 Photo courtesy of Totem Ski Shop |
If there's a common theme that runs through ski shops in Jasper, Alberta, it's an attention to customer satisfaction. Throughout Totem's history its staff has sought to provide a level of customer service that sets the store apart from Jasper's other terrific establishments. Above all, the goal of Totem Ski Shop is to make your time in the mountains memorable for life.
"We have a very knowledgeable staff that's enthusiastic about skiing and snowboarding, and as a result of that, they have a lot of knowledge about what they're selling," said Stephanie English, manager of Totem Ski Shop. "But more than anything, they want people to enjoy their time in Jasper. We have a lot of long-term staff, they've been in the totem family for a long time. They make you feel welcome, they treat the job respectfully, because they really enjoy working here."
An array of products
Totem carries a long line of fantastic gear and accessories. They carry Rossignol, Salomon, Armada, and Elan skis; Arbor, Salomon, and Rossignol snowboards; and The North Face, O'Neill, Royal Robbins, Merrell, and Rossignol clothing. They also carry Rossignol cross-country gear, and goggles, gloves, toques, and socks, in addition to a complete kids clothing line from O'Neill.
Totem's cross-country department has really taken off in the last number of years. They sell backcountry skis as well as fitness track skis.
"I think part of the reason for that our success lies in people's desire to be alone out here. It's amazing just to feel the quiet, and see how beautiful this area is. Cross-country skiing makes for an amazing day in Jasper: the air, the scenery ... it's so great, and it's inexpensive."
Jasper's oldest ski shop
Totem didn't luck into its stellar reputation. They earned it by being around for a long time. Totem's become a Jasper institution, having been established at pretty well the same time the industry started in the area.
"When people buy skis or board from us they know they're getting quality. We take the time to make sure they're comfortable. Our owners aren't absentee owners. They care about the products. They're hands on with the store, they're hands on with the customers. You feel that, as a buyer. You appreciate the attention."
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100 years and counting
Totem is celebrating its 100th anniversary in April of 2011, an astounding accomplishment. It's survived due to its owners ability to adapt to the market as its changed. As Jasper grew into more of tourism town the store evolved at the same time. When it started in 1912, Totem was just a men's clothing and general foods store. It's grown into a complete outdoor adventure shop.
"We're planning on throwing a big event for the anniversary in April. We're still not sure about what that will be just yet; it might be a sale, it might be a dinner. We don't know yet. All we know is that it will be big, and it will be a whole lot of fun."
For even greater savings at Totem, take advantage of its SnowSeekers Go-Guide coupon (pictured to the right). With it, you can can three days of rentals for the price of two.
"If you want to go somewhere to get the right product for you at the right price, go to Totem."
For more on Totem Ski Shop, visit its website.
Have you been to Jasper and/or Marmot Basin? If the answer is yes, please share your experience in the comment box below. For more stories, check out the Related Stories below, and for first-hand stories on accommodations, dining and nightlife, and more, click on the links or use the blue box on the right side of the page.