Made in Colorado has a nice ring to it. This holiday season, give your friends, family, and even yourself a unique gift from the Centennial State. There are products of every kind from backpacks to baby diapers, so you’ll be able to find a good fit for everyone.
Colorado-headquartered companies produce everything including hi-tech snowboards and ski jackets, to sweet and savory candies. There are a myriad of products in every type of category. These local Colorado companies have a well-earned reputation for quality. So you can be assured your item will last as long as it’s supposed to.
Even if you live out of state, it’s easy to get a taste of Colorado delivered to your door. Browse all the wonderful offerings from our personal favorites below. Someone on our staff has owned, used, or tasted something from each company mentioned.
It’s always great to support small companies and in colorful Colorado, there is no shortage of unique locally owned businesses to choose from. From locally sourced handcrafted goods and products to experiences at some of the state’s museums, you won’t be pressed to find great gifts for anyone on your list.
Colorado Body Care Gifts
Take care of your body. Treat it to something made with locally sourced, high-quality ingredients. Colorado produces plenty of body care products from facial wash to lip balm, many without the harmful chemicals and additives that come in their name-brand counterparts.
BEE-OCH – organic body care products from Fort Lupton
When it comes to finding organic body essentials, Colorado has a hidden gem. BEE-OCH Organics brings awareness to the “toxicity hiding in your everyday-use products.” With their soaps and body care merchandise, you can take care of your skin without having to compromise on the quality of the product. BEE-OCH is 100% chemical-free and USDA organic certified.
Brooke founded the business about six years ago when she was still an undergraduate in Biology/Chemistry and pregnant with her first child. Being a “science nerd,” she began reading the labels on the products she used at home and for her baby. She had a “mom moment” that threw her off because she discovered how a majority of the mainstream products we use include chemicals; yes, even the ones that claim to be “natural” and “non-toxic”.
Because of this, Brooke created BEE-OCH, where all the products are organic and fully certified. This means that all products, like the Queen Bee Organic Under Eye Cream, have a “traceback system” that allows you to track every single ingredient used back to the exact date and time of harvesting. Interesting, right? What’s even better is that by purchasing BEE-OCH, you are supporting local businesses and bee farmers as well!
Mountain Time Soap
We are all looking for ways to remove harmful chemicals from our everyday lives, and what better way than with the soap you use daily? Show those on your list that you care by shopping the natural soaps, balms, and body butter from Mountain Time Soap. Mountain Time Soap uses ingredients “made from nature” to create its soaps and other products without using fillers, hardening agents, fragrances, or dyes.
Even their packaging uses a minimalist approach that is environmentally friendly. Feel good about your purchase with 1% of their profits going to non-profit organizations in Colorado. Shop their online store at mountaintimesoap.com.
Colorado Clothing & Apparel Gifts
Show off your state pride with a Colorado-themed gift. From themed clothing to coffee mugs, you’ll find plenty to support the Centennial State. Ditch the masses and wear something local. Colorado clothing companies produce exceptional, quality products and will have your friends asking about what brand you’re wearing. Meanwhile, if you’re shopping for baby-friendly goodies, check out Thirsties.
Coloradical – shirts designed in Denver
It’s safe to say that those who love this state are fanatical about it. So why not shop for them at Coloradical? Find Colorado-themed apparel, hats, and other fashion items that scream “I Love Colorado!” Shop tanks, long-sleeve, short-sleeve T-shirts, hats, baby onesies, sweatshirts, and colorful iconic patches that you can stitch to anything, so they can proudly show off the state everywhere they go!
This apparel company is all about representing CO. With tasteful designs featuring the flag, mountains, and wilderness across all of their products Coloradical’s popularity is rising fast. They are based in Denver on East Colfax.
You can find Coloradical apparel at select retailers around the state. I found the brand in a small bicycle shop in a sleepy mountain town. T-shirts and hats are their best sellers. They also sell more unique items like snowcaps and sunglasses
Shop their online collection at coloradical.com or visit them at their store on Colfax between St. Paul and Milwaukee Street. Their website also features some cool virtual ‘field trips’ to notable attractions around the state, a great way to show out-of-state friends and family the beauty of Colorado.
Melanzana – outdoor apparel made in Leadville at a very high elevation
The highly coveted Melanzana makes unique, rugged apparel for the outdoor Colorado life. From jackets to hats, they make everything in the store, cutting and sewing like wild in downtown Leadville. If you’d rather sport a fuzzy local fleece than a Patagonia jacket, this company is for you.
Due to high demand and low supply, phone and web orders are currently unavailable until further notice. If you want to get your hands on Melanzana’s popular gear, your only bet is to head out to Leadville and book an appointment to shop.
