Some Best Places to Rent Gear Interlaken Without Getting Ripped Off

Rent Gear Interlaken

You land in Interlaken, wide-eyed, slightly underdressed, and immediately slapped by that fresh Alpine air — the kind that smells like clean snow, pine, and humility.

Because that puffer jacket you thought would be enough? It’s not.

And those hiking shoes you packed? Might as well be made of paper once you see the trails.
Welcome to Switzerland, my friend. Let’s get you geared up — the smart, budget-friendly way and find the best places to rent gear Interlaken.

❄️ Step One: Stop Panicking. Renting Gear Here is Possible.


It’s true — Switzerland can eat your wallet for breakfast if you’re not careful. But Interlaken is full of travelers like you: here for a few days of mountain magic, not a full ski season. Locals know this. And thankfully, they’ve built rental shops that don’t try to charge you like you’re a Hollywood actor prepping for Everest.

I was here for four days last January. I packed cute, not smart. I assumed a fleece and sneakers would cut it. They didn’t. By noon, my socks were soaked, my gloves were laughable, and I was Googling “cheap crampons Interlaken” while sipping overpriced tea to warm my frozen fingers.

Here’s what I learned — the hard way.

❄️ Step Second: What Are You Renting For?


Not all rental shops are built the same. Some are for snowboarders, some for hikers, some for that in-between soul who just wants to see snow without losing a toe. So ask yourself:

  • Just hiking on snowy trails? You’ll need waterproof boots, snowshoes or crampons, and warm layers.
  • Skiing/snowboarding in nearby resorts (Grindelwald, Wengen)? You’ll want full snow gear, helmet, goggles, gloves, and a miracle.
  • Snow play or scenic wanderer? Boots, jacket, maybe poles — but don’t overdo it.

Now — here’s the gear shop lowdown, with links, vibes, and real advice.

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🧤 Best Gear Rental Shops Near Interlaken — My No-Nonsense Picks


If you’re planning to hike, ski, or do literally anything outdoors in the Jungfrau region and forgot your gear (or just didn’t want to check a suitcase full of winter clothes), you’re not doomed.
There are actually some fantastic rental shops near Interlaken — each with their own vibe, pricing, and gear options.

Here’s what I found after freezing my hands one too many times and finally giving in to the locals’ advice:

1. 🏪 Intersport Rent — The Reliable All-Rounder

📍 Find a Location | Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, Wengen | Website: Intersport Interlaken

With multiple locations across Interlaken and the Jungfrau Region, Intersport is probably the most Googleable rental brand in Switzerland. They’re everywhere — Lauterbrunnen, Grindelwald, Wengen — and their gear is always top-notch.

  • Why it’s great: Consistent quality, easy booking, ski + snowboarding kits available
  • What they offer: Skis, snowboards, boots, helmets, winter clothes
  • Cost: CHF 42–55/day for full ski gear (prices may vary)
  • Best for: First-time travelers who want it simple and stress-free

💬 “I rented a full snowboard set here. Clean gear, easy return, no drama.”

2. 🥾 Outdoor Interlaken — The Adventurer’s Hub

📍 Outdoor Interlaken HQ | Höhematte Park area, Interlaken | Website: outdoor.ch

This one’s a gem if you’re hiking, snowshoeing, or doing one of those “let’s just explore!” kind of trips. Located in Grindelwald on Dorfstrasse, Outdoor Interlaken has hiking kits, crampons, poles, snowshoes — even GoPros if you’re feeling bold.

  • Why it’s great: Friendly staff, local trail tips, solid pricing
  • What they offer: Hiking gear, winter boots, snowshoes, technical apparel
  • Cost: CHF 25–35/day for hiking sets

💬 “They literally handed me snowshoes and a hand-drawn map. I ended up on a quiet trail above Lauterbrunnen, completely alone with the mountains.”

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3. 🛏️ Balmers Hostel (Ski Rentals Too!) — Budget Vibes, Big Value

📍 Balmers Rentals | Hauptstrasse 23, Interlaken | Website: balmers.com

Yes — this famous hostel also offers affordable ski rental packages, perfect for backpackers and short-stay travelers. They’re partnered with local ski shops and make the process super smooth.

  • Why it’s great: You can sleep AND get gear all in one place
  • What they offer: Ski sets, snowboards, winter wear for daily or multi-day use
  • Cost: Budget-friendly, bundles available

💬 “Picked up my skis right after breakfast. Slope-ready in 30 minutes, with money left over for lunch.”

