My husband has been dying to join the Melly owners club since ski season. Everyone but him had a Melanzana on his hut trip. We made our reservation back in February. (This is my fault- I should've thought huh- it's gonna be hot in summer; so remember I'm shopping for the colder months) That said- I did have the foresight to think "what other fun things can I do in Leadville while shopping for my Melly"- and this town has nothing short of great mountain adventures all year round. :) Staff was very friendly- we kinda arrived maybe an hour before our reservation, but they still let us in to shop. Now I'm thinking I should make my reservation for 6-9 months... when I can wear my Melly immediately and it'll be a bit chillier. :) read more

Melanzana - Sports Wear Near Me - Leadville, Colorado

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get you a Melly, they are super griche (granola + niche) super kind and informative staff, the store is such a vibe, lots of good colors this time around, and worth the high dollar because I like unique things that aren't easy to come buy! read more

I'm a proud owner of a few Mellys, and I often feel envious when I see someone in the wild wearing a color I'd LOVE to have. As all the other reviews clearly state, you need to have a reservation months in advance to properly shop here. However, both hoodies I own are from the clearance rack. I got lucky twice and found Mellys in a color I liked and in my size. Definitely worth swinging by if you're already walking around Leadville - like a real Coloradoan!! read more

Reservation only, Melanzana has high quality sport gear for men, women and kid's. Reservations are currently 6-9 months out if you want to peruse the complete line of clothing and accessories. All clothing is made on site and you can see the seamstresses busy at work as you enter. There are a few overstocked items that you can view and purchase. I found the sales women to have expert knowledge, friendly and helpful and I ended up getting a very comfortable hoodie. Melanzana employs local labor and also brings lots of business to the mountain town of Leadville and that is a very good thing. If you are willing to plan ahead or take what you can get, Melanzana is worth a visit. read more

Melanzana - Outside - Sports Wear Near Me - Leadville, Colorado

Got my first Melly today! We made the trek to the shop without an appointment (none available), and we were able to shop on the south side of the shop. There were vintage items, overstock, hats, socks! You can try the styles on and see what you like. Obviously if you can book an appointment online, you can see more of a selection. We were just happy to be there. Everyone working was so friendly and nice - they even looked in the back to see if they could find a color in our size. I can't wait to rock my new Melly! read more

Y'all ever see the soup Nazi in Seinfeld? Welp this is the fleece Nazi My hiking buddy Louise loves Mely....and we had to stop by when we passed by Leadville. Unless you have an appointment ( we are talking at least 6 months out) you can only look and shop the sales rack. Now do not get me wrong you can search for canceled reservations but seriously...wtf? The product is great, although I do not care for the hoody with the kangaroo pockets. What is cool is that they are employing local people to manufacture on premise. So yes I will make a ressy and come back....all the friggin way from Denver. read more

Melanzana - Sports Wear Near Me - Leadville, Colorado

Heard about this place through a coworker a while ago and thought it was interesting that it's a by appointment only store. Visited Leadville and noticed the store was there, but didn't go in since I didn't have an appointment. This week was the second time coming to Leadville and since my husband and I parked on the street right outside, we decided to take a peek inside. We were immediately greeted by a friendly team member and we were curious to know more about the history of the clothing and how their reservation system works. She was very informative and told us we were free to check out the overstock and vintage options on the racks by the door for purchase of one item per person. Unexpectedly loved the quality and softness of the fabrics and very happy and lucky to have found our sizes in the river blue color Wind Pro jackets! There were mainly men's large/xl, micro grid toque beanies and socks available in the non appointment section on the day we visited. People seemed to give off a bit of urgency looking for the size and color they wanted from this rack since the reservation system inherently creates exclusivity, so if you're looking around you can expect people to be trying on items excitedly and grabbing items from the racks quickly. Cool location and awesome to see the clothing being made in-house behind the countertop. For clothing items this expensive, it feels great to support a business that produces quality items and employs local people! read more

