Hi Seattle! My name is Lauren, and I’ve been working at Mountain to Sound Outfitters since this past September. But I’m not new to this community. I’m a West Seattle native. I grew up near the Fauntleroy ferry dock, attending M2S ski swaps and skiing at Crystal Mountain.
Growing up here, I loved having access to a local ski shop. Mountain to Sound Outfitters is more than just a retailer. It is at the heart of Seattle’s skiing community. After several months working here, I’m now asking for your support.
I love this shop, and I know I’m not the only one. Small businesses like ours depend on your help to keep going. I want M2S to be here long after I’m gone, not just because I care about the incredible people who run it, but because I want future generations to have the same chance to grow up renting from a store that puts community first and encourages people to get outside.
I’ll be honest, it has been a tough winter, and without your support we are in a tricky spot. So here is my plea: please support local. Shop local.
Need a few more reasons why? I have thought up a couple. Keep reading to see why keeping local businesses alive matters for all of us.
1. Support Your Local Economy Every dollar you spend stays closer to home. That means helping local employees, other small businesses, and community services thrive.
2. Get Expert Advice Our team doesn’t just sell gear, we use it. Whether it’s skis, boards, or paddle gear, we know what works and can give you real, experience-backed recommendations. I mean honestly, I’ve skied almost every ski we have on our wall.
3. Find Unique Gear We carry products and brands you won’t find at big-box stores. That means more options that fit your needs, style, and adventure.
4. Build Community Your support helps fund local events, demos, and workshops. From ski demo days to gear clinics, shopping local keeps our outdoor community strong.
5. Make a Smaller Environmental Impact Shopping locally reduces shipping and often means access to more sustainable, responsibly sourced gear.
When you choose Mountain to Sound Outfitters, you’re supporting your passions, and your community.
Come check us out! We have crazy deals on almost everything in-store, including outerwear, skis and boards, shop services, and more. Thanks for keeping local businesses and outdoor adventures thriving!
Let’s clear something up right away: PNW skiers don’t tune more because we’re uppity about our gear.
We tune more because our snow eats skis.
If you ski places like Stevens Pass, Crystal Mountain, or Mount Baker Ski Area, you’re riding in one of the most aggressive snow climates in North America. Warm storms. Wet snow. Constant temperature swings. Overnight refreeze. Mid-day slush. Surprise rain.
Your bases and edges feel every single one of those.
Here’s why frequently tuning isn’t over-the-top in the Cascades — it’s just basic survival.
The real reason PNW snow is harder on your skis
Most of the Pacific Northwest sits in a maritime snow pack. That means:
higher moisture content
warmer storm temps
heavier, denser snow
and way more freeze–thaw cycles
That combo does two things really well:
It sucks wax out of your base faster
It oxidizes and rusts your edges faster
Dry Rocky Mountain powder is fluffy and forgiving. Cascade snow is… damp, abrasive, and complicated.
You can literally see it after a few storm days:
bases start to look grey and chalky
edges get that light orange haze
your skis suddenly feel slow for no obvious reason
That’s not in your head. That’s your base drying out.
Why warm-temp wax actually matters here
In colder climates, you can get away with:
“Eh, I waxed a few weeks ago.”
In Western Washington, warm and universal waxes get destroyed quickly because the snow has more free water in it.
When your base is dry:
it absorbs more moisture
creates more suction
and feels like you’re skiing through wet cardboard
A fresh hot wax in our conditions isn’t about speed records — it’s about:
glide in sticky snow
less fatigue
and way less base damage over the season
If you only tune once a year, the PNW will humble you.
Base structure is quietly doing a ton of work
This is one of the biggest “behind-the-scenes” tuning differences for our region.
Structure isn’t just a race thing.
The tiny grooves cut into your base help channel water away from the ski. In wet snow, that water layer is what creates suction.
Too smooth of a base + wet snow = that slow, grabby feeling on flats and run outs.
In the PNW, the right structure:
keeps glide consistent in heavy snow
helps when the snow goes from soft to mashed potatoes by noon
and actually makes a bigger difference than most people expect
This is one of the reasons we structure skis differently here than shops in colder, drier climates.
Rusted edges aren’t just cosmetic
If you ski in the Cascades, you already know: you can park wet skis in your garage overnight and wake up to rust.
That surface rust:
dulls your effective edge
makes early-season and firm days sketchier than they need to be
and shortens the life of the edge if it’s never cleaned up
A quick edge refresh:
removes corrosion
resets your bite
and keeps your skis from feeling “drifty” on firm mornings
Especially important when you’re bouncing between: storm snow one day, refrozen groomers the next.
