Have You Registered Yet?

Our Advanced SUP Clinic is almost here! Have you registered yet? Learn how to unlock performance on a SUP in this two day clinic! Click HERE to register!

Introducing.... Staff Pick Day!

So we thought we'd mix it up a bit here. We are excited to announce our weekly "staff pick" posts! Every Tuesday you can expect to see a product review by one of our awesome staff members. Be sure to come check out the item on display in the store for that week too!

Here is this weeks Staff Pick:

Reviewer: Trey

Item: CamelBak Arete 18 Pack

The CamelBak Arete 18 is an amazing ultra-light hydration pack. This awesome pack is only $65 and you get the pack and a 2L reservoir. There isn't much to it; it's a top loader, with a small pocket in the lid and two bottle holders on the side. It'll do well for day-hikes from base camp or a nice day hike to Houghton Falls, Copper Falls, or St. Peter's Dome. When it's time to pack out you can convert the pack into a bladder sleeve for use in another pack. It's only $35 more than the 2L reservoir and you get a pack and a bladder sleeve.

10K & HALF MARATHON TRAINING TEAM

Ready, Set, Run with Team Solstice! Join our 10K and Half Marathon Training Team to train for the 10K Cruisin’ the Corridor or the Whistlestop Half Marathon this fall.

Thursday Run Club FAQ's!

All of your run club questions answered right here:

Runners unite! Join us for Run Club Kick-Off on Thursday April 17th at 5:30 p.m. Join us for a run followed by some samples of nutrition products, a cook out, and a new “runners reward” program!

Despite the snow still on the ground, it’s getting to be that time of year: racing season! You may have seen some crazy runners out running all winter long. Yup, that was us. We have had so much fun together that we want to extend an invitation out to the community for more runners to join in on the fun! What is run group all about anyway? I’m glad you asked….

Q: How far do you run?

A: We run a variety of distances between 2 and 5ish miles.

Q: How fast do you run?

A: You set your own pace and there’s usually someone to run with that is at a similar pace. There’s a core group of regulars that usually run between 8:30 and 9:30 minute mile pace but we have folks who run 10:00 and 11:00 paces as well.

Q: Where do you run?

A: This depends on the season. In the winter we run main roads to include Sanborn, Maple Lane, and Beaser. In the summer we incorporate the 5th Street Corridor and Lakefront trail as much as possible.

Q: What if I don’t remember the route?

A: We have maps and verbal directions and you will probably be running with another person. Plus there’s always different distances on each route.

Q: I’m new to running, can I still show up?

A: ABSOLUTELY! Some of us were new runners when we started as well. We make every attempt to make everyone comfortable when they are new. We will introduce new people to everyone else and see what distance and pace you are comfortable with and try to pair you up with someone who runs a similar pace. This doesn’t always happen because it depends on who shows up but we make an effort!

Q: Is everyone training for a race?

A: Individually we all are usually working towards something but not necessarily as a group.

Q: I am interested in training for Whistlestop and want to join a training group. Do you have those?

A: Sure do. We team up with Ignite Fitness across the street to offer a Whistlestop 10K and Half Marathon Training Program. Check the website later in the spring for details. These usually start in July.

Q: Can I still run on Thursday nights even if I’m in a training program?

A: Of course! The more the merrier! Plus you can get a bonus group run in and meet new people.

Q: Can I bring a friend?

A: Bring all your friends!

Q: Can I bring my dog(s)?

A: We love dogs! As long as they are decent on a leash and don’t trip up the other runners! We have dog treats in the store for post run puppy refreshments!

Q: Are there human refreshments?

A: Sure are! We have water and a sport drink available after the run.

Q: Do I have to pay or sign up or anything?

A: Nope! Just show up, run, and be awesome

Q: When and what time again?

A: Thursdays 5:30 rain or shine

Q: Do you ever cancel for weather?

A: Great question – it rarely happens but if we feel it’s actually dangerous out there (ex. Lightening, freezing rain) we will post on Facebook that we are canceling. (Yes, some of the regulars run in snowstorms and flash floods)

Still have questions? Email Stefanie@solsticeoutdoorstore.com

 

Ice Caves...A Spectacular Adventure

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Ice Cave

Adventuring this past weekend with gal pals took us to the ice caves of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. This place, right in our backyard is pristine and rather untouched in the summer, but this winter has transformed into spectacular displays of ice and caves, real caves with cubbies, crevices, ice and frost formations that look more like underground stalagmites and stalactites. The stark contrast of the gradient sandstone cliffs along the lakeshore and ice is what has drawn "cavers" from near and far. As a local I was rather skeptical that this year the ice caves would look any different than in years past, but they are quite amazing and worth the trip up to Cornucopia to hike, ski or snowshoe out to view their majesty. It won't be long before mother nature's ice display will be transformed into drops of water that collectively become waves crashing into the cliffs this spring and summer. Instead of trekking out on frozen Lake Superior we'll be paddleboarding along the shore in the summer sunshine.

