02/18/2012
Now More Than Ever....Support Your Local Shops!

As you shop all the end of season sales for bargains and deals on winter gear, keep in mind a few reasons to shop locally and support your local retailers. The late arrival of winter this year dramatically impacted all of your local ski and snowboard retailers. We missed sales and rentals during what are usually the busiest weeks of our season. We will never make up lost sales but a robust spring season will generate income to pay those bills (that are always on time!) and reduce inventory to make room for all the new goodies you will be looking for next season.

*The snowsports industry has had a tough season nationwide and there will be plenty of deals out there this year but why not keep your dollars circulating locally? Supporting local businesses supports the local economy and keeps dollars spent in our own community.

*Shopping locally allows you to actually see, touch, feel or try on the product you are interested in. No guessing or surprises. You will know if the items fit and if you like the color!

*Locally owned businesses provide valuable products and services and help create the distinctive character of Boise.

*Local businesses hire people who live in the community and tend to be more knowledgeable about the products and services they sell. Skiers are passionate about their sport and ski retailers are passionate about the gear they have to offer you.

*Local retailers can advise you on products based on common information. For example, a specific ski model might be recommended for you because of the ski runs you like to ski at Bogus Basin. A local retailer will know exactly what you are describing.

*Local retailers typically have local buyers who select the merchandise they offer their customers. Local buyers have a better feel for products that will meet your needs.

*If you have a warranty issue with a product, local retailers can handle the issue in a timelier manner and will typically go out of their way to satisfy you as quickly as possible. We want to keep you happy and keep you on the slopes!

*Chances are, your local retailer knows you by name and can help you find exactly what you are looking for. Retailers are always happy to see their regular customers who are also their friends!

*Supporting local businesses will ensure that your favorite retailers are here and ready to help you in the future. We are all facing the challenges of the current economy and whims of Mother Nature. With your support, we will weather the storm and be here for seasons to come.

So…as you consider your buying choices, think local and come see us soon! We’re always happy to see you and we can help you find exactly what you are looking for.

12/29/2011
Is There Really a Bob Greenwood?

We get the question frequently but usually from newcomers to the Treasure Valley. Yes, there most definitely is a Bob Greenwood!
Bob was the original founder of "Bob Greenwood's Ski & Sport Haus" back in 1957.
The short version of the store history is that a year or two later, Bob had been so successful that he was able to pay off his silent partner and recruit Jim Brandon as his business partner. Seeking a better location, Bob and Jim moved the original Ski Haus building from the first location on State St. to 2811 Bogus Basin Rd. in 1959.
In the Fall of 1962 Bob and Jim moved into a new building and location at 2445 Bogus Basin Rd. Soon after, they invited Harry Clark to join them in the business. The business was open year-round selling everything from bikes, tennis rackets, and kayaks, to dehydrated backpacking food.
In 1978, Bob, Jim and Harry narrowed the scope of the business and made the decision to close the store during the summer months.
"Bob Greenwood's Ski Haus" moved to the current location in the fall of 1978. The move required many hours to remodel the building, all contributed by Bob, Jim and Harry as well as skilled staff members.
1985 brought about a change of ownership as Bill Tregoning, John Greenwood (Bob's son), and Harry Clark purchased the business from Bob and Jim. The business name was changed slightly to "Greenwood's Ski Haus" but the philosophy of the business remained. Harry Clark retired in 1990 and Carrie Gochnour became a partner with Bill and John in 1995.
In 2002, Bill and John made the decision to spend more time with their families and sold their interest of the business to the current owners, Carrie Gochnour and Jeff Lewerenz.
Known as "Boise's Only Ski Specialty Store" for 54 years, we invite you to stop in for a visit. Chances are, you just might catch a glimpse of Bob Greenwood, in between trips up to the ski hill or a round of golf, checking in to make sure the coffee is on!
There really is a Bob Greenwood and he's healthy, active, and enjoying life. To use one of his favorite phrases, he's definitely "vertical and breathing!"

12/03/2011
Holiday Gift Ideas for Any Budget

The holidays are approaching faster than the first run down War Eagle headed for the new and speedy Superior chairlift. If you need some gift suggestions for the snow lovers on your gift list, here are some ideas that you can find at Greenwood’s Ski Haus to fit any budget:

Gifts Under $15-Great for stocking stuffers or hostess gifts!
Jewelry-Snowflake and skier motif
Beverage Mugs-Ceramic mugs adorned with a festive winter theme.
Holiday Ornaments-A wide variety to choose from
Photo Frames-Winter themed frames in a variety of colors
Smartwool ultra comfy men’s & ladies’ casual socks in several great colors
Neck Gaiters-Thick, thin, printed or plain.
Velcro Ski Straps-We even have them for wide skis!
Hand & Toe Heaters

Gifts $30 and Under
“Building Bogus Basin”-The book by Eve Chandler
DVD’s-Choose from the wild and crazy to the classics
T-Shirts-Logos from their favorite brands and Bogus Basin
DryGuy AC/DC boot dryer-for use at home or in the car
Hats-We have a great selection of styles to choose from
Goggle Cases-DaKine hard cases in a variety of colors and patterns.

Gifts $50 and Under
Lucky Bums Kid’s sleds and Ski Sets
Tuning Supplies-For the do-it-yourself tuners on your list
Conformable “Winter” Insoles-trim-to-fit footbeds for all your winter footwear

Gifts $100 and Under
Goggles-Several models from Smith and Oakley
Dakine boot and gear bags in a variety of patterns
Zip T-Necks-Base layer or mid-layer in a variety of fabrics
Brundage 2-Day Select Card-Ski Brundage this season and save!
Apres’ Ski Boots-Variety of brands and styles for men, women, and kids

Gifts from $100-$200
Helmets-From Smith, Giro, and Poc. Add an audio system and ski with tunes!
Jackets or Pants-Time for a makeover? We can help!