Why mid-season tunes aren’t overkill here
A lot of skiers still think in terms of pre-season tune and end-of-season tune.
In our climate, the real-world cadence usually looks more like:
hot wax every few weeks of riding
structure and edge refresh mid-season
and then a full end-of-season cleanup
Not because your gear is fragile — because the environment is not.
Wet snow plus dirty spring snow is especially brutal on bases.
If you ski consistently, your gear will absolutely tell you when it needs love.
This is exactly why we run hot wax nights
We started our hot wax nights at Mountain to Sound because a lot of people told us the same thing:
“I want to take better care of my gear… I just don’t know where to start.”
Tuning feels weirdly gatekept but it doesn’t need to be.
Our goal isn’t to turn everyone into a race tech, it’s to help people understand:
what a dry base actually looks like
how to safely hot wax at home
how to scrape and brush properly
and when it makes more sense to let the shop handle structure and edges
It’s cheaper in the long run, your skis ride better, and you stop putting off maintenance until something feels broken.
The short version
If you ski in the Pacific Northwest:
your bases dry out faster
your edges rust faster
your glide is more sensitive to wax choice
and structure matters more than you probably think
Tuning here isn’t about being fancy.
It’s about matching your gear to one of the wettest, warmest, weirdest snow packs in the country — and making sure your skis survive it.
And honestly?
Your legs will thank you on the flats.
If you want to learn how to take care of your gear at home, keep an eye on the Events page on our website for upcoming clinics and hot wax nights.
And if you would rather leave it to the pros, our certified techs are here to help with hot waxes, edge work, base grinds, repairs, and more to keep your skis and boards riding their best.
Swing by your local shop and say hey. Here’s to our real winter just getting started.
West Seattle is one of the Pacific Northwest’s best-kept secrets, where salty sea air, sweeping waterfront views, and laid-back neighborhoods come together. With sandy beaches, forested parks, and miles of scenic trails, this corner of Seattle offers endless ways to get outside and soak up the Emerald City’s natural beauty. Whether you’re craving adventure or just want a slow day by the water, West Seattle has something for everyone. Here’s a closer look at some of the top outdoor activities in the area, with a special spotlight on Alki Kayak Tours.
1. Kayaking at Alki Beach
Kayaking is one of the best ways to experience West Seattle, and Alki Kayak Tours makes it easy to get out on the water. Located right on Alki Beach, they offer guided tours for all experience levels, from first-time paddlers to seasoned kayakers. As you glide across Elliott Bay, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Seattle skyline, the Olympic Mountains, and local wildlife like seals and seabirds. Their knowledgeable guides enhance the experience by sharing stories about the area’s history, marine life, and coastal ecology.
2. Strolling Along Alki Beach
Alki Beach is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Walk along the shoreline, relax on the sand, or bring a picnic and settle in for the afternoon. The paved waterfront path is ideal for walking or jogging, all while taking in sweeping views of Puget Sound and downtown Seattle.
3. Biking the Alki Bike Path
The Alki Bike Path is a must for cyclists. This scenic waterfront route offers a mostly flat, relaxed ride with constant views of the water and city skyline. It is perfect for solo rides, family outings, or cruising with friends, with plenty of places to stop and enjoy the scenery along the way.
4. Skating Along the Waterfront
The smooth Alki path is also a popular spot for skaters. Whether you are on roller skates, inline skates, or a skateboard, the waterfront offers an energizing way to experience the beach. Add in the ocean breeze, passing boats, and lively atmosphere, and it is easy to see why this is a local favorite.
5. Exploring Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is West Seattle’s largest park and a true urban escape. Spanning more than 135 acres, it features forested trails, open meadows, picnic areas, and waterfront access. It is a great destination for families, casual walkers, or anyone looking for a peaceful break in nature. During the summer, the saltwater pool is a major draw for locals.
6. Hiking West Seattle’s Trails
For a quieter outdoor experience, West Seattle’s hiking trails deliver. The Fauntleroy Park Trail winds through lush forest and offers varied terrain for hikers of all levels. Schmitz Preserve Park is another standout, with towering old-growth trees and serene paths that feel far removed from the city.
Highlight: Alki Kayak Tours
Alki Kayak Tours is a standout outdoor experience in West Seattle, combining adventure, education, and incredible scenery. Their guided tours prioritize safety and fun, ensuring that paddlers feel confident and comfortable on the water. Tour options range from relaxed daytime paddles to memorable sunset tours, when the city lights begin to glow and the surrounding landscape takes on a warm evening tone.
