2015 SU MMER SHOW ISSU E VO LU M E 4 8 I I S S U E 4
BOOTH # 32148 Volume 48 I Issue 4
2015 Summer Show Issue Publisher I Editor In Chief James Hartford
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Scott Boulbol
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Northeast
Eugene Buchanan
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Barry Gauthier barry@sportsonesource.com
Fernando J. Delgado Michael Frank
Advertising Sales
Charlie Lunan
Account Manager
Nancy Prichard Bouchard
Buz Keenan
VP Business Development I West
Jahla Seppanen
Northeast
Barry Schrimsher
Ryan Sullivan
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Aubrey Volger
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303.578.7032 ON THE COVER: Johanna Swatosch, Marketing Manager for Dynafit Germany, on location in Croatia shooting for the Spring/Summer 2016 Catalog. Photo courtesy of Dynafit.
SGB, Copyright 2015 is a trademark of SportsOneSource, LLC. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed by the authors and contributors to SGB are not necessarily those of the editors or publisher. SGB is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Articles appearing in SGB may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express permission of the publisher. SGB, Volume 48, Issue 4, (USPS 457-390; ISSN 1548-7407) is published six times a year by SportsOneSource, LLC. 1075 E. South Boulder Road, Suite 300, Louisville, CO 80027; 303.997.7302. Subscription rates: one year $79 (U.S. funds) in the U.S. and its possessions; Canada and Mexico $119 (U.S. funds); all other foreign delivery $199 (U.S. funds). Printed in the U.S.A. Periodical postage paid at Louisville, CO and additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to SGB, 1075 E. South Boulder Road, Third Floor, Louisville, CO 80027; 303.997.7302.
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2015 SUMMER SHOW ISSUE
Photo courtesy Fjallraven
6 Contributors
42 OUTDOOR HARDGOODS
8 RETAIL BEST PRACTICES
responding to the younger demographic entering the
A renewed interest in outdoor climbing and acceleration in youth climbing
marketplace with modern designs with the comfort of
gives retailers an upward trajectory.
home away from home.
Camping is at an all time high and manufacturers are
14 GIVING BACK
54 Portable SUPS popularity is on the rise – easy
Lifestraw's family of products is changing the world's access to clean, safe
to transport, more durable and less expensive than
drinking water.
fiberglass and foam boards.
18 MADE IN THE U.S.A.
60 SPORTS & FITNESS
Polartec leads the field in American-made recycled fabric.
Outdoor athletes fuel their bodies with gourmet bars, brews, bites and chews.
20 SSI DATA Camping Hardgoods maintained a steady performance while other sectors
64 ACCESSORIES
of the outdoor industry have fallen short in fiscal Spring/Summer 2015.
Hydration companies are now working toward an overall industry goal to reduce, reuse and recyle.
24 FOOTWEAR Next season's trail running shoes are being driven by plush cushioning and
66 ADD NOW…SELL NOW
led by brands like Hoka One One.
Yaktrak leads the industry in ice and snow traction devices.
36 APPAREL Adventure travel is booming for the well-heeled traveler looking for less
70 I Am…SGB
gear-centric apparel for Spring 2016.
Tom Barney, CEO, Osprey Packs
4 2015 SUMMER SHOW ISSUE
CONTRIBUTORS
Tom Ryan New York
Tom Ryan has more than 25 years experience as a reporter covering the retail trade. Starting his career as a beat reporter in 1990 for Fairchild Publications, Ryan authored more than 200 front-page articles over a ten-year period for Women's Wear Daily and also wrote extensively for the Daily News Record (DNR) and other Fairchild publications (Home Furnishings Network, Footwear News and Sportsstyle). In 2004 Ryan became senior editor at SGB magazine, the leading monthly trade magazine for the sporting goods industry, and is currently its senior business editor. He has also written for Retailwire. com, Ad-Fax, Apparel magazine, Crain's NY, Multex.com, and the New York Post.
Charlie Lunan North Carolina
Charlie Lunan is a business news junkie based in Charlotte, NC who enjoys breaking hard news and writing about sustainability, digital marketing and public policy. He has worked for newspapers in Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico and North Carolina, headed up client communication for a technology company and sold bikes, kayaks and roof racks at a local REI store.
Aaron Bible Colorado
Aaron Bible is the Managing Editor for SGB magazine. He worked with the magazine previously as a contributing editor covering Bike, Ski and Outdoors. His background includes 20 years of print and digital publishing including time at Paddler magazine, Kickstand magazine, Summit Daily News, Blue Ridge Outdoors and Elevation Outdoors magazine.
Aubrey Volger Colorado
Aubrey says you should do something that scares you everyday. The thrill comes from a childhood of adventures in Southwest, CO. Her career in the outdoor industry began with PR smooching skills and has more recently shifted to gear reviews. Aubrey loves playing in the dirt and believes a healthy body equals a healthy mind. She's the proud mama of a happy girl.
Allison Woods Washington
Allison Woods is a Seattle native who hikes, climbs, skis, snowshoes and fly fishes all over the American west. She’s written extensively for Backpacker, where she’s covered base camping, fly fishing and food, among other things. Her wanderlust takes her to hot springs and top-secret fishing holes in Utah, Oregon, Wyoming and Idaho, as well as Washington’s North Cascades. She also works as a volunteer for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, stocking fry in high lakes as part of her membership in the Trail Blazers.
Scott Boulbol Massachusetts
Scott Boulbol lives near Boston, but still calls Boulder, CO home. He co-authored The Trailrunner’s Guide To Colorado, and has covered outdoor and cycling for 16 years for Men’s Journal, Men’s Fitness, Triathlete, TrailRunner, and many more. Also an accomplished athlete, Boulbol ran the Leadville Trail 100 and finished multiple iron-distance triathlons and adventure events. 6 2015 SUMMER SHOW ISSUE
Fernando J. Delgado Maryland
Fernando J. Delgado is a contributing writer and team business editor for SportsOneSource, and a writer for SGB magazine since 2011. In 2006, he covered the Frederick Keys minor league baseball team as a beat reporter, and he previously contributed to OriolesHangout.com, a website that covers the Baltimore Orioles. The oldest of seven children, Delgado enjoys spending his free time playing basketball and soccer, as well as managing various fantasy sports teams throughout the year.
Jahla Seppanen Colorado
Jahla Seppanen is an Associate Editor for SGB magazine. She graduated Sarah Lawrence College with a BA in Writing. Along with copy editing and writing for Backpacker magazine. Her short fiction has been published in Fourteen Hills Review, Niche, Litro U.K. and other literary journals. Jahla runs 40 miles a week, year-round, SUP’s in the summer and snowshoes in the winter.
Michael Frank Colorado
Michael Frank is a freelance writer who’s been on staff for magazines ranging from Esquire to Forbes and National Geographic Adventure. He covers outdoor gear and technology for Outside, Men’s Journal, Adventure Journal, and many other publications. He makes his home in New York’s Hudson Valley.
Nancy Prichard Bouchard Colorado
Nancy Prichard Bouchard’s by-line has appeared in publications including Men’s Journal, Playboy and Outside magazines, and she’s made appearances on The Today Show, ESPN, National Geographic TV and PBS. Bouchard was executive editor of Rock & Ice magazine from 1990 through 1994, and has climbed for more than three decades and has numerous first ascents to her name.
Eugene Buchanan Colorado
Eugene Buchanan has written about the outdoors for more than 25 years, from the Beijing Olympics for NBC to ESPN. com. A former business reporter and publisher/editor-in-chief of Paddler magazine, his freelance career spans The New York Times, Men's Journal, Sports Afield, Outside, National Geographic Adventure, Forbes Life, Skiing and other publications. A member of New York's Explorer's Club, his passion for traveling, writing and paddling has taken him to more than 30 countries on six of the seven continents.
Ryan Sullivan Colorado
Ryan Sullivan grew up in Wilbraham, MA, and graduated from U Mass –Amherst with a degree in Kinesiology. Currently working for The SportsOneSource Group as a Hardgoods Analyst in Louisville, CO, Sullivan has been in the sporting goods industry for more than seven years, including time spent at Spalding and Dick’s Sporting Goods. SPORTSONESOURCE.COM
7
RETAIL BEST PRACTICES
Retailers Modify from Lone Climber to Trending Pack There’s no doubt that the number of climbers has skyrocketed in the past decade. What was once a niche sport dominated by unapologetic individualists is now a mainstream pursuit. So, how do retailers take the curve? By Nancy Prichard Bouchard
8 2015 SUMMER SHOW ISSUE
Photo courtesy Trango
P
opularity in bouldering in the early part of the millennium, coupled with rapid proliferation of climbing gyms, helped swell the ranks of what was once a very small, niche group. Now a renewed interest in outdoor climbing, plus rapid acceleration in the number of youth climbing teams, is keeping the category on an upward trajectory. Also plumping up the numbers are many non-traditional users - people who visit gyms for yoga or Pilates or spinning, then find themselves at the climbing wall for a try. This wave caused Men’s Journal to recently pose the question, “Is Climbing the new Cross-Fit?” Climbing has officially gone mainstream, but the important question persists: are people investing in new gear? Malcolm Daly, long-time outdoor industry luminary who cruised into retirement by taking a sales job at Neptune Mountaineering, said the answer is a resounding “Yes!” “Our hardgoods sales across the board continue to grow,” commented Daly. “Hardgoods are the lifeblood Malcolm Daly, Neptune Mountaineering of this shop, and there’s a thirst for shops who specialize in technical sports.” Neptune offers 56 models of rock shoes (in full size runs) and more than 100 models of carabiners. “By staying committed to climbing hardware, our customers stay committed to us,” Daly said. “It’s a business secret in plain view. We are a specialty shop, not a lifestyle shop, and across the board there is nothing on the climbing hardware wall that doesn’t move. In the first hour of business today we sold five helmets, and on any weekend, at least two dozen guidebooks for Eldorado Canyon will go out the door.” Daly believes the strongest consumer group for hardware is intermediate climbers. These are sport climbers who lead 5.9 to 5.11 and trad climbers who set their sights from 5.7 to 5.11. The next biggest group is beginners, who are transitioning from the gym to the crag. “I just worked with a customer for an hour who had been climbing in a gym and bought her first sets of draws and a rope,” Daly said. “We see everything from cotton tops (climbers with white hair) to college kids. As well as parents who are introducing their kids to the sport and kids who are introducing their parents to it. There is no ‘typical’ consumer like there was 20 years ago.” Hardgoods Category Manager for Mammut North America Dave Furman said that the past couple of years have been difficult in the climbing industry, due to a rough economy and crazy weather patterns. He pointed to significant consolidation of specialty shops. “With exceptions, I think the growth in the category has been confined to chain retailers, Dave Furman, but even there, the category hasn’t been as roHardgoods Category bust as it was even five years ago,” Furman said. Manager, Mammut He noted that with more people shopping on-
line, brick & mortar retailers look at climbing as something that pulls people into the store, but once there, consumers are still conservative with their buys. “Boulder is easy, but places like Philly or Chicago are more difficult for retailers,” he added. “They have to work harder to differentiate brands, and it’s not an easy category if people aren’t investing a lot of space the margins are lower than for lifestyle product and the turns aren’t as great.” Furman said that in 2014, the climbing business experienced an upswing with “real strength” in the Winter and Fall partially due to the mild winter in the west. There was strength in New England hardware sales as well, which was colder than average with more snow. At Petzl, CommuniJustin Roth, cations Manager Justin Communications Roth said the company Manager, Petzl has seen consistent yearover-year growth in the climbing category - especially in harnesses, belay devices and helmets. “All indicators in the industry show that climbing as an activity has been growing as well,” said Roth. “There is clearly drastic growth in climbing gyms across the country and in the number of new climbers using those gyms. This gym explosion is drawing a much broader demographic, which certainly includes young and female climbers.” Benjamin Eaton, communication specialist for Liberty Mountain, said he sees strength in the youth category. “I think kids are getting more into it. I’m not sure which came first, the chicken or the egg, but in the last five years, there’s been an upswing in the number of manufacturers who are developing kid-centric gear… so many of us are now Benjamin Eaton, Communication parents…and we are Specialist, Liberty Mountain, and Abe making more kid gear. Shreve bivying on The Nose in Yosemite The core climbers who National Park. Photo by Benjamin Eaton.
