BUYING

Did you guys know that we have to do our product buying a year in advance? We've already written our Winter 2014 ( products that will come in this Sept - Dec) orders. We start buying for the following winter in the beginning of November. It's a fun job, but not the easiest to know what the season holds for us the following year as far as weather and fashion.

This is me, Elizabeth, in the picture with our Keen Rep, Tanner, looking at the Keen Fall/Winter 2014 line in Madison at one of our buying shows. The line looked great! They added a lot of patterns and colors for fall/winter 2014. We hope you'll like it as much as we do!

Fly Fishing Film Tour 2014 is coming to Barrymore Theatre!

Thursday, February 6th at 7:00PM at Barrymore Theatre in Madison WI

The original and preeminent exhibition of fly fishing cinema, The F3T is a one of a kind experience. Each year fishy folk of all ages gather at premieres to soak up films from around the world, spin a few yarns amongst friends and dream about casts still unmade. If you've been, you know what we’re talking about. If you haven’t, we hope to see you soon!

Discount tickets ($13) available at Fontana Sports Specialties.

For film trailers, online tickets, schedule, gear and more please visit www.THEF3T.com!

Events & Clinics - January 2014

INTRO TO CROSS COUNTRY SKIING
Wednesday, January 8th, 2014 at 6:00 pm
Downtown Location - 216 North Henry St., Madison, WI
Learn the classic kick and glide ski style. There’s a reason this sport has been around for so many years. It’s an easy way to enjoy the winter and get out for some activity during the cold months. We’ll get you prepared for the upcoming snow season, answer any questions you may have and give tips on the best local places to cross country ski. This is a free event.

FONTANA SPORTS "SHOE THE ZOO"
Saturday, January 11th, 2014 at 10:00 am, 12:00 pm & 2:00 pm
Vilas Park, 702 S. Randall Ave., Madison, WI 53715 (next to the Zoo)
Come out and support your Henry Vilas Zoo, and its Arctic Passage Project and take a walk on the wild side with Fontana Sports! Join us for fun in the snow with a one hour introductory lesson in the fast-growing sport of snowshoeing. This is the first year for Fontana Sports “Shoe the Zoo” event, which will raise funds for the Henry Vilas Zoo’s state-of-the-art Arctic Passage Exhibit. The exhibit, which will bring the bears back to Madison, will be home to polar bears, grizzly bears, and seals. For more Information about the event visit: www.fontanasports.com/misc_content/shoe-the-zoo or Buy Tickets

SNOWSHOE SCURRY RACE SERIES
Sunday, January 12th, 2014
Donald Park, Mount Horeb WI
This is the first year for you to snowshoe race in the Madison area! This is a 4 event series with races every Sunday in January each including a 1 mile fun run/walk, 5k and 10k options. Come for a great workout, wintertime fun, and enjoy some food and drinks after the race with other adventurous runners!
Don't have snowshoes? That's OK!! As our main sponsor, Fontana Sports is offering a discount on the purchase of running snowshoes with race entry as well as offering some for rent! Get the whole family involved in a fun winter activity.
For more info please visit - http://snowshoewi.com/

INTRO TO SNOWBOARDING
Tuesday, January 14th, 2014 at 6:30 pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison, WI
Join us as we teach you how to select the proper equipment to get started snowboarding. The right equipment can make all the difference of enjoying your experience on the snow. We’ll be happy to share our favorite local places to hit the slopes, the best times to go for the deals and answer any questions you may have. This is a free event.

SNOWSHOEING BASICS
Wednesday, January 15th, 2014 at 6:00 pm
Downtown Location - 216 North Henry St., Madison, WI
If you’ve thought about getting into snowshoeing, this is a great introduction to the sport! We’ll show you how to get started with gear and apparel choices as well as the best places to actually snowshoe and answer any questions you may have. This is a free event.

SNOWSHOE SCURRY RACE SERIES
Sunday, January 19th, 2014
Token Creek Park, DeForest WI
This is the first year for you to snowshoe race in the Madison area! This is a 4 event series with races every Sunday in January each including a 1 mile fun run/walk, 5k and 10k options. Come for a great workout, wintertime fun, and enjoy some food and drinks after the race with other adventurous runners!
Don't have snowshoes? That's OK!! As our main sponsor, Fontana Sports is offering a discount on the purchase of running snowshoes with race entry as well as offering some for rent! Get the whole family involved in a fun winter activity.
For more info please visit - http://snowshoewi.com/

LEARN TO NORDIC SKATE SKI
Wednesday, January 22nd, 2014 at 6:30 pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison, WI
Would you like to be active outdoors during the winter months? Or have you been cross country skiing for years and would like to take it to the next level? Nordic Skate skiing is a great option! We’ll explain how it’s done, show you how to select your equipment, give tips on the best local places to go and answer any questions you may have. This is a free event.

FONTANA SPORTS "SHOE THE ZOO"
Saturday, January 25th, 2014 at 10:00 am, 12:00 pm & 2:00 pm
Vilas Park, 702 S. Randall Ave., Madison, WI 53715 (next to the Zoo)
Come out and support your Henry Vilas Zoo, and its Arctic Passage Project and take a walk on the wild side with Fontana Sports! Join us for fun in the snow with a one hour introductory lesson in the fast-growing sport of snowshoeing. This is the first year for Fontana Sports “Shoe the Zoo” event, which will raise funds for the Henry Vilas Zoo’s state-of-the-art Arctic Passage Exhibit. The exhibit, which will bring the bears back to Madison, will be home to polar bears, grizzly bears, and seals. For more Information about the event visit: www.fontanasports.com/misc_content/shoe-the-zoo or Buy Tickets

SNOWSHOE SCURRY RACE SERIES
Sunday, January 26th, 2014
Donald Park, Mount Horeb WI
This is the first year for you to snowshoe race in the Madison area! This is a 4 event series with races every Sunday in January each including a 1 mile fun run/walk, 5k and 10k options. Come for a great workout, wintertime fun, and enjoy some food and drinks after the race with other adventurous runners!
Don't have snowshoes? That's OK!! As our main sponsor, Fontana Sports is offering a discount on the purchase of running snowshoes with race entry as well as offering some for rent! Get the whole family involved in a fun winter activity.
For more info please visit - http://snowshoewi.com/

SNOWSHOEING BASICS
Tuesday, January 28th, 2014 at 6:30 pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison, WI
If you’ve thought about getting into snowshoeing, this is a great introduction to the sport! We’ll show you how to get started with gear and apparel choices as well as the best places to actually snowshoe and answer any questions you may have. This is a free event.

