Lance Mountain: A Skateboarding Legend Who Shaped the Culture

Introduction

Lance Mountain is a pioneering American professional skateboarder whose influence in the world of skateboarding stretches far beyond his skills on the board. Born on June 13, 1962, in Long Beach, California, Mountain has left an indelible mark on both the sport and skate culture. Known for his laid-back style, commitment to skateboarding, and role in the formation of iconic skateboarding groups, Lance Mountain is not just a legendary competitor, but also a revered figure in the history of skateboarding.

Background

Growing up in Southern California, Lance Mountain was introduced to skateboarding at a young age during the 1970s, a time when the sport was in its infancy. He and his friends started skateboarding on homemade ramps, paving the way for Mountain to enter the competitive scene. In the early ’80s, he joined the famous Santa Monica-based skateboarding crew, the “Bones Brigade,” alongside other skateboarding icons such as Tony Hawk and Steve Caballero. It was here that Mountain’s natural ability and unique style began to shine.

His early skateboarding years coincided with the golden age of vert skating. As the skateboarding world evolved, so did Lance, constantly pushing the limits of what was possible on the board, while also staying grounded in the true spirit of skate culture.

Career Highlights

Lance Mountain’s career is marked by significant achievements, including his role in bringing skateboarding into the mainstream. Some of his career highlights include:

• X Games and Competitions: Lance Mountain was one of the standout figures in the vert skating world during the 1980s and ’90s. He competed in several events, including the legendary X Games, where he showcased his mastery of ramps and half-pipes.

• Bones Brigade Influence: As a key member of the Bones Brigade, Mountain contributed significantly to the growth of the skateboarding industry. He helped popularize the “skateboard video” concept, with influential videos like The Search for Animal Chin, which are considered skateboarding classics.

• Skateboarding’s Resurgence: In the 2000s, Mountain’s legacy continued to grow. His return to competition, along with his collaboration with other legendary skaters, helped revive the interest in vert skating. His participation in the modern skateboarding scene helped bridge the gap between old-school and new-school skaters.

Signature Moves and Skating Style

Lance Mountain’s skating style is often described as a mix of technical skill and effortless flow. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Mountain was known for blending creative, stylish tricks with a sense of fun and freedom. One of his signature moves is the “Frontside Ollie,” which he perfected and became famous for, as well as his contribution to the evolution of the “Ollie 360.” He is often celebrated for his ability to make complex tricks look effortless, a skill that has earned him respect from skaters of all generations.

In addition to his prowess in vert skating, Lance Mountain’s influence extends to street skateboarding, where his relaxed yet precise approach became an inspiration for many. His style is often credited for helping skateboarding evolve from a sport rooted in competition to one that was also focused on personal expression.

Notable Sponsorships and Partnerships

Throughout his career, Lance Mountain collaborated with several influential brands and skate companies, further solidifying his status as a skateboarding legend. Some of his most notable partnerships include:

• Santa Cruz Skateboards: Lance Mountain had a long-running relationship with Santa Cruz Skateboards, releasing signature decks that are still highly sought after by collectors.

• Vans: Mountain has been a part of Vans’ skateboarding team for many years, and his signature shoes and collaborations with the brand have become iconic in skate culture.

• Powell Peralta: As part of the Bones Brigade, Mountain contributed to the creation of iconic skateboard decks and videos that helped define an era of skateboarding.

Social Media Presence

Though Lance Mountain is a figure from skateboarding’s “golden era,” he continues to maintain a presence in the skateboarding world through social media, connecting with fans and followers. While he doesn’t post as frequently as younger skaters, Mountain’s social media accounts are still a great place to catch glimpses of his life, skateboarding projects, and collaborations.

Fans can follow him on:

• Instagram: @lancemountain
• Twitter: @lancemountain

Personal Life

Beyond skateboarding, Lance Mountain is also a talented artist and philanthropist. He has used his fame and platform to give back to the skateboarding community, participating in numerous charity events, skatepark initiatives, and mentorship programs for young skaters. His love for art has also led him to create a variety of works, many of which reflect his skateboarding roots.

Mountain has always maintained a humble and grounded approach to life, offering a positive influence to the next generation of skateboarders. Known for his laid-back demeanor, he has become an emblem of skateboarding’s culture and spirit.

Impact on Skateboarding

Lance Mountain’s contributions to the sport are immeasurable. Not only did he help elevate the technicality of vert skating, but he also played a major role in the shaping of skateboarding culture as a whole. As a member of the Bones Brigade, he helped lay the groundwork for the modern skate industry, influencing everything from skate parks to skateboard companies. His creative approach to skating, coupled with his entrepreneurial spirit, has helped skateboarding remain relevant and continue evolving over the decades.

Mountain’s legacy goes beyond his competition victories or his incredible tricks; he represents the heart and soul of skateboarding—a passion for pushing boundaries, having fun, and living the skate life to its fullest.