FAQs
Ordering Skis and Snowboards
How do I order Parlor skis or snowboards?
You can order online at Parlorskis.com or by contacting us directly. The process begins with a fitting—either in person at our East Boston factory or remotely via questionnaire and video/phone call. Once we finalize your design and graphics, your skis or snowboard go into production.
What are the lead times for production and delivery?
Lead times vary by season and order volume:
- Signature Custom builds: 2–3 weeks after design approval.
- Full Custom builds: 4–6 weeks after design approval.
Exact delivery timing will be confirmed at the time of your order.
How do payments and deposits work?
- Signature Custom: Paid in full at checkout.
- Full Custom: Requires a deposit to start production, with the balance due before pickup or shipping.
Can I pay with a gift card or discount code?
Yes. Parlor gift cards and discount codes can be applied at checkout.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We offer international shipping and will provide a custom quote based on your location. International shipping is not included in the price of skis or boards.
Do you ever run out of inventory?
Every ski at Parlor, Signature Custom or Full Custom, is made to order so we never run out of inventory, ever.
Signature Custom vs Full Custom
What’s the difference between Signature Custom and Full Custom skis or boards?
- Signature Custom: Choose your model, length, flex, and stock graphics from curated options—fast, simple, and highly personalized.
- Full Custom: A true one-of-a-kind build, starting with your skiing style, terrain preferences, and performance goals. Includes a fully bespoke design blueprint and custom graphics.
Do you offer women-specific skis?
Yes. In our Signature line, the Phoenix and the Femail Ski Bum models were designed specifically with women skiers in mind. Beyond that, every Parlor ski can be fully customized from the ground up to suit women of all skiing styles and abilities.
Can I upgrade from Signature Custom to Full Custom?
Yes. If you start with a Signature Custom build and decide to add custom graphics, you can work with our designers for an additional design fee. We call this upgrade Signature Plus.
Build Process and Materials
Where are Parlor skis and boards made?
Every Parlor ski and snowboard is handcrafted in our East Boston factory using locally sourced maple and aspen wood cores, premium composites, and high-quality bases and edges.
Can I visit the factory?
Absolutely. We welcome visitors by appointment. You’ll see where your skis are built and meet the craftsmen behind them.
What makes handmade skis different from mass-produced skis?
Handmade skis are tailored to your exact specs—flex, length, and profile are adjusted to your style. They’re built with more care and precision, delivering better performance and a longer lifespan.
What’s the average lifespan of handmade skis?
With proper care and tuning, handmade skis often last significantly longer than mass-produced skis. On average, you can expect 5–7 years of performance depending on use, terrain, and maintenance.
Do you recycle or repurpose old skis?
We recycle as much factory waste as possible, but we do not currently accept old skis for recycling or repurposing.
Do you make powder skis, carving skis, or all-mountain skis?
Yes. We offer skis across the full spectrum: all-mountain, touring, freeride, telemark, carving, and powder skis. With Full Custom, you can dream up anything—from extra-long narrow vintage skis to monoskis, adaptive skis, and even shot-skis—and we’ll build it.
Do you make adaptive skis?
Yes. We’re proud to partner with New England Disabled Sports (NEDS) and the Kelly Brush Foundation to build custom sit-skis and adaptive models for athletes and recreational skiers alike. We are proud to continue working with adaptive athletes to engineer custom gear that meets their individual needs.
Service, Warranty and Support
Do Parlor skis come with a warranty?
Yes. If there’s a defect in materials or craftsmanship, we’ll repair or replace your skis at no cost. Normal wear and tear, impact damage, or misuse is not covered.
Can Parlor skis be tuned anywhere?
Yes. Any professional ski shop can tune them, but we recommend shops familiar with boutique or handmade skis.
What if I need help after purchase?
Reach us anytime at info@parlorskis.com. We’re happy to advise on tune recommendations, mount points, or performance questions.
Can I demo Parlor skis before buying?