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Terrible experience. I don't know if I've ever had a worse retail experience. It was like I was imposing on them by trying to buy something. I've read all of the reviews with the responses of "you don't have to get it...our appointment system...blah blah blah" but I am confident that this business practice will catch up to you and your business. When the customer walks away feeling like a burden, you are doing something wrong. Make hay while the sun is up, because customers will turn on you and they will remember how you made them feel. No response necessary, I think I've read all you have to say. Btw I've never left less than 4 stars on a review before. read more

Heard a lot about this store with comfy clothes that you have to make a reservation to shop at. Decided to check it out and didn't make a reservation because I couldn't find one. We get there and turns out they're booked till March. They had a small section that you didn't need to make a reservation to shop at. Not many options and limited sizes. They did let us check out the side of the store for reservations. I did manage to find a sweater that was really nice and so soft in my size in the overstock part which wasn't very discounted so don't expect much lower prices in the overstock side. Overall would recommend checking out its pretty neat, but be prepared to spend because it's not cheap. Glad I was able to get such a comfy and soft sweater though. read more

Melanzana - Sports Wear Near Me - Leadville, Colorado

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Visited Leadville with my Grandparents during the summer and stopped by Melanzana. We were lucky and were able to find something for both of us on the overstock rack. There were a lot of customers coming in while we were shopping. I'm really happy that this store is doing so well! The employees here are very nice and it's really cool to watch them work. If you are coming here without an appointment, you should try to get here as early as possible. Nothing is guaranteed! Would be cool if y'all sold blankets made from the same material as the green hoodie in the photos! They would sell very well. Great experience overall, we will try to get an appointment next time we are here! read more

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Most disappointing experience I've ever had as a consumer. Have been wanting to get a Melanzana for three years and scheduled a massive detour in Colorado while we were here for a short trip. I had no way to know that the shop required appointment 4 months in advance. Showed up to be told we could only shop "overstock", and then we were shown the overstock rack (pictured) that had one single jacket covered in pet hair that was two sizes too big. I get that keeping up with supply is difficult, and they have this business model for a reason but, wow, there has to be some way to let people know other than going on their website 6 months before planning a trip (because who would do that for a store that doesn't even sell items online?). Such excitement to be met with such bitter disappointment, and I will likely never be in this part of the country again so I guess I will never be a customer. I know they don't need or care about my business but man this was a rough one. read more

Melanzana - The "overstock" rack... - Sports Wear Near Me - Leadville, Colorado

Some of the female workers were rude, staring, and obviously talking about me because I was from TN and did not know I needed an appointment. A very nice, ginger bearded man, did a great job of helping me out with the non-appointment side of the store and assisted me to finding a melly to purchase. Mixed experience but still a great store. Ginger bearded man should get employee of the month and was really the only one who helped me as I walked in. read more

This place is awesome for all the right reasons. Not the least of which being that they make and sell on site some of the comfiest hoodies ever. I randomly stopped in while exploring Leadville one day and I didn't know what they were about but now I do so lemme break it down. They make everything on site, and the supplies are generally limited, as the entire production of everything is done by the dozen or so people who are sewing the garments right there in front of you. With that in mind, it is best to be flexible with regard to things like what color you want etc. If you're sure that you want a certain size/color, give them a call and they'll advise you on when it will be available. They don't ship. They only sell them in store. So if you want their stuff, you've gotta go to Leadville and get it. If you want to shop, you have to log onto their site and book an appointment. It's free to do it, and it entitles you to purchase 2 items. Their website will list inventory levels and release dates for the items that they have for sale. So pay attention, check it out, book an appointment and you're set. In my experience they've been super friendly and responsive if you give them a call with any questions. Why would you go through all this just to get a hoody? Here's why. Because this is the very definition of a local business. They source their fabrics in the US, and they sew their garments here as well. In addition to that, the garments are extremely high quality. They use the same fabrics as national brands, and they charge significantly less. The people who work at Melanzana seem to be happy with their jobs, and proud of the work they're doing and the ideals that are embodied in their business model and I think that they should be. Further...the hoodies are so comfy. The micro grid is a good all arounder, and the high loft is like your favorite fuzzy blanket...except you can wear it. So warm, so cozy. I love it. They've got a few others, a windproof one I believe and maybe one more. I don't own them but if the quality of the ones that I do own is any indication, then certainly they must be amazing. Long story short this place is really special in that they're doing a lot of important things right. Good jobs, US sourced materials, top quality goods, highly competitive prices, super friendly people and so local that you literally have to go there if you want to buy their stuff. Worth it to make the appointment and go. If you're planning a trip to Leadville be sure to book an stop in. You'll be glad that you did. 5 stars. read more

