Countdown to Christmas Contest

We’re counting down the days! Don’t miss your chance to join in the fun as we kick off this year’s Countdown to Christmas Contest. 12 Days of Giveaways and it all starts today, Friday, December 13, 2020. All the way through Christmas Eve, we’ll be giving away prizes from some of our favorite brands like YETI, Patagonia, KÜHL, FITS Socks, Smartwool, Eagle Creek, and many more.

With any purchase at any Alpine Shop or Pathfinder location (including on-line at alpineshop.com), you’ll automatically be entered into that day’s drawing.

(Don’t forget, though, we have to have a way to get in contact with you! Please consider giving us your email address for the easiest way for us to let you know you’ve won!)

To start the whole thing off, we have a three-pack of FITS Socks (valued over $60) to give away to one lucky shopper who makes a purchase with us on Friday, December 13. If you haven’t had the pleasure to experience the comfort and fit of FITS Socks, we guarantee you’ll be impressed. Winner can select any three pairs of FITS Socks they like.

On Saturday, December 14, with 11 days till left till Christmas don’t loose your KÜHL . The men’s Ryzer 1/4 Zip and women’s Avalon Fleece Pullover from KÜHL are the perfect gift on the trail or in the tavern. Make a purchase at any of our stores on this day, and you’ll be entered to win either the Ryzer 1/4 zip or the Avalon fleece from KÜHL.

With 10 days left till Christmas you better start thinking about packing for your holiday travels! This year, let Eagle Creek help you organize the contents of your bag with the Packing Cube Starter Set, so you cantravel knowing where everything is. Pack all of your gearinto the “built to take a beating” Migrate Duffel. Carry it on your back, check it at the airport, or tie it down on your vehicle. These prizes are for Sunday, December 15.

The Countdown to Christmas continues on Monday, December 16, with one of the most popular pieces in all of our stores this holiday season – the Patagonia Los Gatos 1/4 Zip Pullover for men and women. Today’s winner will get to choose between either the men’s or women’s style, in whatever size or color they would like. But don’t forget, the only way to get in on the drawing is to make a purchase – either at an Alpine Shop or Pathfinder location – or on-line at www.alpineshop.com.

With 8 more days till Christmas, our countdown continues! It is nearly impossible to predict when you’ll crash, so it’s best to always be prepared with a helmet on. The Specialized Bicycles Ambush Comp MIPS Helmet is a lightweight extended coverage helmet for trail riding. It features an integrated ANGi crash sensor that connects to your smartphone and alerts your emergency contacts if you crash.

Make a purchase at any of our stores today, Tuesday, December 17, and be entered to win a Specialized Bicycles Ambush Comp MIPS Helmet and a Specialized Air Tool Switch Comp Pump. That’s $175 worth of product going to someone today, just for making purchase at any Alpine Shop location or on-line at www.alpineshop.com

With only 7 days left in our Countdown to Christmas, let Deuter spread some holiday cheer.  Not all packs are equal not even a bit.  From day hikes in mountains or prairies afar your adventures are endless with the right Deuter fit. 

Make a purchase at one of our 4 locations or online at  http://www.alpineshop.com  today, Wednesday, December 18th and you will be entered into our drawing for a Deuter Trail Pro 34 Sl. 

With only 6 more days left before Christmas we have hit the halfway point in our Countdown to Christmas Giveaway.  Today we are giving away a pair of Anon Optics M3 Goggles.  Featuring integrated magnets for easy to change lenses and a magnetic easy to seal facemask.  Using cylindrical lenses they provide the maximum field of vision without distorting the terrain ahead.  These goggles are perfect for that skier or snowboarder on your list this season. 

By making a purchase at any of our locations or online today, Thursday, December 19th, you will be automatically entered into the drawing for the Anon M3 Goggles.

With only 5 more days left in our Countdown to Christmas and Blinky the Elf is helping us giveaway a white YETI Tundra 35.  The Yeti Tundra 35 is the perfect size to park for a solo trip or food for a small crew.  Designed with rugged rotomolded construction and PermaFrost insulation, the Tundra cooler can handle any adventure.  This Cooler fits nicely in an inner tube, making it the perfect cooler to take floating in a Ozark Stream. 

By making a purchase at any of our locations or online today, Friday, December 20th, you will be automatically entered into the drawing for the Yeti Tundra 35 Cooler. 

Looking for a gift to give that hard to buy for adventurer who has everything?  With 4 more days in our Countdown To Christmas, Qikcover has the perfect gift for you.  Qikcover is a vehicle seat protector that is super fast to put on, triple layered, antimicrobial, washable, and provides on-the-go-durable protection.  

