Our Story
Tracks in Time: The Ski Service Story
1972
Since 1972, Ski Service Verbier has been dedicated to providing exceptional ski rentals and outstanding customer service in the heart of one of the world’s most iconic ski resorts.
Founded by Jack Kregas and Dale Anderson out of a garage, the business served tourists in the early package holiday groups. With a vision to bring high-quality equipment and a personalised experience to every skier, Ski Service grew alongside Verbier, evolving from a small shop into a leading destination for both winter and summer mountain adventures.
In the early days, Ski Service was a modest operation with a handful of rental skis, but it quickly gained a reputation for quality service, expert knowledge, and a genuine passion for alpine sports.
Visitors appreciated the personalised guidance offered by our team, who ensured that everyone—from beginners to experienced skiers—was well-equipped and confident to take on the slopes.
This focus on tailored service and premium equipment has been a cornerstone of our identity from the beginning.
1975
By 1975, Ski Service had become a trusted name in Verbier, serving tourists in the early package holiday groups. Jack Kregas and Dale Anderson tirelessly worked to expand their offerings, bringing new brands to the region.
Sourcing equipment often required international efforts, as was the case with Powderhorn, which they introduced from the USA. Their dedication to personalised service and top-quality gear laid the foundation for the shop’s growing reputation.
1979
As Verbier’s popularity increased in the late 1970s, Ski Service evolved to meet the needs of a diverse clientele. By 1979, the shop had established itself as a leader in the local alpine sports community. Skiers and snowboarders of all levels appreciated the growing inventory and the team’s commitment to ensuring each customer was well-prepared to enjoy the slopes. This period solidified Ski Service’s role as a cornerstone of Verbier’s winter sports scene.
Designs from the vaults
1982
By the early 1980s, Ski Service had firmly established itself as a cornerstone of Verbier’s ski scene. With a growing inventory and an emphasis on innovation, we became known for providing quality rentals and expert advice to help skiers and snowboarders make the most of their time on the mountain. This period marked a significant milestone as Verbier’s reputation reached international acclaim.
Le Must Des Vacances
The early 1980s marked a golden era for Verbier, blending traditional Alpine charm with the rise of international ski culture. Known as “Le Must des Vacances,” it was the ultimate destination for ski enthusiasts, symbolised by its vibrant rainbow logo.
Visitors in bold ski suits and mirrored sunglasses filled the lively slopes, while bustling rental shops and iconic wooden chalets set the scene. Cars were loaded with skis, laughter filled the air, and the iconic wooden chalets provided a warm backdrop to this vibrant winter playground.
1991
During the 1980s and 1990s, as Verbier gained recognition as a premier ski destination, Ski Service grew along with it, expanding our inventory and introducing advanced ski tuning services. This period marked our commitment to innovation, as we began incorporating the latest technology and equipment from top brands. By the time Verbier’s reputation reached an international scale, Ski Service was known for both quality rentals and exceptional service, helping visitors of all abilities make the most of their time on the mountain.
2003
The 2000s brought further advancements in skiing technology, and we kept pace, adopting digital booking systems that allowed customers to reserve equipment ahead of time.
Our focus on convenience and top-tier equipment solidified our position as Verbier’s go-to rental shop. As we embraced the digital age, we also continued refining our in-store experience with custom fittings, expert advice, and more personalised support than ever.
2014-2024
Ski Service Les Ruinettes – To Summit Up, Verbier’s One And Only Mountain-top Shop.
Opened in 2014, Ski Service Les Ruinettes was Verbier’s first and only mountain-top ski shop, located at 2,200 metres above sea level. Designed to bring convenience to new heights, the shop offered top-tier ski rentals, sales, and servicing directly on the slopes.
Its unique position at Les Ruinettes allowed skiers to maximise their time on the mountain while experiencing Ski Service’s signature quality and expertise. Though the shop is now closed, it remains a testament to Ski Service’s innovation and commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for Verbier’s skiers.
Designs from the vaults
2018 - A wheelie fresh start
In 2018, we expanded our services to include bike rentals and sales for the summer season, transforming Ski Service into a year-round destination. Offering a selection of high-quality mountain bikes and e-bikes, we provide an exciting way to experience Verbier’s stunning alpine landscapes in the warmer months.
Visitors can rent bikes for exploring scenic trails, mountain paths, and winding roads, all with the same quality of service they expect from us in the winter. This addition has been a tremendous success, strengthening our connection with customers and creating new opportunities for summer adventure in Verbier.
2022 - 50th anniversary!
In 2022, Ski Service proudly celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of dedication to quality and innovation in the mountain sports industry. Reaching this milestone has been a testament to our team’s commitment and the loyalty of our customers, who have trusted us to provide unforgettable mountain experiences for generations.
As we look to the future, we remain committed to sustainable practices and partnerships with environmentally conscious brands, ensuring that we continue to lead the way in responsible outdoor tourism.
From our beginnings as a small ski rental shop to our current role as Verbier’s premier ski and bike rental and retail destination, Ski Service continues to embrace our legacy of passion, community, and excellence.
We look forward to welcoming visitors new and old, providing them with everything they need to make lasting memories on Verbier’s legendary terrain—whether on skis, snowboards, or bikes.
Half a Century of Memories
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