Icelantic skis.

• Position: SPORTS EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING

Denver

iceianticboards.com

The first thing you need to know about Icelantic skis is that stepping into them guarantees an adventure.

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The short, fat skis were created with a lot of surface area, making them easier to maneuver, especially through powder, says Chris Blackett, operations manager for the company.

The second thing you have to know, Blackett says, is that adventure and art go hand in hand. Ben Anderson, who founded the company in 2006, joined up with artist Travis Parr, whose intricate work graces every pair of skis the company sells.

"We have a theme every year," says Blackett, one of eight employees. "These have included everything from warriors of each continent - think Genghis Khan - to music - think...