West Seattle is full of outdoor opportunities that invite you to explore, unwind, and connect with nature. From kayaking Elliott Bay with Alki Kayak Tours to biking, skating, and hiking along the waterfront and forest trails, there is no shortage of ways to enjoy this vibrant corner of the Emerald City. Get outside, breathe in the sea air, and experience everything West Seattle has to offer.
10/8/2024 By Greg Whittaker Mountain to Sound Outfitters
Winter is coming! It’s time to gear up people. If you’re new to skiing, or are outfitting an entire family, it can be quite daunting on the pocketbook. Well, there are some tricks and tips to make it more palatable that I would like to share with you.
I am firmly in the camp of supporting independent shops when it comes to specialty endeavours. You get the experts helping you that know the local areas and the gear and genuinely have stoke. Local shops also will give you service bonuses that you do not get online. For example at our shop, Mountain to Sound Outfitters, if you buy a pair of skis and ski bindings, we will comp the mount and give you a hot wax as well. That’s over $100 in services that you will need to pay for when you bring your “online deal” into the same shop to get mounted.
If you have a couple of kids you are also gearing up there are tricks to that and it may be worth getting new gear for your oldest child assuming you can pass it down. Unisex models, if you have boys and girls, are a good idea. You can pass down gear to the younger child, and usually get at least 2 years worth of gear out of a purchase, sometimes 3/4 depending on the kids.
If you are just dipping your toes into the amazing sport of skiing or have just one growing kid, I recommend going with Seasonal Ski and Snowboard Rentals, otherwise known as a season lease. This enables you to return the gear after the season and spend far less than purchasing an entire new setup. If you have done seasonal lease in the past, and are ready to start to invest, the first and most important piece of gear for any skier is the boots. Work with a boot fitter to get the right fit for your needs. Ski and snowboard boots fit differently than your street shoes, so don’t assume anything and let the artist do their job. You can’t get a haircut online, and you can’t get a boot fitting online either, so I recommend not trying, just go to your local shop.
Annual ski swaps are also a thing. We are holding our Community Ski and Snowboard Swap October 12-13th in West Seattle. and its a great way to gear up the family or to cash out on gear you no longer use. Its a great way to put together a setup, but you do need to be careful you dont overbuy for your skill. Just because a boot fits, doesnt mean its the right boot for you, a high flexing boot (130) on a 90 lb teenager can lead to disaster, so check in with the swap staff as you look at things. There are also compatibility issues that can arise. With different soles on boots, you need to make sure they do work together with the bindings on the ski. There are risks as well as rewards available when you go to the local ski swap, but they also are fun and you get to meet like minded winter people so even if you dont pick up anything, its always a good idea to go. Plan on having your bindings worked on after getting your new setup as well as getting a ski or board tuneup prior to riding as they are essential to helping that gear function properly.
Living in a vibrant community and having easy access to the mountains is one reason many of us live here in the Pacific NW. Get up to the freedom of the hills, and get up and make the most of the winter that is coming. Its healthier and can help keep you happier if you have something to look forward to when it is 46 degrees and raining for days on end!
Spring has officially arrived, and we are busily preparing for the West Seattle Boat Swap on May 4th! This can’t miss community event is a great opportunity to buy and sell human powered watercraft (Kayaks, SUPs, Canoes) and paddle accessories. If you’re eagerly anticipating hitting the water, we’ve put together a convenient checklist of 6 essential tasks to tackle beforehand, ensuring you make the most of your first day out on the water.
1. Come See us at Alki Kayak Tours (AKT) and Mountain to Sound Outfitters
Are you new to paddle sports and can’t make it to the Boat Swap? If so, check out our on-water rental and instructional facility, Alki Kayak Tours. If you’re ready to buy a kayak or stand up paddleboard (SUP), you can check out our inventory on our website then come see us at the store for more information.
2. Inspect your Gear
Don’t forget to get your gear out of storage and inspect it well before you plan to get out to paddle. If your kayak has been stored outdoors throughout the winter without a cockpit cover, it’s crucial to ensure that no critters have made themselves at home inside. Remember to inspect your paddle as well. Pay close attention to the shaft, particularly if you have a paddle that can be disassembled as this area tends to show signs of wear first.
3. Give Your Gear the Tune-Up it Deserves
If you don’t have the time or energy to give your gear a thorough cleaning, then make an appointment for our Boat Cleaning and Tuning Service that includes the following:
– Pressure washing to remove dirt and grime
– A comprehensive cleaning and detailing of the interior of the vessel
– Application of a 303 protective sun coating for the season
4. Ready Your Gear for Transportation
Don’t get stuck scrambling to find your paddle sports transport gear on the first good paddle day of the season. Whether you need to reinstall your roof rack, retrieve those tie-downs that have been stowed away since last fall, or research new transport options, be sure to get that work done well in advance.
