CXC SUPERFIT PROGRAM

Northern WI has already seen some snow...ski season is right around the corner.  At Fontana we want to make sure you have the right gear to make your winter as enjoyable as possible.  That's why this year we are again hosting the CXC Nordic super fit program this Friday November 4th-Sunday November 6th at our west side location (231 Junction Rd, Madison)

"Super Fit" is a weekend sale program filled with seminars, presentations and store specials.
Get your equipment fit by the professional athletes and coaches of the CXC Elite Team 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.


The Agenda for the weekend is as follows:

Friday, Nov. 4:
10am-8pm CXC 3D Ski Flex Mat and Salomon Flex Table Testing
10am-8pm Measure yourself against other skiers on “SKI ERG” (simple double pole test will give you an idea where you will finish at the 2012 Birkie)
6pm Glide & Kick Waxing Seminar / CXC Wax Room DVD Presentation

Saturday, Nov. 5:
8am-9:30am Free "Get your Nordic On!" Dryland and Rollerski Technique Clinic for Intermediate and Advanced Skiers
8am-9:30am Free "Taste of Nordic" Dryland & Rollerski Technique Clinic
8am-9:30am USSA Level 100 Coaches Certification Technique Clinic
Note: Demo Salomon boots and Sweenor Classic and Skate rollerksis (some rollerksis will be available to use for a clinic)
10am-8pm CXC 3D Ski Flex Mat and Salomon Flex Table Testing
10am-8pm Measure yourself against other skiers on “SKI ERG” (simple double pole test will give you an idea where you will finish at the 2012 Birkie)

Sunday, Nov. 6:
11am-6pm CXC 3D Ski Flex Mat and Salomon Flex Table Testing
11am-6pm Measure yourself against other skiers on “SKI ERG” (simple double pole test will give you an idea where you will finish at the 2012 Birkie)

Whether you are just looking to start recreational skiing or are a seasoned racer there will be plenty to learn, plus special deals on gear! 

...Like There's No Tomorrow

One Night Only! 

Barrymore Theatre

 Thursday, October 27, 7:30 PM

$19

"The pressure's off. No one's watching. It's just you, your boards, and the mountain. The weather has broken and the snow is untracked. The only sound is that of your breath crystalizing in the winter air. There's only one place to go, but there's an infinite number of ways to get there. Adjust your gear, take a deep breath, and . . . like there’s no tomorrow.

For the sixty second year in a row, Warren Miller Entertainment brings you to this moment, and each moment that follows, from peaks as far flung as India and as nearby as New Hampshire. The common themes are snow, steeps, and the skiers and snowboarders who throw themselves into both with an abandon that amazes and inspires us all.

. . . Like There’s No Tomorrow is a celebration of these moments, the ones that make up the winter for people who live for it. Join Chris Davenport, Daron Rahlves, Colby West, Andy Mahre, Seth Wescott, Julia Mancuso, and more as they drop into the runs we see in our dreams as we wait for the seasons to change.

Hosted by Jonny Moseley and shot on location in Colorado, Utah, California, New Zealand, Chile, Alaska and British Columbia, . . . Like There’s No Tomorrow is your annual reminder that Winter is on its way and, with it, months of an adrenaline-fueled dance with gravity. Welcome it with everything you've got, because there's always a tomorrow, but only so many dawn with fresh snow. So what are you waiting for? Drop in ..."

For more info check out our events webpage:

http://www.fontanasports.com/misc_content/index.cfm?title=7F43E4CA-1EC9-4F51-A51075C7FA074685&sec=1

Dean Karnazes - Life in Motion

We are excited to announce that Ultramararthon runner Dean Karnazes will be our guest athlete/speaker this year! Dean has been dubbed "The Ultramarathon Man" and is ranked among TIME magazine's 100 most influential people in the world. His feat of running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days can only be described as "superhuman." Dean's message to us all is "get of the couch, get healthy, hit the trails, and go the extra mile." With that mantra in mind, and with physiology adapted for endless running, he has run 350 miles nonstop, and completed ultramarathons across the world's five greatest deserts: the Atacama, Gobi, Death Valley, Sahara, and Antarctic. This year Dean brought fitness home to millions with his 3000 mile 75 day coast to coast run across America, televised on Live! with Regis and Kelly.

