03/08/2010
Sneak Preview for 2010-2011

We know that we still have some amazing skiing left this season including sun and fun, but here at Greenwood’s Ski Haus we have been busy testing all the new gear for next year. 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!

10/06/2009
An Early Visit From Frosty

Wow! Can you believe the weather we’ve had since October 1? Ninety degrees with air conditioners running at full speed one day and low fifties with heaters flipped to “ON” the next day. We've had views of the foothills that look more like December than October. Gotta love Idaho weather!
Here at the Ski Haus we have received all sorts of reports and photos of the snow in the nearby hills. Best of all, we even had a special delivery on our front doorstep of our very own snowman. Yes…a real, live snowman that some kind soul had created and carefully transported from the hills above. He was lovingly placed for all of us to admire and greet our customers with a jolly expression. If only we could keep him around as our official greeter!
Just as our snowman didn't survive the temperatures, though below normal, the snow in the hills probably won’t last long either. Still, the snow has served many useful purposes. Business has been very brisk around the Ski Haus. Winter-like weather is a good reminder for us all that the white season is not far off and it’s time to take care of your ski needs.
Another huge benefit of the early snow is the moisture it will add to powdery, dry soil left after months of minimal moisture. Moisture will help create a good base for future snowfall to accumulate on top that will then help keep future snow intact throughout the winter. If you’ve skied for more than a few winters, you have experienced warm, dry autumns followed by an immediate switch to mid-winter temperatures with light, fluffy accumulations of snow. Snow is always a good thing but snow that is too light and fluffy without a good base underneath is not such a good thing. The groomers can’t pack and build a good base when dry snow falls without a base. It wreaks havoc on ski and board bases that submerge and have nothing to glide on but granite! We have struggled through winters when we have plentiful accumulations of snow but can’t hang on to it because we never had an adequate base.
So, don’t be sad when your skis can’t come out to play for a few more months or your new best friend “Frosty” doesn’t hang around on your front doorstep for more than a few hours. Just remember that your turns will be that much better in December because that white stuff on the hills today probably won’t be visible for more than a day or two.

PS: Thanks Megan!