Paul Fish, founder and owner of Mountain Gear, started sewing backpacks when he was in high school. Demand for his products grew, and in the early 80s, tired of having customers come to his home, he opened Mountain Gear in Spokane. From the start, Fish worked tirelessly to sell product and promote the store, but he also rolled up his sleeves and invested blood and sweat into the outdoors community. For starters, he funded numerous rock-climbing guidebooks in the area including the original Bob Loomis guide, as well as rock climbing guides from Rick Labelle, Jim Speaker, and many others.

Beyond climbing guidebooks, Fish set a course to promote nationwide outreach and advocacy for Leave No Trace ethics and the Access Fund. Mountain Gear introduced UClimb learn-to-climb clinics, the Red Rock Rendezvous rocking climbing festival in Las Vegas, and assisted several conservation fundraisers and auctions. Paul worked closely with land conservation groups, and he served on the Access Fund Board for 10 years. Mountain Gear contributed to efforts that secured Big Rock for the Dishman Hills Conservancy, contributed to a much-needed toilet at Frenchman Coulee, and continues to donate to the Bower Climbing Coalition. 

Over the years, Mountain Gear has been much more than an outdoor gear shop; it’s served as a common gathering place for many like-minded backcountry enthusiasts to connect with the greater community. Back in the mid-90s, Fred Beckey occasionally stopped in Spokane, picked up any available Mountain Gear employee, and charged into the mountains. It wasn’t uncommon for Himalayan veterans and 5.14 crushers to show up at the retail store for a slideshow from Alex Lowe or Steve House. Mountain Gear worked hard to promote the genius Banff Mountain Film Festival around the country. And you could always count on posters and flyers promoting upcoming fundraisers, clinics, presentations and group outings adorning the walls and checkout counter.

Outdoor fanatics from near and far grew to love Mountain Gear for dozens of reasons, and the company prospered for over 30 years as the fast-changing outdoor retail world evolved around them. From the beginning, Mountain Gear always differentiated itself from other traditional outdoor shops. When the location on Division first opened, it featured the first indoor climbing wall and indoor kayak pool in Spokane so customers could genuinely test and demo their purchases. Mountain Gear also launched a kids’ cross-country ski trade-up program, so parents could buy cross country gear for their kids and upgrade as they grew. And for many years, Mountain Gear was the title sponsor for several paddling and Nordic ski races.

In 2004, Mountain Gear built a 112,000-square-foot corporate headquarters and distribution center in Spokane Valley that was LEED Gold-certified for its sustainability-minded construction. More importantly, the company bundled value in many gear purchases. They were among the first shops to provide a six-pack discount for carabiners or quickdraws, a discount for full sets of cams, and they were among the first catalog retailers to provide free mounting and tune-up if you purchased skis and bindings together. Mountain Gear also embraced Internet sales early on and developed a decent online retail presence long before other online outdoor retailers began dominating the market.

 Looking ahead, Fish doesn’t want to dwell on the passing of the shop. The decision to close was incredibly difficult and very emotional. Quite frankly, Amazon and other online giants played a role. However, Fish is eager to emphasize his wonderful employees, and he estimates he has employed over 800 people over the years. He piles on the praise for many long-standing customers and outdoor groups that continually promote the outdoor lifestyle everyone in the Northwest enjoys. Cumulatively, Mountain Gear employees have centuries of outdoor experience, and they work just as hard as they play.

Like many long-time fixtures in the outdoor adventure community, I also worked at Mountain Gear. During those 12 years, I climbed and backpacked as often as possible and I worked with a number of Mountain Gear characters who were as passionate about getting outside as I was: Gramps, BC, Epic Shane, Pookie, The Monk, Schenk, Timon, Hugh Georbanks, Mr. Phillips, Use-The-Schwartz, and a number of other employees that went on to great success throughout the outdoors community; I probably wouldn’t be an Out There Venture editor today had I not spent those years with Mountain Gear. 

When Mountain Gear wraps up its final sale and closes up shop in the coming weeks, the entire outdoors community will feel the repercussions. Until then, Fish promises that the shop’s Going Out of Business Sale will be gigantic. Discounts will continue to drop throughout the month, and it’s important to note there is inventory for all four seasons, which means you can find great deals on summer and winter gear. Most importantly, stop by the store sooner than later to get the right size and killer deals on some of the best gear in the Northwest. Moving forward, Paul Fish will continue to work with advocacy groups and non-profits that champion the outdoors community and the recreation lands we love. The Spokane retail store will close, but the Mountain Gear legacy and contributions will continue for generations of future climbers, skiers, hikers, trail runners and others who enjoy the outdoors. 

The post First Ascents: A Tribute to Mountain Gear appeared first on Out There Venture.

HOME & APPAREL

1. Put a Sasquatch on it! And it becomes a rad Northwest fashion item—like the Stickers Northwest brand camouflage cap with embroidered Bigfoot badge ($25) from Boo Radley’s.
2. PINE Sports Company makes outdoorsy-Northwest inspired graphic apparel, including Mt. Spokane and Bowl and Pitcher T-shirts ($30/each) and a Ski Northwest pullover hoodie ($43). Find them at pinesportsco.com.
3. College sports fan in your family? Sportswear, gifts, and memorabilia for Cougars, Bulldogs, and Eagles are sold at university campuses. Shop at WSU’s Bookie at Spokane’s University District or on the Pullman campus; Zag Shop on Gonzaga University’s campus; or EWU Eagle Shop on the Cheney campus.
4. A four-way stretchy, machine-washable Arcade Adventure Belt ($26, unisex/one-size-fits all), from Spokane Alpine Haus, keeps pants secure in fashionable style, whether its snow pants, jeans, or khakis for work.
5. Seattle-based Coal Headwear makes trucker-style caps featuring outdoor-inspired graphic patches ($29)—available at Spokane Alpine Haus.
6. All-natural Riverkeeper Soap ($6 each or 3/$15), made by Mountain Madness Soap Co. in Coeur d’Alene, is exclusively sold at Kizuri. Each purchase donates $2 to the Spokane Riverkeeper organization.