Event Details:

Thursday, September 15th

5:30 - 7:00 pm VIP Reception with Dean benefitting the Ice Age Trail Alliance at Fontana's downtown location - 216 N. Henry St.

7:00-8:00 pm Dean Presents - Life in Motion followed by Q & A

The Orpheum Theater - 216 State St. Madison

8:00-9:00pm Book/Poster signing by Dean at the Orpheum Theater

FREE - General Attendance but please reserve your space at the website below

http://www.thenorthface.com/en_US/get-outdoors/speaker_series/

$8 - Reserved Seating
$20 - Reserved seating and VIP reception benefiting the Ice Age Trail Alliance

Tent Sale!

Spring is here! To celebrate (and clear out the last of the winter merchandise) we are having a tent sale!

When: Thurursday, April 28 through Sunday, May 1stWhere: Fontana Sports West, 231 Junction Rd, In the parking lot under the BIG TENT.What: 20%-50% off WINTER and SPRING merchandise. Camping, clothing, outerwear, footwear, socks, PFD's, accessories, and more.
Don't forget to check out great deals INSIDE BOTH STORES as well.

SHOE DRIVE!

Do you have shoes laying around in the closet that just don't get worn?

Bring them into Fontana Sports Thursday, April 14th through Saturday, April 23rd and get rewarded.

We are collecting donations of GENTLY USED (seriously...if you find them gross we do too) shoes.
If you donate a pair of gently used footwear and buy a new pair of shoes you will receive a Fontana Sports gift card for use on a future purchase.

Here's the breakdown.
Receive a $5 gift card for footwear purchases from $25.00 - $50.00.
Receive a $10 gift card for footwear purchases from $50.01 - $100.00.
Receive a $20 gift card for footwear purchases over $100.00.

Fine Print...
Purchase price does not include tax. Offer not valid on sale items or special orders. Donations of multiple shoes will not increase your gift card amount but will increase your Karma.

Scout Week 2011

Did you know that Fontana Sports Specialties is owned by an Eagle Scout and a lifelong Girl Scout? Their son is also an Eagle Scout and daughter is a Silver Scout. Many of our past and current employees have been Scouts as well. We are an environmentally focused group of employees with combined, hundreds of hours spent enjoying and gaining experience in hiking, camping, fishing, skiing, backpacking, and scuba diving. Because of this wealth of experience and love for the outdoors Fontana Sports is planning a Scout Week to encourage the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.

Saturday, April 9th through Sunday, April 17th, 2011

Fontana Sports will recognize all scouts WITH THEIR BOY SCOUT OR GIRL SCOUT CARD by giving them 15% off all non-sale purchases. Stop by one of our locations for details.

In addition to great savings we are offering FREE clinics during the week (listed below). There will be free prize drawings for the Scout clinic attendees at the end of each clinic. Your Troop, Scout individuals, and friends/parents of scouts are invited to attend, if your troop plans to attend please call ahead so we can make space. We hope to see you soon

Downtown Location Clinic Schedule

216 N. Henry Street, Madison 53703 608-257-5043

Monday, April 11th at 6:00 pm - Backpacking 101 - An intro course on how to properly choose, fit, and pack your backpack in preparation for your next adventure

Tuesday, April 12th at 6:00 pm - Camp Cooking - Join us as we explain different kinds of stoves and back country cooking methods. We'll even do some demonstrations with samples!

Wednesday, April 13th at 6:00 pm - Local Expeditions - We'll Share some of the Midwest's greatest camping and hiking areas, and how best to prepare for them.

Thursday, April 14th at 6:00 pm - Wisconsin Wildlife - Learn more about the fun critters we share the woods with.

Westside Location Clinic Schedule

231 Junction Rd, Madison 53717 608-833-9191

Monday, April 11th at 6:00 pm - Camp Cooking - Join us as we explain different kinds of stoves and back country cooking methods. We'll even do some demonstrations with samples!