5. Prepare Your Dry Bag
It’s a wise move to find your dry bag, empty its contents, and get everything organized. We recommend restocking your salty snacks, packing extra layers, and ensuring that your headlamp and radio have fresh batteries or are fully charged. Additionally, it’s essential to have a well-stocked first aid kit, a backup water bottle, and sunscreen on hand for your paddling excursion.
6. Safety Considerations
Paddlers in Washington are required by law to have a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) and whistle accessible at all times. So, give your PFD a good once-over to make sure it’s still up to snuff in case you take an unexpected dip this season. If you need to refresh your rescue skills, you can register for a course at AKT and if you need to upgrade your equipment, we can help you out at Mountain to Sound Outfitters.
If you’re a snowboarder who has been thinking about buying a new board or upgrading your setup this year, we’re here to help you out. We just put together some discounted snowboard packages, which you can shop on our website. We’ve also compiled a staff favorites list of of snowboard recommendations. If you’re looking for more recommendations for the skier or snowboarder in your life, come see us. We love to talk about everything skiing and snowboarding.
Luke & Lib Tech Lib Rig Snowboard
Luke says the Lib Tech Lib Rig Snowboard is the dopest all-mountain b oard that holds up in powder that we carry. Whether you’re carving down groomed trails or tackling backcountry powder, the Lib Tech Lib Rig excels in various terrains. Its versatile design allows riders to confidently navigate different snow conditions, providing a versatile and enjoyable experience for riders of all levels. Luke would pair this board with Union Strata Bindings, which balance performance, comfort, and style.
Shannon & Arbor Ethos Rocker Snowboard
Shannon is huge fan of the Arbor Ethos Rocker Snowboard. This board is not just a piece of equipment; it’s a statement of passion and a commitment to an exceptional snowboarding experience. Crafted with a women-specific design, this board features the Arbor System Rocker, providing a surfy and forgiving feel that’s perfect for riders looking to progress their skills. The medium-soft flex ensures a playful ride, making it an ideal choice for all levels of riders. Shannon would pair this board with Bent Metal Metta Bindings.
Greg & Arbor Element Camber Snowboard
If you catch Greg on the mountain without his skis, he’ll be riding the Arbor Element Camber Snowboard. This mountain twin board is super versatile and excels when ridden by someone who likes to roam all over the resort. Greg recommends Union Flite Pro Bindings for this board as they are a key component in unlocking your full potential. The combination of a lightweight chassis and a soft flex ensures you will be comfortable riding anywhere on the mountain.
Rylie & Salomon Wonder Snowboard
The Salomon Wonder Snowboard is the board that Rylie recommends most to customers. She has gotten feedback from Wonder riders that it hits the sweet spot of being a great board to learn on (they claim to never catch an edge!) but also a great board to progress on that will easily tackle more intermediate terrain. Salomon Rhythm Bindings orUnion Juliet Bindings would pair well with this board for a great package that you can enjoy all over the mountain and for years to come.
With snow in the forecast and demo skis available to try out at Mountain to Sound, this is a great time to think about upgrading. We asked the Mountain to Sound staff what they would pick if they could have anything they wanted from the store. This is what they had to say. If you need more recommendations for the skier or snowboarder in your life, come see us. We love to talk about skiing and snowboarding.
Jessie & Black Crows Atris Skis
My favorite ski this year is the Black Crows Atris. From icy groomers to deep powder, this ski consistently performs! It is an incredibly playful yet hard charging ski; it is a great one ski quiver for the Pacific Northwest! Mount these with Marker Kingpin Bindings or Look Pivot 15 Bindings and you’ll be set.
Laurie & Nordica Unleashed 98 Skis
The Nordica Unleashed 98 is my favorite ski this year! It’s an easy turning ski, a relaxed ride in firm conditions and ready for that special powder day. Pair these with a Marker Griffon binding and you’ve got a true all-mountain ski for our mountains.
Koa & Salomon QST 106 Skis
The Salomon QST 106 is a BEAST. It feels extremely stable both on groomers and in powder, without sacrificing too much weight. It also sets you up for each turn almost automatically. Put some Salomon Warden 13 bindings on them and hit the resorts or throw on a Salomon MTN PURE touring binding and adventure into the backcountry. If you’re looking for a one ski quiver and a ski that does it all, the Salomon One-oh-Six is the ski for you!
Rylie & Black Crows Camox Birdie Skis
The Black Crows Camox Birdie Skis are my pick this year! This ski is extremely playful and forgiving. Their mid-waist makes them great for all terrains and come in lighter than most other all-mountain skis. They are fun and deliver a smooth easy ride at speed. Pair these with Marker Squire 11 bindings and you’ll have a great setup.