Phoenix Fiber Mill
Located in southeastern Colorado, a family of 14, yes 14, started the Phoenix Fiber Mill with one alpaca. As the alpaca farm grew, they began raising them specifically for their fibers. They have grown their business into a beautiful collection of unique socks created with comfort and style in mind. Using only natural, high-quality fibers, these socks are durable, moisture-wicking, and super soft.
Named after mountain peaks in Colorado, such as Mount Lincoln and Mount Evans, each sock design offers its own unique pattern and colors. Socks can be purchased at their online store or local retailers around Colorado.
Topo Designs
Inspired by the traveler in all of us, Topo Designs has created a lifestyle brand that is made for anywhere “on the map’ you might find yourself. Whether you walk through forests or concrete jungles, Topo Designs offers apparel, packs, and accessories to aid in your adventures. You can shop them online at topodesigns.com, or for a fun outing visit their flagship store in Denver’s RiNo district.
The company started with a sewing machine in a Fort Collins basement, and the rest is history. Today, Topo is committed to creating durable, long-lasting products while maintaining a sustainable production process. You can feel good about gifting these products, knowing the business is actively making strides towards limiting its footprint on the environment.
Sport Obermeyer – outdoor apparel company headquartered in Aspen
Started in Aspen, Obermeyer outdoor clothing will keep you comfortable on the ski slopes and beyond. Just like the town it’s based in, Obermeyer designs outstanding apparel. Production happens overseas, however.
They are most known for their breathable, warm, waterproof outerwear. They also have a range of base layers, kids’ clothing, and innovative products including extendable clothing for the little ones as they grow, high-altitude sunscreens, and flow-fit ski boot models.
Thirsties – cloth baby diapers from Loveland
Thirsties is a 100% sustainable brand through and through. From the sourcing of local materials to production and warehousing (which is completely powered by wind energy), this company is the type of brand you feel good supporting.
They specialize in producing cloth diapers and accessories for babies. Hand-picking the highest quality materials, Thirsties diapers offer supreme comfort, fit, and performance. They are also leak-proof so parents don’t need to stress.
Be a Good Person
If there is one thing the past few years have shown us, it’s that we should all strive to be a good person. Well, a local Denver company agrees and has created an entire brand around that exact phrase, “Be a Good Person”. The brand was inspired by a passion for positivity and a brighter future that the founders envision for our society.
Shop their collection of stylish beanies, t-shirts, long-sleeves, socks, and hats online at beagoodperson.com, and show the world what it looks like to be a good person. If you’re passing through the Denver airport, they have a booth right in the middle of the B concourse that’s perfect for snagging a gift on the way to your holiday celebrations.
Smeeny Beanie Knits
Inspired by a life lived outside, Smeeny Beanie Knits is based in Steamboat Springs and creates cozy beanies for women who love the outdoors. Both functional and stylish, each beanie is handcrafted using 100% ethically and sustainably sourced wool.
They also offer beautiful neck cowls to stay warm in the cold, as well as head wraps and a variety of outdoorsy sticker packs and notebooks. With their wide range of offerings, it’ll be easy to find a present for any of your loved ones.
You can even feel good about the packaging using all recycled materials; this is a good product all around. Plus, a portion of the sales is donated to the National Park Foundation, Protect our Winters, and the Intersectional Environmentalists. Shop the collection online at smeenybeanieknits.com.
Other Colorado Apparel Brands
Statement tees are not the only pride of Colorado. There are a lot of local artisans who make world-class apparel from home. See the other brands we’re proud to feature here on Uncover Colorado.
- Beau & Belle – Baby swimwear company from Loveland
- Kemo Sabe – Cowboy hat maker from Aspen
- Mellivora – Leggings and gear company from Denver
Experience Colorado Gifts
Memories last longer than material goods, so sometimes it’s better to gift a unique experience for the holidays. What better way to support the endless outdoor and indoor attractions our beautiful state has to offer than giving someone a gift certificate to experience them firsthand?
Children’s Museum of Denver
A membership to the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus is a gift that keeps on giving! Members enjoy free admission all year long, plus exclusive access to members-only events, discounts on workshops, free passes for friends and so much more. Gifting a membership is tax-deductible and packages are available to fit families of all sizes. Check out gift certificate options at mychildsmuseum.org.
Denver Art Museum
Give the gift of beauty and connection with a membership to the Denver Art Museum. When you purchase an annual membership to give to someone else, they get 2 extra months for free. Perks include free general admission, invites to Member Preview events, discounted gift shop items and class fees, and so much more.
Founded in 1893, the museum features over 70,000 pieces of art representing numerous cultures. In addition to African, Asian, ancient Americas, and Oceanic art, the exhibits also showcase work from the Rocky Mountain region and local artists. Their membership gifting options are available for purchase on their website.
