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Since the dawn of e-commerce, shopping has never been the same. As URLs started taking over, simplifying and expediting the purchasing process, stores started taking a hit IRL. While items like cleaning supplies and dog toys are incredibly convenient to buy online and have shipped to your home, ski gear is another story. It’s important to get your hands on that $800 ski jacket so you can feel the material and try it on for size. Ski boots certainly are not one-size-fits-all, and your local shop kids are going to know just the right ski for your style and terrain. There are many reasons to support your local ski and gear shop, so we’ve listed the three biggest ones below, just in case you’re in need of convincing.
Ski Gear Sizing
Whether it’s outerwear, skis, boots or even helmets, one size does not fit all and sizing across brands is not standard. While a small Arc’teryx jacket may fit just right, a small from Flylow may fit completely differently. There’s nothing more personal than a custom mold of your ski boots and a 175-centimeter directional ski is going to ski a lot longer than a fully rockered plank of the same length. Shopping at your local ski shop ensures you’re getting the right size and style in everything you need and a brick-and-mortar store is usually much more willing to work with you if you decide what you bought just isn’t working; whether that’s a return policy, store credit or a personalized exchange deal.
Local Intel
When it comes to ski gear, sometimes it’s hard to know what you even need. At your local shop, you’re going to find a fleet of gear nerds who not only understand all of the complicated gear jargon but also understand the local terrain you yourself are going to ski on. Maybe you want the new Armada ski for its unique graphic but your area’s mountains are better suited to a more carving-oriented shape. Gear shop employees are there to help steer you in the right direction to ensure you have the absolute most fun possible with the terrain and conditions in your backyard. These are also the people who likely have all the beta on that new backcountry zone you’ve been hearing about.
Community Support
What goes around comes around. Shopping at your local gear store provides cyclical support for your community. If you can afford to spend your money at the store, rather than at a large, anonymous online retailer, the shop can keep those funds cycling through the community by paying a living wage to its employees as well as sponsoring local events like rail jams, backcountry meet-ups and demo days. Your gear shop is also a great way to get your foot in the door in the industry if your dream has always been to work in the world of skiing. So keep your money where your community is and shop local.