Visit Fontana Sports Events page: http://www.fontanasports.com/misc_content/events

Snowshoe Scurry Race Series

Tomorrow will be the first of a series of 4 snowshoe races that we are sponsoring here in Madison. We are working with 2013 Ironman winner, Jackie Arendt, to put these on. There is one every Sunday in January at either Token Creek County Park in De Forest or Donald Park in Mount Horeb. 10% of race fees are going to Racers Against Childhood Cancer and the Dane County Park Endowment Fund. Tomorrow's going to be a bit cold, but there are still plenty of people signed up and ready to do some serious snowshoeing! For more info click here. We hope to see you!

Shoe The Zoo

2014 Dates: January 11, January 25 & February 9

The First Annual "Shoe the Zoo" sponsored by Fontana Sports Specialties

Come out and support your Henry Vilas Zoo, and its Arctic Passage Project and take a walk on the wild side with Fontana Sports! Join us for fun in the snow with a one hour introductory lesson in the fast-growing sport of snowshoeing. Madison, Wisconsin’s Vilas Park will be the site for a series of three introductory lesson sessions which will take place on Saturday, January 11, Saturday, January 25, and Sunday, February 9, 2014.

This is the first year for Fontana Sports “Shoe the Zoo” event, which will raise funds for the Henry Vilas Zoo’s state-of-the-art Arctic Passage Exhibit. The exhibit, which will bring the bears back to Madison, will be home to polar bears, grizzly bears, and seals. The Arctic Passage is expected to open in late Spring of 2015, and it will give all zoo guests the opportunity to learn more about these amazing creatures. “Shoe the Zoo”, hosted by Fontana Sports, is all about having a great time while engaging in a fast-growing, simple-to-learn snow sport.

“If you can walk, you can snowshoe. It’s easy, fun and a great way to get outdoors and get some exercise during the winter months,” says Elizabeth Hutchinson, event organizer and Operation Manager of local outdoor store, Fontana Sports. “The gear required is minimal: comfortable, warm outerwear, boots and snowshoes … and you’re off!”

“Friends of the Henry Vilas Zoo, and the Henry Vilas Zoo are so excited to be the beneficiaries of Shoe the Zoo. We thank Fontana Sports for their efforts to Bring the Bears Back to Madison,” says Alison Prange, Executive Director of Friends of Henry Vilas Zoo.

Fontana Sports is donating fifty percent of the $20 lesson to the Henry Vilas Zoo. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, visit http://www.eventzilla.net/web/event?eventid=2139002517.

Fontana Sports “Shoe the Zoo” details:

Location: Vilas Park, 702 S. Randall Ave., Madison, WI 53715 (next to the Zoo)

Dates: Saturday, January 11, Saturday, January 25 & Sunday, February 9

Time: 10:00 am, 12:00 pm & 2:00 pm lessons

# # #

About the Henry Vilas Zoo
The Friends of the Zoo’s purpose is to build community support and provide funding for Henry Vilas Zoo improvements. This includes the acquisition, conservation, and replacement of animals; refurbishing and creating new exhibits; supporting educational programs; and improving the overall educational and recreational value of the zoo.

About Fontana Sports Specialties
Fontana Sports Specialties is a locally owned specialty outdoor retailer with over six decades of experience in the Midwest. Along with its online shop, www.FontanaSports.com, Fontana Sports provides quality outdoor apparel and gear for a host of activities including camping, hiking, traveling, water sports (kayaks and SUP’s), fly fishing, snorkeling, rock climbing, trail running, skiing (both alpine and Nordic), snowboarding and snowshoeing. Fontana Sports is committed to making a positive impact on the environment. For this reason, it uses outdoor retail as a platform to encourage outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship. Fontana Sports has two locations, 216 N. Henry Street, 53703 and 231 Junction Road, 53717 both located in Madison, WI.


SPONSORS:

SNOW!

Who loves the white, fluffy stuff? WE DO! We have felt so fortunate to get so much snow so far this winter. We're hoping the trend continues and we get plenty more days of powder for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, sledding and snowball fighting! We hope you've had a chance to get out and play in it too!

Check out this cool photo captured by one of our employees when they got in their car to head home from work the other day. Pretty sweet!

Wishing you the happiest of Holidays!

Thank you for your business and friendship. We hope everyone had a very, Merry Christmas and that ringing in the New Year is a good time had by all! We love being your local outdoor shop!

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS - A Gift For The Snowboarder

By Karlen Balgord

Ultimate Gift For The Snowboarder
A technical hoodie is a great gift idea for any snowboarder on your list. The Burton Bonded Hoodie for men or the Burton Heron Pullover Hoodie for women will keep them looking good on the hill and off, plus it will keep them warm and dry with its highly breathable, quick-drying and weather-resistant DRYRIDE Thermex bonded fleece. For snowboarders, you can’t go wrong with a Burton technical hoodie.

For more gift ideas for all outdoor sports fans visit Fontana Sports' Holiday Gift Guide

CXC CHALLENGE GRANT

Here is a note from Yuri Gusev, who we work with for our CXC Nordic Program, who is also working with the Community Olympic Development Program. Please consider donating to this great cause!

'In this note, I would like to share with you an update about our CXC Adaptive Program. The CXC Adaptive Program provides opportunities to participate in the sport and offer equipment to individuals with physical disabilities and visual impairment or blindness of all ages and abilities. Just last year CXC introduced over 300 individuals (children, adults and veterans) to Nordic skiing and provided over 700 hours in programming. There is a huge need, now.

Thanks to all of you we are half way through our fundraising campaign and with your support we have raised to date $21,341 towards our goal of $40,000! All of us at CXC are deeply appreciative.