Royal Gorge Railroad
Snag a gift certificate to the Royal Gorge Railroad so your loved ones can experience the beauty of the Arkansas River deep within the canyon. With up to 4 departures a day and multiple train car class options to choose from, something is exciting for any type of person.
Experience panoramic views in the Vista Dome car, or treat your loved one to a first-class dinner train. Certificates can be used on anything the railroad offers including train tickets, gift shop items, and food or beverage. They can be purchased online and include a train-themed print-out to present as a gift.
Denver Zoo
If you have a family or animal lover in your life, give them a Denver Zoo membership! Any level of membership is available to purchase as a gift certificate, from individual up to family.
Visit over 3,500 animals and 60 species at the massive zoo located in City Park in downtown Denver. Members gain access to training vouchers, exclusive members-only hours and Zoo Lights privileges, and up to 12 Bring-a-Friend passes. Head to their website to explore all of your options for gifting.
Hot Springs Resorts
Colorado is filled with naturally occurring hot springs that are not only a great way to warm up in the winter months but also with health benefits. Whether you want to gift a private cabin with its soaking tub or a trip to one of the larger resorts with multiple developed pools, most hot springs offer gift card options.
Colorado Food & Beverage Gifts
The quickest way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. Indulge in some of these Colorado-made treats. There is a treat for every taste bud here, from grass-fed beef jerky to coconut oil potato chips.
Celestial Seasonings Tea – international herbs and teas bagged in Boulder
One of the largest tea companies in the U.S., Celestial Seasonings makes a perfect gift for the tea drinker in your life. If you are in the Boulder area you can visit the Mint Room while on a free tour of this working factory. Sleepytime is probably Celestial’s most famous tea, with a sleeping bear on the box.
Founded in 1969, Celestial Seasonings has become a worldwide staple. They have an extensive line of herbal teas in all sorts of flavor combinations like Sugar Cookie Sleigh Ride or Bengal Spice.
Celestial Seasonings’ bestsellers:
Rowdy Mermaid
Give the gift of health with Boulder-based Rowdy Mermaid. This flavorful Kombucha has taken over the shelves of grocery stores with its adorable packaging. This aesthetically packaged stocking stuffer is perfect for those who need a little immunity boost for the holidays or just love a good booch. Shop their website at rowdymermaid.com.
Hammond’s Candies – fine candy made in Denver – tour anytime
Tour this classic candy maker year-round in Denver. Since 1920, Hammond’s Candies has been hand-making candy canes and other exquisite sugary creations. They’re also known for their line of creative chocolate bars with flavors like PB&J and More S’mores, as well as their famous Sour Balls.
From start to finish, the whole candy-making process at Hammond’s is hand-made. If you get a chance to go on a tour of this working factory, you’ll witness the passion and creativity in each product. Send something sweet from Colorado with a unique gift from Hammond’s.
Hammond’s best sellers:
- Sour Balls
– Hard candy, also try the peach, root beer, and licorice drops
– Hard candy, also try the peach, root beer, and licorice dropsRocky Mountain Chocolate Factory – chocolate and candy made locally
Southwest Colorado is home to one of the best chocolatiers around. Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is known for its sweet treats with chains all across the state and country. All locations are marked by a giant stuffed bear out front. Stop by for a classic caramel-dipped apple or make a personalized box of chocolates.
Founded by a small confectionery maker in historic Durango in 1981, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is now an international franchisor, with hundreds of locations in the United States, Canada, Japan, the Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates. From its 53,000-square-foot factory in Colorado, it produces over 300 varieties of sweets using its proprietary recipes. Stop by a local store to sample the desserts or order something exquisite online for a great gift.
Zukes – pet products made in Durango
This one’s for your four-legged friends! Grab something healthy and fresh for your pooch. Headquartered in Durango, Zuke’s sends its pet products nationwide. You’ve probably seen Zuke’s dog treats in your local pet store, so why not pick up an extra bag for a holiday gift?
Zuke’s best sellers:
Colorado Housewarming Gifts
Home is where you make it. There are a number of Colorado makers that craft items for your home ranging from kid’s furniture to beeswax candles. Give the gift of a cozy, personalized home with these high-quality housewarming gifts.
Bluecorn Beeswax – candles made in Ridgway
Candles are a perfect gift for the home. They create an instant ambiance, providing subtle lighting and a great aroma for any mood.
Since 1991, Bluecorn Beeswax has been handcrafting candles on the Western Slope in Ridgway. Their candles are paraffin-free, lead-free, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic. They even trademarked their beeswax candles’ “ridiculously long burn times”. The best part about burning beeswax is that it emits negative ions that cleanse the air.
