Radnut Admin Discover Quality US Made Skis and Snowboards
On the slopes, your gear is your companion, your survival tool, and—if you’re doing it right—your greatest thrill. And yet, most of the skis and snowboards gracing those snowy peaks began life in factories thousands of miles away, churned out by the truckload. But a small, passionate cadre of U.S.-based companies is taking a different approach: crafting skis and snowboards by hand, on home soil. For them, “Made in the USA” is more than a label—it’s a promise of quality, sustainability, and community impact.
The Champions of U.S. Manufacturing
While the giants of the industry lean into the efficiencies of overseas production, these brands are keeping it local, bucking the trend with intention, innovation, and a whole lot of grit.
Mervin Manufacturing (Lib Tech, GNU)
In the misty reaches of Sequim, Washington, Mervin Manufacturing is leading a quiet revolution. Founded in 1977 by surfers Mike Olson and Pete Saari, Mervin has grown from a garage project into the force behind iconic brands like Lib Tech and GNU. Their factory isn’t just a production site—it’s a model of environmental responsibility. Running as a zero-hazardous-waste facility, Mervin uses eco-friendly materials like basalt fibers and water-based inks to ensure their boards are as kind to the planet as they are thrilling on the slopes.
Mervin’s commitment to U.S. manufacturing isn’t just about logistics—it’s about values. By keeping their operations in Washington, they’ve doubled down on quality control and community connection. While outsourcing to low-cost countries could fatten their bottom line, Mervin believes the trade-offs—losing craftsmanship, reducing jobs at home, and eroding their environmental ethos—aren’t worth the extra profit. For Mervin, the satisfaction of knowing every board they produce strengthens both their product and their local economy outweighs the allure of larger margins.
Meier Skis
In Denver, Colorado, Meier Skis has turned an environmental crisis into an opportunity for innovation and sustainability. Colorado’s forests have been devastated by the mountain pine beetle, which has left behind millions of dead trees. These trees pose a wildfire risk and contribute to ecological imbalances, yet they often go unused.
Meier steps into this gap by incorporating beetle-kill pine into their ski cores. This once-wasted wood gains new life in their skis, with its distinctive blue stain—caused by the beetles—adding unique beauty and character to every pair. Beyond aesthetics, this practice contributes to forest health by removing dead timber that would otherwise act as fuel for wildfires.
The environmental benefits are paired with practical advantages. Beetle-kill pine is lightweight yet strong, making it ideal for high-performance skis. Customers can witness the transformation of this wood firsthand at Meier’s “Craft Skiery,” a space that doubles as a manufacturing facility and taproom. Here, guests can enjoy a beer while watching their skis come to life, learning about the materials and processes that make each pair unique.
Meier’s decision to source locally and stay rooted in Denver reflects their broader commitment to community and sustainability. While outsourcing might offer higher margins, Meier believes that their dedication to quality craftsmanship, environmental stewardship, and local engagement makes the trade-off worthwhile.
ON3P Skis
Portland, Oregon’s ON3P (pronounced “Oh-En-Three-P”) started humbly, with founder Scott Andrus building skis in his garage in 2009. Today, they’re known for bombproof durability and meticulous craftsmanship. ON3P makes nearly every component of their skis in-house, ensuring total quality control and avoiding the pitfalls of outsourcing. Like their peers, ON3P recognizes they could save costs by going overseas, but they’d rather reinvest in their craft, their employees, and their local community. For them, this isn’t a sacrifice; it’s a choice to do things right.
Gilson Snow
In rural Pennsylvania, Gilson Snow transforms locally milled lumber into snowboards featuring innovative designs like their “soft edge” technology, which enhances turning and control. The factory is more than a workplace; it’s a community hub where customers can personalize boards with unique graphics and where regional artists and craftsmen thrive. By keeping production local, Gilson provides stable jobs and fosters a sense of pride in the area.
Parlor Skis
For Parlor Skis, based in East Boston, customization is king. Customers can design every detail of their skis, from flex to graphics, with the help of skilled artisans. Parlor’s workshop isn’t just a factory—it’s a place where ideas and artistry merge, creating a deeper connection between the skis and their owners. This commitment to personalization and quality wouldn’t be possible with a high-volume overseas model.
How Manufacturing in the U.S. Enhances Communities
Domestic manufacturing is more than just a logistical decision—it’s an investment in people, culture, and the places these companies call home.
Factories like Mervin’s in Sequim, Washington, and Gilson’s in Pennsylvania provide well-paying jobs in areas where employment opportunities might be limited. These positions often go to skilled craftsmen and women who live and breathe the culture of skiing and snowboarding, creating a tight-knit workforce and strengthening regional economies.
Revitalizing Resources
Meier’s use of beetle-kill pine showcases how local manufacturers tackle environmental issues while creating something beautiful. Gilson’s reliance on nearby sawmills for snowboard cores supports local forestry industries and reduces transportation emissions.
Educational Outreach
Many U.S. brands offer workshops and factory tours that educate customers about the manufacturing process and sustainable practices. Parlor Skis and Meier Skis both open their doors to customers, demystifying how their gear is made and fostering a deeper appreciation for the craft.
Cultural Partnerships
Collaborations with local artists, businesses, and athletes add depth to the brands. Gilson showcases regional art on their snowboards, while Meier’s taproom-style workshop creates a vibrant gathering space that blends community and culture.
Investing in Local Sports
Brands like Mervin and ON3P sponsor grassroots events and local athletes, pouring resources back into the sport. These investments create a feedback loop where the companies, athletes, and communities grow together.
The Cost of American-Made Gear
U.S.-made skis and snowboards typically range from $800 to $1,500, compared to $400 to $900 for mass-produced options. The higher price reflects superior materials, such as locally sourced wood and sustainable adhesives, as well as the use of skilled craftsmen earning living wages.
Additionally, domestic production reduces the carbon footprint, with brands like Mervin Manufacturing running zero-hazardous-waste facilities. These added costs aren’t just about the gear—they’re an investment in quality, sustainability, and the communities behind the craftsmanship.
Conclusion
When you buy U.S.-made skis and snowboards, you’re not just purchasing gear—you’re investing in craftsmanship, sustainability, and the people who make it. You’re supporting local economies, reducing environmental impact, and connecting to a product with a story as rich as the terrain it’s designed to conquer.
So, next time you’re picking out your gear, ask yourself: do you want a product that’s good enough, or one that’s truly exceptional?