If you go be prepared. The conditions change daily. Be sure to check the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore site for up to date ice conditions. Here's a few things we recommend:

  • Buff neck gaitor and warm hat
  • Touchscreen friendly gloves for snapping photos
  • Wind proof pants and water resistant pants. You'll want to climb in and crawl around the caves when you're out there.  My personal favorite is the Sporthill's Zone 3 Pant. It's a go anywhere, do anything outside winter pant
  • Winter boots with good soles such as the Sorel Joan of Arctic
  • IceTrekkers to keep you upright on the ice and snow packed trail
  • Water and a CLIF Bar or Honey Stinger Waffle to refuel
  • Camera
  • Sunglasses even on a cloudy day to keep the wind and glare off your face
  • Ski, snowshoe or trekking poles for stability

We're Hiring!

Chequamegon Bay’s premier locally owned outdoor store seeks an active, outdoor enthusiast to join our growing team.  We offer more than just quality clothing and gear, we strive to be a catalyst in the community to connect people to the outdoors. As a key Solstice Team member, you will be responsible for sales, staff training, special events and programming.  Wanted is a self-motivated, detail oriented multi-tasker with strong and effective organizational and communication skills. We offer a fun work environment that values hard work and a passion for customer service.

Minimum qualifications 1-3 years retail, sales and customer service experience.   Approximately 30 hours a week including some weekends and holidays. Compensation is based on skills and experience. College graduates or current college students are encouraged to apply. To apply, please send resume to solsticeoutdoors at yahoo.com 

Chick Deals...Womens EXPO Specials

Ladies be sure to stop by and see us at the Garland City Womens Expo this Saturday after the Chick-uamegon Women's Only Run for special Chick Deals! Here's a sneak peak at a few of our special Chick Deals...

50% Off ALL TOMS Shoes

Buy 2, Get 1 Free Select Smartwool and Goodhew socks

20-50% Off Activewear 

Plus register to win a Solstice Gift Card!

 

 

 

 

 

Gearing Up for Race Day

 

Twelve weeks ago, twenty one women and two men signed up with Solstice Outdoors to form a 10K and Half Marathon Training Team, a group designed to take on the Whistlestop Half Marathon, Cruisin' the Corridor 10K and other local races. These dedicated participates began a twelve week training program with Certified Personal Trainer, Mari-Kay Nabozny that has successfully prepared them physically and mentally for the big race this coming Saturday!

Group leader, Mari-Kay Nabozny, has coached several runners who completed their first races or set new personal records while igniting their passion for distance running. She provides fun and effective fitness programs that improve overall fitness level while offering positive support, encouragement, and proper workouts! Mari has completed 28 half-marathons, 2 marathons, and a 70.3 half-Ironman.

"Training with a running group is a fabulous way to enter into the sport of running and meet other new runners and have your questions and fears addressed by a trainer. Training groups also keep seasoned runners motivated towards their goals and connected to their community. The 2013 running group has put in countless hours and miles getting ready for Whistlestop weekend and very prepared to race and cross that finish line smiling and in their goal times. Friendships have been forged over the last 3 months and will continue to grow as the team is already planning spring races to compete in together and plan to train over the winter together, says Mari.

Katie Gellatly, owner of Solstice Outdoors and one of the primary sponsors of the Whistlestop commented, “ We are excited to support this group of dedicated individuals and to be a part of an event that supports our mission to be a catalyst in the community for connecting customers to the outdoors and to one another. We can't wait to see the members of our group and all the other racers cross the finish line!”

If you are interested in running but not ready to commit to a race, Solstice Outdoors encourages you to try out their Thursday night Happy Hour Run Group. Anyone interested simply can meet at the store at 5:30 pm every Thursday to head out on a three to six mile jog around town. Multiple levels of experience from fast runners to beginners are welcome to join. As a bonus, Solstice Outdoors is now giving away long sleeve t-shirts when you run with them for four weeks!

The Whistlestop Marathon and Half Marathon is Saturday, October 11th and 12th. The course begins in Iron River, Wisconsin and finishes in Ashland, Wisconsin on Lake Superior's south shore. Before the race, be sure to check out the Solstice Outdoor booth at the finish line and also visit the shop on Main Street for the latest in fall fashions, essential running gear, and for more information regarding their running groups.

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Up to 24 Hours Cold, 12 Hours Hot

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Hydro Flask Water Bottles do it all!  Come check out one of our favorite new products now available at Solstice Outdoors. For over a year we've been using a Hydro Flask double walled vacuum insulated stainless steel water bottle that we got at a tradeshow. Of the many bottles that we get it is one of the best bottles we own. Hydro Flask is really the only one that really keeps water cold after it's been sitting in a hot car, BPA free, odor free and easy to clean. Plus the design is surprisingly lightweight.

Hyrdo Flask also donates 5% of gross profits to a charity or non-profit of your choosing. Simply go to FivePercentBack.org, input the serial number from your new Hydro Flask bottle and select a charity that resonates with you to invoke positive change!