Ski Season Is Never Really Over

You dream about it while you’re lying in the hot sun, a cold drink and sun screen at your side.  Or is it at a baseball game or ballet lesson?  Ski Season is on your mind!  It’s only a few months away, regardless of the time of year. Give in. Feel the wind on your skin, hear the crunch under your feet, taste the hot cocoa, if only in your dreams.  As for preparing for ski season, that you can do year round at Shepherd & Schaller in downtown Wausau, WI.  And you’d be smart to do it too, with clearance prices on equipment, clothing and accessories you’ll love.

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Pay half.  Save half, half-way through the year.  Get 50% off the retail price of all remaining alpine and cross country ski equipment at Shepherd & Schaller through May 1-August 15th, 2016.  Skis, bindings, boots, poles and helmets are included.  Remaining snowboards, boots and bindings are 40% off.

Ski season.  We know it’s on your mind.

Hip Gifts for Lovers of the Outdoors and Those Who Are Simply Hip

You have discerning taste and we do too.  We know you’re after thoughtfully designed, sourced and produced goods that make your life better while improving someone else’s too.  (American companies, with goods made in the USA a most of the time too!) What’s fresh, hip and trending now at Shep’s?  These and more:

Founded in the Pacific Northwest in 1993, KAVU has been around. Their wide range of men’s and women’s clothing, hats, bags, sunglasses, and accessories are crafted for what they call a KAVU Day – your version of the perfect outing, whatever it is that leaves you exhilarated and fully alive. Durability and comfort are a big part of it, of course.  But they know all about style, too, with outdoor-ready clothing that brilliantly blends function and fashion so you can rough it up all day, then wash out the trail grit and wear it to your favorite watering hole that night – and look good doing it.

In 1990, Kühl® introduced the Jacquard jacket, a signature Euro-styled Polartec® fleece top that featured the first – the original – innovative thumb-loop cuff system and lightweight underarm gussets for comfort and optimal climate control. This top gained cult status in the outdoor community and went on to win the Polartec® Apex Award. More awards and devotees would follow as Kühl® continued to pioneer and produce. Kühl® is independently owned and financed and its ideas are inspired by the founders’ intrepid lifestyle and those with whom they share it. Kühl® currently designs and manufactures top-selling pants, shirts, and more found in the best outdoor retailers nationwide.

Pendleton has a long, colorful history in their well known shirts and blankets.  You can see and feel the Pendleton passion for quality. See it in the intricate patterns of blankets inspired by Native American designs and legends. Feel it in the softness of the lightweight, luxurious 100% pure virgin wool clothing we produce. They’ve been a family-owned business for 150 years, and for 104 of those years they’ve been weaving world class woolens in their Northwest Mills. We like things that are Made in the USA.  You?

Remember the green bottle your dad or grandpa always carried on fishing trips or on his way to work? It probably had a few scratches on it, may have even been dropped once or twice, yet despite the abuse, it always kept coffee hot… for hours. That’s the legendary Stanley bottle.

Today, the Stanley brand offers a wide range of superior food and beverage gear that fuels your adventures from work to play. Committed to our core pillars of durability, relevance and heritage, just as we have been for the past 100 years, we build products that are built to last. Designed to outperform and outlast even in the toughest conditions, we’re dedicated to a simple promise, buy Stanley products, and get quality gear, built for life.

The Stanley brand is headquartered in Seattle, WA, home of Mt Rainier and the birthplace of Jimi Hendrix.  Surrounded by mountains, evergreens, and the Puget Sound, they live and breathe the outdoors and interlock passion for the environment and community in everything they do. Products are designed in Seattle, WA where research and development pioneers innovative designs. Globally distributed, Stanley products are ethically manufactured with partner factories in Asia.

To learn more about Stanley’s parent company, Seattle-based Pacific Market International (PMI), click here.

 

 

 

 

 

The extraordinary journey of two friends, Jim Stott and Jonathan King, who were waiters, cooks and avid gardeners, has captured the interest of many and the loyalty of every employee. From the beginning, the company was based on ideals born out of Maine: unspoiled beauty, wholesomeness, a sense of community. It is a testament to the art of preserve making and the growing public interest in wholesome, quality and tasty ingredients. “If you really produce a high quality item, you’ll be successful.” That’s the secret according to Jim and Jonathan.

