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.

Preseason Ski Sale On Now, Ends Oct 26 at Shep’s

It’s here! 24/25 gear from your favorite ski and snowboard brands. Shop NOW, for the lowest prices and best selection of the season.  Preseason Sale ends Oct 26, 2024.

Armanda, Atomic, Blizzard, Dalbello, Dynastar, Elan, Head, Giro, K2, Lang, Leki, Look, Marker, Nordica, Oakley, POC, Rossignol, Salomon, Smith, Tecnica, Tyrolia, Volkl and more!

Kids growing? Do you have healthy, old ski gear to move out of storage? Turn your old gear into Shep’s Store Credit!  We will accept it through Oct 12th, 2024.  Click here for details about DUNGEON SALE, where you can buy used and new gear at prices so low it’s frightening! Wausau’s favorite Ski Swap happens the third week of October, every year at Shepherd and Schaller.

Ski Demo Day is March 2 in Wausau

Our 2024 Ski Demo is where you can try before you buy

Granite Peak Ski Area

and Shepherd and Schaller host Wausau’s annual consumer Demo

Feel the difference! Try new skis, as many as you like. Before you buy! Demo Day at Granite Peak features Shepherd and Schaller vendors new skis and snowboards for the 2024 / 2025 ski season.

  • Register in Sundance Chalet  
  • Cost to participate is a $10 donation that goes to the Granite Peak Ski Team
  • Demo is available from 9am to 3pm, when all equipment must be returned
  • Demo gear is sized for adults, no race gear is available

Try as many new skis and boards as you can! Return them to the vendor booth in the Village by 3pm.

Then, pre-order from Shep’s for next season at a deep discount.

Buy your Granite Peak lift ticket here

Are ski socks necessary? Yes!

Why Ski Socks Matter

Ski socks add comfort, warmth and improve boot fit. They’re designed not to bunch up or slip down (saving you from the risk of blisters or sores) and can reduce shin bang while providing a hug that aids blood flow and energy, improve performance and stability. And yes, snowboard socks exist, and make the same positive contribution to your day on the slopes.

“Cold, wet feet will wreck your ski day.”

Robb Shepherd, Boot fitter

Darn Tough socks have a lifetime warranty. Woven to last a lifetime, they’ll improve the fit of your ski boots and keep you on the slopes longer.

Cushioning and Padding for Comfort

Many ski socks come with built-in cushioning and padding strategically located in high-impact areas, like the shin and ankle. These extra cushioned areas enhance comfort and minimize the shock of dynamic movements .

Perfect Fit and Compression

Grabbing the thickest pair of socks in your drawer is tempting in preparation for a cold day on the slopes. But a thick sock can impede blood flow and cramp your feet in your ski boot. Skiers should look for a sock that is snug, not tight and offers the right amount of compression and cushioning. Think of your ski sock more as a second skin than a loose layer that could bunch and lead to discomfort.

Finding the Right Length

The right length of ski socks is worth considering to avoid painful abrasions from your boot. Tube socks that stretch well above your boot, preventing it from chafing your shin, are good options.

Socks that are too short can slide back into the boots, creating blisters and discomfort during your ski tour. The right sock length will ensure your legs are protected and comfortable as you dominate the slopes.

Shop hundreds of in-stock ski socks at Shepherd and Schaller in downtown Wausau, WI, year-round.