   

7. Support sustainability with a fashionable purse or handbag crafted from recycled tires, by Ganesh Himal Trading Company ($16-55), a fair trade business in Nepal. These bags help reduce air pollution because all those tires would otherwise be burned in Katmandu. Find them at Kizuri.
8. Another sustainability-inspired one-of-a-kind gift idea from Kizuri is jewelry made from melted-down bullet casings and crafted by women in Ethiopia ($15.50-$89).
9. Bring the outdoors inside with Cabin Incense ($6-17), made by Paine Products, featuring scents like balsam fir and red cedar. Available from Atticus Coffee & Gifts.
10. Out There readers will, of course, like books. Auntie’s Bookstore owner John Waite suggests these recently-published titles: “Campfire Stories: Tales from America’s National Parks” edited by Dave Kyu and Ilyssa Kyu ($21.99); “Epic Hikes of the World” by Lonely Planet ($35); “…And Then You Die of Dysentery: Lessons in Adulting from the Oregon Trail” by Lauren Reeves ($14.99); and “Cooking Scrappy: 100 Recipes to Help You Stop Wasting Food, Save Money, and Love What You Eat” by Joel Gamoran ($29.99). Buy from Auntie’s and support Spokane’s iconic indie bookshop.
11. Kids want toys and other cool stuff! STEM activities like Scientific Explorer Sorcery Science Kit ($11.49) and SICK Science! Snow Colors ($8.49), a DIY science experiment kit, are geared for children ages 6+ and sold at White Elephant.
12. Merlyn’s in downtown Spokane specializes in comic books and games. Here you’ll find the Basic Dungeons and Dragons Starter Kit ($20) and Scott McCloud’s acclaimed book, “Understanding Comics: The Invisible Art” ($25).
13. Climb Yeti Mountain from the comfort of your living room, winter cabin, or ski lodge with Dicey Peaks’ dice-rolling family board game ($21.59), available at White Elephant. Made by Calliope Games for ages 8+, it’s a creative way to vicariously take risks while climbing to the snowy summit.
14. Someone nostalgic for their hometown? Spokane Tea Towels ($12), made by Seattle-based Potluck Press, feature outdoorsy themes to inspire warm-fuzzy feelings for those who’ve moved away. Find them at Atticus Coffee & Gifts.

    

15. Another eco-friendly gift from Kizuri is a colorful dishtowel, pillow, or blanket made from recycled cotton sari fabrics ($5.50-$135).
16. Need a gift for a teacher or colleague? The Mason Jar Cold Brew Coffee Kit ($13), from Atticus Coffee & Gifts, is a nifty reusable, single-serving product made by Kikkerland Design. Simply seep coarse grounds overnight and bring fresh-brewed iced coffee to work the next morning.
17. Don’t forget the family dog! Prairie Dog Pet Mercantile has healthy, seasonal pet treats, like a Candy Cane Bully Stick ($9), Polka Dog Holiday Treat Tube ($13-17), and Bocce’s Bakery Holiday Biscuits ($6).
18. Charming Pet plush pet toys ($6.99 and less) are made with K9 TuffGuard fabric to withstand vigorous playtime with a puppy or young-at-heart canine. Find them at Prairie Dog Pet Mercantile, which has two stores in Spokane, Kendall Yards and South Hill.

