Melanzana Outdoor Clothing - Leadville, Colorado

Emma S.

I didn’t have an appointment when I visited so I can’t speak to that process, but I had a great experience at Melanzana. I went right when they opened in the morning and was able to try on the pullovers they had in overflow. Not many color options if you don’t make an appointment, and you have to make one super in advance, but I thinks it’s well worth it. Jackets are really good quality and just such a unique thing to own. I will definitely be returning to buy another!

Austin I.

Bought my first Melly here in 2002 when the world was a different place. Was lucky enough to snag a couple of new pieces just last week (Jan 2025). Pro tip: watch the Melanzana sub Reddit, there are often posts about cancelled appointments and random last minute openings especially in the middle of winter when it can be hard to get to Leadville. Don’t change Melanzana 😘

Zane Z.

Not the biggest fan of the appointments, but I understand since they aren’t trying to be fast fashion or a huge clothing brand making profits at the expense of people’s wages or the planet. The quality of my fleece has been excellent and love seeing the made in Colorado.

Chuck D.

Fantastic clothing company! Appointment only. 2 items max. I'm so glad I made the stop. It was very cool to see.

Hoss L.

Nice Melly!
Great hometown alternative to overpriced junk made overseas!
I love this shop because it employs locals everything is made on site. They limit you to two articles of clothing and you have to get an appointment. Cult following that is well deserved because the quality and warmth of materials and workmanship is beyond par.
We stopped in on Halloween and Jake’s costume was so good and the girls were so kind. They gave him a warm hat! I can’t see enough good about this place! This is truly how America should be…

Duncan W.

Beyond hyped on my new Melly, and I was even more stoked to snag one for m'lady while I was up there! Granted, I did wait 6 whole months for my appointment as I have plenty more free time in the summer, however, if you are checking their site on a daily basis, you can often find a new spot open up from others cancelling their appts. Friendly heads up 🙂

10/10 recommend Melanzana to everyone I meet

Charlie S.

Melanzana’s Shift Toward Exclusivity and Elitism

Melanzana, nearly a sweat factory, has lost its way, prioritizing profit over the authentic mountain spirit it used to offer. Originally revered now aims to cater to a more entitled customer base, the people who asked to speak to managers - This shift is evident in their recent sales strategies, such as requiring appointments to shop, a tactic that seems designed to cultivate exclusivity and cater to an ultra-entitled clientele.

This approach not only alienates true outdoor enthusiasts but also prices out genuine mountaineers for whom the brand was once a go-to. The need for appointments acts as a barrier, making it difficult for everyday mountain employees to access gear without stretching their already limited budgets. These employees find themselves compelled to invest in Melanzana products just to keep up with the latest trends set by wealthier visitors.

As Melanzana drifts further from its roots, it risks becoming synonymous with superficial status rather than genuine quality and utility. The brand must reconsider its approach and strive to serve the real mountain community, ensuring that its products are accessible and relevant to all who truly embrace the outdoor lifestyle, not just those who can afford to partake in its crafted exclusivity.

J C.

A Colorado icon and a great representation of a business starting small and growing as big as they desire, at a pace that they can sustain. I've made numerous appointments over the years and had a great selection waiting for me. I've also walked in without an appointment FOUR separate occasions, and walked out with something for either myself or someone else. Yes, made in small town America comes with its limits, so maybe do a quick Google/Website search to see HOW this business works before your visit (they have after all been appointment-based for what, 4 years?). If a business works best a certain way for its team, it works best for its customers. Keep up the great work Melly crew.