The number of Colorado ski manufacturers that have popped up over the years nearly rivals the number of fledgling breweries. Come winter, you can’t throw a snowball without hitting a pair of locally made skis. But the folks at Fortitude Skis set out to create a better pair of skis. These guys are super legit, and their skis are illin’ (that’s right, we said illin’). With custom skis and graphics, Fortitude Skis are built for durability and reliability. Prices vary.
Fortitude Skis: fortitudeskis.com
Where to buy: Fortitude Skis, 5553 Gray St., Arvada
Everyone has the big, puffy winter coat for shoveling the driveway and the lightweight fleece for holiday shopping. But for any adventurous Coloradan, it’s tough to find middle-weight jackets for days of winter backpacking or snowshoeing through glistening trails. The GoLite Cady Jacket, with retro design, is made of recycled, synthetic fabrics and has pit zips, reflective logos and piping, zippered hand warmer pockets and thumbhole cuffs. $160
GoLite: golite.com
Where to buy: Boulder Running Co., 2775 Pearl St., Boulder
Those who work hard must play hard: Is there really anything better than an icy IPA after you spend a weekend traversing the Rocky Mountain slopes? The correct answer is no. The fifth edition of the Beer Drinker’s Guide to Colorado beer map is packed full of useful information—yes, there are charts—and coupons. And the map gives users a handy perspective on the state’s breath-taking beer industry.
Beer Drinker’s Guide to Colorado: beerdrinkersguidetocolorado.com
Where to buy: Do Your Brew, 9050 W. 88th Ave., Westminster; Bald Brewer Home Brewing Supplies, 651 8th Ave., Longmont; Twisted Pine Brewing, 3201 Walnut St., Boulder
You can only decorate your home with posters of your favorite athletes and local beer paraphernalia for so long. At some point, you need to throw away your futon and get a real couch. That’s not to say you must rid your home of its Colorado pride. January Jones Prints are super cool and totally bring a sense of personality and place into your Front Range abode. They have a style that says, “I’m an adult but I’m still awesome.” White Christmas print is 14×11 and $18.
January Jones Prints: januaryjonesprints.etsy.com
Where to buy: Art Source International, 237 Pearl St. Boulder; BMoCA; Mod Livin, 5327 E. Colfax Ave., Denver; and I Heart Denver, 500 16th St., Denver
Based in Dillon, Fishpond specializes in fly fishing accessories and other outdoorsy accoutrement. But we especially love this slick Sporting Club Collection Carry-On Overnighter. The bag is ideal for two- to three-day trips with a main compartment that opens flat for easy packing and it easily converts into a backpack with padded shoulder straps. $189
Fishpond: fishpondusa.com
Where to buy: Front Range Anglers, 629B S. Broadway, Boulder; McGuckin Hardware, 6859 N. Foothills Hwy., Building A, Boulder; and Laughing Grizzly Fly Shop, 10675 Ute Highway 66, Longmont
And don’t forget the pups! Zukes is Colorado born and bred, grown from the pet obsessees who want all-natural, human-grade snacks for dogs and cats who need nourishment on long hikes. Zukes offers a variety of cat and dog treats, all free of wheat, corn and soy.
Zukes: zukes.com
Where to buy: Struttin Pup, 1385 Forest Park Cir., Lafayette
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