The West Mountain Factory

by Rob Lu / Sep 05, 2024
The West Mountain Factory

A Small Maine Company

 

Back in 1972, Winterstick founders Dimitrije Milovich and Wayne Stoveken filed for the patent on what we now know as the modern snowboard, making Winterstick the oldest name in snowboarding. The current iteration of Winterstick took shape in 2016 when we restored the West Mountain Lift Barn at Sugarloaf Mountain and transformed it into our factory. Since then, we have worked tirelessly to craft the best snowboards possible and foster growth from our slopeside factory.

 

However, the Winter of 2023/24 reminded us just how dependent our industry is on the weather, with significant snowfall not arriving until late in the season. With future winters looking increasingly unpredictable, we've had to carefully reassess our operations and expenses.

 

Our Decision

 

In early 2024, we decided to take control of our destiny, shifting our focus from chasing ideal conditions to doubling down on what we do best: crafting exceptional snowboards. This shift has allowed us to streamline our operations, concentrating our efforts on quality over quantity. With our dedicated team of three, we're more focused than ever on producing snowboards that embody our passion for craftsmanship and excellence.

 

We are also committed to building a strong relationship with our customers through transparency and fair pricing. Consistent, fair pricing means you know exactly what you're paying for, without the need for inflated prices to cover temporary discounts. As a result, we will be offering minimal discounts on our snowboards moving forward.

 

Due to our small team, our manufacturing turnaround times may be longer than usual this year. We want to be transparent about this so you can plan accordingly. Rest assured, every board we produce will be worth the wait.

 

For those who want to hit the slopes sooner, we have a selection of snowboards in stock and ready to ship. These boards have been crafted with the same care and attention to detail as our custom orders, and they’re available without the wait. Check out our current inventory, and you might just find the perfect board ready to join you on your next adventure. Inventory is limited, so make sure to act fast if you are looking for a board for the first snow.

 

As a small team, every purchase directly supports our ability to continue doing what we love—creating premium snowboards. If a new snowboard isn't in the cards for this year, a great way to show your support for Winterstick is by purchasing our apparel. Every purchase, big or small, makes a difference in supporting our team and the brand so we can continue crafting the snowboards you love.

 

We know discounts can be appealing, but we believe that our commitment to quality, transparency, and our dedicated team is what truly sets us apart. We appreciate your understanding and continued support.

  

Thank you for riding with Winterstick. 

 

Rob Lu

President & Engineer