"Brenden has really enjoyed his first year of cross country skiing thanks to Dr. Nemeth, Yuriy, Duncan and all of the volunteers of CXC. CXC has helped Brenden to achieve a consistent fitness program, socialization and introduction to a sport that can be done throughout his lifetime. Over the last year we have seen improvements in his skiing abilities and his desire to better himself. He has and continues to gain advice from a variety of elite coaches and athletes. Best of all, Brenden is having fun!" - commented Jenn and Kerry Ojibway, parents of 13 year-old sit-ski participant.'

Click here for more info!

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS - A Gift For The Runner

Runner’s World Wrist Wallet is what the runner on your list needs for the next run. It’s small, convenient, soft material, it just slides on the wrist and there’s enough room to hold a key, credit card, ID, money while out running, riding a bicycle, or walking through the city. Makes a great stocking stuffer too!

For more gift ideas for all outdoor sports fans visit Fontana Sports' Holiday Gift Guide

Now that we have snow...

Who's ready to take a snow day? We sure are after getting our 6 inches of snow this week! It sounds like we may get another 1-3 inches tomorrow too! We love that our customers and employees are all over those ski hills, back trails and groomed trails. Enjoy the snow and sunshine!

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS - A Gift For The Snowshoer

By Karlen Balgord

Ultimate Gift For The Snowshoer
Whether they’re just starting out or they’re already an avid snowshoer, the Oasis Long Sleeve Crewe from Icebreaker is the ultimate gift for the snowshoer on your list. (And it comes in both Men’s and Women’s). The Oasis Crewe is perfect for activities like snowshoeing because it wicks moisture away from the body and doesn't get all cold and clammy when you stop moving, keeping you comfortable longer. This super soft merino wool top won’t itch, it won’t stink, and it won’t leave you out in the cold.

For more gift ideas for all outdoor sports fans visit Fontana Sports' Holiday Gift Guide

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS - A Gift For The Cross Country Skier

Toko Nordic Klister Ski Wax makes a great gift for all Cross Country Skiers. The Ski Wax comes in a variety of snow temperature ranges to get the right grip to match any trail conditions. It will improve sliding properties as well as care for the ski base. Easy rub-on application.

Also check out (print out) Toko Waxing Manual

For more gift ideas for all outdoor sports fans visit Fontana Sports' Holiday Gift Guide

Events & Clinics - December 2013

LEARN TO NORDIC SKATE SKI
Tuesday, December 3rd, 2013 at 6:30pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison WI 53717
Would you like to be active outdoors during the winter months? Or have you been cross country skiing for years and would like to take it to the next level? Nordic Skate skiing is a great option! We’ll explain how it’s done, show you how to select your equipment, give tips on the best local places to go and answer any questions you may have. This is a free event.

INTRO TO CROSS COUNTRY SKIING
Wednesday, December 11th, 2013 at 6:30pm
Downtown Location - 216 N. Henry St., Madison WI 53703
Learn the classic kick and glide ski style. There’s a reason this sport has been around for so many years. It’s an easy way to enjoy the winter and get out for some activity during the cold months. We’ll get you prepared for the upcoming snow season, answer any questions you may have and give tips on the best local places to cross country ski. This is a free event.

15 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS WITH CHANNEL 15 & FONTANA SPORTS
Through December 15th, 2013
All Locations
Stop in to both Fontana Sports locations starting Dec. 1st to sign up to win a sweet Tubbs Snowshoe Package valued at $600!
Package includes:
TUBBS Men’s Wilderness Snowshoes - size 30
TUBBS Women’s Wilderness Snowshoes - size 25
2 of TUBBS 3 Piece Poles
2 of TUBBS Snowshoe Bags

INTRO TO SNOWSHOEING
Wednesday, December 18th, 2013 at 6:30pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison WI 53717
If you’ve thought about getting into snowshoeing, this is a great introduction to the sport! We’ll show you how to get started with gear and apparel choices as well as the best places to actually snowshoe and answer any questions you may have. This is a free event.

THINK LOCAL FIRST 2013
Through December 31st, 2013
Dane Buy Local businesses reward you when you Think Local First. Visit and appreciate the unique, locally owned businesses in our area this holiday season and you could be a big winner! Enter to Win a Luxury Local Get-Away and Over $8,000 in Merchant Prizes. From November 1st – December 31st, register to win prizes at 70+ participating Dane Buy Local businesses.
Over $8,000 in additional merchant prizes will be given away, including gift certificates and merchandise! Look for the drawing boxes in locally owned businesses, and enter each time you visit. Increase your chances! Visit more participating businesses to enter more often. We All Win When You Think Local First.
Think Local First contest details:
Deadline to enter is December 31, 2013. No purchase necessary. Winners will be drawn at the individual participating business on January 7, 2014, and the grand prize winner will be drawn by the Dane Buy Local office on January 30, 2014. One entry per visit. No charge for entry. Must be 18 or older to win. Winner’s name and city may appear on our website. Odds of winning are based upon volume of entries. You may contact Dane Buy Local with other contest questions.

Visit Fontana Sports Events page: http://www.fontanasports.com/misc_content/events

Are you ready?!

Has anyone seen our billboards around town lately? We're ready for some serious snow and the chance at a Snow Day where we can get out and do all the winter sports we love - cross country skiing, downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, sledding and don't forget, snowball fights and snowman building! Did we mention snow angels and fort building! We can't wait! Hopefully we'll see the weather later this week. :)

BLACK FRIDAY SNEAK PEEK!

Check out our Black Friday Specials!

This year we are offering our Black Friday Specials on Thursday and Friday online, as well as in-stores starting at 8 AM on Friday. There are some promotions that are only offered in-stores, such as a FREE Tyrol Basin Ski Pass for the first 100 in-store purchases over $50! Awesome place to ski and snowboard, so get in early to earn your FREE Pass! We hope to see you and we hope you all have wonderful Thanksgiving celebrations on Thursday! We are THANKFUL for you, our customers! :)

Making a difference!