The demand soon outpaced the production capacity of the small cottage kitchen, so they purchased an old 1700s barn in Kittery, Maine which they renovated to become the company’s “headquarters” for a short couple years before they moved to an even larger space in York and renovated an old community grocery store. A buzzer announced customers in the retail area of the facility. All day long it would clamor: “buzz, buzz, buzz,” while Jim and Jonathan were busy mixing and pouring ingredients out back, packing boxes, and answering phones. Then someone mentioned they should attend the Fancy Food Show in NYC. Having never been to New York City, they literally were two fish out of the [Maine] water when they made their first appearance at the 1995 Fancy Food Show — a tradeshow that attracts 1,100 exhibitors and 36,000 buyers, the Oscars of the specialty food industry. But low and behold, Stonewall Kitchen brought home an unprecedented award for first time attendees: Outstanding Jam for Roasted Garlic Onion Jam and a second highest honor award, for Outstanding Product Line. They left NYC with 500 orders from retailers across the country.

 

Chandler 4 Corners:   Chandler 4 Corners is about life… and life styles. Their hand-hooked wool pillows, rugs and furniture accent homes with items loved in a quick moment then destined to become honored heirlooms. Everyone at C4C lives the lifestyles portrayed in their designs: hike, ski, fish. They spend sunny afternoons on the lake, delight in families, dream of Santa, and of course, cherish dogs.  Celebrate the tender moment. Remember the past with a bit of nostalgia, but also a gigantic smile. Rejoice in the small, and the familiar.

Man Candles:  Masculine scents in recycled soup cans.  “Bacon” “Grandpa’s Pipe” “Sawdust” “Campfire” “Coffee” “Fresh Cut Grass”  Which to try first?  Man Cans was started in November of 2010 by then 13-year-old Hart Main based on a unique idea that came to him when his sister was selling candles for a school fundraiser.  The thought was “Why don’t people sell candles with scents that men like?”  Little did he know that an idea of selling man scented candles would lead to an opportunity to feed so many people.  The can was his choice for a container because he didn’t want a manly scented candle in a glass jar, just like everyone else was doing.   The company buys cans of soup which are donated to soup kitchens, washed and returned to be filled with the uniquely scented wax.  When you buy a Man Can you get a quality candle made of natural wax and you’re helping feed people who need a little extra help.

Trails Natural Soap:  Giving back is something we all can do.  So says the founder of Trails Natural Soap who created a line of products that not only nourish your skin with all natural vegan ingredients that are good enough to eat, your mind through the benefits of aromatic essential oils, but also our communities with 10% of their profits from each bar being donated to support a particular charity that bar has been specially handcrafted to honor.  The Appalachian Trail.  Susan G. Komen Foundation.  Hospice Foundation of America. Heifer International.  Crossfit for Hope.  The Girl Scouts of the USA.  And more.  Athletes (CrossFitters, Hikers, Runners, Bikers, Skiers, etc.) spend so much time eating right, supplementing bodies with protein shakes, amino acids, and fish oil, that we sometimes fail to realize the importance of treating our skin the same way.  Trails Natural takes care of your skin for you.  And campers – check out the Outside the Box- Bug & Outdoor Soap with Citronella, Eucalyptus, and Tea Tree oils to naturally repel bugs and make you smell great! 10% of the profits go to support Heifer International.   Soap for Hope, one bar at a time.

 

 

We’d Like to Thank The Academy….

A big Thank You to the readers of the Wausau Daily Herald who voted us Wausau’s favorite Outdoor Shop.

We’ve worked hard to earn your trust since 1949, and we remain committed to making our founders proud of our community involvement, customer service, product selection, and shopping environment in downtown Wausau, Wisconsin and online.

Some call us a “Ski Shop”, others a “Bike Shop”, and there are a few who still say “Sporting Goods.”  We’re all that and a whole lot more. And it’s a blast changing our product mix to suit our region’s ever changing tastes along with the demand for our expert product selection and service online.  So stay tuned!

