Skiing In Style

Old man winter has indeed left his mark here on the East Coast with frigid temps, icy storms and some decent snowfall (in between those balmy melts we’ve had). Though some would prefer to head for warmer destinations, there are plenty of folks who can’t get enough of this weather – especially diehard skiers.

Skiing has long been a favorite winter sport and pastime for New Englanders and continues to grow in popularity amongst families and students in addition to both casual and avid participants. Lucky for Rhode Islanders, not only do we have easy access to top notch ski resorts, but southern New England’s largest ski and snowboard shop has returned to its native Warwick to help ski and snowboard enthusiasts get fitted from head to toe with gear and apparel.

Alpine Ski & Snowboard, formerly known as Alpine Ski and Sports, is quietly tucked away off of Jefferson Boulevard. A lodge-like atmosphere envelops this well-kept sports shop where a wide variety of wintery merchandise rests comfortably throughout the spacious store. As I take in the colorful and warm selection of ski jackets, snow pants and cozy sweaters, I’m in awe of steady stream of customers who are shopping for entire ski ensembles or simply finding the perfect pair of goggles.

Owner Rick Sceery strongly believes that regardless of a skier’s level of experience the most important part of purchasing or renting equipment is getting the skier into the right gear. “Alpine Ski & Snowboard is the only custom boot fitter in the region. Our staff is passionate about skiing and snowboarding so we will make sure our customers leave with a performance guarantee on all products.”

Alpine can handle all of your cross-country ski needs, in addition to downhill and snowboarding. Names such as Rossignol, Swix, Smith Optics and Helly Hansen are just a few of the brands I found while I had a relaxed chat with a family of five that had come in to rent equipment for an upcoming weekend of skiing at Mt. Snow, which Alpine Ski offers as one of their seasonal bus trips. “The staff here is so patient and laid back. My son has changed his mind at least three times and they listen to what he wants without rushing us,” praised customer Jennifer Landon of Cranston.

After my visit, it was clear that it is not just a ski shop – but more like a ski hub which can help you and your family get the most out of your ski season with lift tickets, bus trips, lessons, vacation rentals, up-to-the-minute ski resort conditions and personal ad- vice from their own love of the sport in addition to offering a large and affordable selection of industry leading brands in technical apparel, skis and snowboards, it is all “mountain tested” by their experienced staff.

Manager Fran Gould shared that she and Sceery continually educate themselves on what’s new and trending in all aspects of the sport; they attend shows throughout the country so they can be on the cutting edge of the industry. Alpine is the only shop in southern New England that carries a line of skies called RAMP – handcrafted in Park City, Utah. It offers complete flexibility in shape and ski design.

Alpine is super family-friendly and features their popular “Junior Trade-In Program” specifically designed to keep costs down for kids’ ski and snowboard packages. In addition to this I was excited to learn that they have a consignment center with a full selection of gently used ski and snowboard equipment available.

And just when you think your experience can’t get any better, visit them online and watch a host of “How To” videos ranging from tuning up your skis to a proper helmet fitting.

The Warwick store is open on a seasonal basis beginning in early September until mid April, seven days a week. With the SOCHI 2014 XXII Winter Olympics slated for February 7–23, now’s a great time to get yourself geared up and cheer on Team USA.