Flagstaff Business News
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After more than 50 years, Mountain Sports continues to evolve while protecting wild places.
For more than five decades, Mountain Sports has been helping outdoor enthusiasts gear up for adventure while building a legacy of conservation, community involvement and environmental stewardship. Today, under the leadership of owner Lisa Lamberson, the Flagstaff retailer continues to evolve while staying true to the passion for outdoor recreation that inspired her dad and uncle.
After more than 50 years, Mountain Sports continues to evolve while protecting wild places.
Mountain Sports was founded in 1972 in Casper, Wyoming, by brothers Mark and Bruce Lamberson. The Flagstaff location opened in 1980 on Milton Road, where City Hall now stands today.
“The business began with two people trying to make a living doing what they loved,” said Lisa. “They were passionate about skiing, hiking, biking, skating and spending time outdoors.”
“Work Hard. Play Harder,” remains the unofficial motto.
Among Lamberson’s proudest accomplishments is navigating the transition of ownership from her parents while preserving a strong father-daughter relationship.
She also points to Mountain Sports’ commitment to giving back. Through its membership in 1% for the Planet, the company has returned more than $300,000 to local conservation and environmental education organizations.
Meanwhile, Lamberson remains active in conservation advocacy through The Conservation Alliance and other efforts that support public lands.
Guiding principles include listening and adapting, showing up for Flagstaff, protecting places people love, trusting the team and building a lasting legacy.
“We bring energy and purpose to our work and believe time spent outside makes us better people.”
The biggest shift is an increased focus on environmental stewardship, she says, while also adjusting the product mix to meet changing customer preferences.
“We began as a full-service outdoor gear shop carrying skis, snowboards, bikes, climbing gear, backpacks, tents and more. Today, our assortment is more focused on apparel, gifts, jewelry and products that reflect the Flagstaff lifestyle.”
“Without question, COVID-19 was the most significant challenge. The pandemic forced us to close for nearly 10 weeks, creating uncertainty unlike anything we’d experienced before. We had to become creative, flexible and resilient almost overnight. Those months tested our endurance, but they also reinforced our ability to adapt.”
Lamberson hopes Mountain Sports remains a cornerstone of Flagstaff’s outdoor community for decades to come and believes in preparing the next generation’s leaders to guide the company into the future.
“Retail is more than selling products. It’s a place for connection, conversation and community influence.”
“Our people,” said Lamberson. “While products, trends and locations may change, the one constant has been the quality of the people who choose to work here. Stores don’t build legacies – people do.” FBN
Mountain Sports Flagstaff
24 N. Leroux St.
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-774-8959
mountainsportsflagstaff.com
Filed Under: Business, Local News
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