SPORTSONESOURCE.COM
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started out 10 to 20 years ago want to introduce their children earlier than they started.” Chip Miller, global sales director Metolius Mountain Products, has noticed climbing hardware sales going up. Some of the company’s key accounts report double-digit growth over the past 12 months. What is spurring that growth for Metolius is that while many shops had low projections, the reorder and at once business has been really strong. Miller added that retailers are conservative with their initial orders as they are wary of carryover, but a light winter season has helped with sell-through. Metolius has seen strength in climbing chalk, harnesses and training. “As a company, we have still managed to do well with export, even with the strength of the dollar,” Miller said.
“By staying committed to climbing hardware, our customers stay committed to us…It’s a business secret in plain view.” – Malcolm Daly, Neptune Mountaineering.
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Trango USA is also optimistic about the future. The company grew more than 80 percent year-to-year, and is up 54 percent year-to-date - something Trango Product Manager Adam Sanders attributes to good product line development. He marked some of the strongest categories as climbing accessories, sewn goods, rope pack, rope tarp and training. “We are small compared to giants of the Adam Sanders, climbing hardware industry. To compete, Product Manager, Trango we try to consistently launch products that are innovative and new, and will pull themselves into the market,” said Sanders. “Our balance of new, attractive, innovative products, supplemented with some classic commodity products like light, affordable carabiners, has worked well.” Sanders said that growth has taken place particularly with specialty shops and online sales. “We have not relied on big box sales to date,” said Sanders. While he’s seen “huge growth” online, he said that the power of brick-and-mortar can’t be dismissed. “Specialty technical is still healthy, but it depends on the individuals involved. It comes down to who owns the store, who is doing buying, what support the buyer gets, how in touch the buyer is with the customer, and can the buyer recognize something that is worth moving on. It’s essential to have a sales staff that is interested and engaged, who can translate knowledge to the customer.”
Sanders added that while there is always the fantasy of making products in the most fancy and expensive way possible, the bottom line is that price is still a very real constraint in most categories. He said climbing shoes seem to be working opposite this trend, with people more than willing to pony up for $160 price points. With both shoes and ropes, experienced users are driving sales of higher-priced gear, as they know how quality products can enhance their performance. “It’s people who’ve worn through cheap shoes and realized they got what they paid for. It is simply a matter of price per pitch,” Sanders explained. “If you pay $170 for a pair of shoes and they last three times longer than a $100 pair of shoes, then your price per pitch is lower. Our sales indicate that this applies to ropes as well.” Sanders concluded that he’s seen growth in the gym category, and that both sport and trad climbing are growing, but he feels the bouldering category is tapering off. “That skyrocketing growth just isn’t happening anymore for bouldering gear,” he said. “The pendulum seems to have swung back to roped climbing.” The bottom line is that sales are going to retailers who understand their consumer. “The people who have the most success have the most experience and authenticity with customers,” said Metolius’ Miller. “Even here in Bend, OR, the retailers who are doing well are the ones who are looked at as more of a resource than a retail outlet.” ■
SPORTSONESOURCE.COM
11
RETAIL BEST PRACTICES
Products and Trends to Keep Your Eyes On The biggest development is competition with assisted breaking belay devices. Several companies have introduced, or are working on, devices designed to compete with the hugely popular Petzl Grigri. Petzl Grigri
The gym-to-crag movement has started to change. It used to be that people introduced in climbing gyms would then take it outside. That still happens, but there are now a lot of people who Climb in-gym who don’t have any desire to go outside. Companies have found that engaging that consumer group in the gym, with gym specific product, is very important. Climbing Gear still represents a good value for consumers due to greater volume, better access to material and improved construction techniques. There is more competition and downward price pressure than ever before, yet people are still willing to pay a premium for new technology. The trend for lighter gear is still apparent – however many believe that for items like carabiners and harnesses, there is a balance with durability, ease of use and the smaller/lighter movement.
Climb in-gym
The Made in the U.S.A. label carries weight. Metolius is introducing a new series of Polyurethane Holds that are made in Bend, OR, something that has retailers and end consumers excited. Popularity in anti cross-loading setup for belay biners. Many companies are coming out with a belay carabiner that has captive gate, keeping rope from cross loading. A new offering from Grivel is a twin gate belay biner with captive gate. Companies such as Metolius and Mammut report that chalk bags are selling well, especially those with "added value” or cool graphics. At Metolius, the U.S. flag chalk bag has been a hot item. Mammut is introducing a new Chalk Bag for Spring/Summer 2016 with room for a key, credit card or even an energy bar. ■
Carabiners
Metolius Polyurethane Holds
Grivel twin gate belay biner with captive gate
Petzl Climbing gear
12 2015 SUMMER SHOW ISSUE
Metolius, the U.S. flag chalk bag
Mammut chalk bag
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13
GIVING BACK
LifeStraw’s Profit-for-aPurpose Approach to Sales LifeStraw connects sales with philanthropy helping more than 360,000 students in Western Kenya gain access to safe water. By Scott Boulbol
Photos courtesy LIfeStraw
F
or children growing up in most of the developed world, availability of fresh clean water is a given. It’s always right there when they turn on the tap. For millions of people all over the world, however, the reality is quite different. And that’s a problem the outdoor water filtration product LifeStraw, and its Swiss parent company Vestergaard, is dedicated to improving. LifeStraw, Vestergaard’s namesake product, $20, was released for public health use in 2005 and became available for purchase in 2008. This compact water-filtration system allows users to sip water safely and unlike other filters, directly from the source. At 2oz., 9”H x 1”W, the unit is a bit larger than a standard test tube. There’s an intake opening at the bottom, filters inside the main body, and a mouthpiece at the user’s end. Just stick the uptake end into the water source and guzzle clean water out. The first LifeStraw branded product was born out of a need presented to Vestergaard by the Carter Center, which was looking for a way to filter Guinea worm larvae out of water. Vestergaard invented the LifeStraw Guinea Worm filter in 1996 and 14 2015 SUMMER SHOW ISSUE
has produced more than 37 million since then. According to the Carter Center, guinea worm has been eradicated in Ghana as of 2010, thanks in part to LifeStraw and Vestergaard. The company claims the unit’s hollowfiber membrane filtration removes 99.999 percent of waterborne bacteria, like EColi, and 99.9 percent of protozoa, like giardia, and will filter up to 1,000 liters of water before needing replacement. There are no electric or moving parts and the entire unit is BPA-free. Plus, no chemicals are used for purification and the straw meets all FDA standards and regulations. Vestergaard also offers the LifeStraw Go, $35, a BPA and chemical-free 22oz. plastic bottle with built-in straw and filtration system. The LifeStraw Family, LifeStraw Go $76, is a great choice for car camping
LifeStraw Family
LifeStraw Mission
or picnics by the lake. It’s a single-gallon hanging tank that holds locally sourced water that can then be filtered through a tube and handheld spout. Users just open the tap and pour out clean water. For less accessible locations, the new LifeStraw Mission, $120 to $130, is a packable version of the Family, with a roll bag instead of a tank, available in 5L and 12L sizes. All LifeStraw products filter to the same specifications as the original and are built to last for thousands of uses. But as innovative and useful as these products are Mikkel Vestergaard Frandsen, Founder & CEO, Vestergaard – and as popular as they are with outdoor enthusiasts, and families alike – it’s the act of purchasing one that’s truly life changing. Vestergaard Founder and CEO Mikkel Vestergaard Frandsen saw technology like this changing the world, and the company is well on its way to doing just that. Following decades of socially conscious and charitable projects, Vestergaard started the Follow the Liters (FTL) program to put its sales and technology to work in developing countries around the world. In doing so, a portion of every sale of every LifeStraw, as well as the brand’s other filtration products, goes toward funding and delivering large community water filtration units to areas where clean water is a scarcity. The program is so efficient that Vestergaard claims enough money is raised from each purchase to provide water for one child for an entire school year. The FTL program enables Vestergaard to continue connecting its humanitarian mission with consumer sales. “And it enables a growing population of socially minded consumers to make an impact and become an active part of an important solution,” said Vestergaard Frandsen in a press release. Originally a uniform manufacturer started by Vestergaard Frandsen’s father in 1957, the brand began its first charitable project in 1986, when his other son bought surplus wool cloth and sold it to the Red Cross and Save the Children. The company’s blankets were deployed widely across Rwanda’s refugee camps after the genocide in 1994. In 2008, Vestergaard’s Integrated Prevention Campaign CarePack was developed to help with the AIDS epidemic. “For this program, we bundled health prevention tools to create a CarePack, consisting of a LifeStraw water filter, Vestergaard’s bestselling PermaNet long-lasting insecticidal bed net to fight malaria, condoms and educational material. This CarePack was used as an incentive to encourage a rural community in Kenya to receive HIV testing and counseling. We partnered with the Kenyan Ministry of Health on an the HIV testing initiative and set up more than 30 stations throughout the village of Kakamega in western Kenya where, in just over seven days, more than 57,000 people (over 80 percent of a target community) got tested for HIV and received the CarePack,” said Alison Hill, managing director for Vestergaard’s water business.
The company’s latest FTL efforts also focus on Kenya, where high-volume LifeStraw Community water purifiers – large self-standing water dispensers with integrated filtration – were distributed to provide more than 23 million liters of safe water a year throughout Kenya’s western Alison Hill, Managing province, a water-starved area Director, Vestergaard’s water business of the country. “The FTL program kicked off in October 2014, when 1,646 purifiers were distributed to 301 schools throughout western Kenya, reaching over 157,975 school children,” said Hill. “Students were also educated on water sanitation and hygiene behaviours.” The second annual push will take place in November of 2015, with an even larger distribution, education and training program. Over 2,500 LifeStraw Community purifiers will be distributed to roughly 300 new schools in western Kenya, reaching an additional 200,000 students and bringing the total impact of the program in western Kenya to over 360,000 students.
