The Community that Shaped Us

Each season offers its own reason to step outside and here, people rarely need much encouragement to do so.

FOUR SEASONS OF OUTDOOR LIFE

Life in Central Wisconsin follows the rhythm of the seasons, a place where people step outside to feel connected—to the land, and each other. Winters are welcomed rather than endured, with skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, and crisp mornings on the trails. Summer invites long days on the lakes and quiet hikes beneath towering pines. Locals and tourists flock year round to our renowned bike trails and parks for both adventure and rest.

Just steps beyond town, the landscape opens into miles of forest, lakes, and trails that stretch north toward some of the most beautiful outdoor country in the Midwest. It’s a place where people slow down, breathe deeper, and celebrate the simple joy of being outside. Northwoods spirit begins here.
Granite Peak Ski Area at Rib Mountain State Park, 10 minutes from our door. From first-time skiers finding their balance to lifelong enthusiasts chasing fresh corduroy, Shepherd & Schaller has been part of Central Wisconsin winter culture since 1949. Photo credit: Granite Peak Ski Area


OUR COMMUNITY, OUR CUSTOMERS

The people who walk through our doors aren’t just customers—they’re neighbors, families, and fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

Many have shopped with us for decades. Some first visited as children preparing for their first day on the slopes and now return with their own kids in tow.

What connects them all is a shared appreciation for the outdoors and for the community that makes Central Wisconsin such a special place to live and visit.

It’s a relationship built over years of conversations, shared stories, and a mutual love of life outside.

ROOTED HERE SINCE 1949

Since 1949, Shepherd & Schaller has been part of the Central Wisconsin story.

What began as a small local outfitter grew alongside the community it served. Through changing seasons, new generations of skiers, and decades of Northwoods winters, our mission has remained the same: helping people step outside prepared and inspired.

The trails may change and the gear may evolve, but the spirit of the outdoors—and the community that surrounds it—remains beautifully constant.

We outfit families before they head up the hill, to the trails or water —helping beginners take their first turns and experienced enthusiasts find gear that keeps them moving all year.

Learn more about the area at GreaterWausau.org.

Thank you for making us 2024 Business of the Year!

We’re feeling humble, proud and oh so grateful to our work family, vendors and Community. The hundreds of first class teammates over 75 years; every single one, makes a huge contribution and impact.  This one’s for you team! 

“We are thrilled to share that Shepherd & Schaller, a cornerstone of downtown Wausau for 75 years, has been honored with the 2024 Business of the Year Award by the Wisconsin Main Street Program! 

The award was presented on March 13th in Menomonie, Wisconsin, recognizing Shepherd & Schaller’s incredible impact on the Wausau community, their dedication to outdoor recreation, and their commitment to small business excellence. Wausau River District proudly nominated them for this well-deserved recognition.”

Callie Wulk, Executive Director 

Wausau River District, Inc. 

Thank you for the nomination  Wausau River District, thank you #wisconsinmainstreetprogram for the award. .  And thank you #wausau #Wisconsin for shopping with us for 75 years.  76 starts now!

Try Before You Buy at Demo Day

Photo: Granite Peak Ski Area

Test a wide variety of new skis for the upcoming 2025/2026 ski season and preorder at a deep discount. Our annual Demo Day is March 1, 2025. Join us as we welcome several of our brand vendors showcasing the latest gear.


In partnership with our friends from Granite Peak Ski Area, this event promises a day filled with exploration and excitement. To participate, simply register at the registration desk located in Sundance. The cost to join in on the fun is a $10 donation, with all proceeds going towards supporting the Granite Peak Ski Team.

Demo equipment will be available from the opening until 3 pm, giving you ample time to find your perfect fit. Please remember that all equipment must be returned by 3 pm to ensure that everyone gets a chance to experience the latest ski innovations. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to test out top-of-the-line adult-sized gear and support our local ski community at the same time.

Confirmed Attendees:

K2
Head
Volkl
Rossignol
Dynastar
Atomic
Salomon
Nidecker
A few more are anticipated.

Ladies’ Night is Dec 12. This one is Extra Special!

Our last Ladies Night of the year is Thursday, Dec 12th from 5-8pm.

This one is extra special, with free gifts for early arrivals, treats from our downtown neighbors and a visit from the Man in Red! (He’ll want to know if you’ve been naughty or nice this year!)

Shepherd and Schaller’s 75th Holiday Season reminds us again how special our neighbors and customers are. Thank you for sharing part of your holiday prep with us. Let us treat you to the pampering you deserve on Ladies Night.

Special thanks to Object Homewares, The Chocolate Cafe and The Pinery Coffee Co. Downtown Wausau is the perfect place to enjoy old fashioned holiday charm, kindness and gratitude while shopping, dining and celebrating at our fine shops, restaurants and venues.

Our Holiday Hours:

Monday-Saturday 10a-5p

Open Late December Thursday’s 10a-8p

Dec 24th 10a-2p, Closed on Dec 25th

Dec 31 10a-3p, Closed Jan 1

Gear up with Delightful Discounts this Black Friday, Saturday, Sunday… at Shep’s

We’re here for the savings. We all need it this year, right? Your favorite winter essentials are included, along with some surprises you’ll love to give and receive. A full week of discounts and friendly expert assistance for holiday shopping that puts a smile on your face and money back in your pocket.

Preview our selection at shepssports.com (shop online with a discount – keep reading) and visit us during this, our 75th Holiday season in Downtown Wausau, WI.

Ho, Ho Ho! Let’s go skiing! -Robb

Nov 29-Dec 7, 2024

  • Shepherd and Schaller makes it easy. Shop our regular store hours Nov 29-Dec 7 and get the same savings each day. 10am-5pm Monday through Saturday.
  • 20% off all Clothing, Footwear, Winter Accessories, Home and Gift, Helmets, and Goggles
  • Buy 3 Get 1 Free Darn Tough, Sockwell and Wide Open socks. Merino Wool. The good stuff!
  • Black Friday special low pricing on select Ski and Snowboard Packages.
  • A huge offering of outerwear, sportswear and footwear in our Clearance Balcony. The same great brands you’ll find on our main floor at 30-70% off.
  • Shop us online at shepssports.com. it’s our live sales floor inventory! Use code BF2024 for 20% off clothing, footwear, accessories, home and gift. (Sorry, you need to visit us in person for discounts on ski and snowboard equipment – it’s how we know you’re fitted correctly.

Take a peak at our Black Friday Flyer. And visit us Small Business Saturday, Nov 30, 2024 for a free gift. (first 50 shoppers)

Happy Holidays! From the entire Shep’s team.