Handmade quilts for the boys and girl's Madison Group Homes are being delivered this week by Fontana Sports' VP Judith Hutchinson. They were made by Gloria Bolden and friends. Each year Judith has delivered Christmas gifts given by friends, businesses, and the Hutchinson family since 1989. The boys and girls are 14 -18 years old. This year there are 8 girls and 16 boys. Christmas gifts will be delivered the 2nd week of Dec. The challenged youth would welcome Your gifts. If you'd like to drop any gifts off at either of our locations, just do so at our front counters and let them know the gift/s are for Judith's Group Home donations. Merry Christmas!

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS - A Gift For The Backpacker Or Camper

By Karlen Balgord

Ultimate Gift for the Backpacker or Camper
The ENO Double Nest Hammock is a great choice for anyone on your list who enjoys backpacking or camping. After all the work of getting to and setting up camp, what could be better than relaxing in a hammock? Easily strung up between two trees, all you have to do next is relax and look up at the sky and the trees above your head. They pack down small too, so they’re easy to take with you on any trip.

For more gift ideas for all outdoor sports fans visit Fontana Sports' Holiday Gift Guide

Goose Down Supply Chain

Check out this great article on The North Face's Responsible Down Standards. We're happy to see they are taking the time to create a responsible plan regarding the Goose Down they use in their garments.

Sign up to WIN!

 We had mentioned last week that the Think Local First promotion is going on in-stores now. Here's the official poster for the event.  We found out that 25 local Madison businesses are offering the chance to win cool prizes. You just have to stop in and sign up for your chance to win! You can sign up more than once to increase your chances and you can sign up at both locations! We are giving away 4 $25 gift cards, so get in here and get signed up for your chance to win! THINK LOCAL FIRST! :)

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS - A Gift For The Downhill Skier

By Karlen Balgord

Ultimate Gift for the Downhill Skier
Functional + Stylish = Awesomely Versatile. That pretty much sums up why the Women’s Tamburello Jacket from The North Face makes a great gift for any lady skier on your list. It is an ideal warm mid-layer for while she’s out hitting the slopes. Plus she can wear it on its own, bumming around the lodge or around town. Bottom line, the Tamburello Jacket will keep her warm and lookin’ good!

For more gift ideas for all outdoor sports fans visit Fontana Sports' Holiday Gift Guide

Think Local First!

Did you know that Fontana Sports is a member of Dane Buy Local? We sure are! And we think buying local is incredibly important. The money you spend at Fontana Sports stays in the local community and helps to keep Madison thriving. There are hundreds of businesses that are members of Dane Buy Local. If you'd like to know more about the organization or want to consider joining - please click here. 

 

This was an advertisement we ran last week in the Capital Times showing our support. There's also a sweet event running right now where you stop into many of the Dane Buy Local member businesses and sign up for your chances to win prizes from that business as well as a grand prize which will be announced on Dane Buy Local's Facebook page on Dec. 13th. Stop into either of our locations and get signed up to win 1 of 4 $25 Fontana Sports Gift Cards. The promotion runs through Dec. 31st. Click here for a list of all the businesses participating. Good luck!

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS - A Gift For The Fly Fisherman

By Karlen Balgord

You can’t show off your pictures from your fishing adventure if your camera gets wet. The Fish Pond Westwater Pouch is the perfect gift for the avid fly fisherman or fisherwoman on your list. It is just the right size for a point and shoot camera, phone or other small accessories. The roll-top closure helps ensure that the contents are protected and dry. Help ensure their electronics are protected so they can capture the perfect picture, and save yourself from the infamous fish stories.

For more gift ideas for all outdoor sports fans visit Fontana Sports' Holiday Gift Guide

Congrats to our Facebook Contest Winners!

Congrats to Doug and Paige, our November Fjallraven Kanken daypack winners! Doug, shown here, said he never wins anything, so he was quite excited! We hope they both enjoy their sweet Swedish daypacks. Did you know that Fjallraven means Arctic Fox? Pretty cool!
If you'd like to join in the fun on our FB page and have your chance at contests we run on there - Click here to Like Us!

Isthmus Independent Business Awards

We had a great time at the Isthmus Indie Awards at the Madison Concourse the other night. What a great group of people and businesses! It was fun to watch the winning businesses be recognized for their awesome social and environmental contributions to Madison. There really are some great things going on in our community! One of our favorites was Farm to Vase. Click here to learn more about this cool company! We appreciate these local businesses and are proud to be one ourselves! Thanks for shopping local!

SKI RESALE TIME!

We had a great time at the Green Bay YMCA Ski Resale this past weekend. John and Judith drove a UHAUL with tons of product up to the event and worked it. A portion of all sales went to the YMCA, which we think is a great use of the funds! With the Tyrol Basin Resale already over, that means we only have one more to go, the UW Hoofers Ski Resale in December. Great events, but tons of work!

Free Downhill Wax Clinic next week!

TOKO WAX & TUNING with BILL DAVIS

Thursday, November 7^th, 2013 at 6:00pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison, WI

Join us as we welcome TOKO rep, Bill Davis, who will introduce and discuss the TOKO 2014 line up of waxes. He’ll also cover basic waxing and tuning of downhill skis, hold a question and answer session and can go into detailed Race waxing procedures if there is interest. This is a free event. We hope you'll join us!

Visit our EVENTS page for more free outdoor sports events and clinics.

Events & Clinics - November 2013

THINK LOCAL FIRST 2013
November 1st - December 31st, 2013
Dane Buy Local businesses reward you when you Think Local First. Visit and appreciate the unique, locally owned businesses in our area this holiday season and you could be a big winner! Enter to Win a Luxury Local Get-Away and Over $8,000 in Merchant Prizes. From November 1st – December 31st, register to win prizes at 70+ participating Dane Buy Local businesses.
Over $8,000 in additional merchant prizes will be given away, including gift certificates and merchandise! Look for the drawing boxes in locally owned businesses, and enter each time you visit. Increase your chances! Visit more participating businesses to enter more often. We All Win When You Think Local First.
Think Local First contest details:
Deadline to enter is December 31, 2013. No purchase necessary. Winners will be drawn at the individual participating business on January 7, 2014, and the grand prize winner will be drawn by the Dane Buy Local office on January 30, 2014. One entry per visit. No charge for entry. Must be 18 or older to win. Winner’s name and city may appear on our website. Odds of winning are based upon volume of entries. You may contact Dane Buy Local with other contest questions.