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Still unable to purchase hoody, lottery never worked, waste of time. If you care so much about the community, hire people to make the product. Easier to buy one on eBay than from the company read more

Had the best experience at Melanzana!! Efficient and easy check in - the layout is quick to the point! Informational and kind workers!! Can't wait to rock my first melly!! read more

I just wanted to leave a review real quick solely based on customer service. Maybe 8 months ago I booked an appointment under an email address that got discontinued. However, after emailing their crew, and getting responses within the hour, they were able to recover me a spot. Not only does this show their loyalty, but also shows how they put the customer first. They definitely earned a lifetime customer and I hope that I will be able to revisit again! read more

Great products but hard to support their products with horrible business practices. I was going to buy a dozen hoodies but I guess I'll support better business. Mapping apps say they're open at 10 am. But they don't actually open their front doors until 1 pm. And then the store is closed completely to the public after 11/26... so then you're only able to get one of these products in an "online lottery"... Also, why is the store off limits to the regular public from 10-1 when their staff is all inside working... and the shopping/lobby is off limits? #badbusiness just got bad read more

Melanzana - Sports Wear Near Me - Leadville, Colorado

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We love melanzanas and do everything in them! They are perfect for skiing and climbing and they are fashionable too! We always look forward to our trips to the Melly store in Leadville! read more

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Excellent experience today! I was able to make an appointment 3 days out by checking online for cancellations! The goodies we got are so soft, structured well, and wonderful colors! I personally really liked having a reservation and space to shop without feeling overwhelmed by a big crowd! Plus pickles the dog was adorable! The staff was super kind and able to make recommendations for local businesses to visit and eat! Thanks for a great Leadville experience! read more

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Hey guys love the product and brand I just have a quick recommendation. On the website you need a way to skip to a specific month when scheduling an appointment instead of clicking through all of the months because it takes forever to load each page (~10-20 seconds each) so it takes like 2 minutes to even get to the page where you will be scheduling. Its super annoying especially when it made me do it twice since i wasn't logged in the first time. Love the product and the effort to maintain a small company feel even when it is so popular. read more

Melanzana has a product that is truly unique and worth the wait. I have both microgrid and high loft hoodies, and I am always impressed at the fabric's ability to provide warmth, cool and sweat wick, and last through years of outdoors recreation, washing machines, stuffed into backpacks etc. I love how they change their colors seasonally and the microgrid 2.0 is a small but very technical fabric change- I am impressed so far. The appointment system is incredibly simple, and it is not uncommon to score a last minute one. They also have a small rack for folks who don't have an appointment, so they're absolutely trying to support every shopper. When I see reviews that are angry about the appointment system, I strongly suspect those folks have never run a small business. There are so many factors that go into making these high quality garments, and setting up a shipping business is a whole other animal. I respect the lottery system and the appointment system because they're trying to ensure that as many people as possible have access to their products. Thanks to everyone at Mele! read more

They are super snooty. Literally won't sell you something unless you make an appointment ahead of time. Like ok, hi I have money exchange for goods and or services. Can I buy this shirt. Answer is literally "no." Apparently we're on 5th Ave in NYC read more

I couldn't score an appointment for Melanzana, and was only in Leadville for a few hours. I called in and asked if an appointment was truly necessary. They said they had a limited number of walk-in items for sale so I dropped in. They had a rack of hoodies for men and one for women. They also had socks and beanies for sale. While not all the cool and funky colors that you'd be able to get with an appointment I still went home with a hoodie that I'm loving. Incredibly comfortable and looks great to boot. The crew there was very friendly. read more