SPORTSONESOURCE.COM
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LifeStraw Community
16 2015 SUMMER SHOW ISSUE
According to a Vestergaard press release, UNICEF Kenya estimated only 37 percent of local schools have access to safe drinking water within 200 meters of school grounds. Drinking contaminated water at school causes illnesses and absences, which hinder a child’s ability to receive a proper education. Also according to UNICEF, a comprehensive program of safe, clean water in schools can result in a 42-percent reduction in absenteeism. LifeStraw outdoor consumers will be able to see first-hand how their purchase helped children. Vestergaard Frandsen emphasized, “Transparency is critical to the ongoing success of the LifeStraw’s FTL program. Consumers can literally ‘follow the liters’ as we’ll be showing the progress of the program in real-time.” “The filters are being monitored for usage and maintenance issues by local staff,” Hill added. “The program is fully transparent and verifiable. Details including GPS coordinates of program schools are reported publicly on our website where consumers can track the number of schools that receive the purifiers and the number of students reached.” Despite these efforts, Vestergaard does not consider its contributions as charitable donations. Instead, the company said they operate under a unique humanitarian entrepreneurship business model. “This profit-for-a-purpose approach has turned corporate social responsibility into our core business of creating life-saving products for the developing world,” Hill explained. She added that their efforts should be viewed, “as part of a sustainable business model that enables us to continue to innovate and deliver products that improve the lives of people who need them the most.” Regardless of what it’s called or how it’s viewed, Vestergaard has been a powerful force for good during its decades of operation. And Africa is just the beginning. The company expects consumer sales to continue to support expansion of FTL into developing communities in Asia and Latin America. ■
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MADE IN THE U.S.A
Photo courtesy Polartec/Chris Payne
Triumph of American-Made Fabric, Born from the Recycling Bin That jacket used to be a Diet Coke… By Michael Frank
Y
ou’re probably selling recycled fleece product and may not even know it. Huge brands, from Patagonia to The North Face to Under Armour are largely responsible for this. And although there are many suppliers of recycled polyester yarn, the undoubted leader in the field is Polartec - thanks to a request from Patagonia more than a quarter-century ago. Not that it worked so well back in the day. Early recycled polyester was expensive to produce and scratchy against the skin; but one supplier, North Carolina-based Unifi, stuck with the effort to make recycled poly more comfortable and eventually created a better yarn called Repreve. What changed wasn’t just that the yarn got better, but manufacturing became far more sophisticated. Brands today take a multi-material approach to construction, where recycled yarns are only used in parts that make sense, rather than an entire garment. Ironically, recycled yarn is now cheaper to use than “virgin” synthetics. Once you make a bottle, the energy cost to convert
18 2015 SUMMER SHOW ISSUE
that into fabric is far lower than the cost it first took to produce it, thanks in part to more widespread recycling. Testing has also advanced. Patagonia has very strict standards for examining the efficiency of recycled fabrics, from how tough the garment is to UV ratings. Rigorous testing norms are the reason the company blends yarn where it makes the most sense. And they’re hardly alone. Repreve is used by a wide range of brands including: 66ºNorth, Quiksilver, Kitsbow, Dynafit, Salewa, Millet, Eider, Adidas, Reigning Champ, Wings and Horns, Westcomb, QOR, Mammut, Cabela’s, Brooks Range, Black Diamond, Armada, Athleta, Rab, Houdini, Simms, Roots, Reebok, Giro, Outdoor Research, LLBean, Land’s End and Arc’teryx. If you noticed more than a few “micro labels” in that mix, you’re spotting at least a niche trend in recycled synthetics. That is, a tiny handful are able to produce their wares domestically while using the also domestic-made Repreve. For instance, for the coming Fall/Winter 2015/16 line, Vancouver-based Westcomb re-engineered their Apoc Parka in partnership with Polartec. It gets NeoShell, which you probably think of as a waterproof-breathable rival to GoreTex Active Shell, only with better breathability. You might not think of NeoShell, or any shell piece, as having recycled materials incorporated into its construction - but that’s possible with Repreve
Polartec Apoc Parka
yarn, even as this latest version of NeoShell gets a softer, quieter hand. The new NeoShell also has no Perfluorooctanoic Acid, which had been used in the production of waterproof breathable materials and is a known carcinogen. Another small brand using Repreve yarn is Pelatuma, CAbased Kitsbow. Their Polartec Power Wool Base Layer is a classic example of how Repreve fabric works best. Merino sits as the next-to-skin layer, with the tougher, more wind-resistant recycled-polyester as the face fabric. Power Wool also gets a DWR finish, which makes it ideal for wearing as a primary layer. QOR’s Baselayer Half Zip is a more running-focused piece that uses Power Wool next to skin and Power Dry on the exterior for even more evaporation. However, QOR and most brands that use Repreve fabric embody the tougher reality of Repreve and of the American cut-and-sew industry. Yes, Polartec yarn is made in the U.S.A., but that doesn’t mean the garment is. The more complicated, harder story to tell customers is that although North Americans produce the waste, and Unifi has done great to recycle more than a billion bottles since its program began, the bulk of cut-and-sew production even for small labels is being outsourced away from the U.S. and Canada. There are, of course, counter-examples. Reigning Champ, a more lifestyle-focused fitness brand, is based in Vancouver and manufactures there. Some of its garments use Repreve, just like Kitsbow and Westcomb, but it’s important to account for scale in relation to domestic manufacturing capabilities. If you don’t make too much of something, it’s easier to base production within the U.S. or Canada. Become a Patagonia or The North Face and that’s a seemingly un-meetable challenge.
Unifi’s newly wrapped Repreve trucks
Another challenge to sourcing recycled fabric domestically is making it from old gear. Clearly North America has a treasure trove of neglected, used gear, stored in closets and attics. And some recycling of pre-made material does already happen. A large percentage of Repreve is produced from factory scrap in Asia. Whether making a fleece or a base layer, there’s scrap, and that’s gathered from global factories, brought back to North America, and made into yarn that’s again turned into fresh, new apparel. It’s more difficult, however, to deconstruct an old backpack and turn that into clothing. Patagonia’s Truth to Materials project is an effort to keep old clothing out of landfills. It takes back discarded Patagonia products that customer’s no longer want and re-sells in its Portland retail store. If clothing is no longer salvageable, Patagonia takes returns (even pays for shipping), then sorts used wool, cotton and synthetics, and via projects in China, Malaysia, Italy and Alabama, deconstructs the fibers and re-births the materials. This creates new products in Patagonia’s reclaimed lines. The web is intricate, but reusability, recycling and waste reduction is at the forefront of the venture. And yes, reclaimed lines will most likely become niche products, but like Repreve, which started small, this approach could become a much more powerful force. Today Repreve is hardly a niche. It’s in nearly every gear store in the world and has proven to be a massive success. Plus, it’s an American-made material. And while it may be more complicated to tell your customers that the material is made in America, but the coat isn’t, it’s also great to be able to explain that by recycling this way, nobody had to frack to make that fleece. It came from a billion bottles of Dasani and Diet Coke that didn’t end up in a landfill. And that’s a message most outdoor-loving consumers can get behind. ■
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SSI DATA
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Camping EQUIPMENT While much of the country saw late snowfall that delayed warm weather and hurt early season sales, especially in Footwear and Apparel, Hardgoods has maintained a steady Spring/Summer period to-date. By Ryan Sullivan
A
s skis and boards were put away in the closet for a few months, the snow melted turning to rapids and lazy currents for paddlesports enthusiasts. That same snow melt also ran into lakes to become the destination for day-hikers, trekkers and backpackers. This act of change enabled the Hardgoods category to carry a steady performance when other sectors of the outdoor industry fell short with the seasonal shift. The Outdoor Market Hardgoods category is down one percent in the fiscal Spring/Summer 2015 to-date period up until June 20. This follows the trend seen in the calendar year-to-date number, which was also down slightly by one percent, yet down from three percent growth seen in the trailing 52-week trend for the business. Despite the small decline in recent months, Hardgoods has performed far better than the mid-single-digit decline seen in Footwear and Apparel for the 52-week period, and both have continued to struggle even more this season. Looking closer at the overall business, Hardgoods’ sales were up one percent in the Sporting Goods and Chain Specialty channels, which accounted for 52 percent of the business. Sales in the Outdoor Independent Specialty channel were also flat from last year for the spring period, but were down four percent in total specialty strata due to weaker than normal Specialty Internet sales. Total Internet sales accounted for 24 percent of the overall sales business, yet were down three percent as compared to last year. Major loses came in the Discount/Mass channel with sales down 12 percent in dollars and eight percent in unit sales. Sales were strongest for the Spring/Summer period in the Northwest, which saw a growth of six percent. New England on the other hand was down more than 18 percent during te same time and saw a 16 percent decline in their average selling price. Almost every other region saw an increase in ASP. The biggest sales came in the South Central region (up three percent) where the average sale price for the region came in over $45 dollars as opposed to the Midwest (down three percent), at $23. Of those regions most affected with the late snowfall (New England, Mid-Atlantic and Southeast), the Southeast was the only region
able to rebound and show at least flat sales for the spring-to-date. The peak sales week for the business was actually the most recent one, ending June 20, or Father’s day week, slightly beating out the traditional peak usually occurring during Memorial day by almost 5 percent. Also following the usual sales pattern for the category, sales increased steadily through early spring until growing exponentially in early May and usually remain high until September. Exact growth isa wait-and-see at this point. As of June 20, May contained over 25 percent of all sales for the calendar year. The Paddle Sport category was the highest selling single category of the period at over $200 million to date and one of the strongest in growth with sales up seven percent from last year. The growth came almost exclusively from the strength in the Kayak subcategory, which is up an amazing 22 percent for the Spring/Summer months to date. However, sales of Kayaks have done little to increase the sales of other equipment categories. Paddles/Oars’ sales were flat as compared to 2014 and other Paddle Sport Equipment like PFD’s and Dry Bags - both down for the period. Hobie Cat held 18 percent of the dollar sales in the Paddle Sport category including 27 percent of the Kayak subcategory. Stand-Up Paddling seems to have hit its peak as sales are down 11 percent compared with last year for the period. Camping/Backpacking sales are also up over one percent in both in units and dollars for the Spring/Summer period to-date. Although seemingly low, these numbers are actually strong considering that the overall business was down. The biggest growth continues to be in the Cooler/Container category, with sales up 25 percent in dollars compared to last year, even with units up only two percent. This is due to the explosion of Yeti Cooler sales, accounting for 37 percent of the dollar sales for the period, up from 23 percent in 2014 and raising the category average selling price over 94 percent in the specialty channel. Yeti turned a traditional $20 purchase into a trendy $200+ investment, with a brand following one would never expect with items such as coolers.
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of Camping Hardgoods this Spring/Summer to-date, up almost 10 percent from the 2014 Spring/Summer campaign. The Private Label business was the hardest hit in the recent year after a strong 2014 when sales accounted for 11 percent of the category. It dropped almost 30 percent in 2015 year-to-date to just over seven percent so far. More specifically, the business lost 639 basis points in Technical Packs and Bags, 721 points in Sleeping Bags, and 523 in Tents and Shelters most notably. In the total Camping and Backpacking Equipment business in the specialty market, Eagle Nest had the number one and two best selling products coming from the down Camping Furniture subcategory. MSR had the top-selling tent for the period with the popular Huba Huba NX, followed by the Marmont Mountain Limelight three-person, three-season. Other notable top sellers in specialty retailers were the Black Diamond Storm Headlamp and Osprey’s Aether 70 Technical Backpack. Osprey had three items in the 10 top sellers list for the period and Gregory Mountain also had another backpack in the Top 10.