CXC NORDIC SUPERFIT PROGRAM featuring Fischer and Salomon
Friday - Sunday, November 1st - 3rd, 2013
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison WI
"Super Fit" is a weekend sale program filled with seminars, presentations and store specials. Get your equipment fit by CXC Elite Team professional athletes and coaches using a state of the art 3D ski pressure mat. Bring your old skis to test if they have a good fit for you, and get an independent opinion. It’s a great chance to mingle with others that love Nordic skiing! Check out some of the weekend’s events:
Friday:10:00am - 8:00pm - 3D Ski Flex Mat Testing &/or Salomon Flex Table Testing
10:00am - 8:00pm - Measure yourself against other skiers on the "SKI ERG"
(simple double pole test will give you an idea where you will finish at the 2013 Birkie)
Saturday:*All clinics meet at Fontana's west side location*
8:00am - Free "Taste of Nordic" Dryland & Rollerski Technique Clinic
10:00am - 8:00pm - 3D Ski Flex Mat Testing &/or Salomon Flex Table Testing
10:00am - 8:00pm - Measure yourself against other skiers on the "SKI ERG"
Sunday:11:00am - 6:00pm - 3D Ski Flex Mat Testing &/or Salomon Flex Table Testing
11:00am - 6:00pm - Measure yourself against other skiers on the "SKI ERG”

INTRO TO SNOWBOARDING
Sunday, November 3rd, 2013 at 4:30pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison WI
Join us as we teach you how to select the proper equipment to get started snowboarding. The right equipment can make all the difference of enjoying your experience on the snow. We’ll be happy to share our favorite local places to hit the slopes, the best times to go for the deals and answer any questions you may have. This is a free event.

SNOWSHOEING BASICS
Tuesday, November 5th, 2013 at 6:30pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison WI
If you’ve thought about getting into snowshoeing, this is a great introduction to the sport! We’ll show you how to get started with gear and apparel choices as well as the best places to actually snowshoe and answer any questions you may have. This is a free event.

INTRO TO CROSS COUNTRY SKIING
Wednesday, November 6th, 2013 at 6:00pm
Downtown Location - 216 N. Henry St., Madison WI
Learn the classic kick and glide ski style. There’s a reason this sport has been around for so many years. It’s an easy way to enjoy the winter and get out for some activity during the cold months. We’ll get you prepared for the upcoming snow season, answer any questions you may have and give tips on the best local places to cross country ski. This is a free event.

TOKO WAX & TUNING with BILL DAVIS
Thursday, November 7th, 2013 at 6:00pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison WI
Join us as we welcome TOKO rep, Bill Davis, who will introduce and discuss the TOKO 2014 line up of waxes. He’ll also cover basic waxing and tuning of downhill skis, hold a question and answer session and can go into detailed Race waxing procedures if there is interest. This is a free event.

NORDIC SKI WAXING BASICS
Tuesday, November 12th, 2013 at 6:30pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison WI
Join us for a class on the basics of waxing Nordic skis for skate and classic techniques. We’ll cover cleaning your bases, choosing and applying glide wax, and then go over applying kick wax. This is a free event.

SNOWSHOEING BASICS
Wednesday, November 20th, 2013 at 6:00pm
Downtown Location - 216 N. Henry St., Madison WI
If you’ve thought about getting into snowshoeing, this is a great introduction to the sport! We’ll show you how to get started with gear and apparel choices as well as the best places to actually snowshoe and answer any questions you may have. This is a free event.

TURKEY DAZE
Friday, November 29th, 2013 at 8:00am - 2:00pm
All Locations
Black Friday at Fontana Sports - Don't miss the best deals of the year! We open EARLY the Friday after Thanksgiving so we can bring you great deals on the products you love! The first 50 purchases over $50 will receive a FREE Tyrol Basin lift pass (value of $45)! Watch for our flyer in the State Journal!


DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Friday - Saturday, November 29th - 30th, 2013
State Street & Capitol Square, including Fontana Sports’ Downtown Location at 216 N. Henry St.
Downtown Madison and Fontana Sports welcomes one and all to kick off the season at the Downtown Holiday Open House. Enjoy free rides on the Holiday Trolley, plus complimentary refreshments and special offers at participating businesses on State Street and the Capitol Square. Be sure to visit Fontana's Holiday Workshop! Bring your camera for a picture with Santa & be sure to get your candy cane from Mrs. Claus! Fontana is the place for your holiday shopping!


Visit Fontana Sports Events page: http://www.fontanasports.com/misc_content/events

Get set for the season!

Shop the Winter Adventure Sale by clicking here!

Come see us and take advantage of the great prices on winter apparel and hardgoods during the Winter Adventure Sale - going on NOW! Most offers are available online, but there are many more offers in-store, such as buy 2 pair of Smartwool socks and get the 3rd pair FREE or Buy one hat, get the second hat at 25% off! The sale is going on through next weekend, but stop in soon for the best selection! 

Don't forget we also have the CXC Nordic Superfit Event going on this weekend too! 

**Some serious in-store specials going on through Sunday for that event as well!**

CXC Nordic Super Fit Program this weekend!

CXC NORDIC SUPERFIT PROGRAM 

featuring Salomon and Fischer

November 1 - 3, 2013

"Super Fit" is a weekend sale program filled with seminars, presentations & store specials. Get your equipment fit by CXC Elite Team professional athletes & coaches using a state of the art 3D ski pressure mat. Bring your old skis to test if they have a good fit for you & get an independent opinion. It’s a great chance to mingle with others that love Nordic skiing!


