Play It Again Sports in CU. Now we need to go to Decatur for our PIAS fix. “Decatur has a nice Play It Again Sports.” 3004A North Water St. Decatur. (217) 872-2434.
All Things Kids, Champaign: “I’ve gotten soccer gear and baseball pants at All Things Kids.”
Bulldog Family Consignment, Mahomet: “Bulldog family consignment in Mahomet has some things.”
Buying or Donating Used Sports Gear:
Goodwill, Champaign: “I think it’s hit or miss, depending on what’s been donated. That being said, I’ve seen the occasional items at Goodwill and helmets, inline skates, etc.”
Habitat for Humanity ReStore, Champaign: “Habitat ReStore has tons of stuff, though no footwear.” “Habitat ReStore does not take (or sell) clothing or footwear, but lots of golf clubs, bats, and exercise equipment!” “March is big month Habitat ReStore for slightly used (post New Year’s resolution) exercise equipment!”
Online Selling/ Buying Options:
Of course, you can also scour garage sales this Spring/ Summer/Fall and score some great deals on used kids sports gear. I like to let my friends who garage sale know what I’m looking for and what I’m willing to pay, and sometimes I’ll get lucky and a friend will snag a deal for us. But, when your girl is playing soccer in two weeks, waiting might not be an option. And then you will also have extra gear hanging out in your garage or basement while you wait for you little one to grow into it. (Assuming, of course, they will still want to play the same sport when they grow into those cleats!)
Did we miss your place for buying and selling used kids sports gear? Don’t keep the secret to yourself! Share with us in the comments below!