“We would like to thank our mothers, our fathers, the big guy upstairs and all of those who didn’t believe that a little shop in northern Wisconsin could hold it’s own next to the big shops in the big cities for so long.  It made us try harder to believe in ourselves.  We’re going to Disney World!” – The Sheps Crew

 

Spring at Shep’s – Freshen Up with New Sportswear!

At Shep’s, we’re not just about winter! Come spring, we flip the store and offer you the greatest summer outdoor equipment, performance & trending apparel and accessories to get you set for the fun months ahead. Whether you like to wake surf or sunbathe, kayak or disc golf, we’ve got you covered.

Customers come in and rave about the sportswear we have for men and women. Here are some highlights of things we know you won’t want to miss.

PrAna – apparel, yoga mats, purses & accessories – styles for the yoga mat and styles for the streets (think denim, skirts, lace trimmed tops, and more!) Men, we didn’t forget about you. Soft, quick drying tees & shorts, lightweight jackets & plaid tops will have you looking good for your summer outings too. (We do have yoga specific pieces for men who participate!)

Kavu – apparel for men and women who appreciate laid back style, organic fabrics and fun fashion.

Teva Footwear – men and women have been asking for it, so we brought it in. You’ll find their classic Mush II flip flops (everyone needs a pair… or two), women’s Owowahu flips, as well as supportive sandals for summer adventures, and lightweight multi-sport shoes that are great for water activities!

Salomon Footwear – we’ve heard nothing but positive feedback about our new trail running collection from Salomon shoes – brights colors and solid sole construction bring our friends back for more. These door-to-trail shoes can be worn casually or on your spring hikes & runs. Stop in and check out their technical features and try a pair on for yourself.

Patagonia Sportswear – women, we have pieces to make you melt, as well as rainwear to keep you dry & ready wherever this summer takes you. Looking for a new go-to casual dress for hitting the farmers market, or something a little classier for a wedding in July? Maybe some skinny denim to pair with a cute tank? Stop in – we think you’ll find it here. Men will find fresh new takes on summer weight tops, plaids, tee’s, board shorts, bright rainwear, and more!

Kuhl Sportswear – They never fail with their classic, lovable styles. If you’ve liked it before, you’ll like it now. Sporty and fashionable looks are on our walls from Kuhl. (Never forget their bottoms – it’s what they’re known for. We have shorts in multiple lengths, convertible pants, and their classic pants.) No more sacrificing comfort for looks – they do both.

Swimwear – it’s here, and it’s not just for swimming laps! We have a variety of cuts for women; from sporty racerback, classic bikini, or tankini tops, with bottoms in shapes that will work for you. Patagonia and PrAna have patterns & colors you ladies will love. Men will be comfortable in stretch board shorts from Patagonia, too!

Dakine Handbags – classic styles, quilted fronts, artist collections, laptop bags, and more! Find the right purse for you in our variety of shapes & styles. Complete your outfit or be ready for your summer trip with the best accessories for looks and function.

Buff Headbands –  If you’ve worn em you’ve loved em. The original multifunction headwear can be worn in 16 different ways. Not just for winter – our lightweight UV protective bands are perfect for summer sports & activities. Worn as bike helmet liners, sweat bands, or hair bands, these Buffs will help you perform to your max.

And this is just a sample! As always, our summer store is stocked with:

Bikes, helmets & accessories
Kayaks, paddles & vests
Wakeboard & waterskis, wake surfs, knee boards, tubes, vests, ropes & gloves
Tennis racquets, shoes, bags, accessories & apparel
Tents, sleeping bags, hiking packs, camping accessories & food
Disc Golf discs, baskets, bags, and frisbees
Sun protection lotions and sprays for every activity
Water bottles & hydration packs
Summer games & toys, sunglasses, jewelry and gadgets
… and there’s always something extra. 🙂

Snow Sports Gear, Outdoor Clothing and Your Spring Cleaning List

Sad as it may make you, the snow will eventually melt here in Wausau (Wisconsin’s winter wonderland) and it will be time to put your technical outerwear and ski equipment into storage. Prepare your gear properly and you’ll reap the benefits of long life and premium performance.

Washing your jacket, pants or other outdoor apparel is important to the long life of your garment and is just as easy as washing your other laundry.  Just follow the care label on your outerwear which is specific to your garment (and related to any warranty that may be in

Care labels are fun to read. No, really!

place), avoiding common detergents like Tide, Cheer, Gain, All, etc. which are too harsh for your technical outerwear. They’re great at getting stains out, but just as ruthless in their treatment of waterproofing materials.