Fun little fleece clothing store where all is made in Leadville! Their "mellys" are great - so warm, soft and comfy! Current protocol requires a reservation and allows you to purchase 2 items. Prices are very fair and employees are friendly. Inventory is a bit low these days, but what isn't? Stop in for an appointment- you'll be glad you did! read more

I have been a long-time Melanzana supporter, but unfortunately, my last experience attempting to support the brand will be my last. The appointment system has become a complete joke with appointments are now booked 6-8 months out. During my last visit I was driving from Denver back to Telluride, (which does require a less direct, out of the way trip to go through Leadville). I didn't bother looking at the website to see if there was an appointment because my trip was unplanned at the last minute and I knew there wouldn't be an appointment (last I had checked on a different trip, appointments were 1 1/2 months out). I decided to put in the extra miles and hour to go through Leadville to see if by chance there was a cancellation. When I arrived, I was greeted by a girl with a snotty attitude (yes girl, I say this because a woman would know better than to speak to customers while in a customer service position with such a poor attitude) who when I asked if there happened to be any cancellations that day, referred me to a sign. Clearly agitated from having to answer this question all day long, she said the next appointment available is 6 months out in April. She pointed me toward the blemish rack and said I could shop there. Unfortunately, the sizing of what was available was very limited and I did not have any luck finding anything in my size (which also appeared to be the case of everyone shopping the blems). This was not the first time this had happened, I've attempted many times since the appointment system started to pop into Melanzana during random trips to the front range. Each time having no luck. Additionally, since Covid, the quality of the product has declined. The supply chain shut down Melanzana's operations at one point, which is originally what forced the wait-in-line system. But apparently it also gave them a reason to reduce the quality while upping the price. They are now using recycled plastic to make their products out of and the micro-grid fleece hoody is noticeably thinner than the original version. While I'm all for recycling plastic, these hoodies aren't holding up as long as they used to and are wearing down...(I can't say more quickly because none of my previous hoodies ever really wore down). Additionally, they are charging more for these V2 recycled hoodies (nearly $20 more, from $68 to $86) in the past two years! Sorry Melly, but at $86, the Micro-Grid Fleece just ain't worth the price (or the trip, or the headache with the appointment system). After my last visit, I am done. It's apparent that I will never be able to schedule an appointment, and I done making the out of the way trips to Leadville in the hopes of getting in on a cancellation. I commend anyone who has the ability and flexibilty to plan their visit to, or trip through Leadville down to an exact time that far in advance. Good for you! However, most folks traveling through our fine state, who will go out of their way just to swing into the shop do not have that ability. It's sad for me, being a native of Colorado and having been a supporter of the brand for so long, but it's become apparent that Melanzana has no desire to support its customers and improve the overall customer experience. I will now be shopping elsewhere and supporting alternate local made-in-Colorado brands when I am in need of a fleece mid-layer. read more

Great to see made-in- America going strong here. The ladies seem to like their work. Biggest drawback is the ' appointment only' shopping. Makes it inconvenient if your a tourist browsing through town. Yes there are "seconds"'available for immediate purchase. But I am personally not fond of this retail model. Hard to see them turn down business- but due to loyal fans they seem to be making a go of it. Wishing them success! Sincerely, Disgruntled walk-in customer. read more

This place is amazing. Ready James M's review for the full low down- if you can't buy these fleeces online you have got to get to the store because there is nothing like it. Love supporting local small businesses!!!! And if you see anyone anyplace besides Colorado wearing a Melanzana- you know they know what's up :) read more