WINTER SPORTS

19. Find ski-swap deals year-round at NW Outdoors—“everything from brand-new last-year’s stuff to 20-year-old gear that’s cheap but good enough to get you on the mountain,” says store owner Mark Schneider. Gear up your family for winter: alpine skis ($50-500), snowboards ($50-400), Nordic skis ($20-200) and boots ($20-70), and ski jackets ($20-200).
20. Kulkea Thermal Trekker Heated Boot Bag ($240), from Sports Creel, provides comfort and ease for slipping on boots. Powered by a 12V automobile or 120V wall plug, the contoured, insulated heated side pockets warm the plastic inner shell of ski boots. Comes with travel and padded backpack straps and includes inner pockets for stowing gear accessories, including a helmet sling in a zippered pocket. Other style of Kulkea ski boot and gear bags also available from Sports Creel ($80).
21. LINE alpine skis ($400-700) are versatile, all-mountain skis, available from Shred Sports Outlet. The Sick Day Series and Supernatural models are especially popular.
22. A ski/snowboard helmet is the #1 gear item every alpine athlete needs. Find Bollé helmets for youth and adults at The General Store ($50-120).
23. Oakley snow goggles (starting at $80) consistently rank among the top 5 in expert gear reviews. Find youth, women’s, and men’s sizes at Spokane Alpine Haus.
24. Libtech Snowboards ($450-600, adult & youth sizes) from Shred Sports Outlet are manufactured in Washington State, with all-USA made components. (Bindings sold separately.)
25. Dakine Super Tune ski/snowboard tuning kit ($125), from Alpine Haus, includes an adjustable-temp iron and all other essential DIY tools for filing edges and scraping, waxing, repairing, and polishing bases.
26. BootDoc fully-customized alpine ski boot orthotic insoles ($99-179), from Sports Creel, will “optimize the fit of a new boot or refresh the fit of old boots,” says Sports Creel manager Micah Genteman. Whether to eliminate pronation, cushion flat feet, or ease other foot-bed woes, buy a 2-D insole for wrapping and gifting, then the skier brings it back to Sports Creel to have their feet measured in a heated silicone mold for on-site 3-D customization—about a 45-minute process altogether.
27. Lenz rcB 1200 + Heat Sock 5.0 ($350), from Mountain Gear, are knee-high socks with re-chargeable battery-powered electric heating elements, whose temperature settings are controlled from the battery or via smart-phone Bluetooth.
28. Shred Sports Outlet’s ski and snowboard in-store tuning shop always aims for a 2-day turnaround. Gift a wax service ($10) or a full tune-up package ($45) to “make used skis better than new,” says assistant manager Patrick Hutchins.
29. Gear up your family for Nordic skiing with a Salomon gear package from Fitness Fanatics—includes skis, boots, and bindings. For adults, between a skate-ski ($449) or classic cross-country ($299); classic only for youth ($199.50).
30. Out There Kids need dependable waterproof footwear that withstand slushy puddles and rough play. North Face gear lasts for years and come with a lifetime guarantee, which means it can pass down to siblings and cousins and still be sold at the ski swap. Check out the Alpenglow snow boots ($60) and Jr. Hedgehog Hikers ($60). For Out There adults, the North Face Hedgehog Fastpack Gore-Tex shoes ($120) are wearable year-round for casual-dress workplaces on rainy or snowy days.
31. Rossignol XC50 R-Skin EVO cross-country skis ($349, skis and bindings), from Two Wheeler Dealer in Hayden, Idaho, come “with a new synthetic skin for the kick-zone,” according to the store’s assistant manager. Pair them with Rossignol X-5 Tour ski boots ($150).
32. Duckworth Co. merino wool ski socks ($26), beanies and hats ($35-45), and base-layers ($100)—sold at Sports Creel—are highly-rated for good reason. Not only are they exquisitely-soft, this “sheep to shelf company” based in Dillion, Montana, oversees the entire manufacturing process, from the wool supplied by the Helle Ranch and other Montana open-range ranches to the fiber spinning, knitting, and dying process.
33. The North Face Arrowood Triclimate Jacket ($199) is a 3-in-1 jacket that includes a waterproof shell and inner mid-weight fleece for versatile layering all winter long. Available in both women’s and men’s sizes; find it REI and The North Face store in Spokane.
34. Local mountain resorts and alpine ski parks offer deals and discounts for daily lift tickets—such as a 49 Degrees North 4-pack or 6-pack of passes ($179-372) or a Mt. Spokane youth 5-pack or adult 3-pack ($129) or Family Fun Pack of 21 lift tickets ($599).

CYCLING

35. An e-bike makes an epic gift. Fresh Air E-Bikes in Spirit Lake, Idaho, has the IZIP Peak Plus mountain e-bike ($2,999) and IZIP Path Plus classic step-through e-bike ($1,999)—both provide electric-power assist pedaling when needed.
36. New fat bikes are here! Gear up for winter trail riding with a Specialized Fatboy SE ($1,620) or Salsa Mukluk ($1,800+), both available at Wheel Sport.
37. 45NRTH Cobrafist Handlebar Pogies ($115), from North Division Bicycle, provide advanced protection against extreme cold, wind, and snow or rain.
38. Get the rookie bike-commuter a Specialized Starter Kit ($50-65) from Wheel Sport, which includes two bottle cages, tire pump and levers, and water-resistant saddle bag.
39. Everyone needs a dependable bike helmet. Mavic helmets ($80-200), at Mojo Cyclery, come in a range of styles for road, triathlon, and mountain biking. And the Bike Hub has Bontrager Rally MIPS mountain bike helmet ($140), among others.
40. Cyclists also need good bike lights. The Bontrager Ion 800 R front bike light ($100) features five modes; pair it with the Flare R rear bike light ($60), which is daylight-visible with 65 lumens—both available at North Division Bicycle. Or there’s the Specialized STIX Elite front and rear lights ($45/each), available at Two Wheeler Dealer.
41. Sock Guy cycling socks ($11-15) from Mojo Cyclery come in an array of colors with funky patterns and creative graphics.
42. Know someone who wishes biking was more comfortable? Gift them a Saddle Pressure Mapping & Observational Fit ($150) service from B & L Bicycles, in Pullman.
43. A Velofix mobile bike repair service is a practical and creative gift idea (com/locations/spokane) where the mechanic comes to you. Perfect for the bike commuter who needs a quick fix during a work day.
44. The Küat Transfer 2-Bike Hitch Rack ($290), available from Bike Hub, is an easy-to-use system that doesn’t come in contact with the bike frame.
45. Indoor bike trainers, such as the CycleOps 9904 Fluid 2 ($300) from Bike Hub or the CycleOps Smart Trainer, M2 or H2 models ($600, $1,200) from Wheel Sport help athletes maintain cycling fitness all- winter long.

RUNNING

46. Asics GEL-Kayano 25 ($160), available at Runners Soul, are running shoes known for their stability and cushioning, which makes them a good all-round shoe for most runners.
47. Stay safe on ice and snow with Due North Everyday G-3 ($20) over-the-sole winter traction devices, featuring Ice Diamond Spikes. Find them at Fleet Feet.
48. CEP compression calf sleeves ($45/pair), sold at Runners Soul, is a recovery tool to assist blood-circulation after long-runs.
49. Balega Hidden Comfort ($13) running socks, sold at Fleet Feet, provide cushioning and moisture-wicking power to keep feet dry on winter runs, according to Fleet Feet store manager Danielle Ramsay.
50. Nathan TrailMix Plus 2 Hydration Belt ($40), available from Runners Soul, carries two 10 oz. flasks and has a front zip-pocket big enough to hold an iPhone 7 Plus.
51. Run Fast. Cook Fast. Eat Slow. ($25), available at Fleet Feet, is the latest cookbook from 4-time Olympian and world-class marathoner Shalane Flanagan, co-written with chef and nutrition coach Elyse Kopecky.