Yeti Cooler
While Cooler sales are impressive, other Camping/Backpacking related segments are also experiencing growth this spring with Technical Packs and Bags, Hydration, Stoves and Campfires and Airbeds and Accessories all up. At the same time, Lantern and Lighting Products are only down slightly to last year overall, but also up in the specialty channel to add to overall growth. Tents and Shelters, Sleeping Bags and Camping Furniture came out down in the high-single-digits for the period. The decline in Tents and Shelters is the most concerning as it was down just over nine percent and has always been the largest selling category associated with Camping and Backpacking. The major decline came in the highest selling sub-category, Family Camping Tents, down 22 percent over last year, while Backpacking Tents were up two percent on the growing Solo Backpacking segment.
MSR Huba Huba NX
Coleman again led the vast Camping and Backpacking category sales, in terms of brand share in the warmer months, after a loss in 2014 in which the Private Label business took over the number one spot. All Coleman sales accounted for 10 percent
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Osprey Aether 70 Technical Backpack
Black Diamond Storm Headlamp
Backpacking/Camping Equipment Year-Over-Year Growth 2012-2015
The Backpack and Camping equipment business has been one of the strongest growing in recent years, increasing by over 10 percent each year from 2012 to 2014. In 2015 it continues to grow over a record 2014, yet has slowed to the rapid growth of years past. For example, the Father’s Day weekend this year was up over 30 percent to the same week in 2012. The outlook for the year and beyond has never been stronger for this key segment of the outdoor industry. ■
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2016 Trail Running Contenders Duke It Out Brand creators unveil the newest models while playing tour guide to bring you the trails that inspired their designs. By Scott Boulbol
As with so many growing categories, trail running shoes have gone through drastic evolutions since they became a major player in the industry back in the 1990s. We’ve seen them adapt from basically pared-down hiking shoes with bulky toe bumpers and stiff outsoles to a sort of running slipper with only a thin layer of foam underfoot - some with separated toes - to the most recent iterations being a hybrid of all of the above. The trail running shoes of today, along with next season’s promising models, seem to have arrived at equilibrium of the often-radical innovations within the category. The contemporary trend that changed the game is the maximum cushioning movement, led by brands like Hoka One One. Many models boast up to 30mm thickness and are made almost entirely of superlight EVA foam. “The industry as a whole is being driven by cushioning,” said Mike Nesladek, vice president of marketing for Newton Running, a brand that has completely resisted the max temptation in lieu of other innovations. “However, we at Newton are more aligned with a ‘trampoline’ metaphor for our shoe technology. An athlete will be at his or her best while retaining the natural spring in his or her step.” While maximalism enjoys continued popularity with consumers, retailers and brands alike, the design can be a bit too squishy for many runners, especially those who adapted to the previous trend of minimalist running. Worlds apart, it is almost comical these trends followed one another. The shift speaks to the bombastic nature of the trail running category, and perhaps, the personality of its users. Minimalist runners prefer more “trail feel” as well as a lower profile and better universal flex. Many also prefer the zero-to-minimal drop profiles the natural running shoe movement brings to the scene. Another selling point is a more biomechanically accurate toebox, which allows for natural toe splay. Golden Harper, founder of Altra, sees benefits in both. “It seems many are striving for balance in shoes right now – getting the shoe to balance front-to-back makes it more stable and agile. A lot of the best shoes are finding balance between the responsiveness and lightweight of minimalism and the squishiness of the max cushioned trend,” said Harper. “Balancing cushion and responsiveness gives most runners the best chance for success. While both ends of the spectrum have their applications and types of runners they work for, too much of either tends to cause problems for the average runner.”
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At the same time, average heel-to-toe drop has come down from earlier days when most shoes had a visible tilt. And while brands like Newton, Altra and Treksta have long championed the wider toe box, other brands seem to at least be widening this part of the shoe, if not changing the shape entirely. We’ve put together a list of key upcoming models, some on shelves now but with carry over into 2016, that best represent the progression of min/max trends in the category. And since trail running offers athletes such a vast array of terrain, from simple dirt roads to alpine ascents, we’ve asked brands to share some of their favorite trails on which these models excel. Often these are the same trails by which the models were inspired, tested or where sponsored elites rack their miles. Altra Altra running remains completely committed to the zero-drop design and their trademark FootShape extra-wide toebox. They’ve been incorporating max cushioning for a few years now, in select models. The multi-purpose Paradigm 1.5, $100, zero-drop 34mm, M9 9.7oz., W7 8oz., just launched last month. Though not originally designed as a trail-specific shoe, the first iteration quickly Altra Paradigm 1.5 gained favor with many of Altra’s sponsored athletes, like Jason Schlarb, who uses the Paradigm for his 100-mile-and-more Altra Lone Peak races on nasty terrain. The whopping 34mm of EVA is plush, flexible, and lightweight. The outsole swallows rocks – no Altra Lone Peak 2.5 need for a plate here – and the lugs provide just enough grip in most conditions. But they also bounce off pavement and hardpack with a cloudlike feel. Not all runners will be comfortable with this level of cushion, however, and many will also need to adjust to the zero-drop profile. This is not an ideal shoe for traditional heelstrikers or those looking to feel the trail underfoot. Also the wide toe means some lateral movement on uneven descents, unless laced extra tight. A more typical trail shoe, the Altra Lone Peak 2.5, $120, zero-drop, 26mm, M9 10.6oz., W7 8.5oz., has been redesigned and will launch this summer. With a lower profile and more aggressive tread than the Paradigm 1.5, this shoe is more reminiscent of traditional trailrun-
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ners, but the ride is definitely softer and more forgiving. Plus, unlike some max shoes, this one feels stable underfoot in part to the wide outsole platform - and the zerodrop design seems less prone to ankle twists. A rockplate protects underfoot and a wide synthetic toe reinforcement adds some protection along with the small bumper. The upper mesh is quite breathable, but again there’s only minimal lateral support in the toebox. If the gusseted tongue isn’t enough for your rocky runs, there’s a built-in gaiter attachment on the heel. Altra’s Lone Peak Neoshell, $150, zero-drop, 26mm, M9 11.5oz., W7 9.2oz., offers the same features, but boasts Polartec’s Neoshell weatherproof fabric upper, which they call “better than waterproof.” While typical waterproof barriers are inside the outer shell of the upper, allowing that outer section to still get wet and heavy, this one blocks moisture from ever adhering to the upper at all.
Lone Peak, Wasatch Mountains Utah
Ideal Trail “The Lone Peak shoe was designed for, well, Lone Peak. The trail up the mountain offers the most vertical gain of any peak in the Wasatch, with the trailhead at about 4,500 feet and the summit at close to 11,300 feet for a vertical gain total of 7,000 feet in just six miles. You start in the desert landscape, climb up the insanely steep Jacob's ladder, grasping at shrubs, and finally into pines as you get higher. Soon you are in an area covered with white granite rock that looks like something from a different planet before you are surrounded by the massive 1,500’ Lone Peak cirque you must go around to get to the summit – a slab of rock with 1,000’ drop-offs on three sides. You get to experience just about every kind of trail condition from smooth dirt, to gravel, to alpine meadows, pure rock and granite scrambling,” said Golden Harper, founder and product development, Altra Running. Asics Asics will release two new trail shoes in January 2016, one more traditional and one with a more minimal feel. The Gel-FujiEndurance, $180, 8mm drop, 18-10mm, M9 11.9oz., W7 9.9oz., is the beefier shoe designed for heel and midfoot strikers who tackle gnarly trails and sloppy conditions. It features a new, patented technology called PlasmaGuard – Asics said you can literally dip this shoe in mud and the upper will come out clean. Well-spaced but Asics tough lugs and a rock plate should handle Gel-FujiEndurance the intended terrain well, and the brand’s gel padding in the heel always provides a durable, well-padded landing. Plus a toooften-omitted lace garage keeps them tucked away.
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For a lighter and more responsive option, the GEL-FujiLyte, $110, 4mm drop, 14-10mm, M9 8 oz., W7 6.5oz., replaces the popular FujiRacer as a race-ready, speedoriented trail shoe. Showing the continued strength of the shallow-drop Asics trend, this is Asics’ first 4mm-drop GEL-FujiLyte trail shoe, a 2.5mm reduction from the Racer, and comes down considerably in stack height at toe and heel. It should be even more flexible with the shorter height, but still has a rockplate for forefoot protection and a slight toe bumper. The mesh and a perforated insole should also help with breathability and drainage. And again, there’s a lace garage. Even speedsters like Ryan and Sarah Hall enjoy the peacefulness and softer surfaces of trail running. One of Sarah’s favorite trails is the dirt road going up to Mt. Entoto in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. It’s a rocky dirt road, eight miles one way, taking runners from 9,000 ft. up to 10,500 ft. in elevation. “The views of the valley and eucalyptus forests along the way are spectacular,” said Sarah Hall. “You pass several historic churches, and often crowds of people walking in their white church robes. I was invited once to sit and eat injera with some locals, who fed me by hand, and then I continued on my run.” Pacific Crest Trail
Brooks The new PureGrit 4, $120, 4 mm drop, 19-15mm, M9 10.1oz., PUREGRIT 4 | TRAIL W7 8.2oz., is another shoe balancing better trail feel with soft, Protective and lightweight, the PureGrit 4 combines aggressive traction with a close-to-foot fit giving runner responsive cushioning. This shoe slips on like a glove and the 3D conquer the trail. printed upper is seamless and supple but close fitting all around. The Nav Band – an elastic strap from instep to outsole that hugs over the midfoot – and ergonomic support, completes the package. While definitely low to the ground, the BioBrooks PureGrit 4 MoGo DNA midsole is enough to handle a light heel strike, but excels with a midfoot landing, and the UPDATES TECHNOLOGY MIDSOLE: BioMoGo DNA, Rounded Omega Flex Grooves, Fit Print technology elim shoe strides naturally and feels quick andHeel,agile. There’s a rock- 3D the foot closely so runners Tuned Density Midsole, Ballistic Rock Shield trail. The updated upper inc OUTSOLE: 3D Lug Configuration plate and lots of tiny hex-shaped lugs, which offer excellent tracpattern from the outsole in UPPER: Nav Band, Anatomical Last runners the confidence to tion in varied conditions. However, these shoes may feel a bit- The PureGrit 4 carries over MEN’S PUREGRIT 4 award-winning PureGrit 3, squirrely on paved or very hardpacked surfaces. - A Hex lug outsole SIZES WIDTH WEIGHT AVAIL DROP STYLE and protection so 1D 214 traditional 7-13, 14 D design, 10.1 oz 6/1/15 worrying about it For those who prefer 110202 a more with4 mm near - A forefoot propul on a variety of su WOMEN’S PUREGRIT 4 max cushioning, the Cascadia 11, $120, 10mm drop, 27-17mm, - A BioMoGo DNA m every unique step SIZES WEIGHT AVAIL DROP M9 11.8oz., M W7 10.1oz., STYLE will release in WIDTH January 2016 and deevery runner. 120196 1B 409 5-12 B 8.2 oz 6/1/15 4 mm MEN livers a well-cushioned, well-protected and balanced ride for sePRICE: $120 rious off-road training. Trail-specific technologies add a layer of protection to your run, including a four-point pivot system, at the outside edge of the metatarsals and heel, which they say acts like a suspension system on tricky terrain. Add to that a burly thermoplastic forefoot rock plate. A tough mesh and synthetic upper offers lots of lateral reinforcement, while a high layer of water resistant material keeps water out but remains sufficiently breathable. This shoe could easily double as a speed-hiker. 214 DRIFTWOOD / BLUEPRINT / NIGHTLIFE
Ideal Trail “We tested the models in a variety of locations, but two of the main areas were the Fells Reservation about a half hour outside Boston - over 2,500 acres and over 100 miles of trails; we did routes with up to 2,000 feet of vertical change - and the White Mountains in New Hampshire,” said Brooks Senior Product
Ideal Trail Husband Ryan Hall’s ideal trail is closer to home. He loves to run sections of the legendary Pacific Crest Trail. “I love the trail in many different parts but especially as it goes through Big Bear Lake (where I grew up) and Crystal Cragg, which is near Redding where I now live,” he said. “This section seven and a half miles one way, consisting of small, windy, beautiful, often mountainous single track, but with lots of flat too for speed work…I can get buried in the PCT and run for hours without feeling like I've been out for more than minutes. Peaceful. Tranquil. Scenic. And rooted in a deep history, so when I run on it I know I am on the same trail that many hikers before me have traveled an epic journey on.”