4. 🪂 Skywings Paragliding Interlaken — Adrenaline, But Make It Affordable

📍 Skywings Paragliding | Höheweg 125, Interlaken | Website: skywings.ch

Not just for flying off cliffs — they actually also offer ski rental packages, and can guide you toward the right fit depending on your trip.

  • Why it’s great: Perfect if you’re doing multiple activities (paragliding + skiing = wild combo)
  • What they offer: Paragliding gear + snow gear, depending on the season

💬 “Unexpected rental spot, but super helpful and efficient. They know what travelers need.”

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5. ⛏️ Swiss Alpine Guides — For Mountaineers, Ice Climbers & Winter Trail Warriors

📍 Swiss Alpine Rentals | Matten, near Interlaken | Website: swissalpineguides.ch

If your plans involve glacier crossings, summit pushes, or ice axes (you wild creature, you), this is where you go. Swiss Alpine Guides rents out specialized mountaineering gear — boots, helmets, crampons, harnesses, avalanche kits — everything you’d need for a more extreme Alpine adventure.

  • Why it’s great: Best place for technical or off-piste gear
  • What they offer: Crampons, climbing boots, helmets, harnesses, transceivers

💬 “They outfitted me like a pro. I felt ready to climb Everest — even though I was just doing Schreckhorn.”

🧤What You Actually Need — and What You Can Skip 


I know you saw those sleek winter photos on Instagram — puffer jackets, mirrored goggles, designer gloves. Don’t be fooled.

Here’s what’s essential if you’re hiking or doing snow activities in winter:

  • Insulated waterproof boots – You will cry without these.
  • Thermal base layers – Even one set helps.
  • Waterproof pants & jacket – Rent them if you didn’t bring.
  • Gloves + beanie – Absolutely.
  • Hiking poles – Underrated. Especially in snow.
  • Crampons or microspikes – Only for icy or high-altitude hikes.

What you can skip if you’re on trails under 1,800m:

  • Snow goggles (unless it’s windy or bright AF)
  • Avalanche gear (if you’re on clearly marked tourist trails)
  • Designer-anything

🔍 Quick Tips for Smart Rental

  1. Reserve online for peak seasons—Christmas, President’s Week, and weekends in January/February
  2. Bundle gear: renting boots, pants, and poles together can save 10‑20%
  3. Confirm deposit rules: some shops hold your ID or charge a deposit
  4. Return locally: if you end in Grindelwald, return to their branch—no dragging
  5. Ask for trail suggestions—especially at Outdoor and Swiss Alpine—they know trails better than blogs
Rent Gear Interlaken


💡 Final Word from the Slushy Boots

Renting snow or hiking gear in Interlaken doesn’t have to be stressful or stupid expensive. You just have to know where the local skiers go when they forget their gloves or blow out their old boots. Stay off the flashy main streets, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to look like a budget traveler. Because honestly?

No one cares what your jacket brand is when you’re standing in the middle of the Alps, breathing in air so cold and clean it makes your heart pause.

And that’s the moment — that breath — you traveled all this way for.


🙋‍♀️ Real FAQs from Real Freezing Travelers

Q: Can I just rent boots and snowshoes for one hike?

A: Yep. Most places will rent gear by the piece. Expect around 10–15 CHF for boots and 15 for snowshoes. It’s perfect if you’re doing one snowy adventure.

Q: Is renting cheaper than buying second-hand gear?

A: For short trips, absolutely. But if you’re staying more than 7 days, ask about their used gear sales. Some places will sell you a whole set for less than renting for a week.

Q: Are these rental shops cash-only?

A: Nope. Everyone takes card. But some offer cash discounts if you ask — especially if you’re renting multiple items.

Q: Where should I stay so I’m close to the gear shops and trains?

Q: Where should I stay so I’m close to the gear shops and trains? A: Stay near Interlaken Ost station. You’re close to Outdoor Interlaken, cafes, buses to Lauterbrunnen, and train links to Grindelwald. It’s central without being hectic.

Q: Can I hike the snowy trails without crampons?

A: Maybe. But I tried without, and it was like walking on an ice rink with banana peels strapped to my feet. Rent them if it snowed recently. You’ll thank yourself.

Author

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    Alessia is a passionate travel writer and contributor at TravelItinerary.com. With a background in luxury travel planning, she brings a wealth of experience in crafting exceptional journeys. Raised in Italy, and now based in Westport, Connecticut, Alessia has explored destinations worldwide, including Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America, and the United States. Her extensive travels and cultural insights enrich her writing, providing readers with detailed and inspiring itineraries. Through her articles, Alessia aims to share her love for adventure and culture, helping travelers create meaningful and memorable experiences.

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