Q: How do I make a reservation at Wild West Ski Shop?
A: Simply click on the RESERVE NOW button or call us toll free at 888-395-3131.
Q: If we get in early can we pick up our equipment the night before?
A: Yes, and that way you can start your ski day earlier!
Q: What if I don’t know someone’s shoe size?
A: It is very important that we know each persons shoe size so we can have your equipment ready to go. If you guess the shoe size and it doesn’t fit, we have to re-set the skis.
Q: What if I pay for 2 days of skiing and decide to snowboard after the first day?
A; No problem, we will be happy to change your equipment Bring in the old equipment and we will switch you to whatever you would like to try. If there is a price difference, you can pay the difference then, or if we owe you, you will receive credit.
Q: Do you offer senior citizens or military discounts?
A: Yes, we offer all persons over 65 and active military a 20% discount off walk in rates.
Q: Do you still carry the old traditional skis?
A: No, all our skis are shaped.
Q: We are beginners, so we really don’t need fancy shaped skis, right?
A: Shaped skis are for everyone regardless of ability. Because of the contour of the skis, wider ends, thin in the middle, the ski turns with less effort. Less effort translates into less fatigue. Sounds like fun!
Q: How do those Snowblades work? Should I try that first instead of longer skis since I am a beginner? Can my kid try them out?
A: These skis are called snowblades and are fast “trick” skis. Ski instructors generally recommend that you begin on regular skis to learn to carve a turn. They are recommended for everyone but all participants must be at least five feet tall. Our snowblades have releasable bindings, just like skis.
Q: What length ski do I need to rent?
A: If you are not sure what you want, we can pick the size for you based on your height and ability.
-Snowboard-
Q: What length board should I rent?
A: Typically, you want the board somewhere between your sternum and your nose. We can tell what size you will need by your height if you are not sure.
Q: What kind of bindings should I ask for on my snowboard?
A: This is a matter of preference. We have both strap bindings or step-in bindings. We generally start our beginners in step-in but you can pick whichever you like.
Q: Do snowboard bindings release?
A: No, they are not intended to release.
Q: What does the stance “regular” or “goofy” mean?
A: This is an old surfing term and applies to the stance on the snowboard. If you prefer your left foot in front of your right you are regular. If you prefer your right foot in front you are goofy. If you are not sure, try running in your socks across a bare floor and slide. Whichever foot you have in the front when you stop to slide is the foot you should have on the front of the snowboard.
Q: My kid is 11 years old but has a size 10 shoe and is 5’5. Can he still get childrens equipment?
A: Unfortunately, he will need to go into adult equipment because of his size. We always try to accommodate and put kids in kids equipment but sometimes we are not able due to size restraints.
Q: Can we get our lift tickets at Wild West Ski Shop?
A: Unfortunately, we do not have the lift tickets available at the ski shops in Ruidoso. But there are many lodging establishments in town (click here for lodging) which handle ski packages and they have lift tickets included in them. They are vouchers which are then redeemed at Ski Apache.
Q: We want to ski four or five days. Can we take a day off in the middle?
A: Renting our equipment is like renting a car. Just like Hertz, if we do not have them in the building we must charge you for the day of rental. You are welcome to return them on the day you aren’t skiing to alleviate being charged. Let us know what day you will be skiing again and we will have them ready for you to pick up.
Q: I have a size 15 shoe. Can you accommodate me?
A: Yes, but don’t risk going to our shop without an advanced reservation. We have a limited quantity of boots in this size.
Q: What happens if I return my skis early?
A: You will be given in-store credit to use for merchandise or skiing again another time. You may also give your credit to someone else. We do not give cash back or credit your credit card. In-store credit only.
Q: Do you offer rental clothing?
A: Yes, we have bibs (nylon water-resistant insulated) and jackets for children and adults.
Q: Do you sell equipment or clothing in your store?
A: We only rent our equipment but we have sunglasses, lip balm, hats, gloves, socks and assorted other things that you may need on your ski vacation. We do not sell any ski clothing such as pants or jackets. We have only rental.
Q: If I have to cancel my reservation, what do I need to do?
A: Please contact us at least 48 hours in advance. If you do not contact us to cancel your reservation, we will charge you one days rental per person on your credit card. We have your equipment already set up by that time and it can be used for someone else if you are not coming.
Q: Can I get ski or snowboard lessons set up at Wild West Ski Shop?
A: The ski area offers first time beginners a free lift ticket with their lesson.
A: We can help set up private lessons on the mountain.
A: Yes we can help with private lessons. The Magic Carpet is next to us for lessons before you go to the slopes. It is a large automated carpet with a harness and bar for you to hold on to while you are getting the feel of skiing or snowboarding. For more information, call Dave Anderson at 505-937-3596 and he can give you information on lessons.
Wild West Ski Shop
1408 Mechem Dr.
PO Box 1655 Ruidoso, NM 88355
505-258-3131
or
Toll Free:
888-395-3131
Find us on Hwy. 48 (Mechem Dr.) right across the street from the Swiss Chalet
If you have any questions or want to talk to us directly, please call!!! Toll Free: 888-395-3131