The Sky’s the Limit!
Hestra Rechargeable Heated Gloves-Feel the warmth!
Hotronic Boot Heaters-Installation included at no charge.
Skis, Boots, and Bindings

Greenwood’s offers Gift Registration just in case you happen to find a little something to add to your own wish list! We also offer free gift wrapping so wrap up your holiday shopping at Greenwood’s and...Think Snow!

10/24/2011
Ski Gear: The Softer Side

When you think about your “ski gear”, do you think about your skis, boots, and maybe even your poles? Well, don’t neglect the other critical pieces of your “gear” that shelter your body from the winter elements. After all, if you aren’t dry, warm, and comfortable out there on the slopes, it doesn’t matter what kind of skis or boots you have.

For many years now, “layering” has been the recommended way to dress for a day on the slopes and most outdoor winter activities. Layering offers flexibility for changing weather conditions and is the best way to protect you from harsh winter weather. So what do those “layers” consist of?

Base Layer-The layer closest to your skin should do several things. It should be able to move moisture from perspiration way from your skin, dry quickly so you don’t get chilled and possibly provide warmth or insulation. If you’ve ever heard the phrase “cotton kills” you probably chuckled but there really is something to it. Cotton fibers actually absorb moisture, take a long time to dry and cause you to feel chilled. Quality base layers that work best are synthetic, wool, or silk. Base layers come in a variety of weights so that you can choose the best option for your specific activity and personal preferences. There is usually a tradeoff between how quickly a fabric will wick (spread moisture out), dry, and how much warmth it provides. Greenwood's staff can assist you in determining which base layer will work best for you.

Insulation Layer-After you have your base layer selected, the mid-layer should provide warmth or insulating properties. Fleece, wool, and lightweight insulators are ideal as a mid-layer. These mid-layers also come in a variety of weights so that you can choose the best pieces based on your activity, the weather, and personal preferences. If you always tend to be chilly, select a warmer mid-layer. Be sure to consider what you wear as your outer layer. If you typically wear an insulated outer layer, you may not need much warmth from your mid-layer. If you wear an uninsulated outer layer, there are probably days when you will want the warmest mid-layer you can find to fit comfortably under your outer shell. Low profile down and synthetic insulated mid-layers are very popular right now and serve a dual purpose as a great jacket to wear around town when you don’t need the wind and waterproofness from an outer shell.

Weatherproof Layer-The next layer of your “ski gear” needs to be weatherproof- wind and water repellent but also breathable so that you don’t build up moisture on the inside. Gore-Tex is a well known fabrication that provides a great combination of weatherproofness but there are tons of other good fabric options. Typically a permanent coating applied to the underside of the fabric is what makes it weatherproof. Manufacturers of most technical garments then tape the underside of the seams, at least in critical areas, so that there is no leakage through the seams. Most outdoor apparel manufacturers test their fabrics for breathability and waterproofness and provide that information on the hangtags of a garment. Also consider whether your outer layer should be insulated or an uninsulated shell. Ask your sales associate at Greenwood's to help you determine what options will best meet your needs.

Now that you have put together the perfect outfit for your day on the slopes, get out there and enjoy your other gear-your new skis and boots!

09/15/2011
Are you a Procrastinator? Turn Over a New Leaf!

Skiers know that fall is the transitional time between the dog days of summer and the beginning of ski season. What serious skiers also know is that fall is the perfect time to take care of all of those ski chores before the onslaught of winter enthusiasts who react only when the first flakes fly. Here are some helpful reminders of “ski chores” to check off your list now so you are ready to hit the slopes on opening day:

1. Lease Now for the Season-If you, your friends, or family haven't been sized up yet for season lease packages, don't wait! Lease equipment packages are limited and you want to make sure you get the best gear available to use for the season. The leasing process goes very smoothly until there is a line of folks waiting for help, equipment is picked over, and the turnaround time in the shop gets longer. Make it easy on yourself and plan an outing to Greenwood’s today!

2. Tuning/Mounting-Whether you have new gear that needs to be mounted, tuned up and readied for the slopes or older gear in need of some attention, you'll save yourself some stress if you get it to the Ski Haus before the BBSEF Ski SWAP (Nov. 4-6). Once the SWAP rolls around, our shop guys become buried in gear needing their expertise! The turnaround time in the shop is much shorter now than it will be after the first night SWAP shoppers drop off their gear. Besides, your experience at the front counter will be much more pleasant if you aren't in the middle of the mayhem that ensues later on.

3. Clothing Care and Treatment-If your ski togs didn’t make it into the wash tub last spring pull them out and give them a quick once over. Laundering with a non-detergent cleaner will help maintain the weatherproofing applied by the manufacturer and retreating will help restore the fabric finish on clothing that has seen a lot of slope time. There are many good products available for cleaning and treating a variety of fabrics. Stop in the Ski Haus and ask for assistance in choosing the best product for your garments. If any repairs are needed, you’ll be doing yourself a favor to take care of that now.

4. Get in Shape-Physically & Mentally-There are many pre season conditioning classes offered throughout the fall to help you get into shape physically for the winter season. Check with your local health club for options. Buddy up with a partner who will help motivate you and keep you accountable for showing up regularly. As for the mental part of it, stop by Greenwood’s and pick up a copy of the “Snow Lovers Calendar”. We’ve compiled a list of classes, movie premieres, and other events that will whet your appetite and get you excited and mentally ready to carve up the corduroy and schuss the pow!

So, if you have known the frustration from procrastinating about your ski chores, turn over a new leaf! You'll be happy you did when you get first tracks!