GREEN BAY, Wis. (NBC 26) -- Business is booming at a local ski shop in spite of the pandemic.
Zeller's Ski & Sports in Green Bay is seeing that families are looking to get outside and do activities together.
They say it's a sport for any age, whether you're hitting the slopes with skis or a snowboard.
Some prefer to strut across the snow at a slower pace with cross country skis.
"You can make it as social or as solitary as you want it to be," said Ben Vanderzanden, the General Manager at Zeller's Ski & Sports.
No matter which way you choose to enjoy the season, it's a pastime that is gaining in popularity.
Owners at Zeller's say sales are up 400 percent for cross country skis and up 200 percent for downhill skis.
Vanderzanden started skiing with his children when they were just 15-months old.
"It's about getting them comfortable to slide downhill with a stick on their foot," said Vanderzanden.
He said skiing is one of the few sports you can truly enjoy together as a family. There's the car ride to the hill, hanging out on the ski lift, or taking a break at the ski lodge for lunch.
"A lot of families are getting back into it because they have more time," said Vanderzanden. "Most kids aren't doing team sports and they're just looking to get out with the family."
Most ski hills are open and makings now. Some cross country ski trails still need a little work.
It's inevitable, the snow will fall across Northeast Wisconsin.
"If all you associate with snow is shoveling, it makes for a really long winter," said Vanderzanden. "If you can get excited for snow, it definitely makes the inevitable snow more enjoyable."
Owners at Zeller's say the most important piece of equipment is the boot. Getting the fit right will help you enjoy the experience that much more.
They also point out that due to the pandemic some places are limiting rentals and lift tickets so it is important to call ahead.
Zeller's runs their end of the season winter sale in February to make room for summer products like kayaks and paddle boards.
Owners expect to be out of skis by that time, but clothing will still be on clearance.
For more information, click here.
