Colorado ski manufacturers Folsom, Icelantic reach customers worldwide

DENVER — Two homegrown Colorado ski companies, both started out of garages, have attracted customers across the country and world while striving to maintain the hands-on service and craftsmanship they believe set them apart from their larger counterparts.

Mike McCabe co-founded Folsom Custom Skis in 2008 working in a garage a couple of blocks from Folsom Street in Boulder. He went to the University of Colorado, home of Folsom Field, the football stadium.

For McCabe, the company’s name was a tie to the founders’ roots. But some people assume there is a connection to Folsom, Calif., or Folsom State Prison, made famous by the Johnny Cash song “Folsom Prison Blues.” So, the company has played that up with its “Johnny C” and “Cash” skis.

“We have some graphics and stuff that kind of pay homage to Johnny Cash as well,” said McCabe, who is the CEO.

As Folsom Custom Skis heads into its 18th season, McCabe said the emphasis remains on tailoring skis to the end user and keeping all the work — design, customizing the skis, manufacturing — under one roof in Colorado.

Icelantic Skis has a similar origin story. Ben Anderson began building prototypes of skis in his parents’ garage in Evergreen in 2002. With the help of a small group of friends, Anderson started the company in 2006.

Icelantic is celebrating its 20th anniversary this ski season with several events and the launch of a book, “One Degree Celsius,” which chronicles the Golden-based company’s history.

“From the first prototypes in Ben’s garage to seeing our skis on mountains around the world, this 20-year mark is a testament to everyone who’s been part of our story,” Annelise Loevlie, co-founder and CEO of Icelantic, said in a statement.

The company is still an independent ski...