6/24/2021 By Greg Whittaker Mountain to Sound Outfitters
Dear Customers,
As many of you are aware, we are having challenges providing accurate product availability and shipping estimates for our paddlesports gear. Given the disruption that the pandemic has caused globally, we are seeing constantly shifting manufacturing dates from our vendors and chronic delays in the shipping of these items. Please know that our staff are working diligently to get the most up to date information about product availability. We know this causes a lot of stress for you and your plans, and we are very sorry for this and ask for your patience as we work through these challenges and the disruption this may cause you. Thank you for your partnership and continued support.
In the meantime gear up with your paddle, PFD, booties, and drybag; and when you are ready to get on the water, please visit Alki Kayak Tours and enjoy some beautiful Puget Sound views. Anyone who has paid a deposit on a kayak that has been delayed in shipping can request a complimentary rental from Alki Kayak Tours by emailing our team at info@m2soutfitters.com.
Sincerely,
Greg Whittaker
For more details about the current situation, check out these sources:
West Seattle has a plethora of paddling spots – perfect for all ages. Seattle summers are a great time to get out and explore as I am sure you have been learning through your own adventures!
Let me begin by providing some additional information about Alki Kayak Tours. We are located on 1660 Harbor Ave (beside the King County Water Taxi). Our business prides itself on providing accessible paddling activities for novice – advanced kayakers/SUPers! We provide daily rentals for individuals and groups. We often have families rent kayaks from us. For our younger participants we have double kayaks which are perfect for a parent and child, as well as single kayaks that youth over 14 can paddle themselves (with an adult nearby of course).
We provide classes and tours as well, which individuals over 12 can participant in with a parent/guardian. This summer, we are also SUPer excited to begin our Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) Community Paddle Nights which your family may be interested in. Every Monday from 6-8pm, we are providing 1/2 price rentals for SUPs as well as a free group guided paddle with a staff member. Anyone is welcome to bring their own board and join us at no cost. Our goal is to build a community of local paddlers here at Alki! For more information on our company, you can visit our website: www.kayakalki.com.
Here at Alki Kayak Tours, we launch at Seacrest Park. Almost all of our rentals, tours, and classes take place in Elliot Bay. We love the area because of its calmer waters, beautiful city views, and the abundant wildlife. Seacrest Park is actually a public launching area though and therefore popular for many kayakers, SUPers, and divers.
Other great Elliot Bay launches are Alki Beach, Constellation Park (by the Lighthouse), and Lowman Beach (near Lincoln Park). Just outside of West Seattle, Andrews Bay (launch at Seward Park), is very tranquil and beginner friendly.
Before embarking on any outdoor adventure, it is vital to pre-plan. We strongly recommend scouting the area before you start your paddle. Pay attention to the 4 W’s: Water, Weather, Wind, and Waves.
The Puget Sound water is never warmer than 55 degrees – even in the summer. We recommend always wearing and packing extra layers. Personally, I prefer a wetsuit, and we offer these to students in our kayak and SUP classes since they will be spending time in the water. We sell a variety of wetsuit options for youth – adults at our sister store Mountain to Sound Outfitters.
It is also vital to pay attention to the weather. Check before you leave home and continue to monitor while you are in your boat. Weather Underground (Seattle, WA Weather Conditions | Weather Underground (wunderground.com) ) or Accuweather are great resources, and will not only tell you the temperature and precipitation, but also the wind.
Here at Alki, the wind can significantly affect conditions – especially if it is from the North. We typically consider the appearance of whitecaps on the water in conjunction with high winds as unsafe conditions for family/beginner paddlers. Tides are also an important consideration, and there are multiple apps to keep track of the daily tides. I utilize “Tides Near Me.”
Lastly, there are few essential supplies, we encourage participants to never leave home without. Always pack water, salty snacks, a first aid kit, extra layers, good water shoes, map, and radio/cell phone. It is required by law to wear a life jacket and have a whistle accessible at all times. There are always safety considerations for outdoor fun. However, with proper planning and research – paddling is a perfect family adventure!
3/4/2021 By Greg Whittaker Mountain to Sound Outfitters
It’s never too early to start thinking about paddle season. Here are some hints and tips for first time kayak buyers. If you still have questions after reading this, you can make an appointment to come talk to our staff.
Paddle Safely!
Dress for the swim – the worst swim that could happen. Stay near shore if you’re not dressed for extended immersion
Use good judgment – it’s your most important safety gear
Always wear your PFD snugly – you can’t adjust it after you fall in!
Mountain to Sound Outfitters 