Bluecorn’s bestsellers:
Wanderwide – travel register prints from Denver
Wanderwide is new to the scene with handcrafted travel register prints that speak to the wanderer inside all of us. Inspired by the founders’ desire to track their climbing adventures, the Denver-based design team created beautiful artful prints for a unique way to track where you’ve been and where you’re going.
Prints come in a variety of options including The National Parks, Colorado 14er summits, the Fifty States, and the Ski Register Print. Each high-quality print comes with a stamp to mark off the places you’ve visited. The best part is that $1 from every print purchased is donated to a charity partner to help preserve the world’s most treasured places. Purchase your print online at wanderwide.co.
Old Pine Candle Company
Candles are always a good gift for everyone on your list, from your kids’ teacher to your hairstylist, which always makes you feel like a million bucks. But don’t just get them any candle, get them one from the Old Pine Candle Company. Made with 100% American soy wax, and no additives or dyes, their candles burn for up to 50 hours!
Offered in a variety of natural scents such as eucalyptus, jasmine, evergreen, and pine, Old Pine also collaborates with local businesses for special scents. Make it easy this gifting season with their holiday gift set, which includes a 9-ounce candle, wick trimmer, wooden coaster, and an old pine matchbox. The gift set can be purchased online at oldpinecandleco.com.
Artwork by DenverSky
A local artist in Denver creates colorful illustrations of various Colorado scenes and landmarks. Her Etsy shop sells one-of-a-kind prints It’s the perfect way to give a little bit of Colorado to those you love.
Each print is available in sizes from 8×10 up to 24×36. Some are even customizable, with the option to change the background or font color depending on your preference. Each purchase includes the print only, so be sure to grab a frame before you gift it.
Your Gal Kiwi
Make them laugh out loud with a unique gift from Your Gal Kiwi. A one-woman show based in Arvada, the owner tells it like it is with her crafty creations such as “Seasons Greetings or Whatever” Holiday greeting cards and ornaments, “Don’t be a Dick” mugs, and “Bitches get stuff done” art prints.
Find everything from greeting cards and stationery to mugs and phone cases. The holiday cards also come in sets of 8 if you want to spread the laughter. Shop the online gift store at yourgalkiwi.com.
I Heart Denver Store
Not just for those who love Denver, but for all those who love Colorado, the I Heart Denver Store showcases 200+ Colorado-based artists and designers. Shop glassware, jewelry, pottery, artwork, locally designed furniture, clothing, and so much more. It’s the perfect one-stop shop to find Colorado creatives and support local businesses.
Located in the heart of Downtown Denver, the store is at the Pavilions at the 16th Street Mall. You can also shop them online at iheartdenverstore.com.
Colorado Life Magazine
Give the gift of all things Centennial State with a subscription to the Colorado Life magazine. The bi-monthly publication features local writers, photographers, and those who make our state so special.
Help support a local print magazine and gift yourself or someone you love a subscription, a gift that will keep on giving all year long. Subscriptions can be purchased on their website at coloradolifemagazine.com.
Selling more than just furniture, gift something for the entertainer in your life and purchase a set of the Blasphemy wooden wine or cocktail glasses, or one of the beautiful charcuterie boards. Purchase your gift online at davidrasmussendesign.com.
Colorado Sports Gear Gifts
Play at an epic level with world-class sporting goods designed here in the Centennial State. From snowboards to backpacks and weatherproof gear, there is something that would benefit any adventure lover.
Never Summer – snowboards made in Denver
If you’ve been to any ski resort in the last few years you’ve undoubtedly come across a Never Summer product. They make some of the best snowboards in the world with their patented hybrid camber technology. Boards combine traditional double camber flex on the tips and a rockered center, so you get the best of both worlds for a superior ride.
What began as a snowboard company in 1983 has now grown into a highly reputable lifestyle brand within the outdoor community. Never Summer has been designing and building snowboards since 1983 in their Denver factory. Beyond the boards, shop their outdoor apparel collection of beanies, goggles, hoodies, and T-shirts. Discover their snowboard and apparel lineup at neversummer.com.
Osprey – durable backpacks designed in Dolores
If you need a reliable backpack for any occasion, look no further than Osprey. All the engineering and design are done in the Dolores headquarters. While their bags are produced in Vietnam, everything is carefully maintained from their Colorado home.
Their products are durable and cleverly created for ease when traveling or backpacking. You’ll have plenty of choice when picking out a gift from their large travel duffles and roller cases to smaller daypacks and packing cubes.
Osprey’s best sellers:
Those are just a few of the fine products from local companies. While some are produced outside of the state, most are handcrafted and designed right here in Colorado. Either way, the companies started here and make quality products for all to enjoy.
Be sure to shop these and other made-in-Colorado companies this holiday season to help support small businesses! Thanks for reading and happy holidays!
Famous Companies Based in Colorado