By making a purchase at any of our locations or online today, Saturday, December 21st, you will be automatically entered into the drawing for one of three Qikcovers. 

With only 3 days left in our Countdown to Christmas, give the gift of warmth from Smartwool.  Made with Merino Wool, Smartwool baselayers will keep you comfortable in cold to mild temperatures without a worry.  

By making a purchase at any of our locations or online today, Sunday, December 22nd, you will be automatically entered into the drawing for a Smartwool baselayer. 

Only two days left in our Countdown to Christmas.  Give a green gift from Klean Kanteen.  Klean Kanteen completely eliminates all the ingredients that negatively affact humans, animals, and the environment.  From reusable plastic straws, steel pints, or insulated bottles they are shaping the planet for the better.  

By making a purchase at any of our locations or online today, Monday, December 23rd, you will be automatically entered into the drawing for a Klean Kanteen bundle pack. 

2019/2020 Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour Returns to St. Louis this March

Don’t miss two nights of inspiring adventure: Tickets are available now!

Full program details for both nights added below!

Alpine Shop’s most popular film festival of the year returns this coming March as we celebrate 28 years of hosting the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour here in St. Louis in 2020.

This international traveling festival celebrates the most inspiring action, environmental and adventure films from the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival each year in Banff, Alberta. Each year, we also get a little more inspired to discover something about ourselves through the spirit of adventure.

Join us for two nights of inspiration and adventure on March 25 and 26 at the The Sheldon – in the Grand Center Arts District of St. Louis. Completely different films each night!

Tickets are available here!

March 25 Program

  • The Flip3 minutes – Fun, BASE jumping show opener.
  • Camel Finds Water8 minutes – A creatively made buddy/road trip/surf film.
  • The Motivator5 minutes – A middle-aged mother shares her passion for outdoor activity with her adult son.
  • Life of Pie12 minutes – Up-beat film jammed with great mountain biking, delicious pizza and an inclusive message.
  • Spectre Expedition – Mission Antarctica36 minutes – Classic adventure/journey film to the world’s most remote mountain.
  • INTERMISSION
  • The Imaginary Line11 minutes – An American/Mexican team bridge the Rio Grand Canyon by highline in a symbolic gesture of friendship.
  • Siblings3 minutes – Cheerful shout-out to the life-long joys of cycling.
  • The Long River Home20 minutes – Moving story of three American veterans taking on Grand Canyon’s Colorado River by kayak.
  • Lhotse23 minutes – Two American ski mountaineers attempt to be the first team to ski the treacherous Lhotse Couloir.
  • Hors Piste6 minutes – Hilarious animated send-up of macho mountain rescue professionals.
  • Total film time = 127 minutes

March 26 Program

  • Surfer Dan8 minutes – A cold-water surfer braves the icy waters of Lake Superior in this funny opening film.
  • Safe Haven8 minutes – A climbing gym in inner-city Memphis serves as a safe and encouraging community gathering place.
  • Circle of the Sun5 minutes – Norway’s Lofoten Islands shine in this poetic short film featuring Austrian free skier Lene Stoffel.
  • Into the Canyon45 minutes – Two journalists barely survive a 750 mile hike through Grand Canyon. This year’s strongest long film.
  • INTERMISSION
  • Charge5 minutes – Four freeskiers plow through deep British Columbian powder in this exciting POV ski short.
  • Gone Tomorrow – Kentucky Ice Climbing20 minutes – Irreverent take on ice climbing In Kentucky, (uncut and bleeped versions available).
  • The Ladakh Project13 minutes – A young Frenchwoman tackles a massive Himalayan river by kayak… solo.
  • Reel Rock 13: Up to Speed21 minutes – A funny and fast-paced primer on the new Olympic sport of speed climbing.
  • Danny Daycare4 minutes – This year’s best closing film. Leaves the whole audience laughing and smiling on their way out.
  • Total film time = 129 minutes

Tickets are available here!

* Please note: Films may be changed at any time.

Alpine Shop’s Top 10 2019 Unique Holiday Gifts

We take pride in offering the best brands in adventure gear, along with fashionable clothing and unique gifts your friends and family will love. From paddlers to cyclists, pros to novices, we offer practical gear for every skill level. We also stock sweaters, scarves, and socks for those who prefer sipping hot chocolate by the fire. We considered our featured items and top sellers as we put together this list of our top ten holiday gifts. If you haven’t visited Alpine Shop this season, now is the perfect time to check off every item on your list! 

