08/28/2010
What's Hot for the 2010/2011 Season

As we enjoy the final days of summer, our thoughts turn to our favorite season-Ski Season! Here at Greenwood’s Ski Haus we are excited to share all the new gear and clothing we have received for the 2010/2011 season. The forecast of a La Nina winter has all of us dreaming of an early winter with above normal precipitation and below normal temperatures.

The most frequently asked question we hear this time of year is “What’s the hot, new thing for the year?” So, here’s what you can expect to see as the latest and greatest in the ski world this season.

Skis- Rockered skis are still an exciting category for this season. There is great variation on the rocker theme but rocker generally allows the ski to pivot quicker and turn easier than traditional ski designs. Some models that we have skied and loved for this year are the Salomon “Enduro” and the Armada “Halo”. Our two best selling skis for last year, the Armada “JJ” and the LINE “Pandora”, are back again for an encore performance. Not forgetting the future of skiing, LINE has released the “EP Pro Shorty”-a great ski for juniors or any lighter skier who wants a great off trail ski. The best thing about these skis is that we currently have them in stock! Last year they were gone early in the season. Just talk to anyone that skied them and they will tell you how great they are!

Boots- The fit, style, and function of ski boots have come a long way. Material changes and updates in design make boots easier to get on and use than ever before. Salomon has come out with a men’s and ladies’ “Quest” Alpine Touring boot that is taking this boot category by storm! Tecnica has the new “Phoenix Air Shell” boot with an adjustable air bladder. As with any ski boot, make sure you have us check your stance alignment so that you are getting the most out of your skiing experience.

Bindings- Marker has done it again! They have released a lighter version of the incredibly popular “Griffon” binding. In the spirit of the royal family, they named it the “Squire”, for those looking for a lighter weight binding system. Add to that the new “Tour F10” and “Tour F12” Alpine Touring binding and Marker is going to really impress this year. Salomon has released their STH Driver bindings this year with the STH12, STH14, and STH16. These utilize Salomon’s Driver toe design for incredible retention. Last, but not least, is the Rossignol FKS 140 and FKS 180 bindings. These offer incredible durability and retention.

Goggles- Oakley has come on bigger and better than ever this year with the “Splice”, “Crowbar”, and “A-frame” for men and the “Stockholm” and the new “Elevate” for ladies. Kids don’t worry! Oakley’s “XS O-frame” goggle has all the fit and function of the adult version in a pint-sized version.

Helmets- Giro, Smith, and POC are continuing to step up the fit and design of their helmets. With the available helmet compatible sound systems, you can take all your favorite tunes with you on the hill.

Outerwear-Skiing and riding are all about the fun and so is outerwear for 2010-2011! Colors are vibrant, clear, and bold. Prints and patterns are still prominent as well as “color blocking”-combining large blocks of colors on an individual garment. If you’re a bit more conservative in your clothing choices, there are many solid, subtle options available as well.
For women, purples and pinks in many different shades are the hot colors for the season. Black prints and plaids accented with bolder colors will be plentiful. A lightweight, quilted down jacket is the go to style with a great fashion look and super comfy feel! “Wet look” nylon outer fabric is the latest spin on the down sweater.
For men, we see colors ranging from the classic reds, greens, and blues to bright yellows, oranges, and even lavender. Clothing manufactures are offering many variations of insulated, weatherproof shells, and softshell garments so you can find the perfect options for your needs on the slopes. Stretch fabrics are plentiful and offer great fit, function, and comfort. Winter fashions for 2010/2011 will be bright, bold, and fun!

Stop by Greenwood’s Ski Haus, grab a cup of coffee, and check out all the new goodies! We always enjoy chatting about all the new gear and the season ahead. We hope to see you soon!

03/08/2010
Sneak Preview for 2010-2011

The 2009/2010 season is barely over and we know that for some of us, the 2010/2011 snow season can't come quickly enough. Here is a hint of what you will see for next season.
Skis-It is official! It’s time for everyone to learn the term “rocker”. "Rocker" allows the ski to initiate the turn quicker on hard snow because of the shortened snow to ski contact area, and at the same time makes the ski easier to control in soft snow, where you have the whole ski giving you float. “Rocker” is as common in skis next year as when the terms “Parabolic” and “Shape” were first being talked about. There are all sorts of variations on the theme, but essentially the tip starts coming off the snow further down the ski. This not only works on powder skis, but we skied some skis with rocker that were designed for hard snow and if it’s done right, works very well.
Boots-For those who want ski boots that they can easily put on, walk in, and ski really well in, then Salomon has a great boot coming out for you next season called the “Quest”. Boots have continued to improve in fit and performance as they evolve with the changes in ski design.
Bindings-Bindings are one of those things that most people consider something that just holds you on the ski but to those of us that are obsessed with improvements in our equipment, we love new binding technology. Marker and Salomon have some new bindings coming out next year that are lighter, hold your boot better, and release even more consistently.
Outerwear-Skiing and riding are all about the fun and so is outerwear for 2010-2011! Colors are vibrant, clear, and bold. Prints and patterns are still prominent as well as "color blocking". Color blocking is the combination of large blocks of colors on an individual garment. But never fear! If you like a more solid, subtle look for your riding attire, there are many solid options.
For women, we see the prominence of pinks and purples in many different shades. Black prints and plaids accented with bolder colors will be plentiful. Lightweight, quilted down is the preferred "around town" jacket; a great fashion look and super comfy! "Wet look" nylon outer fabric is the latest spin on the down sweater.
For men, we see colors ranging from the classic reds, greens, and blues to bright yellows, oranges, and even lavender. Clothing manufacturers are offering many variations of insulated, weatherproof shells, and softshell garments so you can find the perfect option for your needs on the slopes. Stretch fabrics are plentiful and offer great fit, function, and comfort. Winter fashions for 2010/2011 will be bright, bold, and fun!