You can get your favorite clothing clean at home without disturbing the DWR (durable water repellent) coating or clogging the waterproof/breathable membrane (commonly referred to as Goretex), which can be destroyed by dry cleaning, by using non-detergent soaps made specifically for technical gear.  And you can do it with confidence that the environment won’t be a casualty of your spring cleaning efforts.  Pick a liquid, free-rinsing soap to use on your garment. Do not use powder detergents which will clog the pores of your waterproof breathable membrane in your jacket or pant, and steer clear of products with surfactants, detergents, bleaches, softeners, conditioners, or perfumes which can contain waxes or oils or can be hydrophilic, or water-absorbing, which is the opposite of what you paid for when you bought your outerwear.

Our favorite is Tech Wash, which maintains the breathability and original water repellency of your outdoor clothing and can be used in your washing machine or sink. ( Another great choice is Granger’s G-Wash Cleaner.)

Nikwax, the maker of Tech Wash, also makes waterproofing products for any garments that have lost their water repellency or never had it in the first place.

Nikwax TX-Direct restores waterproof/breathable coatings on clothing and gear.
Nikwax Tech Wash can be used in your machine or when washing by hand.

You’ll find spray-on or wash-in waterproofing solutions, treatments for fabric, leather and shoes, and more.  Shep’s carries Nikwax year round for your snow clothing, fleece garments, bags, raingear, tents, and more. Remember to read the label on your gear!

 

Now, what to do with your skis or snowboard when the chairlifts stop turning?  Proper storage is easy and will make a difference in the performance you see and feel next season.

It starts with a professional tune-up, like the 10-step stone grind and storage hand-wax we offer at Shep’s.  But if you tune your own equipment or can’t get to a local shop consider doing the following:

  1. Make sure all rust is removed from the edges of your skis or board.  (This can be avoided if you wipe the edges off when you come off the hill each day.)
  2. Once your edges are clean, remove the wax from your bases.  Shep’s stocks Swix base cleaner for this purpose.
  3. With a clean base and smooth edges, and using a hot iron made especially for this purpose, generously apply storage wax, covering the edges.  When the wax is cool and set, leave it alone.  It will protect your edges and bases during the off-season.  The storage wax should be scraped off and removed again when your next ski season begins.
  4. Visually inspect your bindings.  Snowboard bindings are full of parts that like to work loose over time and are notorious for causing missed runs during the season due to missing straps.  Check that you are not missing any screws, washers, nuts or straps and replace them.  (Hint: check these before or after each outing during the season too!)  For their safety skiers are urged to leave all binding work to a certified technician who is trained and tested by the binding manufacturer each season.
  5. Store your board and skis in a well-ventilated space, away from direct light.  Avoid the garage.
  6. If you must keep your skis or board in a garage, hand them on a wall or place a carpet square or even cardboard underneath to reduce the growth of rust due to moisture moving up from the cement.

    You may not have drool-worthy storage like this, but try to keep your gear in a well ventilated space and take care to avoid rust and damage from UV light.

Shepherd & Schaller Sporting Goods offers free summer ski and board storage when you purchase a complete tune-up.  We will treat your edges and bases to a new finish, store them in “winter wax” which to them is like a month at the spa, and have them freshly waxed, scraped and ready for you come fall.  In addition, we can set your bindings for the new season, all while leaving you room in your closet for your water skis and wakeboard!  It is good practice to have your ski and snowboard bindings inspected by a certified tech at the beginning of each season.  Any time your equipment is not used for a stretch of time there is risk that moving parts become unhealthy.  You also need your ski bindings adjusted each season because even if your height, weight, ability and boot sole length stay the same, your age changes, and all are calculated together to arrive at the proper setting formula.  

We’d love to help you select brand new equipment each season, but a little TLC and proper cleaning and storage will keep your gear healthy and money in your pocket for that special purchase when the time is right, instead of replacing gear you ruined accidentally.

Call us if you’re not sure how to care for any of your sporting equipment.  We’re here to help! 715-845-5432