1. The Chimayo Fringed Jacquard Throw by Pendleton 

You can’t go wrong with a Pendleton. These blankets have been symbols of respect and friendship for over 100 years. Now, you can give the gift of warmth and iconic style when you present your loved one with a Pendleton blanket. This wool throw is vivid and warm, and it’s perfect for any lover of Boho or Southwest style. 

2. The Ever-Useful Hydro Flask   

You mean you don’t have one yet? 

You may not be a VSCO girl, but that doesn’t mean you can’t benefit from a Hydro Flask. Why are they so popular? It may be because their double wall vacuum insulation keeps liquids icy cold for up to 24 hours, or steaming hot for up to 12 hours. Trust us: you’ll be amazed at how functional these little water bottles really are. Plus, Hydro Flask products are all BPA-free, recyclable, and backed by a lifetime warranty. 

We also have Hydro Flask wine tumblers for the girl who just likes to rosé all day. 

3. The DoubleNest Hammock 

Our DoubleNest Hammock is on sale! Once you take this customer and staff favorite camping, you’ll never want to leave the house without it. Light, soft, and strong, these hammocks pack small and set up quickly, perfect for whenever you want to kick back. The hiker or camper in your life will love it. 

4. The Yeti Cooler 

Admit it. You’ve always wanted a Yeti cooler. Now’s your chance to go big and surprise the camper or sports fan in your life with this Tundra 45. It’s perfect for shorter trips, with lots of room inside but compact enough to be carried by one person. The lid and base are indestructible, and the insulation will keep your drinks – or the catch of the day – cold for days. A Yeti is guaranteed to be the last cooler you’ll ever need to purchase.    

5. Urban Cycling Guide 

Is someone on your list curious about joining the cycling community? Help them get started with this guide: Urban Cycling. In this helpful manual, author and urban-cycler Madi Carlson gives accessible and appealing guidance for even the most hesitant bicyclist. Help your loved one make a New Year’s resolution they’ll truly love sticking with.  

6. Phone Tote/Camping Accessories

Give your paddler or adventurer something he or she can really use: a waterproof tote! With this handy accessory, campers can store small valuables and text, talk, and surf on their device without having to worry about rain, sand, or other debris. This Gecko product is simply a must for paddlers and hikers. Another handy must-have? Pair your drybag with this headlamp.  

7. Backpack Games

Keep the kids busy on that long trip to grandma’s, or on your next family camping trip! All of our backpack games are currently on sale, so whether you prefer a game of chess at the campsite or disk golf at the park, we’ve got you covered. 

8. All-In-One Headwear

These headwear products by Buff are hugely popular. Some of the folks in our shop swear by them. Use them to keep your hair back or stay cool on a strenuous hike, there are a dozen ways to wear them, and they dry quickly while giving you great sun protection.   

9. Camelbak Water Pack 

Anyone who owns a Camelbak knows how essential these packs can be on a long hike! Models like this one are currently on sale. Lightweight and versatile, this pack holds 1.5 liters of water with extra room for snacks and layers. Don’t let this great deal pass you by!

10. An Arcteryx Jacket 

The final item on our list is a staff favorite. We all have one version or other of the Arcteryx jacket, and we can recommend any one you like! For warmth, stretch, durability, and ruggedness, there’s nothing better. Give one to the one you love most this holiday!  

Shop Online or Visit Our Store for More Great Deals this Holiday 

It was hard to pick just ten! If you’re interested in adventure gear or outdoor favorites, shop online or visit Alpine Shop. Our staff will be happy to suggest a few more of our favorites! 

Third Largest Amateur Adventure Race in U.S. Takes Place in STL Tomorrow.

For the 14th year, the Osprey Packs Castlewood 8-Hour Adventure Race will explore southwest St. Louis county on Saturday, December 7. This sold out event will feature more than 300 people representing 100 different teams in seven different categories of teams tackling a mix of trekking, mountain biking and paddling.

Held on the first Saturday of December every year, the 8-Hour is a multi-sport, off-road, team event with no marked course. Teams must use a map and compass to navigate their way through a series of checkpoints on foot, bikes and canoes to reach the finish line. Teams anticipate covering 5-10 miles of paddling, 15-20 miles of biking and 5-10 miles on foot.

Racers paddle the Meramec River on the 2018 Osprey Packs Castlewood 8-Hour Race.

Teams will find out today, Friday, December 6, where they will start and finish. Part of the excitement with an adventure race like this is that the entire course changes each year and participants will only find out what they’re expected to tackle – including start times – when they pick up their packets at Alpine Shop Kirkwood today.

An event that appeals to both expert adventure racers and beginners alike, the Osprey Packs Castlewood 8-Hour Adventure Race is the largest adventure race in Missouri and the third-largest in America. Since purchasing the event from Bonk Hard Racing in 2015, Alpine Shop has grown the event from 175 participants to 300 annually.