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White Mountains New Hampshire
Manager Brendan Murray. “These two locations are incredibly technical trails that provided an excellent proving ground for testing the prototypes. We always want to find locations that offer, in a sense, the worst-case scenarios of rocky, slick, roots and single-track terrain, so if it passes we know it will be great on mild fire roads or groomed paths that make up many trails around the world. It is one of the nice benefits of testing in New England, as the trails here are known for being so technical.” Hoka One One Borrowing some basic design from its speedy and popular max-cushioned road cousin, the Clifton, the 2016 Challenger ATR 2, $130, 5mm drop, 28-23mm, M9 8.6oz., W7 8.6oz., features a more aggressive tread and more supportive upper for trail use. Hoka said they’ve Hoka One One Challenger ATR 2 updated the latest version with a more supportive fit through the midfoot, while also increasing comfort across the top of the foot. It’s still amazingly light for the size of the overall package, and offers one of the plushest rides available, thanks to the pillowy but ultralight full-EVA midsole. The Meta-Rocker midsole geometry offers a smooth ride and natural transition from mid to forefoot, but is not too severe to handle heel striking. Runners new to the brand, or max cushioning in general, may feel a bit unstable in these high-profile shoes. Another shoe based on a previous model is the new Speedgoat, $130, 5mm drop, 3126mm, M9 9.7oz., W7 8.6oz. Inspired by ultrarunning legend Karl Meltzer and the popular Rapa Nui shoe, the Speedgoat was built to tackle highly technical terrain. The no-sew upper is designed to provide smooth support Hoka One One Speedgoat through the forefoot, and a ground-rubber toecap provides increased toe protection. Hoka sourced the traction experts at Vibram for the sticky rubber outsole with 4mm lugs. Running down both sides from toe to midfoot are trail-specific outsole flex grooves, which provide grip and stability, even when landing on uneven trails. These traits, however, make the shoe not as road or hardpack-friendly. Sierra Nevada Mountains
Ideal Trail A shoe inspired by multiple Western States 100 winner Karl Meltzler has to excel on that rugged, mountainous and brutal trail. Hoka One One athlete Mike Wardian said the unpredictable and technical terrain, which runs through California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, requires a shoe tough enough to stand up to unrelenting climbs and blistering descents of the famously unrelenting course. The trail runs just over 100 miles from Squaw Valley to Auburn, CA, climbing over 18,000 feet and descending almost 23,000 feet along the way. Much of this is remote, rocky, loose single track. It’s also notorious for its hot and dry conditions in the summers. La Sportiva With a lightweight mesh upper, overwrapping tongue/closure, aggressive mid- and outsole and old-school drop profile, The Mutant, $130, 10mm drop 26-16mm, M9 11.3oz., W7 9.5oz., which recently hit shelves, might be the quintessential hybrid between new and old. The upper is entirely made from fourway stretch mesh, with minimalist anchor laces (reinforced with plastic) attached to the outsole for lateral support. And it’s all one piece, with the tongue as a continuation of the upper and a clever lace garage. It hugs every contour, almost like the minimalLa Sportiva The Mutant ist “barefoot” shoes of a few years back. But the bottom is all business, with huge sticky lugs over firm, durable injection-molded EVA and a TPU stabilizer underfoot. Ideal Trail “The Mutant was tested on Aspen’s Four Pass Loop,” said Cory Lowe, who handles PR for La Sportiva. The 28-miler crosses four 12,000 foot passes – hence the name – for a total of over 10,000 feet each of climbing and descent. “The loop can be run Aspen's Four Pass Loop
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in a day or explored at a more leisurely pace over multiple days. The Mutant provides ample protection for long miles and good traction for the off camber and loose sections of the trail above treeline. The burly lugs handle muddy stream crossings and the shoe excelled in all the conditions the trail has to offer.” Newton This once diminutive startup from Boulder has always done things a little differently. Their new Boco Sol, $130, 3mm drop, 9.6 oz., is another example of the innovation that has put them on the map. Again striking a balance between old and new, the shallow drop still allows for a tradiNewton Boco Sol tional heel or midfoot strike, but with a relatively low stack height and short drop. They also keep the foot flat and low to the ground, allowing excellent trail feel – although as with all Newton shoes, runners new to the brand will need a few outings to get used to their pronounced Action/ Reaction system Newton Boco AT – suspended lugs under the ball of the foot that depress and recoil during gait. The outsole is rugged but stealthy, covered with lots of multidirectional nubs for great grip even when wet. The shoe also features a large toe bumper. They’re highly breathable even with a DWR coating on the upper. A gusseted tongue keeps out debris and stays in place. There’s a green story here too: the laces, upper mesh, outsole and box are all 100-percent recycled. The shoe also comes in an all-weather model, the Boco AT, $130, 3mm drop, 9.6 oz., which sports a closedmesh upper with DWR and added synthetic mesh for improved water and debris resistance. Ideal Trail Professional long-course triathlete Rachel Joyce adds some off-road adventure to her miles by donning her Boco shoes and heading to Boulder’s Switzerland Trail. The 8.5-mile rail trail climbs about 1,600 feet, almost all above 8,000 feet in altitude, heading west from the Boulder foothills toward the Indian Peaks. “The terrain is a little rocky, but I love the gentle gradient, and the vistas on the way up are enough to take my mind off the climb,” Joyce said. She added that she’ll do snowy winter runs in the Boco AT and summer runs in the Boco Sol. Newton athlete Tyler McCandless prefers to take his Boco Sols to another local favorite. “Betasso Preserve in Boulder is my favorite trail,” McCandless said. “It's a rare, single track dirt trail in Boulder, at about 6,500 feet, that's challenging yet completely runnable. The views of downtown Boulder and the Continental Divide are breathtaking and an hour run goes by like it was ten minutes.”
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Boulder, CO Switzerland Trail
New Balance An update to the 910 trail shoe, the 910v2, $110, 8mm drop 23.5-15.5mm, M9.5 10.8oz, W7 8.9oz., was launched this summer. This is more of a high-mileage trainer than ultralight racer, and is reminiscent of more classic styles favoring heelstrikers, and offering responsive overall performance for varied terrain. The wide and well-padded midsole offers a stable landing pad, but with plenty of plushness, and New Balance said they updated it with an improved fit and enhanced flexibility in the forefoot. The shoe also boasts an improved rock plate and toe protection plus a gusseted tongue. The knobs on the outsole are low profile and the synthetic and mesh upper is quite breathable and offers solid lateral support.
New Balance 910v2
Photo courtesy Dynafit
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New Balance also updated its popular 980 with the new Fresh Foam Hierro, $115, 4mm drop 21.5-17.5mm M9.5 11.4oz., W7 8.7oz., launching in Fall 2015. Considerably lighter than the 910v2, this shoe offers a smaller drop and better ground feel with a faster, more agile ride. The full EVA outsole is soft and plush with good flex all around, and the outsole is suNew Balance 980 Fresh Foam Hierro per grippy with loads of well-designed, multi-directional lugs that angle rearward in the front for push-off traction and forward in the rear for breaking and landing. The multidirectional lugs can make the ride feel a tad squirrely on pavement. Mid and toe-strikers will enjoy the lower drop, but there’s ample padding for heel strikers as well. All will enjoy the breathability of the light, airy upper. The North Face Designed for European multi-day stage races like the legendary Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc, the new Ultra Endurance, $125, 8mm drop, 17-9mm, M9 11oz., W7 9oz., is new for Spring 2016. The North Face (TNF) decided to launch the shoe domestically after positive feedback from local pros. Despite its low profile and relative lightweight feel, it’s designed to handle The North Face Ultra Endurance and Litewave TR long runs and load-bearing runners. The high drop definitely favors heel-strikers. Landing is soft, thanks to full, single-density EVA outsole, but it’s made for speed, not plushness. There are beefy TPU overlays along the sides for lateral support, and a large toecap. Toe and underfoot rock plates protect the feet while the Vibram outsole offers excellent traction. TNF is also launching Litewave TR, $100, 6mm drop, 19-13mm, M9 8.1oz., W7 6.3 oz., for 2016 - a multi-purpose runner/light hiker, which is also road-compatible. With multiple cutouts, the outsole should offer good flex throughout and the lugs look small enough to grip without a squirrely feel on hard surfaces. Compression-molded EVA does great withstanding high mileage. Ideal Trail “La Petite Trotte in Lyon, France, is a high alpine, multi-day trail race starting in Chamonix. The Ultra Endurance shoe was specifically requested by European athletes who are much more likely to participate in multi-day stage races carrying light packs,” said Jessica Hollister, public relations manager, The North Face. “The race circumnavigates Mont Blanc in a 293-kilometer loop with 78,000 feet of gain and another 78,000 feet of descent, in only 182 miles. The route is often technical, requiring ropes, and there’s no aid, other than what can be bought in the few villages racers encounter.” Hollister’s favorite local spot to take TNF shoes for a drive is the renowned Mesa Trail in Boulder, CO. Running 6.7 miles point-to-point between Boulder and climbing mecca Eldorado Canyon, the trail rolls gently along the foothills, with intermittent
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La Petite Trotte in Lyon, France
smooth and highly technical sections and a few steep climbs and descents. Locals will often run it out and back for a weekend long run, bagging over 3,200 feet of climbing along the way all above 5,000 feet. But don’t be alarmed if someone flies past you like your going backwards – it’s just another ubiquitous Boulder elite out for a trot. Skechers This popular lifestyle brand has made huge strides in the running community, especially since landing Boston Marathon winner Meb Keflezighi, and they’re beginning to do the same in trail running. The new Gorun Ultra 2, $90; 4mm drop, 27-23mm; M9 9.3oz., W7 7.3oz., is a max Skechers Gorun Ultra 2 cushioned shoe with super plush ride, neutral outsole and what has become one of the brand’s trademarks, a bargain pricepoint. While not ultralight, it boasts a supportive upper with highly stretchable toe box mesh and substantial arch support plus a gusseted tongue feature and reinforced toe and small bumper. The inside is lined with a mesh that’s breathable but soft, so sockless runners take note. Skechers GoRun Ultra 2 Climate
Treksta Trail Wave
The Trail Wave, $120, 6mm drop, is a new lightweight performance trail running shoe for committed runners whose routes may vary, combining good bite on loose trails and a soft, comfortable feel on pavement. Mesh uppers with synthetic leather reinforcement provide added protection while allowing good breathability. Angular notches in the heel midsole promote a rounded flex of the midsole/outsole and smoother roll from heel strike to midfoot. Bluff Creek Trail
Sketchers also offers GoRun in an all-weather version, the GoRun Ultra 2 Climate, still only $90; 4mm drop, 27-23mm; M9 10.3 oz., W7 8 oz., which adds a three-layer moisture management upper they say keeps the elements out but still wicks well. Ideal Trail “These shoes are fun to wear on the twisty, rooty and rocky Bluff Creek Trails by my house in Oklahoma City,” said Camille Herron, Skechers performance elite athlete. The 3.5-mile loop is located just on the north edge of the city, along the Lake Hefner shoreline, and features tight, wooded turns and some technical sections. “I can hop around the terrain and fly downhill. I share the trails with mountain bike enthusiasts, so I think of my Ultra 2’s as being like their bike tires! I get great traction with them on winter snow and the soft cushioning is nice on longer road runs." Treksta This small brand made a name for itself designing light and fast hikers with their unique NestFit toebox, being one of the first brands to mimic the shape and width of a typical foot around the toe of their shoes. The Sync trail runner was the second running model from the brand and is still going strong. For 2016, they’ll offer the Sync II, $140; 6mm drop; M9 11.2oz., W8 9.6oz., and Sync Boa, $140; 6mm drop; M9 10.5oz., W8 9.3oz., with lighter uppers. They’re relatively low to the ground but still offer some good cushion, with an excellent fit and trail feel thanks to the NestFit shape and 3-D printed upper. The Boa model features a ratchet-dial closure Treksta system that can be quickly tightened and Mega Wave micro-adjusted at the turn of a dial, for a snug, well-dispersed closure. New for 2016 is the Wave series: the Mega Wave, $125, 6mm drop; 24-18mm, a highly cushioned and breathable shoe designed for the long distance trail runner. It features Treksta’s new Hyperfoam dual-density EVA midsole for a plush, cushioned ride and their Speed-Lacing System with lace garage. The new HGL two-part outsole improves traction and stability on varied terrain, while the stitchless upper should help alleviate hot spots and blisters.
