Viking Ski & Patio - Barrington, Illinois

Judy C.

Left the store today in tears after previously having great experiences with buying skis/custom fitted boots/ski poles for the whole family. I never leave reviews but this was certainly a memorable experience. I came in today with a helmet looking for goggles with interchangeable lenses, I don’t know a lot about the different types of goggles so I needed some help figuring out what I needed / could afford at the same time. I didn’t catch her name, but the older long haired brunette woman assisted me. She knew her stuff but was not overtly friendly, keep in mind I am a young woman who went in alone. I could feel her patience ran out QUICK after only browsing for 5 minutes. I knew their merchandise was retail price ($300+) and after trying on 3 pairs for size and fit I said I might look online for more variety and cheaper prices. Big mistake- she condescendingly told me “word of advice, when you’re coming to a specialty shop, don’t tell them you’re going to shop online after coming in. It’s a waste of our time and puts a bad taste in our mouths” almost verbatim. I was shocked, and another employee behind the desk within earshot didn’t say a thing. I politely told her I was coming in to buy goggles and get a good feel for the size and fittings, and thanked her for her time. This was so rude to me! Things like this are why people say ski culture is so toxic, and it pushes away those interested in trying the sport. So disappointing!!!

Tom K.

Wow! Just amazing! Do yourself a favor and run over here! The whole staff and unbelievable concierge custom boot fittings made for an incredible experience. Shout out to Mike for the expertise on my wife's fantastic new ski boots! If you need ski boots, make an appointment for a custom fit. You won't regret it!

Pete P.

spend you money somewhere else, to someone who will appreciate your business.
Last year I spend there over a $1000 buying my daughter snowboard ,this year I drove there 30 minutes to be told by a mean guy that I need to make a appointment even that they were not busy.
not coming back.

Daniel K.

Larry was so friendly, professional, and courteous to us.
Strongly recommend to make an appointment for any fitting including season rental which requires boot fitting.

Alex I.

Great experience all around. My daughter needed new skis/boots/bindings/poles and my son needed new snowboard/boots/bindings. I read in the comments boot fitting appointments were recommended. Called Monday after and had no issue making appointment for both at 6pm same day.

Mike helped my daughter out with her fitting and getting her the proper gear at the price point that I was looking at

Chris helped my son with his first snowboard and boot fitting. Again, great service.

The other couple of employees were very friendly and helpful. They were not pushy and only made good suggestions.

Thanks again to the staff and we'll definitely be back as we need more gear.

Javier G.

Chris was great and got us set up with everything we needed, Connie up front was very kind and helpful as well

David W.

I stopped in for a screw for my old Ride bindings, and the young man helping me I believe was Chris. He spent some time looking for it. Got one and my son was able to get on the hill for the first time. The following week I took my son in for his own board. We were happy to see Chris, he helped us and was super knowledgeable. Take care of this guy, I would hire him in a minute!!

Kenny

I bought a pair of boots last year and I had an issue with them being too big and Vince was able to get me into some new boots with their two-year boot fit warranty. The new boots fit way better and I am really looking forward to using them this upcoming ski season. He was really insightful and nice to talk to. Would highly recommend visiting Vince at the shop if you are looking for anything new this ski season! Thanks again Vince!