Tuesday, April 12th at 6:00 pm - Hiking Boots 101 - What to look for and how to fit a hiking boot. Boots can make or break the enjoyment of a trip. Socks are important as well ans should supply comfort, support, and protection

Wednesday , April 13th at 6:00 pm - Clothing and Equipment - Learn how to best dress in order to ensure comfort and temperature control. Learn the meaning of the terms: UPF, windproof, breathable, water resistant, and waterproof. You'll be all set for the trail.

Thursday, April 14th at 6:00 pm - Backpacking 101 - An intro course on how to properly choose, fit, and pack your backpack in preparation for your next adventure.

Buy one get one TREE!

Spring is in the air! Time to dig out the sandals.

If you can't find yours, or if over winter they have developed a funny smell, we have great news for you.

For the month of April, Fontana Sports, Chaco, and the Arbor Day Foundation have teamed up and will plant a tree for EVERY pair of Chacos purchased in the month of April.

So stop by and check out all the great new styles and colors, do something great for your feet and the earth!

5th Annual Fly Fishing Rendezvous

It is once again time for Fontana Sports annual fly fishing rendezvous! Come help us kick off the 2011 season!

Join us: Saturday, March 19th

10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Fontana Sports West: 231 Junction Rd

Our 5th annual rendezvous will be a day of fly fishing education and fun! We will be celebrating fly fishing in the upper Midwest! Catch some fantastic seminars by knowledgeable fishers on great fishing right here in Wisconsin; as well as in exotic destinations. Check out the latest greatest products and test cast the newest rods. Demonstration fly tyers will be on hand , as well as factory reps from Simms, Sage, and Rio to show off the newest and best fly fishing gear. There will be door prizes, in store specials, and brats fresh off the grill. A percentage of sales will be donated to SWTU's Stream Easement Fund. Whether you are an old pro or totally new to the sport this is a day you don't want to miss!

After Christmas Sale!

Happy New Year!

Start 2011 out with tons of outdoor winter fun. There is plenty of winter left and we still have a great selection of downhill skis, cross country skis, snowboards, and snowshoes. Also save on brand name winter apparel. Select items items from many great brands are on sale including:

Patagonia

The North Face

Burton

Kuhl

Mountain Hardwear

Smartwool

Stop in and make 2011 the best winter yet!

Turkey Daze

HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM THE FONTANA CREW!

We hope you have a wonderful and relaxing day in preparation for our favorite day of the year!

Fontana will be opening at 8 am on Friday, Nov 26th with extra special deals until 2pm.

Save up to 75% on: Hats, gloves, Smartwool and Wigwam socks, North Face t-shirts, Columbia fleece, men's, women's and kid's ski pants, ski goggles and helmets, hand warmers, ice cream makers, snorkel sets, camping accessories, and much more!

Also...the first 50 people to make a $50 purchase will receive

a free lift ticket to Tyrol Basin (limit one per person)

Token Creek Conservancy Work Day

Below is a letter sent to Jutith Hutchinson. Thanks to Judith and and to Troup 333 for your hard work in keeping Token Creek beautiful and healthy!

Despite the weather, off and on light rain, many boys and parents, and 1 sister, from Troop 333 participated in today's conservation workday held at the Elmer and Edna Culver Conservancy grounds off Egre road.

The volunteers began their work around 9:00 am today and vigorously pruned numerous tag elders and buckhorn tree shoots. The work safely accomplished today by the volunteers will help the conservancy continue their ongoing work next spring on the natural prairie grounds section of the conservancy.

Upon completing our task, we enjoyed some donuts and a tour of the conservancy grounds and viewed up-close the springs on the property. This tour was lead by the passionate Judith Hutchinson, Token Creek Conservancy Chair and work coordinator for today's project. We learned about the importance of Token Creek to:
Maintaining clean and high quality water,
Supplying a large volume of water to the Madison chain of lakes,
Wildlife such as birds, fish, deer, foxes, and other mammals,
Establishing for the conservancy for people to enjoy the outdoors.
Finally, a big THANK YOU to Judith Hutchinson. I know you took precious time away from your husband and your business, Fontana Sports Specialties, to be there for the scouts today. Thank you for sharing your love for scouting, nature, and the conservancy with us all-you clearly have a passion for all three. Also, thank you for taking the time to help bring today's event together. THANK YOU again.

Please enjoy the photos and I hope we can do this again next year.