OUTDOOR LIFESTLYE, CAMPING, & TRAVEL

52. A Lewis N. Clark Waterseals waterproof magnetic-closure phone pouch ($20-30, depending on size), from The General Store, is a must-have for the outdoor adventurer.
53. A portable, lightweight Helinox Chair Two ($130), available at Mountain Gear, provides ultimate comfort around a campfire, at the beach, or along a soccer game sideline.
54. Outdoor family needs a tent? The North Face Wawona 6 ($399) has all the best essentials to make 3-season tent-camping more comfortable and fun. It has two vestibules, and with an 80-inch peak height, parents can stand up. And like all TNF gear, it has a lifetime guarantee.
55. A YETI Hopper Two 20 leakproof, soft-sided cooler ($300) is the ultimate road-trip travel gear accessory. It’s available from The General Store, along with YETI Rambler 18-oz. and 26-oz. bottles ($30, $40).
56. ENO DoubleNest hammocks ($70) are sold locally at REI, Escape Outdoors (Coeur d’Alene), and Northwest River Supplies (Moscow). Great gift for couples and families!
57. Dodecahedron Solid Firepit ($200-300+) is a portable, 30-pound, 2-foot diameter, hanging firepit with tripod legs, handcrafted by Shumake Designs—a new business created by local artist and welder Scott Shumake. His sturdy, eye-catching firepits are perfect for the backyard or vacation property. “The benefits of a fire off the ground is the 360-degree projection of heat,” he says. The tripod legs unplug from the cap at the top, which allows it to easily fit in a small car too. Instagram.com/scottshumake or call (509) 720-3594.
58. Crazy Creek, based in Red Lodge, Montana, makes durable lightweight portable chairs for paddling (Canoe Chair III, $53.50), backpacking, or stadium seating ($28-83)—any activity requiring something cushy for your tushie. Find at Northwest River Supplies (NRS) in Moscow, Idaho; Trail Head (Missoula); Sportsman & Ski Haus (Kalispell, MT); and REI (inventory varies by store).
59. MPOWERD Luci Pro Lux + Mobile Charging inflatable solar light ($35) has four light modes and a two-way USB port for mobile charging. Waterproof and attachable for packs (or wherever needed), it’s great for winter adventures and night photography in temps as cold as 15°F (-10°C). Find it at Mountain Gear.
60. Lifeline Ultralight Survival Kit ($17), at The General Store, weighs 5.5 –oz. and has 29 items, including a quick-spark fire starter, whistle, and compass. Pair it with a LifeStraw Personal Water Filter ($20), which purifies water without pumping or chemicals.
61. NFL Seattle Seahawks Shake n’ Score Travel Dice Game ($14.29), from White Elephant, is a family “Yahtzee” game that can be easily stashed in a ski bag or carry-on pack.

FOOD/BEVERAGE & EXPERIENCES

62. Spiceologist Rub Gift Set ($35) includes six 1-oz. jars of this Spokane-based company’s most popular gourmet rubs—like Chile Margarita, Smoky Honey Habanero, and Raspberry Chipotle. Find it at The Kitchen Engine.
63. DOMA Coffee Roasting Company offers a mix-and-match 3-pack of 8-oz. bags of beans ($30). Packaged in its own special box, gift it whole or separate into single packs for stocking stuffers. Buy at domacoffee.com or from Doma’s Coffee Lab in Post Falls, Idaho.
64. Create a DIY bundle from Maryhill Winery—they provide a wine gift bag for you to then add your choice of wine ($14-45/bottle) along with chocolates, a bottle stopper, and/or festive napkins.
65. One Tree Hard Cider Cranberry and Pumpkin ciders are the latest seasonal delights—available from local grocers, such as Rosauers and Yoke’s.
66. Lyte Balance from SenseAble Supplements, in Liberty Lake, Wash., is an all-natural electrolyte supplement for hydration recovery from exercise, illness, and even holiday hangovers. The travel size, TSA-approved concentrate bundle ($16/3-pack) is great for the traveling marathoner or hiker. Buy direct from lytebalance.com or find at local stores such as Huckleberry’s, Main Market (Spokane), and Pilgrim’s Market (Coeur d’Alene).
67. Fizz-up any liquid with the DrinkMate carbonating machine ($100) from Kitchen Engine, which has an in-store CO2 tank refill program. Use it for kombucha, juice, wine, and even flat beer!
68. A gift of Grounds & Hounds Organic Coffee ($4.99-18.99), available at Prairie Dog Pet Mercantile, helps support local pet rescue and animal shelters with the coffee company’s donation (20% of profits) to Inland Northwest organizations.
69. Feed a loved one’s fly-fishing passion with a guided trip for 1-2 people through Silver Bow Fly Shop ($400-500+) in Spokane for a day-long expedition on the Spokane, North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene, St. Joe, or Grand Ronde Rivers. Or help someone take their casting skills to the next level with a class at the Orvis Fly-Fishing School through NW Outfitters in Coeur d’Alene (1-day, $279; 2-days, $489).
70. Give kids an opportunity to climb someone else’s walls. Wild Walls Climbing Gym in downtown Spokane offers a Spider Monkeys class for ages 4-10 ($20/session) and Climbing Club for ages 10-14 ($12/session). The entire family can go (adult day pass, $16, or 10-visit punch pass, $135; youth 10-punch pass, $100, for ages 14 and under). Note: Additional fee for gear rental.
71. For adults new to indoor climbing, Wild Walls offers a Vertical Introduction Package ($35) for ages 12+ that includes a 2-hour class and one-week membership. There’s also a Women’s Night class ($25, ages 12+), offered on Mondays only, 6-8 p.m., that teaches the fundamentals of indoor climbing and also includes a week-long trial membership to be use any week upon return.
72. National Geographic Live speaker events are gift-experiences that inspire and amaze ($30/single ticket; $81/series tickets)—three different experts are coming February-April 2019 to present at Spokane’s First Interstate Center for the Arts (events.nationalgeographic.com).
73. For the person who needs a winter indoor sport, Bloc Yard Bouldering Gym in Spokane hosts Bouldering 101 classes, Ladies’ Nights, and a Youth Climbing Team ($12-14/daily pass). With bouldering, the climbing features are close enough to the padded ground that you don’t need to be roped up.
74. Everyone could use more Namaste in their life. Gift a yoga class. Mellow Monkey in Spokane Valley is a yoga studio tailored to beginners and offers all sorts of class types ($15/class). Harmony Yoga, located on Spokane’s South Hill, offers a New Student Intro 5-class pass ($30) and has all sorts of classes, including “Yoga for 50+”and “Active 50+” for those beyond beginner level. Wild Walls Climbing Gym’s yoga studio offers weekday and weekend classes ($12/class). YogaJoy North, located in the Wandermere area in north Spokane, hosts a Kids After-School Yoga Club and adult classes, plus barre and barre/yoga mix. The New Client Intro offer is 2 weeks of unlimited classes ($40).
75. Inspire someone for ski season with an all-levels Ski Conditioning Class at Physical Therapy Associates’ Elevation Fitness workout studio, located on Spokane’s South Hill. Pilates, spin, yoga, and other classes also available (pricing details at ptassociates.net). //