01/16/2010
Is it time for new skis? How about a test drive?

Have your skis seen better days and it’s time to consider a new pair? Or maybe you simply want to check out the latest ski technology and give it a try. Greenwood's has scheduled the final On Hill Demo at Bogus Basin for the season-Saturday, March 6, 9am-3pm in the Simplot Lodge Area. Don't miss out! An on-hill demo is when local shops or manufacturer’s representative take their fleet of current model demo skis up to the ski area and offer them for you to make a few runs-at no charge! It’s a great way to test drive several pair of skis on the same day. By skiing several pair on similar terrain and in similar snow conditions, you will get a good feel for how each model performs under comparable conditions. Warning: You might just fall in love!
Here are some tips to help you navigate the next on-hill demo:
1. Fill out demo paperwork including signing a liability release and providing binding release information.
2. Photo ID# required (Season Pass or Driver’s License)
3. Shop representatives will determine appropriate binding settings. These release values will be used to set the bindings on each pair of skis that you try.
4. Representatives will help you pick a pair of skis to try based on your preferences, ability, and conditions. There are many models of skis to choose from and we can help you find the perfect pair.
5. Binding technicians will adjust bindings for you each time you try a different pair of skis.
6. Ski 2-3 runs. Try a variety of turns and terrain. Have fun!
7. Return to the demo area and check-in the skis with a representative. They will probably ask what you liked about that pair of skis and if there is something different you are looking for. Based on that information, they can suggest a different model
8. Check-out another pair of skis to try, have the bindings adjusted, and keep on smiling!
9. Please be considerate of other skiers who may be waiting for the pair of skis you are trying. An on-hill demo doesn’t mean that a pair of skis are yours to use for the rest of the day. Remember that golden rule about sharing!
10. Please be aware of a the return time for the last run of the demo. Shop representatives spend a lot of time to get the demo skis prepped and ready to ski and to get them up and down the hill for you. Be respectful of their time and return the skis on time at the end of the day.
9. Which pair is your favorite? Shop representatives will be happy to provide you with information about the brand, model, length and price of the skis you have tried.

Of course you can always demo a pair of current model skis on the day of your choice by reserving and renting them from Greenwood's Ski Haus.

So, if it’s time to retire your current skis, take advantage of an on-hill demo and you might just find a new pair of skis you simply can’t live without! See you on the hill!

12/04/2009
Think Local-Reasons to Shop Locally

As you shop for ski gear or begin your holiday shopping this time of year, keep in mind a few reasons to shop locally and support your local ski shops.

*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 more timely fashion 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 with your support we will all 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 happy to see you and we can help you find exactly what you are looking for!

10/29/2009
To Do: Get Ski Chores Done Before SWAP!

If this isn't the first thing on your list of "To Do's", it should be!
Here at the Ski Haus we have noticed a definite increase in the pace of customers. The casual attitude that comes with Labor Day is long gone as we approach the BBSEF Ski SWAP Nov. 6-8. The Ski Swap seems to be the unofficial kick off to the ski season so here are some words of advice for you procrastinators!

1. Lease Now for the Season-If you haven't had the kids sized up yet for their lease packages, don't wait! We start our leasing for the season in early September and if you are looking to lease used gear, it gets picked over at this point in the season. We will have good availablity in most sizes of new gear for a few more weeks but even new gear will dwindle quickly.

2. Lease Resizing-If you bought out your lease gear last spring and haven't had the gear resized, you need to make it to the Ski Haus ASAP! The days set aside exclusively for resizing leases are long gone and the pool of lease gear is getting picked over. Make it a priority to get your resizing done before the SWAP.

3. Tuning/Mounting-Whether you have new gear that needs to be mounted, tuned up and readied for the slopes or older gear that is just in need of some attention, you'll save yourself some stress if you get it to the Ski Haus before the SWAP. Once the SWAP rolls around, our shop guys become buried in gear needing there expertise. The turnaround time in the shop is much shorter now than it will be on Nov. 7 after the first night SWAP shoppers drop off their gear. Besides, you will have a more pleasant experience at the front counter if you aren't in the middle of the mayhem that ensues later on.

So as you turn back your clock, set out your gear and head to the Ski Haus. You'll be happy you did when you get first tracks!