Terry Pursifull
Assistant Scoutmaster Troop 333.

Winter Adventure Sale - ON NOW!

It's finally getting colder and we're on the verge of snow. Now is the time to shop for all the gear you need for the winter and we're making it easier with a SALE!

-Downhill Skis and Boots - 20-50% off

-Cross Country Ski Packages - up to 35% off

-Snowboard Packages - up to 35% off

-Select Ski Helmets and Goggles - up to 45%

- Atlas 925 snow shoe package - $149.99 (reg. $199.99)

-Select styles of Manzella gloves - 20% off

-Columbia Sportswear and Outerwear - 25% off

-ALL Smartwool, Wigwam, and Icebreaker Socks - Buy 2 get 1 FREE!

-Powder Room and Ripzone clothing on Sale

-Terramar Base Layers (merino wool, silk, or synthetic) - 25% off

And many more excellent deals!

We have a great selection of winter outerwear from The North Face, Patagonia, Mountain Hardwear, Marmot, Columbia, Lole and other great brands. Gear up and stay warm this winter.

Warren Miller Wintervention

Ski season is getting closer, and if the chilly nights and crisp air aren't enough to get you excited a sure fire way to get pumped is to check out the latest Warren Miller film: Wintervention. This year's film narrated by skiing icon Jonny Moseley takes you on a world tour that includes stops in Alaska, Norway, Canada, Antarctica and beyond. Your travel companions include 26 world class riders such as Chris Davenport and Lindsey Vonn.

Want a Wintervention?

Where: Barrymore Theater

When: Thursday, October 21st 8:00 pm

How: Purchase tickets at Fontana Sports Specialties or any regular Barrymore ticket outlet

Cost: $19.00

And if just the show is not enough...ticket holders will receive FREE lift tickets to Granite Peak, Lutsen Mountain, and Chestnut mountain plus a coupon for $25 off at Fontana Sports.

Wild Utah: America's Red Rock Wilderness

We are super excited to be hosting another speaker at Fontana!
Thursday, September 16 from 7-8pm at Fontana West (231 Junction Rd)
Clayton Daughtenbaugh is the Midwest Regional Organizer for the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance. He will be presenting a slideshow documenting citizen efforts to designate public lands in southern Utah's spectacular canyon country as part of the National Wilderness Preservation System.

This 15-minute journey through red rock splendor invigorates and motivates viewers to participate in the movement to protect these unique lands. It will be shown in conjunction with a presentation on the current status of the Utah wilderness movement

"These are spectacular public lands owned by all Americans. As citizens we have a great opportunity to act to protect these special places," says Daughenbaugh. Daughenbaugh is also the Chair of the Sierra Club's National Wildlands Committee and author of "Common Sense Democracy: How to Complete the American Revolution in Your Neighborhood.

Southwestern Utah Exploartion - Speaker

Fontana is hosting speaker Brad O' Grosky on Thursday August 26 from 7-8pm at out west Madison location: 231 Juntion Rd.

The four corners of Southwestern Utah contain many canyons, ancient Indian ruins and wonderful wilderness for day hiking and backpacking. See a photo presentation of some of the cultural resources that are still preserved after 900 to 1500 years and hear of the wilderness areas that house them, awaiting your exploration. Over the past 14 years, Brad has volunteered on many archaeological projects with the Park Service, Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management in an effort to continue to protect these treasures and will share some of his experiences at these wonderful sites.

TENT SALE!

It is hard to believe that summer is winding down but there are only a few weeks left. At Fontana that means we are starting to get in winter product. Jackets and fleece are already on the shelves. Skis and snowboards are in the warehouse and there is lots more on the way. That is good news; but the GREAT news is in order to make room, summer product is on sale!

At our WEST SIDE LOCATION (231 Junction Rd.) We are having a huge tent sale!

Summer clothing, shoes, sandals, kayaks, inline skates and camping gear are all on sale anywhere from 20 to 75% off. We are also clearing out a winter leftovers from last year, there are a bunch of great skis and snowboards so you can gear up for snow and save money!

Stop by now through August 22nd and catch the deals!

4th of July Sale!

We are celebrating the 4th of July with a sale!

