Winter Rentals in The District

Renting is a great way to try the sports, learn which one you like best, determine the type of equipment you prefer, and get insight on how to dress. We will guide you where the best conditions are for each and we maintain the equipment for you. Give us a call or stop by our shops so we can help get your questions answered.

Rent from us and hit the trails within minutes. We most recommend the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail and the Palmer Woods Forest Reserve. Yet we know of many others and are happy to point you in the right direction.

Cross country skiing equipment is sized based on your height, weight, and skill level. When reserving online you will be guided to make the best selection. When you pick up your equipment at the shop, we will ensure you have the right size skis, boots and poles to make your day on the tracks the best it can be.

We will fit you with the best-sized snowshoes we have for the conditions. Snowshoes come with trekking poles as well. They adjust to various heights.

Dress in layers that allow you to adjust as you go. Start by dressing as if you were going for a winter run, then consider adding one more wind-breaking layer. It can take some experimentation to find the clothing that works best for you. Avoid cotton and heavily insulated gear. You warm up faster than you expect. Smaller waterproof insulated boots work better for snowshoeing and fat-tire biking than large, bulky winter boots. We provide bike helmets insulated like ski helmets for fat tire bike riding.

As hard or as easy as you want it to be! Skate skiing is usually more physically intense, while classic skiing can be easier. More experience will allow you to learn techniques that make skiing easier. We only rent classic cross-country ski gear.

It’s easier to learn than cross-country skiing, but you won’t go as fast. You can also explore off-trail; in some cases, this is easier. If you’re walking, you’re ready for snowshoeing.

If you can ride a bike you can ride a fat tire bike. The thing you need to be ready for…. it is a methodical ride. Speed is significantly reduced due to the larger tires. But you can ride almost anywhere!!

Skate skiing is a fast, more physically intense discipline. Skate skis have a dedicated sharp edge and looks a lot like ice skating. The technique has plenty of moving parts yet it’s a fun and rewarding way to enjoy winter. Classic skiing is the traditional form dating back hundreds of years. The motion is all forward and relies on wax or special scales, or “skins”, to provide a sticky spot on the ski. The technique is how most skiers are introduced to the sport.

Get the kids on skis early and often! Both are great family activities. Whenever your kids show interest take them for short skis or stomps around the yard or a nearby trail to help them learn.

You’re never too old to learn! All are excellent ways to stay active, meet others and get outside in the winter.