Where the Locals Shop: 5 Places to Buy Gear This Winter

Village Ski Shop

Best for: Nordic skis and accessories

Brian James has been serving Okanagan skiers since 1967, and with his help at the Village Ski Shop you’ll be sure to walk away with the perfect pair of skis. In this well-equipped store you’ll find technical ski-wear as well as the latest Nordic lines for both skate and classic including Rossignol, Madshus, One-way, Tolko, and Swix. Whether you’re stepping onto skis for the first time or racing like a pro, Brian has a wealth of knowledge—just ask him about his 60-year-long career! 

Location: Silver Star Village Boardwalk 

Other services: “Try before you buy” program, snowshoe rentals 

Attridge

Best for: skis, snowboards, youth gear

Located in the heart of Vernon, Attridge is a family-favourite shop carrying everything you need to get set up for the winter season. 

“We cater equally to skiers and snowboarders, and our reputation is enhanced by the immense passion our staff have for the sports we represent,” says Kyle de Hrussoczy-Wirth, owner since 2017.

Stocking popular brands including Armada and Faction (skis), Capita and Jones (snowboards), and Oakley and The North Face (outerwear and accessories), Attridge is a haven for winter sports lovers.

Location: 2706 48 Ave, Vernon

Other services: Junior Trade In, Performance Guarantee, Workshop

Pop Mode Board Supply

Best for: snowboards, outerwear

The newest store in town, Pop Mode Board Supply is run by a Silver Star legend with a thrilling story—but you’ll have to ask him yourself. 

“Pop Mode is a core shop for the core rider,” says owner Nate Fisher, who stocks the latest and trendiest snowboard brands including Endeavor, Autumn, Salmon Arms, and Dope Industries. “Almost all the brands I carry are Canadian-based companies, which I think is so important in our industry.” 

Pop Mode focuses on quality over quantity, so you can handpick your gear knowing you’re in safe hands. “I sell products that don’t need replacing each season.” 

Location: 3105 31 Ave, Vernon

Other services: Hot wax 

 

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Olympia

Best for:  skis, accessories, bootfitting

Olympia offers a large selection of popular ski brands including Blizzard, Dynastar, Nordica, K2, and Head. Whether you’re all about the backcountry pow, a racing enthusiast, or into groomer laps, you’ll find whatever you need to have a great day on the mountain. They offer an extensive range of outer and innerwear, and the Olympia team know how important it is to have gear fitted properly. 

“Our No. 1 speciality is custom ski boot fitting. We have a very experienced team who do everything from stance alignment to boot planing,” says Neil, who has been at Olympia for over 13 years. 

Location: 2211 48 Ave, Vernon

Other services: Regular and high performance rentals

 

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Evolve

Best for: skis, snowboards, convenience 

The on-mountain shop has everything from thermals and buffs to boots and outerwear, with the convenience of being right in the village. Evolve carries popular brands and all the latest downhill apparel and equipment, as well as their own experienced bootfitting department. With rentals right next door, they offer a handy demo program, allowing you to try before you buy. And if you’re a SilverStar Mountain Resort passholder, you get a 10% discount! Opening for the 2022/23 season in November, check their website for opening times. 

Location: Silver Star Village

Other services: Demo program

Sun Country Cycle

Best for: Nordic skis and snowshoes 

Our BONUS entry into this list is Sun Country Cycle, a popular spot during summertime operations, but also has a range of snowshoes and Nordic equipment for your snowy activities!

Location: 102-1340 Kalamalka Lake Rd

Photo credits: Substrate Studios