Friday, Nov. 1st:
10 am - 8 pm: 3D Ski Flex Mat Testing &/or Salomon Flex Table Testing

10 am - 8 pm: Measure yourself against other skiers on "SKI ERG"
(simple double pole test will give you an idea where you will finish at the 2013 Birkie)


Saturday, Nov. 2nd:
*All clinics meet at Fontana's west side location*

8 am: Free "Taste of Nordic" Dryland & Rollerski Technique Clinic

10 am - 8 pm: 3D Ski Flex Mat Testing &/or Salomon Flex Table Testing

10 am - 8 pm: Measure yourself against other skiers on "SKI ERG"


Sunday, Nov. 3rd:

11 am - 6 pm: 3D Ski Flex Mat Testing &/or Salomon Flex Table Testing

11 am - 6 pm: Measure yourself against other skiers on "SKI ERG”

Fontana Sports Westside location:

231 Junction Road,

Madison, WI 53717

608.833.9191

Win a Fjallraven Kanken Daypack!

We're celebrating the fact that we are now carrying the Swedish brand, Fjallraven, by giving away some sweet products! Like us on Facebook through October 31st for your chance to win one of 2 Fjallraven Kanken daypacks! Good luck!

 

Click Here To Enter

The Muskie Hunters

By Craig Amacker

Neither rain, nor sleet, nor snow will deter the obsessive and determined muskie hunter. Those were the conditions Craig, 4 good friends(Dan, Ron, Nathalie, and Craig T), and 3 seasoned hearty guides(Brett, Cory, and Eric) fished in on Saturday October 19. Even though a cold front settled over the north country, the deserted inky rivers beckoned us to chase toothy predators. As we put the boats in, the rain started coming down harder and we joked that Brett’s cousin owned a tavern ½ mile down river and the day would be spent playing cards, eating cheese burgers, and drinking malt beverages. But we’re a tough lot with muskies on the brain and we thought things would turn on after a slow previous day. An hour and a half into the trip, I cast an 11” fly next to a log jam and a nice muskie (see picture) moved 6 feet, vaulted out of the water, and crushed my fly with a vengeance. After an eye-crossing hook set, and horsing the fish to the boat, the fish was in the net with smiles, high fives, and pictures all around. Here’s the thing with muskie fishing-it takes 1 fish to take you from singing the blues to saying it’s a great day, and this fish made my day awesome. The other folks in the group had some blowups (when the fish strikes and misses), and got some nice pike. The neatest fish of the day was the fish the other Craig caught shortly before the takeout and after the sun came out-nice fat fish that struck hard and fought hard - a great finish to the day. Next year’s dates for the Annual Muskie Trip are October 15-18, 2014 in Hayward, WI if anyone wants to be in these pictures.

Snowshoe Scurry Race Series!

We've got some exciting news! We've partnered with 2013's Ironman Winner, local resident, Jackie Arendt to put together Madison's only Snowshoe race series! Read below for more info and we hope to see you there!

Snowshoe Scurry Race Series

This is the first year for you to snowshoe race in the Madison area! This is a 4 event series with races every Sunday in January each including a 1 mile fun run/walk, 5k and 10k options. Come for a great workout, wintertime fun, and enjoy some food and drinks after the race with other adventurous runners!

Don't have snowshoes? That's OK!! As our main sponsor, Fontana Sports is offering a discount on the purchase of running snowshoes with race entry as well as offering some for rent! Get the whole family involved in a fun winter activity.

January 5th and 19th:
Token Creek Park,
DeForest, WI

January 12th and 26th:
Donald Park,
Mount Horeb, WI

Packet Pick-Up 

• The Saturday beforehand, from 12pm - 8pm at Fontana Sports Westside location 
• Sunday/Race Day from 7:30am - 8:30am at the Race Start 

Pricing 

• 5K & 10K early (before 3PM on December 17): $30 single race, $100 for the series (that's pretty much one race for free!!) 
• 5K & 10K Race Day Registration: $35 single race, $115 for the series (still a good deal!) 
• 1 mile fun run/walk: $10 - great for the whole family!! 
• Snow Shoe Rental: $15 (We have a limited # of snowshoes so make sure you sign up early if you need to rent snowshoes!!)

Perks

• Get a discount on your Snowshoe purchase at Fontana Sports with race registration! 
• A freebie (probably gloves) for all pre-registered 5k/10k athletes and if in stock for race day registrants. 
• Pre-race coffee and hot chocolate. 
• Post race treats, warm drinks and beer! 
• Professional timing and well marked course

Awards

• Overall awards and prizes presented to male & female winners of the 5k and 10k distance. 
• Overall winner is first across the line. 
• Age group awards to overall male and female winners in 10 year age groups (19 and under, 20-29yrs, 30-39yrs, 40-49yrs, etc.) 

For more info please visit - http://snowshoewi.com/

Jimmy Chin = Awesome!

Boy, did we have fun with Jimmy Chin last night! The North Face Speaker Series we had was a great success! We sold 17 tickets to the VIP Event, which means that we'll be donating $340.00 to the Ice Age Trail Alliance! And the event sold out with 272 tickets sold. Wahoo! The picture below really does a good job showing how much fun was had and how excited we were to host Jimmy this year.

Be sure to check out our Facebook page for more pics, videos and fun had with Jimmy! We hope you were able to join us and can't wait to hear what North Face Athlete we'll be hosting next year.

Here's a taste of how great Jimmy Chin's Speaker Series talk is:

Socktober means FREE Smartwool Socks!

Don't miss the opportunity for FREE Smartwool socks this Friday! Donate a gently used pair (doesn't have to be a Smartwool pair) and you get a pair FREE! Wahoo! All turned in socks will be donated to Porchlight to help the homeless. We hope to see you! Tell your friends! :)

 

That time of year - SKI SEASON!

Yesterday we welcomed many of our Downhill Ski Reps into our Westside location to hold clinics to teach our wonderful employees all the info they could absorb about the many different ski brands we carry. They were in clinics for 6 hours! Don't worry they got a great pizza lunch provided by Fontana Sports to keep the learning going all day!

Then last night we had our Ski Pro and Race Night also held at our Westside location. It was great having so many people in this early in the season who can't wait for the snow! There was plenty of food and beer and smiles all around. The reps stayed after clinicing and worked with customers as well as got to catch up with long time friends also in the industry. Thanks to all who attended! We can't wait for some SNOW!!

Events & Clinics - October 2013

FALL HIKING BASICS
Wednesday, October 2nd, 2013 at 6:30pm
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison WI
Cooler temperatures and fall colors make the fall season great for hiking. Join us to learn about the basics of fall hiking. Our experts will share local day hike locations not to be missed this time of year and tips about trip planning, safety precautions and essential gear. This is event is free to attend.

