If the arctic winds haven't clued you in, it's winter. Though the cold snap is always met with inventive salty language, sailors have nothing on a scantily clad club bunny damning all the world for her lack of a coat on that 4 a.m. jaunt through the parking lot. On the bright side, the wind chill promises snowcapped mountains.
The abundance of "Pray for Snow" bumper stickers and freshly Armor All'd roof racks bespeak the snow season's late start. Much to the chagrin of snow-sport enthusiasts awaiting that first flurry, their dreams of foot-deep, fluffy, dry powder and warm days in the glare are not yet a reality.
This year, don't get caught in a snow-report panic; let McGhie's prepare you to hit the road early and enjoy the precious few runs between that first quiet lift ride and the madhouse of noon-time on the hill.
Since 1964, McGhie's has outfitted Las Vegans with expert service and snow goods to rival Colorado's and Utah's famed pro shops. Also known as the place for serious bicycling, McGhie's switches gears and its entire showroom floor to service winter's ski and snowboard customers.
McGhie's boasts more than 40 years of experience and advice from genuine professional athletes hired on for the season. Dedicated to quality products and customized service, the staff guarantees a perfect fit and treats the compilation of a beginner's ski or snowboard gear as they would a pro.
The shop carries the full spectrum of snow gear, including an exclusive-to-Vegas model of Rossignol Intense 2 boots for alpine skiing, Burton special orders for snowboarders, the only on-site fitting and forming of custom foot beds in town and an awesome assortment of men's, women's and children's snow clothes and accessories.
If you're already suited, tune up your kit at their service shop where, for $40, they'll patch your scratches, sharpen your edges, tighten your bindings and iron-wax your board or skis, all while you peruse their extensive collection of Oakley goggles.
McGhie's has more: from $15 ski and snowboard kit rentals—perfect for first-timers with a complete fitting and plenty of pro advice—to demo rentals for dedicated snow-goers in pursuit of the latest ride.
McGhie's is so dedicated to the snow season that it's sponsoring the cinematic snow fix, The Tangerine Dream, screening Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Fiesta Ranch Casino, where $12 gets you into the film, a beer, lift tickets to Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Resort and Brianhead, Utah, and entry into the John Eddie after-party in Club Tequila.
McGhie's Ski-Bike-Board, 4503 Sahara Ave., 252-8077,
www.mcghies.com.
Jennifer Henry has got the goods on what to get and where. E-mail her at
[email protected].