Built on Heritage

 The City Garage Ski Shop opened its doors in October 1999, born from the vision of Sean Lowes, a former ski rep who spent two decades on the road before deciding it was time to create something lasting — a ski shop with true personality.

Sean found his inspiration in a historic carriage house in the heart of Ellicottville, New York, a building that once served as a 1930s GMC service station known locally as The City Garage. Determined to preserve its authenticity, Sean repurposed the structure into a ski shop unlike any other. Even today, the original garage doors swing open in the summer, welcoming locals and visitors alike into a space that blends old-world character with mountain-town energy.

From day one, Sean’s goal was simple but bold: build a shop that real skiers would seek out, even if it was a few steps off Main Street. He focused on what he loved most — the freeride, mogul, and telemark/Nordic scene — and quickly attracted a passionate community of outdoor enthusiasts who appreciated quality gear, honest advice, and genuine service.

Over the years, The City Garage evolved into Ellicottville’s go-to hub for skiers and outdoor adventurers. Known for its expert boot fitting, precision ski tuning, and state-of-the-art Wintersteiger equipment, the shop also expanded its reach year-round — offering hiking, camping, and paddling gear to those who live the mountain lifestyle in every season.

Three-time winner of Skiing Business Magazine’s “Best Vibe” Award, The City Garage became more than a store. It became a culture — a place where the love of skiing meets craftsmanship, community, and conversation.

In September 2023, the next chapter began when ownership passed from Sean and Elizabeth Lowes to Trey and Mila Clauss. Trey had been part of the City Garage family since 2001, helping shape its growth, guiding customers through boot fittings and gear selections, and earning a reputation for deep technical expertise and unmatched customer care.

As Trey puts it:

“I’ve grown up in this industry and in this shop. Skiing has shaped who I am. To now carry The City Garage forward — building on what Sean and Elizabeth created — is both an honor and an exciting challenge.”
 

Under Trey and Mila’s leadership, The City Garage remains rooted in its heritage of authenticity and service, while embracing a forward-thinking future:

• Online booking for professional boot fittings and concierge shopping experiences
   
• Special events and demo days that bring the community together
   
• A curated ecommerce platform for specialty gear and City Garage logo wear
   
• A continued commitment to craftsmanship, expertise, and the mountain spirit that started it all
   

More than two decades after Sean first opened the doors, The City Garage continues to evolve — still grounded in its original values but energized by a new generation of leadership and technology.

Our team’s mission is simple: keep The City Garage real, relevant, and ready for the next era of skiers and adventurers.

Because while the gear may change, the passion never will.