Melanzana - Sports Wear Near Me - Leadville, Colorado

if you follow me on Yelp at all you know that my system for rating is five stars for places to which I would drive out of my way, four stars four places at which I'd like to be a regular and three stars for places that are A ok. With that in mind the fact that I drove 2 hours out of my way during a trip to Colorado speaks for itself. This company has been in business for 25 years and has earned a cult following among serious outdoor enthusiasts and backpackers. Their microfleece clothing which is made on property is probably the best in the world. So even though it's the best hoodie for hikers in the world you probably can't get one unless you go to Leadville. They aren't sold online except by people who go to Leadville and then Mark them up on eBay or other sites. I've been lusting after one of these melanzana micro fleece hoodies for sometime and when given the opportunity to make the detour to Leadville to pick one up I jumped on the chance. It's pretty cool to walk in and watch the seamstresses actually sewing the clothing right there and then putting it on the racks for sale. Everything is top-notch and the employees are very friendly and welcoming. You'll pay about $68 for a hoodie which would cost you over twice that on eBay. So if you're in Colorado and you love outdoor clothing make the detour to melanzana. read more

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It's an experience is the best way to put it! Got the V2 Grid hoodie and it's breathable, but warm. Perfect for when I'm at the crag early and it's in that nice 70. I think the people that are claiming "terrible experience" or "I want it so sell it to me" should reconsider their approach because there was nothing but welcoming people inside. And a doggo in store just tells you everything you need to know about this place. Great service, great product, and great care. So take some yourself, and look at their website before arriving in store and embarrassing yourself read more

Melanzana - Me immediately putting on my purchase no less than 5 minutes after leaving the store - Sports Wear Near Me - Leadville, Colorado

Wasn't able to shop. It's appointment only. This must be tailor-made kinda store. A lot of people were turned away. I assumed it was also due to covid , but looking in window Unmasked shopping was going on. read more

Originally from New York, Eggplant Outdoorware moved to Leadville, Colorado in the late 1990s to fullfil a dream of its founders to live the mountain life. They changed their name to Melanzana for trademark reasons, and brought with them the Polartec micro fleece fabric that was the foundation of their exceptional quality outdoor clothing. Everything is manufactured right in the store on Harrison Street. There are only limited quantities in a few designs and colors, and when they sell out of anything, which is often, you may have to wait until next season to find it available again. So, having a flexible approach to your needs increases the chances that you will find what you can use. Too, their store closes in summer. Disappointment will follow if you show up in July and August when all you can do is window shop. I was first in Melanzana in the autumn of 1999 on my way to Crested Butte to explore the Ruby Mountains. I had stopped at a local cafe to grab breakfast and fill up my coffee thermos. My server was wearing a cool hoodie that looked comfortable, and I asked her about it. I was surprised to learn that she loved it and expressed pride that it was made and sold right up the street from where we chatted. I needed a replacement for my aging Timberland down vest, and thought this too fortuitous to pass on the opportunity to check it out. My server agreed that it would be worth my while to stop in and mention her name to the owners, who were good friends. I left her a tip worthy of her information (hoping she would remember me next time I passed through Leadville), and headed up the block to the Melanzana store. Longer story short, I was assisted by one of the owners; exchanged stories about our common childhood in New York; and walked out with a blue green hard case hoodie designed for some warmth and wind protection, and a russet colored micro fleece vest, best for warmth and wicking around the campsite. They were both soft and very comfortable. They immediately became my favorite outdoor vestments. Whether in Colorado, Vermont, Montreal or shoveling snow in my Bucks County driveway, they were ever ready. More than twenty years on, they look only slightly worn, remain my favorite outdoor garb and have traveled the world with me. Will have to return to Leadville when Melanzana is open for business. My family keeps borrowing mine, and it's past time to get them their own epic hoodies. read more

Great store, great products! But only one store and that is here in Leadville CO. The clothing is sewn in the store and I saw them preparing to shop some, even though I was told they do not sell online any more. I was introduced to Melanzana through my daughter who is quite the outdoor adventurer And she knows what gear to use and what to wear for any outdoor activity. So, the material is soft and cozy and there are only a few styles and colours to choose from. It's interesting how this brand is so popular here in Colorado when I was going through the security line in vail the TSA agent asks me if my shirt is a Melanzana?? read more