Amy McCaffree is special section editor and Out There Kids columnist. She contributed to the Family Winter Sports Guide in the last issue. Follow her winter adventures @ Instagram.com/adventure_amy_spokane & facebook.com/AmyOutdoorsSpokane.

The post 75 Gift Ideas From Local Spokane Shops appeared first on Out There Venture.

“Many of my friends look at me and say ‘dude, it hasn’t snowed in a week,’ or ‘it’s really icy,’” he says. “I say, yeah, okay. It just means you get to ski more diverse conditions.” After skiing for nearly 50 years, Beattie has a personal and varied history with skiing that spans well beyond his 8 years selling skis and other outdoor gear at Mountain Gear. Growing up in Wallace, Idaho, in the 60s, he says his mom figured out that she could put him on a bus to the free ski school at Lookout Pass when he was 7, and that’s pretty much what he did every weekend for years after that first season.

Beattie went on to ski all over the West and at many other resorts and backcountry spots around the world, but he says Lookout Pass, where he currently teaches telemark lessons, still feels like home. He started teaching alpine skiing at Lookout Pass in 1972, and after getting into tele, he says he had a hard time convincing anyone that there were people who wanted to learn the trademark knee drop of the telemark turn. Eventually he got a gig teaching tele at Squaw Valley in 1983. “Back then the equipment sucked,” he admits. “I look back and think, ‘why did I do that?’ The first sets of skis were double camber and were really hard to turn.”

Beattie worked as a ski instructor at various ski hills, from Taos and Squaw Valley to Copper Mountain, among other places. Eventually he returned to the Inland Northwest and opened Vertical Earth in Coeur d’Alene, selling bikes and telemark, cross-country and AT equipment. After 12 years he sold the shop and moved on, eventually landing at Spokane’s Mountain Gear.

With Beattie’s extensive outdoor industry resume and commitment to the ski bum lifestyle, it’s hard to fathom how many amazing powder days on renowned slopes he’s racked up. But what I find most interesting and inspirational is the fact that this guy seems stoked to ski in any conditions, anytime, anyplace. I eventually ask him straight up what keeps him so motivated to ski even on crappy days. “I’m skiing,” he says matter-of-factly. “That’s all it takes. I have boards on my feet and can turn left or turn right. It’s a challenge to get down whatever slope no matter what the conditions are. I want to be able to negotiate whatever. What more could you want?”

It’s worth noting that Beattie isn’t just out there banging out 54 ski days (that’s his tally from last year) on alpine equipment but on more challenging and physically taxing tele gear. His current go-to set-up is a pair of Scarpa TX Pro NTN tele boots, 22 Designs Outlaw bindings and Dynastar Cham 2.0 boards. For those of you who have never freed your heels, you may be wondering why a person would intentionally make skiing more challenging than it already is by choosing to tele. “I think it’s the range of motion,” says Beattie. “You can go through a much greater range of movement than you can on alpine gear. It allows my body to go through big cycles, almost like pedaling a bike. I like the fact that it’s a little more sensitive and takes a little more effort.”

I have seen the bumper sticker on water bottles and various ski bum rigs loaded with boards, but when Beattie concludes our conversation with these words, I know he means it: “Skiing is the most fun you can have with your clothes on.” //

The post Mountain Mugs: Mountain Gear’s Mark Beattie Explains Why There is No Bad Ski Day appeared first on Out There Venture.

Merino Wool Running Shirts from Pettet Endurance Project

These super soft and awesome fitting merino wool running shirts are stylish and functional for a surprisingly reasonable price, especially since PEP actually makes their running apparel here in the U.S. (south of Portland, Ore.). Giving them even more local cred, the company’s founder is a Spokane native and runner who saw a need for running apparel built specifically to match the movements of endurance athletes, and PEP’s shirts are made from sustainable, natural, anti-microbial wool fibers that fight odor even after prolonged use. By selling to customers directly, they pass on the savings (and offer free shipping). Pettetendurance.com.

