How it started

The founders, Janie and her husband, who was raised in Norway, came to the valley about 35 years ago and bought a small mountaineering shop, Vail Mountaineering, in Lionshead, selling crampons, fleece and telemark skis. In 1990 they moved to the current Vail Village address, and the stock gradually changed from climbing gear to clothing. Their children, Candice and Axel Jr., are part of the business and travel with them to source and develop collections.

What is on the racks

Men's stock includes leather and suede jackets, shearling and winter coats, sport coats, snap shirts, sweaters and bolo ties, with labels such as Giannetto Portofino, Gimo's and Georg Roth. Women's collections add cashmere, tailored blazers, dresses, MAC and Cambio jeans and MIZANA jewelry. Both sides carry cowboy boots, including Stallion Boot Co.

House denim and buckles

Axel's makes its own premium denim line for men and women, and also stocks Richard J. Brown jeans. The belt buckle collection runs from one-of-a-kind pieces to trophy buckles, and custom buckles for ranch emblems, weddings or family milestones are designed with the shop and made by Comstock Heritage.

Shopping from home

Most of the collection is also sold through the Axel's website, which is useful for browsing before a trip or reordering a size afterwards.

Axel's Outpost

The family's sale shop, Axel's Outpost, carries the on-sale collection at the top of the steps at the Vail Village Inn, 100 East Meadow Drive, a short walk from the main store. It opens by appointment in the off-season, so call ahead.

Sources: Axel's, Axel's story, locations, custom buckles, contact. Checked September 23, 2026.