Durango Ski & Patio is trying to make skiing and snowboarding accessible to everyone by offering free rentals on Feb. 12.
Originally starting as an outdoor patio store on Main Avenue called Ultimate Mountain Living, the store changed its name and moved to its current location at 21516 U.S. Highway 160 three years ago. About that time it began offering ski rentals because it struggled selling patio furniture in the winter.
Owner Sam Christensen wants the free ski rentals to become an annual event called “Local Appreciation Day.” The goal is to get as many people on skis and snowboards as possible.
“We know it's an expensive sport, not only the rentals, but the lift tickets as well, and a lot of people just have never been exposed to it,” Christensen said.
He said kids under 12 are allowed free skiing at Purgatory Resort and that being able to break down the financial barriers for equipment rentals could make a difference, even if it’s for one day.
Christensen hopes his local appreciation day serves as an impetus for other outdoor businesses to offer free ski rentals. He would also like to work with Purgatory Resort to allow locals one day of free skiing.
“The sport doesn't have to be limited to just people in upper-income brackets,” Christensen said.
People interested in renting must pick up skis or snowboards from 3 to 6 p.m. Feb. 11. The rentals will include a full basic rental setup. People may reserve their equipment online or inquire within the store. The promotion will go until the store runs out of rental equipment.
While the promotion is called Local Appreciation Day, Durango Ski & Patio will offer free rentals to anyone, including visitors to the area. The only requirement is that customers must give the store a credit card in case of damages to the product.
“We're going to serve as many people as we can,” Christensen said.
tbrown@durangoherald.com
