Made for Adventure: 20 NM Outdoor Brands You Should Know About
New Mexico isn’t just a playground for hikers, bikers, and explorers, it’s also home to a growing number of outdoor brands that are rooted in the landscape itself. From trail-tested gear and handmade leather goods to local guide services and race organizers, these businesses are built by people who know the terrain and live the lifestyle. Whether they’re crafting ultralight packs in Chama or leading snowshoe tours in the mountains above Santa Fe, these New Mexico-born brands are making their mark on the adventure world, one trail, tour, and toolkit at a time.
The Broken Spoke
A full-service bike shop rooted in the Santa Fe biking community, Broken Spoke offers expert repairs, custom bike builds, and gear for road, gravel, and trail riders. They're known for supporting local events and trails while helping riders from beginners to bikepackers explore Northern New Mexico on two wheels.
2. High Desert Angler
This trusted fly shop and guide service has been outfitting anglers for over 25 years. With deep knowledge of Northern New Mexico waters, they lead trips on the Pecos, Rio Grande, and beyond. Perfect for both first-time casters and seasoned fly fishers chasing the wild.
3. Zia Rides
A New Mexico based race organization that brings the mountain bike community together through fun, well-run events. From the 12 Hours in the Wild West to the Tour de Gallup, Zia Rides blends adventure, camping, and competition with a grassroots, family-friendly vibe.
4. Cotopaxi
Although based in Utah, Cotopaxi’s founder grew up in New Mexico, and that desert spirit lives in their bold, colorful outdoor gear. The company’s backpacks, outerwear, and accessories are sustainably made and driven, with a portion of every sale supporting global poverty, fighting initiatives.
5. Taos bakes
Born in the mountains of Northern New Mexico, Taos Bakes makes nutrient-rich snack bars with bold flavors and real ingredients. Whether you're fueling a summit push or just need a ready to eat snack, these locally made bars are trail-tested and delicious.
6. Santa Fe Nature Guiding
Led by experienced naturalists, Santa Fe Nature Guiding offers personalized hiking and nature tours that dive into the ecology, geology, and wildlife of Northern New Mexico. It’s more than a hike, it’s an educational journey into the high desert’s hidden beauty.
7. Stone forest
Fusing natural materials with functional design, Stone Forest creates stunning stone and metal pieces for outdoor spaces. Their designs, such as sculptural fire pits, sinks, and benches are handcrafted in New Mexico and perfect for adding artistic ruggedness to any adventure basecamp or outdoor retreat.
8. Visit Farmington - Guiding Tours
More than a tourism office, Visit Farmington partners with local outfitters to offer guided hikes, fly fishing, rafting, and off-road excursions across the Four Corners. Their curated adventures take you to hidden gems like Bisti Badlands, Chokecherry Canyon, and the San Juan River.
9. Tumble On Outfitters
Tumble On Outfitters makes custom fleece and ultralight gear in Chama, a vital CDT resupply town. Run by long-distance hikers, their packs and garments are made to handle miles of adventure, with a focus on comfort, durability, and simplicity.
10. DL Leather Works
Handcrafted leather goods designed for everyday explorers. From sturdy belts and wallets to custom sheaths and cases, DL LeatherWorks makes rugged, long-lasting gear in Albuquerque using traditional techniques and materials built to endure trails, travel, and time.
11. Hangtime Gear
Founded in 2015, Hangtime Gear started as a hammock brand. Haj, Khalsa, the founder, shifted the brand in 2017 to smartphone leashes to accommodate to the intense conditions of climbing, backpacking, traveling, and skiing without worrying about loosing or dropping your phone. Mr. Khalsa has been doing all four for 30 plus years.
12. Jaco Outfitters, LLC
Owned by John Olivas, who holds an undergraduate degree in Biology and a master’s degree in environmental management and Life Sciences, JACO Outfitters LLC is a licensed hunting guide service based in Holman. The company offers fully guided big game hunts on public and private lands throughout the state, specializing in species such as elk, mule deer, black bear, cougar, Merriam turkey, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and oryx. They provide comprehensive services, including lodging, meals, transportation, field dressing of game, and trophy photos.
13. Zia Kayak Outfitters
Founded by Russ and Edna Trager, the business has played a pivotal role in popularizing kayaking and kayak fishing in New Mexico. Mrs. Trager has a history in advertising and marketing with CBS News and has served as the mayor of Elephant Butte. She currently serves on the Elephant Butte City Council. Mr. Trager has a background in marketing and serving on the City of Elephant Butte Lodgers Tax Board. It is the largest kayak dealer in New Mexico They have organized and sponsored annual kayak fishing tournaments at Elephant Butte Lake, further fostering community engagement and outdoor recreation.
14. Wolfhorse Outfitters
Wolfhorse Outfitters, led by Joe Saenz of Huichol and Tci-He-Nde (Red Paint People) heritage, offers immersive, Apache-guided wilderness experiences in the Gila National Forest of southwestern New Mexico. Saenez spent his youth exploring rugged terrains of the Gila region, this grew his passion for the environment and his people’s history. The mission is to connect guests with the sacred lands of the Chiricahua and Warm Springs Apache through culturally rich and environmentally mindful adventures. The wide terrain has a variety of landscapes and animals.
15. Morrison Outdoors
A family-owned outdoor gear company founded in 2018 by Tavis and Amber Malcolm, Morrison Outdoors, specializes in creating high-quality, safe, and comfortable sleeping bags designed specifically for infants and young children, aiming to make outdoor adventures more accessible for families. The product idea came while Travis Malcolm was camping with his newborn and there was not a secure way to keep the baby warm. After a few prototypes, the idea launched in 2019 and is now sold in over 80 stores. Morrison Outfitters recently made an appearance on Shark Tank, making a deal with Barbara Corcoran and Mark Cuban.
16. Just Point It
Just Point It is a New Mexico-based outdoor gear company founded by brothers Ted and Nick Wolff. Originating from Santa Fe, the Wolff brothers began their venture by creating beanies, hats, T-shirts, and stickers, often selling them informally from the back of their shared 4Runner. Their brand, "Just Point It," embodies a mindset of embracing adventure and seizing opportunities, resonating deeply with the adventurous spirit of New Mexico. It has now expanded to include custom designed skis and snowboards that often feature designs inspired by New Mexico’s culture and landscapes.
17. Legends by Lantern Light Tours
Based in Mesilla, this company offers atmospheric evening walking tours through historic sites, sharing tales of the Old West, local folklore, and ghostly legends by lantern light. It blends history, storytelling, and a sense of mystery for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
18. Alpine Sports
A Santa Fe staple since 1964, Alpine Sports provides high-quality gear for skiing, snowboarding, cycling, and camping. Known for expert service and a deep connection to New Mexico’s outdoor scene, it’s a go-to hub for both seasonal sports and year-round adventure.
19. Mudd N’ Flood
Located in Taos, Mudd N Flood is a locally loved outfitter offering gear for hiking, climbing, skiing, paddling, and more. Since 1991, they’ve been the quirky, community-centered shop where adventurers stock up on equipment, swap trail stories, and get trusted advice.
20. Patagonia
A globally recognized outdoor apparel and gear brand dedicated to quality, durability, and environmental responsibility. Patagonia’s commitment to sustainable materials and fair labor practices makes it a favorite among those who want high-performance products that also protect the planet.