NORDIC WALKABOUT
Tuesday, October 8th, 2013 at 9:00am
Schumacher Farm Park, 5682 Hwy 19, Waunakee, WI 53597 (Park and meet by the barn)
Now that you’ve taken the Nordic Walking Intro Course, let’s meet for a real Nordic walk at whichever time works best for you! Join Judith Hutchinson, trained Leki Instructor, for a total-body workout and enjoy a nice Nordic walk outside. Get any questions you may still have about Nordic Walking answered. Please bring appropriate clothing and shoes for walking on gravel. Leki Nordic Walking poles will be provided if needed. Space is limited. Contact Elizabeth at 608.662.9706 to reserve your space. This is a free event.

NORDIC WALKABOUT
Tuesday, October 8th, 2013 at 6:00pm
Schumacher Farm Park, 5682 Hwy 19, Waunakee, WI 53597 (Park and meet by the barn)
Now that you’ve taken the Nordic Walking Intro Course, let’s meet for a real Nordic walk at whichever time works best for you! Join Judith Hutchinson, trained Leki Instructor, for a total-body workout and enjoy a nice Nordic walk outside. Get any questions you may still have about Nordic Walking answered. Please bring appropriate clothing and shoes for walking on gravel. Leki Nordic Walking poles will be provided if needed. Space is limited. Contact Elizabeth at 608.662.9706 to reserve your space. This is a free event.

THE NORTH FACE NEVER STOP EXPLORING SPEAKER SERIES
"Both Sides Of The Lens" presented by Climber/Skier/Photographer Jimmy Chin

Tuesday, October 15th, 2013
Promenade Hall in the Overture Center – 201 State Street, Madison WI, 53703

• 5:30pm – 6:30pm: VIP reception with Athlete at Fontana Sports Downtown location – 216 N. Henry Street. Includes appetizers and drinks, and the opportunity to meet Jimmy.
• 7:00pm – 8:00pm: Athlete Presentation, followed by Q&A
• 8:00pm – 9:00pm: Book/Poster signing by Athlete

Jimmy has been a sponsored climber and skier for the North Face Athlete Team for over ten years. He is one of the few people to climb and ski Mount Everest from the summit and has been profiled in National Geographic Magazine, Outside Magazine, People Magazine, Men's Journal and more. Jimmy is also one of the most sought after and recognized adventure sports photographers and filmmakers working today. In the past decade, Jimmy has collaborated with some of the most progressive athletes and explorers in the world, participating in and documenting break through expeditions around the planet, from climbing notable first ascents in the Karakoram, to skiing first descents in the Himalayas. He is a National Geographic photographer and has received numerous awards for his work from PDN, Communication Arts, American Society of Magazine Editors and the Lowell Thomas Journalism Awards. Most recently, he co-founded Camp 4 Collective, a production company focused on adventure sports and lifestyle. Jimmy resides outside of Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

• 7 PM - Free seat (limited availability): FREE
• 5:30 PM - VIP reception & preferred seat: $20.00 (Proceeds from VIP Reception tickets will benefit the Ice Age Trail Foundation)

Visit http://www.thenorthface.com/en_US/get-outdoors/speaker_series/13-jimmy-chin/ to order tickets - Available Now!

COLD WEATHER CAMPING
Wednesday, October 16th, 2013 at 6:00pm
Downtown Location - 216 N. Henry St., Madison WI
Brisk temperatures can make camping quite the adventure. Learn from an expert how to make that experience safe and enjoyable. They’ll share favorite local cold weather camping locations and tips about trip planning, essential gear and safety precautions. This event is free to attend.

NORDIC WALKING INTRO CLASS
Tuesday, October 22nd, 2013 at 9:30am
Westside Location - 231 Junction Rd., Madison WI
Join Judith Hutchinson, trained Leki Instructor, as she shows you how to turn your walk into a total-body workout. Enjoy a nice walk outside while learning about the physical and mental benefits of Nordic walking. Please bring appropriate clothing and shoes for walking. Leki Nordic Walking poles will be provided. Space is limited. Contact Elizabeth at 608.662.9706 to reserve your space. This is a free event.

NORDIC WALKING INTRO CLASS
Tuesday, October 22nd, 2013 at 6:00pm
Downtown Location - 216 N. Henry St., Madison WI
Join Judith Hutchinson, trained Leki Instructor, as she shows you how to turn your walk into a total-body workout. Enjoy a nice walk outside while learning about the physical and mental benefits of Nordic walking. Please bring appropriate clothing and shoes for walking. Leki Nordic Walking poles will be provided. Space is limited. Contact Elizabeth at 608.662.9706 to reserve your space. This is a free event.

DOWNTOWN MADISON FAMILY HALLOWEEN
Friday, October 25th, 2013
Downtown Location - 216 N. Henry St., Madison WI
Enjoy trick-or-treating with your little ones on State Street. Be sure to stop by Fontana for some family fun too! For more info click here: http://www.VisitDowntownMadison.com/events/

HALLOWEEN AT THE ZOO
Sunday, October 27th, 2013 at 9:30am - 5:00pm
Henry Vilas Zoo, Madison WI
We are partnering with the Henry Vilas Zoo for their Halloween event by buying and doing the face painting. Should be a fun day! If you’d like to volunteer with us, send us an email. The more, the merrier! We hope to see you at the event either way! http://www.vilaszoo.org/events/index.php?category_id=1994

NORDIC WAX BASE PREPARATION
Tuesday, October 29th, 2013 at 6:00pm
Downtown Location - 216 N. Henry St., Madison WI
Learn how to get the most out of your skis with early season base preparation. We’ll discuss the hot box, personalizing your skis, conditions in our region and give lots of great tips for making your skis happy and fast! Contact Elizabeth at 608.662.9706 to reserve your space. This event is free to attend.