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We as a society seem so geared to the idea that everything should be convenient to US. You should sell this way, because I want it that way. The customer is certainly not always right, and often they are pretty self-centered and rude. So, my son moved to Buena Vista to guide rafts. He was told about Melanzana and to make an appointment. Before visiting him recently he told us about these great hoodies, and we needed to make an appointment. Right. Who makes appointments for a hoodie? I have way too many hoodies. Then, on the second night it cools off, and out comes his Meli. Hmmm, not like my other hoodies at all.... So, my wife, older son and I struck out the next morning for Leadville, having heard they often have some overstock hoodies available; colors and sizes limited. We were at the front door at 10am on a Sunday, and at exactly 10am they opened the door and asked if we had an appointment. No, we said. We were politely told that the racks to the left and the merchandise in the buckets were available on a first-come, first-served basis, one hoodie per person. We all found hoodies we loved, and bought them. We could have easily struck out, and wouldn't have begrudged them a bit. I say "cheers" to a company making and selling a product locally. And doing it however they please. To those offended by a sales process that doesn't fit their liking, move on and find a different store. Maybe a happier person will wear your Meli. And as far as people marking them up on E-Bay, that's on them. Melanzana seems to be doing everything they can to limit the number of products any one family or person can buy at a time. I love my hoodie. I'll sing your praises from a rooftop. read more

Have been hearing great things from "Melly" owners for years and finally got in there for an appointment this past week. The folks were friendly and helpful, and I LOVE my hoodie - I knew they were cool looking, but had no idea just how comfy they'd be. I may never take it off. Have seen some of the grumbling reviews from folks not able to get appointments - calling this place snooty or complaining about the approach. This is a small business coping with staffing and bandwidth issues and incredible demand - and this method is working for them and keeping their employees sane. So kudos to them for finding something that works! If you look back to the reviews from before they implemented this policy - the bad reviews were about there never being any stock when people wanted to shop. So if you want a Melly for yourself (and who wouldn't?) - plan ahead, make an appointment, and be kind. read more

I wanted to buy a hoodie dress for my daughter for her birthday in July, but when I went on line to make an appointment in June, the first available was December 3rd (6 months out, really!). So I bought two on poshmark for about $186 each; not knowing the price at the store. One did not fit and I am trying to sell it on social media, for a loss to me. I received a notice from Melanzana that I can not sell it for a profit. Technically I am not, and would express my frustration with the method of operation and how it has created this situation. I am sympathetic to struggles with staffing, if that is what this is - or is it a marketing ploy that keeps their operating costs low. I will discontinue trying to buy from them - coming in the middle of the winter; I live in the mountains as well; and having to wait so long, is just not worth it. Your product is not that special. read more

The VooDoo Donuts of retail perfects the trifecta of great product, scarcity of availability, and Willy Wonka production secrecy. It's a good thing that you're limited to two hoodies or the magic would overtake your senses for a future life of head-to-toe micro grid fabric living. As authentic as it is original, it's exactly what the world needs in a sea of outlet mall Northface shops and Patagonia 'experience' stores. I just wish I could have been here on the day that the actual thing (no hood long-sleeve) I wanted was unveiled for the retail rush. (Why no 5th star? It's a great place, but if you can't get what you want it would be self-abusive to say it was perfection!) read more

I've heard of Melanzana so when we were driving through town, wanted to stop to experience it. Unfortunately, we were not able to shop because of their new 'appointment system'. I wished we had known! Perhaps next year. read more

Small store, small selection, but that's ok. Might not always have the sizes or size/color you are looking for. High quality clothing, and super comfy as well! We actually messed up our appointment date and showed up a day early, but they seemed super chill. Always worried about how much of a stickler to the rules a place can be when they are in such high demand, but they weren't! I do wish they/Leadville weren't so out of the way, but I guess that adds to the desirability. read more

Spent a few years getting my timing to work out to get a melly and finally got a trade in spot this summer. I had thrifted an older melanzana that was a little pilled and not quite my size, I would say this is the best way to get an appointment! read more

Great people that make great clothes. Got lucky and got one off the overstock rack. Made an appointment for next summer to get another as well. read more