The top contenders for 2019 include:

4-Person Coed Division: The entire 2018 podium returns for 2019!
Alpine Shop (winningest team in race’s history, division runner-up in 2018),
40 Down (division champs in 2018),
Off The Front (division 3rd place in 2018)

4-Person Male:
Bittersweet Kitchen (division champs in 2018)

2-Person Co-Ed: The entire 2018 podium returns for 2019!
Gary Busey’s Teeth (division 3rd place in 2018),
Tiny Trail Ninjas (division champs in 2018, former owners of Bonk Hard Racing),
In Our Element (married couple, division runner-up in 2018)

2-Person Male:
Toporadicals,
Skeletal Pursuit (overall champs 2018),
Young & Shifty + Old & Nifty (rookie division champs 2018)

Teams of interest:
Team HAHA (team is 2 married couples who are neighbors, all first-time adventure racers)
Legion of Mild Inconvenience (friends and co-workers at Boeing)
Meat Science (captain is local butcher Chris Bolyard)
Don’t Check My Camelback (Kuat Racks founder Luke Kuschmeader and friends)
Happy Campers (Christine has been a volunteer for 2 years, recently engaged to teammate John)
& EIGHT FAMILY TEAMS!!!

The North Face Customer Appreciation Day

Join us this Saturday, December 7, at all Alpine Shop and The Pathfinder locations as we celebrate The North Face Customer Appreciation Day from 10 am until 5 pm. All stores will have beer, wine, soft drinks and water available for all customers, compliments of The North Face.

Love all things The North Face? (And really, who doesn’t?) You’ll want to be in the store on this day. We’ll have TNF branded wine glasses and Sili-pints on-hand for you to choose from with any TNF purchase of any price. If you spend more than a $150 on TNF product, you could also choose a TNF fanny pack for your gift with purchase. Offer good while supplies last.

Plus, we also have three TNF packs we’ll be giving away. You could win either a Heritage Duffel, Heritage Tote Pack or Heritage Lumbar Pack. No purchase is necessary. Just sign up (one entry per person, please) at the Customer Appreciation table

The Photo booth should be a blast!

Our Kirkwood location will also have a The North Face photo booth on hand to have fun with along side our local vendor rep (and former Alpine Shop manager) Peter Carleton.

We also have to thank The North Face for their involvement with the 2019 Off-Road Racing League. After this Saturday’s Castlewood 8-Hour Adventure Race, TNF will be giving away a complete campsite set-up to one lucky participant from last year’s series of races. If you’re interested in having some fun with us in 2020, check out www.offroadracingleague.com for information on next year’s events!

See you this Saturday, December 7, 2019 for The North Face Customer Appreciation Day!

Give Back on Giving Tuesday

Over the past decade, Alpine Shop has raised over $100,000 for local area organizations thanks to the generosity of our loyal customers and the help of many of our vendors.

This Giving Tuesday, we ask for you to consider helping to support some of these organizations one more time in 2019.

There are a number of options to consider, including Missouri Stream Team, which is the one Missouri-based organization that is being supported by Patagonia during their Black Friday Gift of Giving Donation Match on Patagonia Works. (Missouri Stream Team is a state-wide organization whose director happens to live in Shelbina, Mo. That’s why the organization doesn’t show up around St. Louis.) In Kansas, The Land Institute in Salina, Kan., is the closest organization to our shop in Manhattan, Kan.

Patagonia will match all donations made through Patagonia Action Works between now and December 31, 2019 (to a maximum of $10,000,000) to specific organizations throughout the country. In Missouri, Missouri Stream Team, an organization Alpine Shop has worked with for years, is the main beneficiary. In Kansas, The Land Institute based in Salina, Kan., is the main beneficiary.

To donate, and to make sure the organizations receive the matching donation from Patagonia, please visit Patagonia Action Works before December 31 to make your pledge.

If you’re interested in supporting some of the other wonderful organizations that we work with throughout the year, below you’ll find a list, along with links to their websites.

Cardinal Glennon Children’s Foundation

Disabled Athelete Sports Association (DASA)

Gateway Disabled Ski Program

Gateway Off-Road Cyclists

Great Rivers Greenway

Missouri River Relief

Missouri Whitewater Association

One Warm Coat

Open Space Council

Ozark Trail Association

Sierra Club

Saint Louis BicycleWorks

Stray Rescue of Saint Louis

Team River Runner – St. Louis

Trailnet

Wildlife Rescue Center

World Bird Sanctuary