Ideal Trail “For the Sync Boa, the Centennial Cone trail near Golden, CO, is the perfect trail. It’s a relatively new singletrack trail and on weekends they rotate runners and cyclists. It’s a magnificent 12-mile rolling loop, mostly up around 8,600 feet, with add-ons that can give you additional miles, up to 16. The Centennial Cone trail near Golden, CO
scenery is gorgeous throughout, and the trail offers everything including long meadows, rocky grinds, tough climbs, descents, magnificent views – all a perfect fit for this shoe’s quickness, padding and great grip,” attested Peter Downing, PR and marketing, Treksta U.S.A. Under Armour For 2016, Under Armour will introduce the Verge Low GTX, $140, 8mm drop, 16-8mm, M9 12.7oz., W7 10.7oz., trail run-
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Dog Mountain in the Columbia River Gorge
Under Armour Verge Low GTX
ner, as well as a mid-height version, the Verge Mid GTX, $140, 8mm drop, 16-8mm, M9 13.1oz., W7 11.1oz. This is definitely not for the most weight-conscious runner, but it’s a bomber shoe designed to run through anything. Both versions feature a full GoreTex membrane for weatherproofing, plus a seriously rugged and sticky Michelin outsole and dual-density midsole with ample rearfoot padding. There’s also a TPU shank for added heel support, plus a full rock plate. The Mid version adds a well padded, above-ankle cuff that wraps high around the front of the leg for ankle protection, but stays low in back for added flex. Ideal Trail “The Verge was made for those unpredictable Spring Oregon days. It could be sunny and 70 in the morning and then 40 and blowing sideways rain by the afternoon. It’s perfect for cruising up Dog Mountain in the Columbia River Gorge. Climbing 2,800 feet from the Columbia River just 60 minutes east of Portland, the seven-mile main loop - with steep climbs and often rough, technical footing - is a lung and leg burner. It is directly across the river from Mt. Defiance, the highest point in the Gorge. Three route options will get you to the top, but the “Way Of The Samurai” is the shortest and most brutal. From the summit on clear days, you can see Mt. Hood. Mt. Adams and St. Helens,” said Steve Metcalf, director of marketing, Outdoor Performance.
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Vasque Vasque introduced the Pendulum II, $120; 6mm drop, 19-13mm; 10.2oz., Spring 2015, which will carry over for 2016. This lightweight shoe designed in the style of traditional trail shoes, is between max and minimal. The completely bonded upper helps eliminate issues such as hot spots and blisters, and the midsole is designed to conVasque Pendulum II form to a runner’s foot for a lasting custom fit. The outsole, surprisingly burly for its weight, and TPU rock plate should handle rugged and loose terrain with ease. There’s also a GoreTex version, $150; 1913mm; 10.9oz., with GoreFlex construction for a natural, conformable fit in a waterproof/breathable all-season shoe. Ideal Trail The Vasque team, as well as their parent company Red Wing, often hit the Barn Bluff trails near Red Wing MN, offering bird’s-eye views of the Mighty Mississippi and Sorin’s Bluff in Memorial Park. While not very long, the trails offer some steep inclines, loose rocks and varied terrain for good testing ground. “The 4mm lug height and aggressive lug geometry give excellent traction on these trails, with light overall weight,” said Julie Quinn, Vasque marketing manager. “The GTX version is perfect in the colder, wetter weather - which we have a good part of the year in Minnesota.” ■ Barn Bluff Trails, Red Wing, MN
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The A to-Z Adventure Travel Checklist for Spring Shoppers For travelers already planning 2016 adventures, our A to Z list of stylish yet technical pieces makes packing one less thing to worry about. By Michael Frank
My octogenarian parents are in Iceland on a 13-day group photography trip around the island nation. They are not alone. According to a 2013 study by the Adventure Travel Tourism Association (ATTA) in cooperation with George Washington University, yearover-year growth in adventure travel is at 65 percent, and the market size two years ago had hit a whopping $263 billion. The study portioned out $82 billion spent on gear and apparel, and a subsequent study published in October 2014 by the World Tourism Organization (WTO) found that adventure travel attracts especially wealthy travelers - on average spending $3,000 per person, per trip, and trips last, on average, eight days. Notwithstanding my parents, the average age of adventure travelers according to the ATTA study skews younger - 36, with an almost equal split between genders. If all of this suggests a healthy, well-heeled customer seeking your advice on what to wear for their spring 2016 vacation to the desert, ocean or mountains, you’d be correct. One reason adventure travel is booming is because it’s less gear-centric than hardcore, single-sport focused travel. The goal is to play in a new place, then hang in a cafe with the locals. For these pursuits you need flexible apparel that can do triple duty laughing off dirt and sweat on a hike, going for a morning run the next day, and still slick and odor-free on the street. You’ll find that mix here, and all of it still crammed with high-tech features. And because you can’t travel without a way to haul your gear, we’ve included a few new luggage and daypack options in the mix, too.
Multisport In Cape Town, South Africa South Africa’s most cosmopolitan city, Cape Town is also one of the most adventureready epicenters on the planet. You can climb or hike Table Mountain before dawn and be back in town by breakfast. Many locals run up the mountain weekly, pounding pavement and then hitting the dozens of trails on the 4,000-foot ridge that forms a massive wall south of the city. Head in almost any direction around the Cape and you’ll find fantastic beaches for surfing or SUP, and there’s even more gorgeous hiking and climbing to be had in the Hottentots Nature Reserve, about an hour east of the city, where you can go on a zip-line tour or do some Kloofing - rappelling into waterfalls. Here’s a small sampling of apparel to fit this trip.
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Columbia Urban Assist 28-inch Roller | $249 Columbia continues to build out its luggage line, and this one’s ideal for a longer trip because it’s both large and well organized, featuring internal compression straps on either side of the clamshell (equally divided) as well as mesh sundry pockets and a complete seal between the two sides (the better to wall off clean from grimy). The bag is reinforced at the corners, and the oversized wheels and bottom skid plate anticipate zones where you’ll be bouncing the bag up or down stairs. And despite the overbuilt feel and large 100-liter volume, this piece still only tips the scales at an even 10 pounds.
Columbia Urban Assist 28-inch Roller
Grand Trunk Explorer Atom Compression Cubes, 8.3-34 liters | $60-$100 What’s better than the right bag for your trip? The right packing solution that acts like an overflow bag of its own when you pick up souvenirs along the way. Unlike other packing systems that are wispy and delicate, Grand Trunk’s are made of durable 600D Oxford water repellent nylon and come in three sizes, each with a compatible shoulder strap and waterproof zipper. They also expand and then can be compressed down to keep bulkier clothing from eating all your luggage space. And because they’re rugged, these bags can serve as anything from carry-on to an extra checked piece of luggage. Grand Trunk Explorer Atom Compression Cubes
Outdoor Research Men’s Pagosa Shirt | $78 We’re big fans of Tencel, a naturally anti-bacterial fabric (made from eucalyptus wood pulp) that always feels cool and silky to the touch, so it’s ideal on warm days. The Pagosa is a blend of nylon, for toughness, Tencel, cotton, and spandex for stretch. The result is a comfy western-style shirt that breathes and dries quicker than cotton alone, while providing mild sun-protection: UPF 15. Two snap chest pockets add a layer of style to your outfit. Lululemon T.H.E. Short | $65 What gym short is also ideal for hiking, trail running and even lounging with a hoody and a macchiato at the cafe? These are. It’s a 2015 short from Lululemon, but they’re a strong hit, which means they’re selling again next year. Top features include a longer cut (so they don’t scream “gym”), and a built-in liner that’s more accommodating than a compression cut strictly for high-speed aerobics. For travel, the lightweight fabric makes these less bulky than other options. And hanks to the liner, these could easily double as a board short.
Outdoor Research Men’s Pagosa Shirt
Lululemon T.H.E. Short
Icebreaker Men’s and Women’s MerinoLoft Hoody
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Helly Hansen VTR Helium Jacket | $100 After you’ve been in the surf or sweating from a day of exploration, reach into your daypack and grab this jacket. The VTR Helium is truly lighter than air. An onion-skinthin layer folds to the size of a candy bar and stuffs into its own pocket, which makes it an ideal piece to have for adventure travel. But it’s also technical: X-Cool quick-dry fabric is wind and water resistant, and a hood adds extra warmth on cooler nights. The laser-cut perforations in the back prevent condensation as you cool from aerobic effort. Icebreaker Men’s and Women’s MerinoLoft Hoody | $230 There’s no more ideal travel piece than the hoody. It can be worn alone or layered, and having the hood means not needing a cap. Icebreaker is also highly technical in its apparel, with the Hoody being no different. Quilted MerinoLoft is placed strategically at key zones such as the chest to protect you from the cold, and the shaped hood will stay put even as unexpected gusts kick up. There are dual zipper pockets in front to keep your mitts toasty; cuffed sleeves with thumb holes for hand warmth; women’s and men’s-specific patterns to the insulation; and gender-specific designs that optimize flattering cuts.