The Hok Ski/Snowshoe Hybrid from Altai Skis

The first creation from Altai Skis, the Hok is a ski/snowshoe hybrid that opens new possibilities for backcountry snow travel to anyone looking to add a gliding element to the feeling of traveling over the snow on snowshoes. With a headquarters in the tiny Northeast Washington town of Curlew near the Kettle Range Mountains, Altai Skis Hok combines the maneuverability and ease of use found in snowshoes with a ski’s efficiency of sliding forward rather than lifting and stepping with each stride. A synthetic climbing skin is integrated into the base of the ski, and the sustainable paulownia wood core, reinforced with organic natural fibers and fiberglass, makes it lightweight and flexible. Altai offers two sizes, 145cm and 125cm. Buy them at Mountain Gear in Spokane. Altaiskis.com.

Relaxation and Pain Relief with a Massage Gift Certificate

A gift certificate for a massage from Healing Balance Massage Therapy, that specializes in deep tissue and sports massage, is often the kind of gift that the people who need it most will never get for themselves. Help that person out with a massage that will help relieve muscle tension, reduce chronic pain, relieve soreness, and improve performance. $45 for one hour and $70 for an hour and a half. Healingbalancemassage.com.

Discount Patagonia Outlet Apparel

If you want to score sweet deals on discount Patagonia Outlet clothing and gear, you don’t need to drive to Seattle; the closest Patagonia Outlet to Spokane, Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint is actually up in Nelson, B.C. Good thing for you, since you can now justify a trip north to ski at Whitewater and soak at Ainsworth Hot Springs and get some holiday shopping done at the Patagonia Outlet at Snowpack Outdoor Experience on Baker Street in historic downtown Nelson. Expect to save between 30-80% off on your favorite Patagonia items. Snowpack.ca.

MedStar Membership for Critical Care Helicopter Transport

A thoughtful and caring gift that also offers peace of mind to an adventure lover’s family, membership to Northwest MedStar, a non-profit organization, provides the region’s premier critical care transport for critically ill or injured patients via helicopter, fixed wing and ground-based options to health care facilities throughout the Pacific Northwest. An accident or emergency can happen anywhere, but it’s even more of a liability when you’re in remote locations where a lot of our favorite outdoor activities are based. With the Northwest MedStar membership program, you’ll have the assurance that you and your family will receive quality critical care transport, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your transport will not create extra financial hardship. An average flight can cost thousands of dollars, which may not be covered in full by your health insurance plan. Membership is $59 per family for a year, or $150 for three years. Nwmedstar.org.

Reel Cameras HD Slayer POV Camera

Help that skier, rider, mountain biker, or whitewater paddler on your list capture, share, and relive their outdoor adventures with a POV camera from Coeur d’Alene based Reel Cameras. The HD Slayer has a built-in 1.5″ LCD screen, making it easy to clearly see what’s being recorded in live time. The HD Slayer also includes different types of mounts and accessories for creating versatile footage. Along with a clear, durable, waterproof case that will allow you to film underwater up to 130 feet, all HD SLAYERS come with a free class 10 8GB micro SD card when ordered online (free shipping on orders over $100). And this POV camera is at a price that is sure to slay the competition. Go to www.reelcameras.com and enter the promo code “REELFAMILY” to save $50 on an HD Slayer camera package.

Cross-Country Ski Package

Every alpine skier should have a Nordic set-up whether they know it or not. Same goes for snowshoers. Cross-country skiing is great exercise and fun in its own right, but it can also make a welcome diversion to riding the lifts or plodding along the icepack on shoes, especially when those high pressure powder draughts hit. Set them up with an entire Nordic package (skis, boots, bindings, and poles) from a local shop like Fitness Fanatics or Mountain Gear.

Give the Gift of Local Beer (or Booze)

You can’t go wrong with the beer drinker on your list with a gift certificate and a growler or two from their favorite local craft brewery (and it’s okay to have a pint while you’re waiting). These days, there’s a local brewery in just about every town and neighborhood no matter where you live, but we recommend these favorite breweries whose owners and patrons love the Inland Northwest outdoors as much as we do: River City Brewing (downtown Spokane); Perry Street Brewing (Spokane’s Perry neighborhood); Ramblin’ Road Craft Brewery (just east of Gonzaga University near the Spokane River and Centennial Trail); and Slate Creek Brewing (on 4^th Street in Coeur d’Alene). Bottles of craft, small batch wheat whiskey, vodka, bourbon and gin from Dry Fly Distillery also make a classy and useful regional gift, especially for out-of-town visitors who may want to take a bottle of the Inland Northwest home with them.

Fair Trade Alpaca Socks

Ideal for hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, biking, or walking to work on a cold winter day, you can pick up a pair of these hand-made beauties at Kizuri Fair Trade Gifts and Clothing (35 West Main, downtown Spokane). Alpaca wool is the original smart wool and a traditional choice that has proven itself in outdoor environments around the world. Kizurispokane.wordpress.com.

Lakes Brand Flip Flops

The company slogan “Don’t Text…Don’t Call…I’m at the Lake!” captures the look and feel of The Lakes Brand’s Kick Around Flip Flops well. These cool, Inland-Northwest-lake inspired flip flops add a bit of local style to a comfortable classic, featuring their signature “burly-dense” sole that holds up to the repeated use and abuse they will get put through at the lake next summer. The foot strap and footbed feature symbols of summertime fun, adding personality to these affordable sandals made by Coeur d’Alene-based Lakes Brand. Their awesome t-shirts make great gifts too. Lakesbrand.com.

Mountain Sports Club Membership (aka discount ski deals)

Give the gift of cheap skiing at resorts around the Pacific Northwest and North America for only $19.95 (while this special introductory offer lasts – see promo code below). Mountain Sports Club is the largest, online, membership-based, discount-promotion program of its kind in North America, and it’s expanding here in the Pacific Northwest this season. Two for one mid-week lift ticket deals and other discounts are already available to members at Lookout Pass, Tamarack, Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, and Mt Norquay in Banff, with other local and B.C. resorts coming soon. Discounts for dozens of major resorts in Utah, Colorado, and California are also available to members now. Use it once and it’s paid for. Use it often and save hundreds. Use the promo code “out14” to lock in individual memberships for $19.95 for a limited time at www.mountainsportsclub.com.