Now through the 4th of July shop either Fontana Sports location for excellent deals on all the gear you need for a great summer, no matter what your plans are.

Going hiking out west?
We have Leki trekking poles on sale for 25% or more off; and select styles of Vasque hiking boots, Keen sandals, and Smartwool socks are 20% to 25% off.
Want to take up Kayaking?Emotion, Pelican, and Mainstream kayaks are 10%-15% off and kayak paddles and PFD's are up to 30% off.
Going to the Beach?
Teva flip flops and Lole swimwear are 20% off. Select styles of Smith sunglasses are 60% or 65% off! Save on snorkel sets as well!
Taking the family camping?
We have a great selection of tents on sale, ranging from 2 person to 6 person to accommodate any size family. Also on sale are all the accessories you need: sleeping bags, screen tent, bug spray, camp chairs, flashlights, lanterns, weather radios, and rain jackets (just in case.)
Going backpacking out East?
Lightweight tents by Sierra Designs are on sale up to 20% off. Kelty Cosmic (20 degree) down sleeping bags are only $89.99, and backpacks by Kelty and High Sierra start at $79.99.
Undecided?Stop in and talk with our friendly and knowledgeable staff about all the amazing possibilities!

HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

Grand Opening Sale!

We're happily settled into our new store. Time to celebrate with a sale! We have awesome deals at BOTH our Henry St and Junction Rd stores.

Now through May 31st.

Free Passes to Mt. Olympus Water Park in Wisconsin Dells.

30% off all Smartwool, Wigwam, and Icebreaker Socks
20% off Sigg Bottles
25% off Clif and Luna Bars
25% off all Camelbak Packs and Water Bottles
20% off or more on all Eureka Tents and select Marmot and Mountain Hardwear Tents
10% off Therm-a-Rest Sleeping Pads
25% off all binoculars
20% off all Yakima boxes and Accessories
20% off Adeventure Medical First Aid Kits
15% off Full Priced Kayaks
10% off Tilley Hats
20% off Vasque Boots
20% off Superfeet Insoles
20% off Smith Sunglasses
25% off Timex Watches
25% off MTI PFD's and Bending Branches Paddles

Select Clothing from Mountain Hardwear, Prana, Patagonia, The North Face, Columbia, Lole, ExOfficio, and Marmot on Sale.

Plus many more in store specials! Stop in and see us!

Ridiculous Word...Excellent Concept

GLAMPING.

Glamorous camping, or luxury camping.

I'm generally not at all a fan of blending words to create a cutesy catchword (I still cringe at the mention of staycations) however, I can't deny the appeal of the concept.

Don't get me wrong, I have done my share of grungy, 20 days in the back country, in the hot sun, schlepping a pack and not showering. And I have loved every moment of it! But sometimes you don't want to have to search out the softest leaves to use in the lavatory. Sometimes it's nice to enjoy the beauty of nature in relative comfort.

Despite argument from some "hard core" outdoors men and women, there is nothing wrong with using a cushy queen sized air mattress in an open airy tent. Donning your stylish but functional Icebreaker tank and Mountain Hardwear skirt, going for a walk by the lake then finding a quaint restaurant to enjoy a sunset and a glass of wine.

There are 100's of products now that allow for comfortable and clean enjoyment of a weekend spent outdoors. Here are just a few...
Eureka Copper Canyon 1610 Tent

This two room tent provides plenty of space for sleeping and lounging, the screened in porch is great if it is raining or if bugs are on the prowl and at seven feet high you can move around in comfort.

Coleman Double high Quickbed - Queen

Eighteen inches high, queen sized mattress, fits standard sheets so bring the 600 thread counts and sleep like a baby! Air pump included for fast and easy set up.

GCI Outdoors Unifold Lounge Chair and Lexan Wine Glass

The chair provides comfort and support, with stem ware and regular cup holders. The wine glass is classy and virtually indestructible.

Plus there are many performance clothes that will keep you looking good and feeling great! Here are a few modeled by our employees.

New Store Open!

Our new location at 216 N. Henry Street is now open! Since a picture is worth 1000 words...

John and Tim consulting about the fitting rooms, The new store front


The gear side

The Clothing side

Stop by and see us!