It may only be October, but ski season has been on our minds here at OVAP since July. We’ve been dreaming of fresh corduroy, crisp mountain air, and the thrill of carving turns. And with the latest long-range forecasts dropping, it’s clear: winter 2025/2026 is shaping up to be one to remember.

According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, Canada can expect a winter of contrasts, with “mostly wet and mild” conditions across large areas—yet regions of western and southern Ontario are forecast to see above-normal snowfall. Meanwhile, the Farmers’ Almanac predicts a “classic Canadian winter” full of deep freezes, frequent snow, and powerful storms across much of the country. In Ontario, that means regular snowfalls and lake-effect storms could create the perfect setup for a long, powder-filled season.

So while the calendar still reads “fall,” the snow gods might already be hard at work behind the scenes. With that in mind, here’s what’s new at Ottawa Valley Air Paddle (OVAP) for 2025/2026—and how we’re helping you get ready for your best season yet.

Custom Ski Boot Fitting: Your Comfort, Perfected

This year, we’ve introduced custom ski boot fitting using our in-store boot oven system. A proper boot fit can make or break your day on the hill, and now, you can experience a truly personalized fit designed around your foot shape, skiing style, and comfort preferences.

By heat-molding your liners and adjusting fit points, our team ensures your boots feel snug and supportive without pressure points or cold toes. Whether you’re upgrading to a new pair or fine-tuning your current setup, our boot fitting service helps you ski longer, perform better, and enjoy every run.

Pro Tip: Book your custom fit early in the season so you’re ready to hit the slopes the moment the lifts start turning.

Ski Leasing Program: Flexible, Affordable, Family-Friendly

We know that outfitting a family for the season can be a big investment—especially when kids outgrow their gear so quickly. That’s why we’re thrilled to launch our OVAP Ski Leasing Program.

This program lets you lease high-quality ski or snowboard equipment for the entire season at a fraction of the cost of buying. When your child has a growth spurt mid-winter, no problem—you can come in and size up anytime at no extra cost.

It’s the perfect way to keep your family on the slopes without the stress of large, upfront gear purchases. Plus, every leased setup is professionally tuned and ready for adventure.

New Skis This Season: Atomic and Völkl

We’re proud to welcome not one, but two incredible new ski brands to OVAP this season.

Atomic joins our lineup with its reputation for precision engineering, powerful performance, and a deep commitment to innovation. From lightweight beginner skis to high-performance carving models, Atomic delivers consistent control and confidence across every type of terrain.

Right alongside them, we’re excited to introduce Völkl, a legendary name in skiing known for its German craftsmanship and remarkable balance between stability and playfulness. For skiers who love to push their limits, Völkl offers unmatched performance whether you’re charging groomers or dipping into the trees.

Both brands complement our existing lineup—HEAD, Rossignol, and Icelantic—giving you even more options to find your perfect pair.

Now Carrying K2 Snowboards: Built for Progression and Fun

We’re also thrilled to announce that K2 Snowboards have landed at OVAP! A pioneer in the snowboard world since the late ‘80s, K2 has built its reputation on creativity, durability, and a true love for the ride. Their boards are designed to help riders progress confidently, whether you’re linking your first turns or hunting for powder stashes.

From all-mountain cruisers to freestyle favourites, K2 brings new energy and style to our snowboard lineup. We couldn’t be more excited to bring this iconic brand to our community of riders this season.

Expanded Gear Selection from Brands You Love

This season, we’ve expanded our collection across every category so you can get fully outfitted in one stop:

• Downhill Skis: HEAD, Rossignol, Atomic, Völkl, Icelantic

• Cross-Country Skis: Salomon

• Snowboards: HEAD, Rossignol, K2

• Ski Boots & Snowboard Boots: Head, K2, Rossignol, Dynastar, Salomon

• Outerwear: Helly Hansen, O’Neill (including a full kids’ lineup), Daelie, Swix

• Helmets & Goggles: Smith (with MIPS protection)

• Accessories: Auclair and Kombi gloves, Bula neck warmers and hats, Dissent ski socks

• Snowshoes: Retrospec

No matter your skill level or style, we’ve got the gear to keep you comfortable, confident, and ready for winter adventure.

Safety Spotlight: The Importance of MIPS Helmets

When it comes to safety, we’re always looking for ways to help you stay protected without compromising comfort or style. This year, we’re highlighting helmets featuring MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System)—a revolutionary design that reduces rotational forces during angled impacts.

Our Smith helmets with MIPS technology offer advanced protection and comfort for skiers and snowboarders of all ages. Ask our staff to walk you through the differences and help you find the best fit for your riding style.

Get Ready for the Season

The snow is coming, and we can’t wait to help you gear up for a season full of adventure. Whether you’re leasing gear for your kids, getting a custom boot fit, or trying out a new pair of skis or a K2 snowboard, our expert team at OVAP is here to make sure you’re ready for every turn.

Visit us in Arnprior or explore our gear online at ovap.ca. Let’s make this winter your most comfortable, confident, and exciting one yet.