The North Face ThermoBall Hoodie

Redesigned for 2014 with a sleeker silhouette, this men’s hoodie features ThermoBall, powered by PrimaLoft®, which translates to the new synthetic alternative to down from The North Face that will keep you warm (and looking good) in cold and wet weather. Wear or pack this highly compressible, ultralight zip-front layer for reliable thermal insulation in a variety of winter conditions. The hood is detachable, and they also have several other styles of ThermoBall jackets and vests if the person on your list isn’t a hoodie guy or gal. Check out all of the ThermoBall options at The North Face retail store downtown Spokane at River Park Square. Thenorthface.com.

Give the Gift of Climbing

A gift certificate for a month ($60) or three-month ($160) membership at Wild Walls Climbing Gym, maybe tucked inside a new pair of climbing shoes or wrapped up with a new climbing harness from Mountain Gear, Mountain Goat Outfitters, or REI, would make a welcome gift for anyone looking to get into (or back into) climbing as a way to keep their whole body active and moving in the winter. Of course it would also make an awesome gift for anyone who has never climbed before and doesn’t know what they are missing! Wildwalls.com.

Classic 110 Folding Hunter Buck Knives Blade

In celebration of its 50th anniversary, Post Falls-based Buck Knives has released a special edition, classic 110 Folding Hunter. The famous features of the 110 remain, such as the Macassar Ebony Dymondwood handle and the tiny brass bolsters. This commemorative version, which will be included on all Model 110s for 2014, features an anniversary medallion on the handle and custom blade stamp denoting 50 years. Buckknives.com.

Reinhold Messner’s “My Life at the Limit” Book

Famed mountaineer Reinhold Messner has endured plenty of “at the limit” experiences. Time magazine wrote, “Messner is not only the greatest high-altitude mountaineer the world has ever known; he is probably the best it will ever know.” This book is part autobiography and part interview. Published for the first time in English thanks to Mountaineers Books, “My Life at the Limit” is already considered the most personal and reflective of all Herr Messner’s books. Order and pick up a copy at REI. Rei.com/b/mountaineers-books.

Omega Pacific “Solution” Climbing Nut Tool

The Solution brings together every vital ingredient a nut tool must have. It’s thin enough to retrieve impossible gear from every climbing brand. The working end features a dimple to rest against stubborn stoppers to pop them loose. There’s also a hook for pulling on unreachable trigger bars. The Solution also features a 1/2″ wrench for tightening loose bolts. Best of all, the Solution can also open up a celebratory beverage! Pick up a Solution nut tool, made by Spokane area based Omega Pacific, at Mountain Gear, REI and Mountain Goat Outfitters. Omegapac.com. // (OTM)

Local Outdoor Stocking Stuffers

Movit (pronounced MOVE-it) Energy Gummies, created by a Spokane-based company, is the perfect energy food for active outdoor enthusiasts. This tasty on-the-go snack is really a nutrition supplement designed to give you the energy you need to keep after your outdoor activities all day long. Movit comes in a snack-size packet that will provide a boost of energy during sustained periods of cardio-vascular exercise when your muscles and mind require it most. The proprietary formula includes ingredients such as Brazilian Guarana, Co-enzyme Q₁₀, D-Ribose, vitamin C, taurine, protein and a full complement of the B vitamins. Pick up a couple bags for a stocking stuffer or a whole case for a great gift. JustMovit.com.

Lyte Balance Electrolyte Concentrate from Liberty Lake based SenseAble Supplements comes in a small bottle (that fits easily in Christmas stockings) and can be added by the capful to water, juice, milk, coffee, beer or any other favorite beverage. It has a light, satisfying, salty taste and comes loaded with the primary electrolytes that the average American is deficient in, including potassium and magnesium. Be the one that introduces this awesome local product to the sweating outdoor junkie on your holiday shopping list who needs better hydration. Pick up a bottle at Main Market Co-op, Huckleberry’s, and Pilgrim’s Market. Sensablesupplements.com.

Running Socks and Running Accessories. Runners can never have too many pairs of quality running socks floating around their sock drawers. Other running accessories like earphones that won’t fall out of runners’ ears, hand-held water bottles, or compression tights make for great small gifts or stocking stuffers for runners and aspiring runners alike. Try local running shops like Fleet Feet and Runners Soul for these gems.

Boo Radley’s Unique Gifts. For cool, one-of-a-kind gifts and stocking stuffers for just about anyone with a sense of humor and style, nothing beats Boo Radley’s on Howard Street downtown Spokane across from Riverfront Park. Named after the character in “To Kill A Mockingbird” who collected unique things, you can find everything from books, games, local themed items (like a new vintage Spokane calendar), t-shirts, toys, and other novelties for kids and adults.

Local Lift Ticket Gift Packs and Cards. Most local resorts offer great deals on packs of lift tickets or gift cards for the holidays, making an awesome gift disguised as a stocking stuffer for skiers and snowboarders. For $99, Mt. Spokane offers youth (ages 7-17) five lift tickets or adults (18 and older) three lift tickets to Mt. Spokane any time with a non-transferable punch card (through Dec. 31). 49 Degrees North offers their popular Klondike Cards that can be used on the mountain to redeem lift tickets, rentals, lessons, and retail, food and beverages purchases, and they can be shared between family members. And Lookout Pass offers a the Lookout Pass Advantage Card for $59 that includes the 1^st ticket for free, $10 off the 2^nd, 3^rd, and 4^th trip, and another free lift ticket on visit number 5. Silver Mountain can hook you up with lift ticket stocking stuffers as well. //

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The Outdoor Industry Association Sustainability Working Group (OIA SWG) — a collaboration of more than 250 outdoor industry companies working to to identify and improve the environmental and social impacts of their products — has been selected by the White House as a Champion of Change for Corporate Environmental Sustainability.