Mountainsmith Approach 45
Dynafit W’s XTrail Pant
Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way
Hiking On The West Coast Of Ireland One of the most rugged and scenic hiking trails in the world is Ireland’s Wild Atlanic Way which stretches the entire length of Northern Ireland’s weather and time-beaten ocean-facing cliffs. While Ireland has a legendary and well-deserved reputation for miles of soft, green turf, the Atlantic Coast is more like Iceland…minus the ice. None of the cliffs or mountains that prow up to face the sea are particularly high, but there’s huge relief, so even a few thousand feet of elevation yields spectacular views inland and surf-ward. Along the 1,000-mile route there are dozens of castles to stay in, along with remnants of 1,000-year-old fortifications and lots of other outdoor treats beyond hiking. You can try coasteering (donning a wetsuit and rock climbing along cliffs, then periodically diving into the ocean to swim rather than climb to the next section of scale-able rock), sea kayaking, and in the south there’s actually excellent surfing. It should go without saying that this is Ireland, so you’ll want to plan for variable weather, from rain to sun and everything in between, often on the same day, and in both spring and summer, with a wide range in temperature (chilly 50’s to humid 70’s in minutes). Here’s how you pack to meet the flux. Mountainsmith Approach 45 | $130 This is a hiking backpack specifically disguised as an FAA-legal carry-on. So while it has hike-ready features like a dual-adjust waist belt, that same belt tucks down snugly against the pack wall to fit into an overhead aircraft bin. There’s both panel and stuffstyle loading, too, which is great if your aim is to carry a pack for easier travel rather than to backpack cross-country; also great if you’d like to keep your clothing reasonably wrinkle-free. The front panel comes with daisy chains, so it’s easy to attach gear to the pack when you are hiking or just carrying your load between forms of transportation. There’s a simple sleeve for a telescoped trekking pole. Plus, at 2lbs. 15oz., if you are forced to check the pack you won’t get dinged for having overweight luggage.
Nau Rebound Jacket
Dynafit W’s XTrail Pant | $129 Dynafit, which is all about going fast and light, is debuting a new flexible, four-way stretch-woven material in their 2016 spring line for women. These XTrail pants were engineered for multi-pitch climbing, but that also makes them exceptionally airy and packable (only a quarter pound), as well as quick drying - all attributes ideal for hiking, especially on days that bring unexpected weather patterns. Note the zippered security pocket, elastic waist that’s actually comfortable under a pack belt, and zippered cuffs to pull the pants comfortably over boots. Nau Rebound Jacket | $290 As is always the case with Nau, styling is hallmark, even in their most tech-driven products. So while this three-layer hard shell debuts a premier fabric for the brand, crafted from four-way knit stretch recycled polyester, the jacket doesn’t brag about its technology. The cut and style looks like a classic windbreaker, yet Rebound is the brand’s most technical piece for Spring/Summer 2016. It’s fully seam sealed and, as a result, the material is 100-percent waterproof as well as breathable. The jacket gets a DWR finish to shed weather even in a heavy downpour. Nau said the key to the material is that it delivers a smoother drape and quieter hand than other waterproof and breathable material they’ve tested.
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Mountain Hardwear Micro Thermostatic Hybrid Jacket | $155 If any form of insulation has a target on its back, it’s down. The material is challenged with finding a way to be waterproof and blend with synthetics. Not to mention it’s costly, breathes poorly if you’re active, and makes it so you still need to block the wind with a shell. However, a piece like Mountain Hardwear’s Micro Thermostatic Hybrid Jacket uses the company’s proprietary Thermal.Q Elite, specifically designed to mimic down’s loft (so Mountain Hardwear Micro Thermostatic Hybrid Jacket like goose feathers, it bounces back after compression), but breathes better and isn’t vulnerable to inclement weather. It’s also tough with micro Ripstop nylon on key zones like arms and shoulders, and stuffs into its own pocket. Kayaking Coastal Maine Not unlike the Wild Atlantic Way, The Maine Island Trail (MIT) is a 375-mile “path”but this one isn’t for walking, it’s for paddling. The MIT hopscotches between more than 200 islands of coastal Maine. What’s fantastic is that there are overnight campsites throughout the waterway, so it’s easy to pick a section to paddle and map your route based on what you want to see and where you want to provision and camp. And because coastal Maine is such a vacation hub, it’s just as easy to lodge in civilized B&Bs. There’s even an app, mita.org/app, which is handy for tidal and other updated coastal information. MIT is a public-private partnership and, as a result, land changes hands each year, with some islands coming into the system and others being blocked off. Novice paddlers should also consider hiring a guide for trickier crossings, as well as picking sections that don’t require plying huge expanses of open water. Fortunately that’s easy to do, especially down east, where fingers of glacial-carved peninsula bisect the Atlantic and effectively calm the coastal waterway. Patagonia Black Hole 60L Duffel | $119 Although it’s not new, we’ve used the Black Hole Duffel around the world and love it for two big reasons. One, it’s not a dry bag. What we mean by that is it’s not waterproof for submersion (more on that shortly), but by the same token it’s Patagonia Black Hole 60L Duffel adaptable with backpack straps that make it easier to carry when you’ve got one hand occupied hauling a boat ashore at low tide. Two, it’s more versatile than a dry bag. There’s internal organization and a rip-stop polyester padded base, so it’s great as checked luggage and ideal for all adventure travel. True, the lack of full-tilt waterproofing would be a problem if your luggage gets tipped off a boat, but there are easy dry bag stuff sack solutions to shove inside of the Black Hole Duffel so all your gear is impervious to salt water, should a little get splashed en-route. Fjällräven High Coast Shorts | $85 Fjällräven makes a lot of products out of its own G-1000 fabric. The 65/35 blend of polyester and cotton is tough, lightweight, breathable and can be waxed to give it
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The Maine Island Trail
weather resistance. By default the material has quick-drying attributes. The cotton also gives allday comfort in a not-too-technical appearance. We like that the shorts come not only with hand pockets but with one that’s zippered, to protect cash, and that there’s a belt loop, so even after a day on the water you can dress the shorts up slightly for a visit to the local bistro.
Fjällräven High Coast Shorts
Craghoppers NosiLife Pro Trousers | $100 Whether you’re setting up camp or strolling through a coastal town, these will look great and stand up to multiple days of travel. There’s both a special RFID Protection Pocket for your credit cards, as well as washed-in Insect Shield Repellent. The lightweight synthetic material is quick drying and wrinkle resistant and comes with integrated loops to hang dry in a tent or hotel room. There’s even a built-in sunglass wiper. Kokatat Unisex X Jacket | $119 The super lightweight X is made of four-way stretch nylon that dries instantly and is all but impervious to the wear of rocks, pack straps, sand and being stuffed into the bottom of your luggage for a week. The fabric unwrinkles instantly, and a UPF rating of 50 makes it an ideal sun protector when you need shade (like during a long day on a kayak) but the shore is still a distant spec on the horizon. One very clever feature is an adjustable belt, tucked into the rear pocket. Snap the belt as a tether around your waist, tie the arms across each other at your mid-rife (at the base of your PFD) and the X is readily in reach the moment you need it. Icebug Aeshna RB9X | $170 Although Icebug made its name as a brand to help with traction on frozen water, the footwear maker’s new water shoe takes the same RB9X rubber from the Enlight trail shoe and gives this new design excellent traction on rocks and gravel, as well as when you’re working the pedals of a kayak rudder. The midsole is designed for support and drainage, and the sandwich-mesh upper is designed to prevent fatigue of the small tendons in the tops of your feet.
Gooseberry Mesa, UT
Mountain Biking and Car Camping on Gooseberry Mesa, UT With warm but not too hot days, spring is the perfect season for a trip to Gooseberry Mesa, UT. It’s also a far less crowded scene than Moab. There are dozens of sites on the Mesa for easy car camping, and riding around the area is mostly on rolling slick rock, good for a few days of thrilling play. Plus the views off the top are fantastic, especially at sunset. Our favorite version of this trip is a few days on the Mesa (and at nearby Little Creek), and then taking time to hike into nearby Zion National Park. Osprey Farpoint 80 | $200 At 3.83lbs. Osprey’s largest travel pack is lightweight for the volume and crammed with smart features. Because the volume can easily accommodate 50lbs., there’s both a frame sheet and a wired frame suspension to keep the load well balanced and centered. To prevent damage, 600-denier fabric is used on higher-wear zones such as the base, and there’s a foldaway flap to cover the entire harness system for protection when checking the bag at the airport. The Farpoint 80 also has internal and external compression to pack as much Osprey Farpoint 80 inside as required, and there’s a large lower compartment inside the pack that’s divided from the top portion. Extras include a soft pocket for sunglasses or electronics, lockable zippers, multiple external attachment points, as well as luggage handles on both the top and side. Platypus Duthie A.M. 15 | $150 Named after a great mountain bike trail system outside Seattle, the Platypus Duthie A.M. 15 is focused around hydration. It comes with a large, three-liter reservoir, ideal for a whole day of biking or hiking. It has a back panel designed to keep from sticking to your spine, yet the waist, chest and shoulder harnesses focus the 12-liter load lower near to your hips to prevent slosh. There are internal slots for tool storage, a carry system for a helmet (which is also a perfect slot for stuffing a bulky fleece) and there’s both an integrated rain cover and integrated waist belt pockets. If the reservoir is still not large enough, an outer pocket on the left hip holds a water bottle as well. Royal Robbins Diablo Camp Shirt | $70 While the Diablo Camp Shirt looks like it’s made of seersucker cotton, it actually uses Sorona, a byproduct of corn (which also makes it fairly eco because the starch would otherwise go to waste). Sorona provides the Diablo with wrinkle resistance, quick-dry properties and also stretch, so it’s more comfortable under a backpack. Speaking of which, shoulder seams are rotated, so straps won’t rub, and the tail is longer too, so it looks good either tucked in or untucked.