Visit Fontana Sports Events page: http://www.fontanasports.com/misc_content/events

Make A Wish

Judith represented Fontana Sports two weekends ago at the Make A Wish Walk in Madison. She said the event was very inspiring and fun was had by all. Looks like there was great weather too! Keep up the good work, Judith and everyone else out there making a difference, whether it's with walking, volunteering, teaching or giving a smile to someone who needs it!

Indian Lake Trail Run on October 5th!

The Indian Lake Trail Run is coming up on Saturday, October 5, 2013. We hope you will be able to come out and join the fun! The race funds important projects at the park, like prairie and lake restoration and trail maintenance. There are over 300 runners registered for the race already and it's fully expected to hit the race cap of 400 within the next 10 days. The 6k and 12k races begin at 9am, and the kids' fun run is at 8:30. You can find more race details at www.friendsofindianlake.org.

Maybe you're not a runner, but you'd like to support the event?? The Friends of Indian Lake are looking for volunteers to help at the race. This is your chance to make hundreds of trail runners and park goers very happy while supporting this amazing place! Volunteers are needed to work at registration, aid stations, trail intersections, the finish line, the kids' fun run, parking, refreshment tables, or some combination of these. Did I mention they're giving away wool trail socks and Indian Lake Trail run coffee mugs this year? As a volunteer, you can expect to enjoy both of these goodies along with all the fun of race day -- Hubbard treats, live music, hot coffee, and more.

If you need any gear for the event, such as trail running shoes, apparel, a hydration pack, some new socks or what-not, Fontana Sports is here for you! We'd love to help you get ready for the event and you know we've got the gear :) Visit FontanaSports.com/Trail-Running-Gear. Thanks for supporting your parks and the other beautiful outdoor places that make our State so special!

A Chance to win!

You can sign up at either location or online at www.FontanaSports.com. Don't miss your chance to win! Good luck!

FREE FITS Socks next week!

View Fontana Sports selection of FITS socks: http://www.fontanasports.com/FitsSocks

Support the River Alliance of Wisconsin!

Patagonia Advocate Weeks are here - Help Support Local Conservation Efforts!

September 16-29 Patagonia will donate $10 to River Alliance of Wisconsin for every pair of Patagonia shoes you buy at Fontana Sports stores or FontanaSports.com 

Pre-Historic Fly Fishing

By Craig Amacker

I was on my “Annual September  Wisconsin River Float” with good friends Kim and Tony Ferrie  yesterday when I caught this pre-historic beast of a fish known as the Bowfin.  We started our float with the standard rules-fish until you catch one, then it’s your turn to row the boat.  For the first hour or so nothing was happening, then a big fish crushed the Fishstress(my go-to white streamer for Smallmouth bass).   It was a jolting strike that bent my 7 weight SAGE ONE double, and put up an impressive fight with a couple of jumps, runs and bulldog like pulls.    I thought the fish was a huge Smallmouth bass at first, but when it didn't show itself we all thought it was a catfish or anybody’s guess.  When I got the fish to the surface I knew right away it was a Bowfin-a fish filed in my memory bank from long ago while growing up on the Madison Lakes and catching them on rare occasions conventional fishing for bass and walleye.  Once the fish was landed and photos were taken, it was time to remove my fly from the fish's mouth.  The problem here was this fish had jaws like a steel trap and some nasty teeth.   I couldn't pry its jaws apart with my pliers and I didn't have a jaw spreader though I don’t think that would've helped.  So the leader was cut, and the fish was released giving me a big face splash.   The take-a-away here is don’t berate strange fish even though they’re not the respected trout or coveted Smallmouth bass, they’re still a blast to catch.  I had so much fun with this Bowfin that I want to learn more about their habits and habitat so I can go catch more.

***
Craig offers guided fly fishing trips and classes, to view the schedule and for more information visit: http://www.fontanasports.com/fly-fishing

Schumacher Farm Park Heritage Fest this weekend!

Hi All!

We are headed to see my son and Daughter-in-law in Minneapolis this weekend, so I cannot be at the Schumacher Farm Park Heritage Fest this Sunday afternoon, Sept 15^th from 1-4 PM. That being said, I encourage all of you Nordic Walkers, walkers and hikers to go. Alone, with friends, or family, it is delightful. There will be all kinds of interesting projects going on - blacksmiths, cooking, gardening, etc.

Click on this link for more event info - http://schumacherfarmpark.org/

This early morning my husband John and I Nordic walked the trails and they were beautiful! Prairie flowers and grasses as high as your head, and wild plum trees with hundreds of small juicy plums, falling-off-ripe by the trail heading North from the barn. The trails are well marked, open and breezy, so few to no bugs, and any hills are gentle and rolling.

Wanted to encourage you all to go sometime soon and if possible this coming Sunday. Watch for the Monarchs, they gather at the farm before migrating. The farm is on Hwy 19, just east of Waunakee’s Culver’s. I would be there if I were in town and would have met you there. This is the next best thing I can do: invite you to one of my favorite hiking places, especially when they are open and showing you Wisconsin farming and its working history. Hope you can make it. Happy Autumn!

Thanks and have a good hike or two ‘til we meet again,
Judith

Judith J. Hutchinson
VP Fontana Sports Specialties

Fontana Sports Nordic Walkabout

Hi Folks!

Hope you will join me this coming Thursday, Sept 5^th at 9:00 AM at Token Creek County Park. We’ll meet at the first shelter on the right after entering the park from Hwy 51 North. The walk will be about an hour of easy, enjoyable walking. I will have extra Nordic poles, please call to get first rights to them. Leave a message with Elizabeth at 608-662-9706. Dress for bugs, heat and comfort. I’ll bring water. If it rains enough for full on windshield wipers, the walk is cancelled.

To get to Token Creek County Park: Hwy 51 north from Madison’s East Washington (Hwy 151 going East), meets Hwy 51 going North. Take Hwy 51 North (towards De Forest) crossing over I-94, and just after you pass Pinecone gas station and restaurant, turn into Token Creek County Park on your right.The first shelter is just past the bridge. See you there.

Hope you join me. The flowers are gorgeous, the birds are flocking and looks like the weather will be great!
Judith

Judith J. Hutchinson
VP Fontana Sports Specialties

P.S. Check out other Fontana Sports events:
http://www.fontanasports.com/misc_content/events