Gear West Partnership

Cross country skiing is a very unique sport. It requires self discipline and goal setting, which can be difficult to motivate yourself for. Not to mention all of the equipment and clothing you need in order to glide across snow when it's -5 degrees! Luckily, you don't have to do this alone. Gear West Ski and Bike shop is always around to help!

I am so excited to be working with Gear West this year as my official headgear sponsor! Not only does Gear West support everything great about cross country skiing such as races and fun events, the shop also works with the community to create opportunities to get outside and explore! The Twin Cities is one bustling area, but Gear West helps you step back, smell the flowers, and enjoy the view. Whether that means helping you pick out a new pair of skis that are just the right fit for you or inviting you along for a Wednesday night bike ride from the store, the mission is still the same; get outside, move around and enjoy it!

Skiing around last summer with some of the local junior athletes at a Gear West clinic. (PC: Jenny Beckman)

I so vividly remember the first time I walked into Gear West in search of a new pair of skis. I was in 8th grade, had made some major gains in my skiing ability and also grown a lot in middle school. Grateful that my parents could support my skiing so much, I was still nervous to step through that door and get fitted for a new pair of classic skis. However, the staff was so welcoming, working hard at 7:00 on a Friday night in November to make sure that I was ready to chase my goals when the snow fell. With their help, I found the perfect pair of Rossignol skis that I soon referred to as my "magic skis" because they were so fast, yet I could kick up any hill I came across!

Gear West got me to the start line feeling confident and excited to race! (Ski racing circa 2009)

Gear West isn't just a shop for outdoor equipment, it's an access point to a whole new world. With a tremendous crew of hard-working, dedicated athletes, the team knows how to lead by example. The owner, Jan Guenther, is the epitome of a badass lady (excuse my language). She has opened the door to female athletes to make sure they feel safe and comfortable trying new things and she inspires them in the process. She also gives most Birkie Elite Wave men a run for their money! Not to mention all of the time and energy Jenny Beckman puts into making sure every little detail is taken care of so outreach events and races can run smoothly. It's pretty exciting to be surrounded by such strong women and they motivate me to keep chasing my goals!

Jan supporting my skiing with a fundraiser the first year I turned "pro."

It's impossible to predict what this ski season will look like, but I know that Gear West is determined to support it in any way possible. I am really looking forward to working with the shop to create safe and creative options to get more adults feeling fit, juniors challenging themselves and setting goals, and youth playing outside!