The White House Champions of Change program highlights the stories and examples of citizens across the country that represent President Obama’s vision of out-innovating, out-educating and out-building the rest of the world through projects and initiatives that move their communities forward.

The OIA SWG grew from the efforts of leading outdoor industry companies that were independently exploring ways to reduce their environmental and social impacts. These companies recognized that they could make meaningful progress by working together on shared issues through their global supply chains.

One of the industry’s most notable accomplishments is the development of the OIA Eco Index, a product sustainability indexing tool that OIA member companies began developing in 2007. The industry developed the Eco Index as an open-source tool to encourage companies and other industries to adopt the tool.

It worked. In 2011, the Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC) — a broader group of companies representing approximately 30 percent of the global apparel and footwear supply chains — adopted the OIA Eco Index as the basis for the SAC Apparel Index to create a worldwide standard that will allow companies to assess product level sustainability.

The OIA SWG continues to methodically examine product-level sustainability issues, seeking solutions in four key areas: 1) index development for apparel, footwear and equipment, 2) chemicals management in the supply chain, 3) materials traceability in the supply chain, and 4) social responsibility and fair labor issues.

On April 12, The Office of Public Engagement and the White House Council on Environmental Quality will host a Champions of Change for Corporate Environmental Sustainability event, at which the OIA SWG’s efforts to spread sustainability practices will be honored. The event starts at 1:30 EDT and will stream live at whitehouse.gov/live.

“OIA member companies have been quietly plugging away on sustainability work for many years,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, OIA president and CEO. “This recognition is a welcome validation of our industry’s commitment to promote socially, environmentally and ethically responsible business practices, which reflect the underlying values of the outdoor industry and our customers.”

The post OIA Member Companies’ Sustainability Work Recognized by White House appeared first on Out There Venture.

Just got this request for Team Leaders from tireless river clean-up maestro Steve Faust:

Time is short, and I need to reach out to you and ask if you would consider helping us out with this year’s Spokane River cleanup. As always, we are in dire need of people to serve as team leaders on the day of the event, next Saturday, October 1, 2011. We would keep you busy on that day from about 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

The team leader role is actually a lot of fun. Your basic job is to make sure that volunteers, many of whom are middle school or high school age kids, are depositing the trash they collect in appropriate places where it will actually be picked up by the city of Spokane trucks. In addition, our team leaders have a role in risk management for the event, although we have figured out a system where we make that piece of it very easy for you. Ideally we would like to have three team leaders for each of the 25 different areas where we’re picking up trash this year. That includes areas in and around Highbridge Park, near the University district, and this year, in the Spokane Valley.

We ask that people who have not served as team leaders in previous years attend an orientation meeting on the evening of Wednesday, September 28, at 6 PM, at the headquarters of Mountain Gear, so that you can learn our system. Dinner will be served at the meeting. The location 6021 E. Mansfield.

I would so appreciate your help with this event this year. If you’re willing to help out, please send our volunteer coordinator, Stephen Barbieri (stephenbarbieri@msn.com), an e-mail with your name, cell phone number and e-mail address. Stephen will send you a reminder of the place and time of the orientation meeting and any additional information you might need.

If you’re not interested in serving as a team leader, I would encourage you to consider participating in the event any way as a plain old volunteer. You can learn more about the event and preregister from the link at our website, http://www.facebook.com/l/IAQAUmuhbAQCS56TLB95ocR8ai6UxyetstGGwD3TzMlhyBg/www.friendsofthefalls.org.
Thanks so much for considering this opportunity. Hope to see you next Saturday morning. Steve

The post Come Join The Fun At Spokane River Clean Up–And Get Free Dinner appeared first on Out There Venture.

Here’s a thank you for just visiting our site. Print out this coupon and use it at this weekend’s Mountain Gear/Huppins sale.

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Shame on you if you missed the Spokane River Kickoff at Corbin Park in Post Falls this past weekend. The weather was fabulous, and the event was a lot of fun. The bad news is you missed the initial Hydrotherapy Session of the year and the FREE Barbecue. The good news is that Mountain Goat Outfitters and Mountain Gear are starting their on-the-water canoe and kayak demos in the coming weeks. The demos vary depending on weather or other outdoor-related engagements, but don’t miss your chance to test-before-you-buy a canoe or kayak. Contact either paddle-specialty shop for their upcoming paddling events.

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The Couer d’Alene office of J-U-B Engineers, a Boise-based civil engineering firm, was one of only three businesses in Northern Idaho and Eastern Washington recognized as Bicycle Friendly Businesses by the League of American Bicyclists. Mountain Gear in Spokane Valley and Rings & Things in Spokane also made the list.

What qualified them? Shower facilities for employees, indoor bike parking and a dedicated group of bike-commuting employees (two of which ride all through the winter), says engineer Chris Bosley, who led J-U-B’s first attempt at making the list. The company also participates in the Bike-to-Work Week Commuter Challenge each year.

“By providing showers and indoor bicycle parking, we encourage employees to commute by bike,” said J-U-B regional manager Dale Baune in a press release.  “Biking to work helps to keep our employees healthy and productive.”

The Bicycle Friendly Business (BFB) program recognizes businesses who excel at encouraging employees and customers to use bicycles instead of cars. Benefits, they say, include reduced health care costs, more productive employees, improved worker and customer satisfaction, smaller carbon footprint and increased corporate social responsibility.

Congratulations, J-U-B, Mountain Gear and Rings & Things!

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