Norse House Ski & Sport - Winhall, Vermont

Timothy L.

Never Norse
This was the worst customer service experience I have ever had. I would pay ten more dollars a rental at the next place to avoid the rude behavior of this owner. First, when the owner, Tom, measured my son for ski boots my son said the boots were too small. Tom’s response was “I measured you and this is the right size. Move your foot back in the boot.” My son tried but still felt the boot was small. Tom rolled his eyes took the boots and brought another pair over to my son and left. The boots he brought were two and a half sizes bigger than the previous pair so were obviously too big. Luckily another employee noticed and got him the correct size. Tom also tried giving my son longer skis than what the other employee was recommending, but because it was my son’s first time skiing we went with the shorter ski.
When it came time to finish our rental purchase Tom tried to dissuade us from renting because he said “ the rain is going to be a miserable experience and we can’t refund if you don’t ski.” He couldn’t have been more wrong. We had the mountain to ourselves and the rain cleared up. Lastly, when I received my rental boots I noticed a foul odor but I didn’t protest thinking I’ll just use them and be done with it. But after driving to the lodge with the boots the whole car smelled terrible. I brought them in the lodge and could still smell them when I walked by them. When we got home from skiing they smelled worse so I put them on the back covered porch with my socks. I decided to see if I could exchange them in the morning before our next day on the mountain. When I got to the shop I encountered Tom and a young lady. I told Tom my experience with the boots and he accused me of causing the smell because his ten thousand dollar boot dryer prevents things like this. I said the odor was there when I received them and I don’t appreciate the accusation. He slammed the boots down, threw his hand up dismissing me, and exclaimed “bye” , and just left me standing at the counter. Luckily the young lady, who was as surprised as me, quickly grabbed me another pair of boots and I had normal smelling boots.

Keeley T.

Love the atmosphere! Be prepared to swipe your card, between the gorgina displays and lovely staff I never leave empty handed! The staff are kind and knowledgeable in both soft and hard goods. Super inviting & overall 10/10 experience. Just got new ski boots and will never go anywhere else for my ski gear!

Tracy B.

Walked in searching for twin tip skis for my two kiddos (ages 10 and 8) and walked out with new to us *used* in great condition skis with bindings, mounted, and a wealth of knowledge in what to look for next time we are in the market. Tom took time to share with me what I should be looking for in a ski for myself when I attend an upcoming demo day -- advice freely given even though we aren't from the area and likely won't be back until next years ski vacation. The crew in the back busted their hump amidst school vacation/a holiday weekend to get these new/used skis adjusted to our boys' boots in just a few hours so we could have them before we headed home at the end of our trip. We will be back next time we are in the area. 10/10 customer service, quality products, price, and value!

Timothy D.

We came to Stratton last minute for a quick snowboarding trip. Prior to our morning lesson we needed to get a new binding for my son who outgrew his old ones. We showed up when the shop opened and Tom jumped in to help us. Tom was amazing and we were in and out and made it to our lesson on time!

Thank you Tom, we will be back!
Tim D

Juan V.

Excellent customer service, the staff was extremely friendly and welcoming. Gave me great recommendations on what gear I should use for their rental service and I will be sure to come back next season for new gear through Norse House Ski & Sport

Kiel I.

Tom strikes again! We just had what seems to be a common negative experience at the shop during a simple product exchange. It's unfortunate, because other members of the Norse House crew were very friendly and knowledgeable.

Jon R.

The Startingate has polite and helpful employees that will share their knowledge and expertise to recommend gear to fit your skiing skill and style, and they won't accuse you of ".com shopping" and refuse to help you, because Tom doesn't work there. The Startingate and Equipe Sport are highly recommended.

Alison R.

Tom seems to have a chip on his shoulder about people buying online and “wasting his time.” Perhaps if he was less condescending he’d have better luck as a salesman. There are other friendlier shops nearby, I’d recommend skipping this one.