Yes. We post our demo day calendar on our website and Instagram. You can also schedule a demo pickup directly from our East Boston shop by appointment.
Gifting
Can I give Parlor skis or snowboards as a gift?
Yes. You can purchase a gift card for any amount, or cover the cost of a Signature or Full Custom build. We’ll provide a digital or physical certificate to present to the recipient.
How do I gift a Full Custom experience?
Buy a gift card for the value of a Full Custom build. We’ll collect recipient details (name, email/phone, and gift date) and coordinate directly with them after the surprise.
Can you send the gift box directly to the recipient?
Yes. Just provide the name and shipping address. Gift boxes ship via UPS and generally arrive within a few days.
Do you offer electronic gift cards?
Yes. We can send digital gift cards by email.
What if the recipient wants to switch products (e.g., Build Class instead of skis)?
No problem. They can apply the gift value toward another Parlor experience or product. If the price differs, you can cover the balance or receive a credit.
Do skis or boards include bindings?
No. Bindings are sold separately. (Note: we do not sell snowboard bindings.)
How long does delivery take for gifted skis?
- Gift box: Ships right away.
- Signature Custom: 3–4 weeks.
- Full Custom: 4–6 weeks.
- Build Class: Dates are scheduled in advance.
What’s in the gift box?
A Parlor card, details of what they’re getting, a short overview of the Parlor process, and a small gift.
What if I don’t know exactly what they’ll want?
You can buy Parlor Bucks in $100 increments, redeemable toward skis, boards, or Build Classes.
Parlor Build Class
What is the Parlor Build Class?
A two-day, hands-on experience where you work alongside Parlor craftsmen, designers, and engineers to build your own custom skis or snowboard.
What’s the class schedule?
- Day 1: 9am–4pm
- Day 2: 9am–2pm
Weekend sessions are limited; most classes run on weekdays.
What will I do during the Build Class?
You’ll participate in every step: building bases and cores, printing your custom top sheets, layup and pressing, finishing sidewalls, and varnishing.
Do I design my own graphics?
Yes. You’ll work with a Parlor designer before class to finalize your graphics.
How does the ski fitting work?
Every Build Class begins with a fitting, just like our Full Custom builds. You’ll approve a blueprint of your specs before construction.
What does the Build Class cost, and what’s included?
$2,499 covers:
- Ski fitting
- Custom graphics
- 2 days of guided ski-building
All meals, beverages, and snacks Bindings are not included.
How often are classes offered?
April through September. Three weekend sessions (April, June, August) plus weekday classes.
How far in advance should I book?
Dates are published each November for the following year. Classes always sell out—early booking is strongly recommended. You can also join our notification list for updates.
Where is the Build Class held?
At the Parlor factory in East Boston. Parking is available, and the shop is a short walk from the Orient Heights T stop.
Are there nearby hotels?
Yes. The Courtyard Marriott and Hilton Garden Inn are within a 5-minute walk. Downtown Boston hotels are a 15-minute ride away.
Are food and beverages provided?
Yes—coffee, breakfast treats, snacks, soft drinks, and beer/wine. We have lots of great local restaurants and bakery to accomodate most dietray restrictions.
Do I need woodworking or ski-building experience?
No prior experience is required. Our team guides you through every step.
Can I build a snowboard instead of skis?
Yes. Both skis and snowboards can be built in the same class.
What is the minimum age requirement?
We recommend 14+ for the best experience, as the days are long and hands-on.
What if I can’t attend after booking?
You can:
- Reschedule if dates are available
- Roll your booking to the following year
Apply your class credit toward Full Custom skis instead (price adjustments may apply) Classes are non-refundable.
Can two people build one pair of skis together?
Yes. A friend can join as a helper for $150, which includes food, beverages, and a Parlor tee.
Can you ship my skis if I can’t take them home?
Yes. After class, we hold skis for tuning and waxing. Once finished, you can either pick them up or have them shipped.
Do skis from the class include bindings?
Bindings are sold separately. If purchased through Parlor, we’ll mount them at no extra charge.
