Business Details
Your Premier Ski Shop & Outdoor Living Destination in Highland Park
Established in the late 1800s, our business has evolved from its roots in Chicago to become a trusted provider of ski equipment and outdoor living solutions in Highland Park since the 1960s. We specialize in outfitting skiers with precision-fitted equipment and crafting personalized outdoor spaces that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal. Our team combines decades of expertise with a commitment to sustainable practices, offering premium brands and services tailored to the distinct needs of our local communities. We maintain a comprehensive inventory of top-tier ski gear, including rentals and specialized apparel, alongside an extensive collection of commercial-grade outdoor furniture. Our knowledgeable staff provides expert guidance on product selection, ensuring optimal performance for winter sports enthusiasts and durable, stylish solutions for outdoor living.We actively prioritize energy efficiency through motion-sensor lighting, material recycling programs, and partnerships with eco-conscious manufacturers that utilize plantation-grown teak and recycled aluminum. Our customer-centric approach emphasizes personalized service, evidenced by our dedicated design consultations and specialized programs for trade professionals and commercial clients. This long-standing commitment to quality, innovation, and community service has established us as a regional leader in both winter sports equipment and outdoor lifestyle solutions.
Services
Ski Equipment Rentals
Outdoor Furniture Sales
Patio Design Consultation
Professional Trade Program
Commercial Furniture Sales
Ski Apparel Sales
Equipment Repair Services
Furniture Delivery & Assembly
Sustainability Partnerships
Seasonal Window Displays
Highlights and features
- Family-operated for over 150 years with generational ski equipment expertise
- Specialized ski fitting services using professional assessment techniques
- Exclusive partnerships with eco-conscious premium furniture manufacturers
- Comprehensive outdoor design consultation available in-store
- Established trade program with volume pricing for commercial clients
What people say
True joy
Expertise and opinion
Personalized outdoor spaces
Great ski experience
Timely delivery service
Services
Ski Equipment Rentals
Our full-service rental department provides precision-fitted ski equipment for all skill levels. Featuring premium brands and updated inventory, we ensure proper fit through professional assessment techniques. Staffed by certified experts, we match skiers with appropriate gear while providing maintenance and adjustment services throughout the rental period.
Outdoor Furniture Sales
Curated collections from leading manufacturers include commercial-grade wicker, teak, and aluminum furniture. Our inventory features designer lounges, dining sets, and accessories engineered for durability in Chicago's climate. Each purchase includes material guidance and customization options for fabric, finish, and dimensions.
Patio Design Consultation
Personalized design services create functional outdoor living spaces tailored to client preferences. Our specialists provide layout recommendations, material selection guidance, and showroom viewing access. Consultations include samples and measurements to ensure optimal space utilization and aesthetic cohesion.
Professional Trade Program
Specialized program for licensed designers and contractors offering volume pricing and exclusive access to manufacturer resources. Services include order management, material procurement, and commission-based sales for qualifying professionals. Program members receive dedicated support for large-scale residential and commercial projects.
Commercial Furniture Sales
Commercial-grade furniture solutions designed for hospitality and institutional environments. Offering customizable options with volume discounts, our team manages large installations from order placement through delivery coordination. Manufacturers meet industry standards for durability while providing aesthetic flexibility for commercial applications.
Questions
Do you offer ski equipment rentals for special needs skiers?
Yes, our rental selection includes adaptive equipment options. Our certified staff provides specialized fitting services to ensure proper accommodation for varying ability levels.
Can I schedule a design consultation for patio furniture placement?
Absolutely. Our specialists offer free in-store consultations with sample fabric and finish options. Appointments include detailed space planning and product specification recommendations tailored to your outdoor environment.
What sustainability practices do you implement in operations?
We maintain energy-efficient lighting, recycle over 50,000 pounds of cardboard annually, and partner with manufacturers using plantation-grown materials. Our rental poles are made from 100% recycled aluminum to minimize environmental impact.
Are financing options available for large furniture purchases?
Currently we do not offer direct financing, but accept major credit cards and special-order trade program purchases. Volume discounts apply for commercial clients through our contract furniture program.
Do you provide delivery and assembly services for furniture?
Yes, local delivery includes professional assembly and placement. Our white-glove service features unboxing, setup, and packaging removal within our standard delivery zone as included in quoted pricing.
What ski lesson programs do you offer for children?
We partner with professional instructors for youth ski programs through the Snowflake Club. This initiative provides group lessons and scheduled trips for ages 8-16 with a focus on technical skill development and safety protocols.
Videos
Reviews (7)
Shelly G.
Apr 28, 2021
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Had an amazing experience here today. Great selection. Kelsey helped me purchase a patio umbrella. She was fabulous! Thank you Kelsey! Was at a competitor that couldn't be bothered to help me.
Jen Levy
Mar 16, 2021
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We were looking for outdoor furniture for our rooftop deck. Kelsey helped us and she was a true joy. She spent quite a lot of time with us, offering her expertise and opinion when asked. She wrote up quotes, researched questions and generally went out of her way to support us. I will shop there again and highly recommend it to anyone!
Gabriel Viti
Jan 19, 2021
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My family and I have been customers at Williams ski shop for 25 years. Had the worst customer service yesterday. I came in to buy a ski jacket and snow pants yesterday. I arrived around 5:25 before they close. The young woman working can to the front door because it was locked, and she told me that they were closed and to get Lost! I was blown away. Just a heads up to anyone who is planing on going to this ski shop. I can tell you they lost my whole familys business.
Andy Nebel
Sep 25, 2020
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Great service. Smart staff. They really know their stuff here from equipment to clothing technology. Really great place
Emily Esposito
Jun 27, 2020
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We ordered a Brown Jordan patio furniture set from Brett and I can't say enough good things about our experience. Brett went above and beyond showing us samples and giving us his educated opinion. He had valuable insight on the different brands and styles. Once the order was placed, we were quoted a 4-6 week delivery window. Exactly one month later we received a call saying our set was in and could be delivered the next day -- just in time for the holiday weekend. The delivery team showed up on-time and set up our new furniture quickly and carefully. If you're looking for a high-quality patio
Jeff Narducci
Jun 23, 2020
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Seems like a well supplied ski shop however after 10 minutes of waiting I couldn't find any help or even an acknowledgement. They seem terribly understaffed and I had to leave. May try another time.
Katie Schlax
Jan 26, 2015
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Not only was the shopping experience totally easy and relaxing, but when I wanted to talk about getting a coat repair/replaced - they were exceptionally receptive and helpful! Obviously, never going anywhere else for my ski gear! Thank you, Williams (and especially Bruce) for being so great!
