North Country

Client Lahouts

Director Nick Martini

A STORY FROM THE HEART
North Country tells the story of Lahout’s, the longest continuously-running ski shop in the country, but that’s not all. Invaluable archival footage helps tell a multi-generational immigrant story with themes that still resonate in the present day. The intersection of the family’s history with war, innovation, and industry growth creates an incredible portrait of American ski history.

This project was personal to the crew, having known about the Lahouts shop and some of the stories of Joe for most of their lives. The Stept team took several trips over 5 years – exploring the White Mountains with Joe (93 years young), spending time in his home and with his family and even in the hospital in his last days. The final product was a beautiful film capturing Joe’s spirit, his life and his love of the outdoors. It depicts not only what was known about Joe, but so much more.

The film bridged old timers with the next generation of skiers and brand enthusiasts through a historical film and tribute to Joe Lahout, paired with a beautifully shot and creatively released short film.

For the first time, they are shipping to other countries including Asia, Israel and Australia and sales continue to increase.