Contents: Features P. 38 DOWN TO BUSINESS "We wanted to build a gear shop we'd want to shop at." See page 38. THE REAL DEAL At Outdoor Gear Exchange, Mike Donohue and Marc Sherman have created an atmosphere where employees can find a sense of belonging and the time to explore outdoor passions. Working here isn't just a stepping stone to a real job. This is the real job. By Helen Olsson P. 44 ALL IN THE FAMILY Independent outdoor specialty retailer Rock/Creek started small, found success, turned corporate, and finally returned to its private-ownership roots. By Jess Daddio P. 50 SUNBELT SKI SHOPS Much to the chagrin of mountaintown retailers, ski and snowboard shops in warm climates have been cashing in on customers for eons. Here's how four of them have figured out how to thrive far from the snow. By Tracy Ross WINTER 2020 Issue No.10 4 OUTDOOR RETAILER / Winter 2020 ON THE COVER: Outdoor Gear Exchange owners Mike Donohue and Marc Sherman stand on the summit of Vermont's Camel's Hump with Dononue's dogs Cedar and Maple. Photograph by Andrew Kornylak Inset photo by Austin Siadak Photograph by Andrew Kornylak