By Finley Timon EDITORIAL INTERN
Christy Sports opened its first Big Sky location in Mountain Village at Big Sky Resort in 2021. In 2022, it added a second store in Big Sky Town Center after purchasing Grizzly Outfitters. Their experienced staff provides seasonal gear, rentals and other adventure gear services. In this Making it in Big Sky, Christy Sports’ Rachel Fuhrman shares more about the business and its role in the community.
This series is part of a paid partnership with the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce. The following answers have been edited for brevity.
Explore Big Sky: How long has Christy Sports been part of the Big Sky community?
Rachel Fuhrman: We became part of the Big Sky story in 2021 when we opened our Mountain Village location and partnered with Lone Mountain Sports, a trusted shop serving skiers since 1973. In 2022, we expanded again by acquiring Grizzly Outfitters, now rebranded as Christy Sports Big Sky Town Center. Together, these shops reflect a shared mission: offer world-class service, preserve a deep connection to the community, and help more people step outside with confidence.
EBS: What kind of gear and services do you offer? How does it differ between winter and summer?
R.F.: At both Mountain Village and Town Center, we offer gear, rentals and service that evolve with the seasons. In winter, you’ll find top-tier skis, snowboards, boots, outerwear and accessories, plus expert tuning, repairs and our Boot Fit Guarantee. In summer, the Town Center shop shifts to hiking and biking with trail-ready gear, rentals and apparel. Whether it’s powder season or peak trail time, our goal is the same: help you make the most of your time outside.
EBS: How does your rental program work, and what makes it stand out from other options in town?
R.F.: We’ve built our rental program around one thing: making your experience as smooth as possible. Reserve online and pick up gear after 12 p.m. the day before. You can swap or adjust equipment at no extra cost thanks to our Perfect Fit Guarantee. Want to try before you buy? Our Test Ski & Snowboard Program lets you demo performance gear, with up to two days’ rental credited toward purchase. Kids 12 and under rent free with a four-day adult package, because family days on the mountain are better when they’re affordable, too.
EBS: What kind of experience or knowledge do your team members bring to the table?
R.F.: Our team is made up of local experts, many who were part of Lone Mountain Sports and Grizzly Outfitters before joining Christy Sports. They bring decades of experience and a shared love for the mountain lifestyle. Whether it’s matching you with the right boot or fine-tuning skis for a powder day, they combine technical know-how with a humble, welcoming approach. Because great gear is only as good as the people who help you use it.
EBS: How does Christy Sports engage with the Big Sky community?
R.F.: We’re proud to build on the legacy of shops that have long served Big Sky locals and visitors. That means supporting community-driven causes and showing up for the people, places and passions that make this place so special. Many of our staff call Big Sky home—they’re not just selling gear, they’re living the lifestyle and giving back to the community that fuels it.
EBS: How would you describe the ski and outdoor culture in Big Sky, and how does the store reflect that?
R.F.: Big Sky has a bold outdoor culture, defined by 5,800 acres of terrain, stunning Lone Peak views and a spirit that says, “let’s go.” From deep powder runs to bluebird bike rides, it’s a place where adventure never clocks out. At Christy Sports, we match that energy with high-performance gear, expert service and approachable staff who know the mountain—and how to make the most of it.
EBS: What are your goals for the future?
R.F.: We’re focused on deepening our roots in Big Sky while evolving how we serve outdoor enthusiasts. That means expanding digital tools like our online rental platform, investing in our expert team, and continuing to support community partnerships. Whether someone’s visiting for the first time or lives here year-round, we want to be the place they trust to get outside, and stay out longer. Because outside is better.
