Rick Pasturczak is co-owner of Alpine Accessories. He started skiing in 1969 and started his career in ski retail in 1975. Rick worked for a few shops in the Chicagoland area until he and his wife Laurie, other co-owner started Alpine Accessories in 1993. He met Laurie at a ski club meeting and a few years later they had 1 boy and 1 girl named Taos and Vail. Just kidding, the kids names are Ryan and Rachel but their black lab is named Aspen.

Rick has skied over 70 areas in the USA and Europe. Some of his favorite areas are Alta and Snowbird in UT., Aspen and Snowmass in CO. and Big Sky in MT. Rick has snowboarded, gone snowshoeing and cross country skied but prefers alpine skiing. "I love the fresh cool air, the feel of a ski carving across the slope, the speed and challenges that come with alpine skiing." In his early years of skiing, Rick was into freestyle doing moguls, tricks and jumping. But later Rick got involved in ski racing in the late 70's and 80's in which he brought home many trophies.

Rick no longer competes but still gets out about 15 days a season mostly testing equipment and products for his shop, Alpine Accessories. Rick has been in the snow retail business since 1975 and brings his passion, experience and knowledge of the sport to the shop. Customers from over a 5 state area come to Rick to have him help select the correct equipment and clothing for them.

Rick says, "This is a very personalized sport with many variations and ability levels. Never trust someone that doesn't participate in the sport you love to select or fit your gear. If you are not in the correct gear, it could ruin your vacation, your time on the snow and stop you from progressing. Everyone at Alpine Accessories skis or snowboards and we take the time to  explain the difference in gear in terms you'll understand so you get the right gear for the right price."

RICK SAYS: Have a question, comment, feedback? Send him an email or call 10 - 5 CST weekdays at 1-847-854-4754 (I-SKI).

Articles written by Rick:

What ability level are you?

A guide to selecting ski boots!

Where to purchase gear!

Why your skis & boards need tuning!

Basic tuning instructions!

Why you should purchase from an authorized retailer!

How to store your equipment in summer!