Ski resort employees at Palisades Tahoe, California, got more than just sunshine during this year’s Pain McShlonkey Classic—they walked away with fresh shades and a whole lot of appreciation.
California-based eyewear company Sunski showed up in force on March 21, handing out roughly 300 pairs of alpine sunglasses to on-mountain staff as part of the event’s festivities. Set up on the KT Deck, the activation quickly became a hub for lifties, ski patrol, instructors, mechanics, groomers, and mountain hosts, all stopping by to grab a pair.
By the end of the day, it was hard to miss: the entire mountain was rocking Sunski.
According to Sunski co-founder Michael Charley, the giveaway was all about recognizing the workers who spend long days exposed to harsh alpine conditions. “These are the people who are out all day in the most demanding conditions, and so I believe they deserve the best kit,” he said after the event.
The turnout matched the energy. The Classic delivered its usual mix of retro chaos and springtime celebration, drawing a packed crowd and turning the KT Deck into a full-on party. For Sunski, it was the perfect setting—not just to hand out gear, but to connect directly with the backbone of the ski industry.
The giveaway is just one of the many ways Sunski shows appreciation to those that help make the ski industry great. Under the “Snow Stoke” program, the company offers pro deals with significant discounts to mountain professionals across America. The program supports a wide range of workers, including ski patrol, guides, instructors, coaches, lift operators, mechanics, groomers, search and rescue teams, snow scientists, and avalanche safety crews—essentially anyone helping keep people safe and operations running in the mountains.
The Pain McShlonkey Classic, held each year in honor of legendary skier Shane McConkey, once again blended competition with pure fun. Costumes, short skis, and big personalities defined the day, but behind the scenes—and now very visibly on the hill—were the workers who make it all happen.
This time, they left with a little extra stoke, thanks to Sunski.
