Shopping here I was reminded again why shopping at local stores especially with knowledgeable staff is so important. I was looking for a pair of cross country skis in an effort to mix up my indoor winter cycling training. I called the store and was greeted with someone was able and willing to talk to me about my options, over the phone! I went in the next day and had similar conversation with other staff member. In both instances they very helpful and attentive and helped me find something that would suit my both my current skill levels and goals in this activity. As an aside it is difficult to find stores that sell cross county skis. Now as a comparison I did venture into MEC weeks prior as I work nearby but was met several times with staff having little knowledge in there stock and cross country skiing. MEC was different 20 years ago, perhaps an effect of growing too big.
In the end I happily purchased a pair of cross country boots, skis, poles etc. at Velotique and will be back tomorrow to do the same for my wife. By the way, I place huge importance on purchasing from small bike stores but I did check online prices on after my purchase and they are in line with what was out there, as I suspected, so I would highly recommend this store.