Royal Robbins Diablo Camp Shirt
Mountain Khakis Camber Pants | $80 - $95 Fair Trade Certified (FTC) clothing is becoming a broader niche, and Mountain Khakis is debuting several styles that are FTC including men’s and women’s Camber Pants for travel. While the men’s pant features a more tapered style and is focused around bike commuters, the fit’s actually very stylish and the cinch drawcord at the hem could just as easily be used as a gaiter on Mountain Khakis Camber Pants the trail (or for the intended purpose of preventing your cuff from getting caught in a bike chain). The woman’s pant is also ideal for on-the-go, thanks to a blend of 65 percent cotton, 33 percent nylon and 2 percent spandex, for some stretch as well as quick drying. Ibex Bridget Skirt | $125 After a day of shredding, a supersoft skirt would be comfortable, as well as warm, around the campfire. Merino is also an advantage because it’s anti-bacterial and the drape of this skirt enables it to remain wrinkle-free. The cut is full length and the broad waistband is elastic for added comfort. There’s a hidden pocket at the front hip for keys or cash. Adidas Terrex Agravic Windstopper Ibex Bridget Skirt Hybrid Hoody | $239 This is an exceptionally high-tech, stuffable soft-shell that with a soft hand but is also tougher than the vapory, ultralight windbreakers you’ll see elsewhere in this list. The hoody features both Gore’s Windstopper Active Shell, but also Pertex Equilibrium at the jacket’s “hot zones.” Pertex supercharges the effect of the Active Shell so the entire garment breathes that much more quickly without compromising wind and water resistance. As we said, the entire jacket is made with Ripstop nylon, so it’s tough as well as light, and in contrast to some pared-down alternatives that don’t feature pockets, here you have several that are zippered, which is vital during travel when you might need security Adidas Terrex Agravic Windstopper for ID and currency. ■ Hybrid Hoody
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OUTDOOR HARDGOODS
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2016 Camping Products Reflect New Consumer Needs Top camping brands release next season’s products highlighting trends including glamping, home-gating, moto-touring and die-hard minimalist single treks. By Eugene Buchanan and Aaron H. Bible
C
amping is cranking. That’s the take-home from the tent, sleeping bag, backpack and pad category manufacturers, as consumers continue to part with their hard earned cash to venture into the great outdoors. Manufacturers are responding to new consumer demands with a slew of modern designs for everything from car camping at national parks, homegating, adventure glamping, to minimalist excursions by seasoned trekking vets. Much of the fanfare this season centers on a younger demographic entering the marketplace and new technologies like sleeping pad air valves that inflate in three breaths, packs that mimic natural spinal movements, to lights in tents. “There’s a big shift toward a younger crowd,” said Therm-a-rest spokesman Jim Meyers. “The style of outdoor experience being embraced by Gen Z and Millennials is one of decadent base camps for weekend adventure. We’ve dubbed it ‘Adventure Glamping,’ and the lightest and most compact isn’t a priority for this experience. They’re looking for the comfort of home away from home.” Consumers’ increasing demands, he added, are driving an industry-wide shift toward a softer outdoor experience and they’re open to new ideas like blankets and quilts on mattresses. “Until now, these type of improvements have been slow to be adopted by traditional sleeping bag customers, despite the huge boost in comfort,” he said. Brands like Tailgaterz, Nemo and Eureka! have taken to the comfort camping space offering 2016 products that will hopefully lock new campers into the habit of getting outdoors. As well as comfort accoutrements, innovations in technical performance are also high on this year’s hit list. Not every consumer will be fresh to the space, and brands are well aware of more tried and trained users, looking for evolutions of old products and entirely new fabrics, insulations and mini-features. These include everything from new airier-than-ever suspension systems for backpacks to lighter-than-ever tents. “Consumers are still wanting lighter and lighter tents,” said MSR Shelters Product Manager Terry Breaux. “We’re working hard to reduce the weight of every component used in our tents. Fabrics and poles are the obvious place to save weight but we also focus on reducing the weight of every other component. People are looking for more space for less weight.” He added that more and more consumers are also using their tents to support activities besides backpacking, such as bike-packing, pack rafting, motorcycle touring and backcountry skiing. “We’ve also seen increased interest in extremely lightweight shelters for long-distance thru-hiking,” Breaux said. “Many diehard double-wall tent customers are considering single-wall trekking pole tents or tarps as a way to save weight.”
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Another noticeable growth area impacting 2016 additions to the camping category is equipment. “Interestingly enough, we're seeing growth up and down the price ladder, and in every activity level of intensity – from casual camping to expedition level mountaineering,” said Mountain Hardwear Global Director of Product Design and Merchandising Robert Fry. “People are getting after it outside like never before. Those same folks are buying our products.” For the most part, leading camping category brands welcome the challenges brought by a new and varied audience. However, Fry added, “It’s not easy to bring true innovation. Much of what is plied as innovation in the industry is hype and glaze… It's the nature of a fast moving, competitive market. For us, though, innovation is all about what works best and what delights and inspires the people who use our stuff. Period.” In the end, the products speak for themselves. What doesn’t work will deter new customers from returning and what does will keep the category on its upward trend. Bergans Of Norway Often credited with being the first to bring a modern anatomical frame pack to outdoor hardgoods in 1908, Bergans of Norway will build on its Spine system with a torso-length adjustable version introduced in the Trolhetta pack last season. The company’s original anatomical pack was cut and shaped by Ole F. Bergan using a juniper branch, which bent to match the natural curve of his spine. Bergan then attached the branch to his weighty, ill-fitting rucksack and the rest is history. At Outdoor Retailer Summer Market, Bergans will premiere its lightweight alpine backpack, the Helium, reinvented with a new adjustable-torso carrying system, QuickAdjust Pro. This adjustment structure is a step above Bergan’s 2012 award winning Spine, used in the Glittertind pack, which gained acclaim at the 2012 Friedrichshafen, Germany OutDoor, and was named a Backpacker Magazine Editors' Choice and one of Men’s Journal Gear of the Year in 2013. The QuickAdjust Pro consists of a flat D-ring, nylon webbing and Velcro design. Bergans Of Norway Helium (men's) and (women's) Sliding the D-ring into a webbing loop and securing the position with Velcro on the shoulder straps and back of the pack can adjust the torso length. While reducing the weight of the former Helium pack by close to 15 percent, the new version maintains carrying capacity. Two new Helium packs are available in men’s and women’s versions, $189 and $169. With features like adjustable torso length, stabilizing straps, adjustable sternum straps, a 3D molded hip belt, spring steel frame, vertical full front zip and diagonal ski, ice axe and sled attachment points, Bergan’s designed Helium to be a cross-season adventure pack. Although Helium offers the newest features, Bergan’s also updated the Skarstind line of tensioned mesh-back panel packs, adding a 48 and 40L model and updating the 32L, 28L and 22L sizes. A fresh line of hip packs was also Bergans Of Norway added to Starstind for the upcoming season. Skarstind 32L
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Big Agnes Don’t be surprised if you see a glow emanating from the staff at the Big Agnes Outdoor Retailer Summer Booth at this year’s show. It’s coming from the robust sales of its new mtnGLO tent line, now available to its entire dealer network after an exclusive six-month run with Recreational Equipment Inc. (REI). “They’re selling great, way better than any of us ever expected,” said Big Agnes President Bill Gamber. “It’s crazy how after someone uses a mtnGLO tent they can’t imagine a tent without lights.”
Big Agnes Krumholtz UL2 mtnGLO
Several new offerings augment the existing mtnGLO line-up for next year, including the Krumholtz UL2 mtnGLO, a 4lb., 10oz. tent featuring two doors and vestibules and a Goal Zero Solar Kit solar panel integration built into the rain fly including a 7W solar panel, fan, lantern and Flip 20 battery. Also new is the 2lbs., 2oz., single door/vestibule Fly Creek UL2, updated with a new pole and hub structure for more volume, a spacious feel and integrated mtnGLO lights. Big Agnes is also unveiling 24 new SKUs in its bag and pad category, including new women’s bags, kids bags, value bags and double bags. Leading the new offerings is the Park Series, available in down and synthetic, built for comfort with a zipper on each side. Made from 600-fill DownTek with a nylon Ripstop shell and DWR finish Taffeta lining, the Summit Park 15°F has a wider and longer rectangular shape for space, double zippers
Big Agnes Summit Park 15°F
for a blanket-like feel, corner hand pockets for easy “wrapping” and an integrated pad sleeve to fit a 25-inch wide pad. In pads, Big Agnes debuts the 23oz. Double Stuffed Double Z Air Pad, the warmest pad in its Double Z lineup, featuring two layers of PrimaLoft Silver for an R-Value of 5.8 and rating down to 0° F.
Brooks Range Built with backcountry adventure in mind, Brooks Range is introducing two Spring 2016 sleeping bags - the Drift 20 and Cloak 20 - to fulfill your DownTek dreams. The semi-rec Drift 20 (wider in the upper body and foot area) features dual zipper construction with the ability to fully unzip and lay flat. With 850+ fill DownTek, halo collar and flow construction, there is no doubt the design was drafted by mountaineers who know the landscape of camping. The Cloak 20 is a combination of 850+ Goose Down with Brooks Range Drift 20 Downtek, made wide cut (48” at widest point) with foot, neck and vertical baffle for better wrap. The small but noteworthy jewel in the Cloak 20 is its pad and foot pocket. By spring, winter snow may be thawing at the base but up the summit it’s still well below barefoot temps. Product designers at Brooks Range anticipate the chill, and
Brooks Range Cloak 20
Eureka! Lonepine 20 (top) and Green River Pad (bottom)
it shows in the careful design of upcoming product features. Small but trip-saving details like the Cloak foot pocket not only maximize enjoyment but safety and warmth, too. Eureka! For Eureka, it’s all about customizing and comfort. “There shouldn’t be a performance loss when looking for a customizable and comfortable camp experience,” said Brand Product Manager Paul Leonard. “We’ve designed our new products to reflect this mentality as we address real consumer wants and needs.” Its new Camp Comfort Sleep System utilizes a patentpending fabric technology to create a no-slip interface between each key component: sleeping bag, pad and tent floor. All are made with Stealth Grip fabric that, when paired, creates a slippage-mitigating system. In tents, the company unveils the Jade Canyon three-season, cabin-style tent series: 8’x8’; 18lbs., 1oz., $299; and 10’x10’,
22lbs., 7oz., $359. Available in four and six-person models, a hybrid pole construction (aluminum and steel) reduces frame weight while enhancing strength. Its new E!luminate System - a removable reflective ceiling panel that reflects light from hanging LED lanterns - increases floor-level brightness by up to three times. The series includes the new Eureka! Media Center, a three-pocket gear hammock with a touchscreen friendly, clear center sleeve suspended off the floor for watching videos on tablets and other electronic devices. Its new Down Range 2 Tent, 8’x5’, 7lbs., 14oz., $299, features a front vestibule with two straight zips for more configurations including awning and high/low venting.
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Fly openings also feature “Snivel Locks” that secure the fly in place via side-release buckles to eliminate errant wind opening. Eureka’s new Spero Sleeping Bag, $110-$140, available in 20- and 30-degree models, both regular and long, uses proprietary Synthesis insulation, the company’s lightest, most compressible to date, where fibers are arranged in an overhanging shingle pattern stitched to the bag’s shell and lining, optimizing thermal performance. With a more generous cut and added wiggle room, the new Bero comfort mummy bag, $120-$150, uses the same Synthesis insulation and is targeted for backpackers. It is also available in 20- and 30-degree bags, regular and long. In accessories, the Eureka! will introduce the 250lb. capacity Compact Cot, $60, which includes a mesh and foam pillow insert. The foldable, counter top height Cook Table, $100, is another addition, with a large, zippered storage cabinet for cookware. The camp-friendly Recliner Chair, $80, and 51-Lumen, 4oz. Glide 115 Lantern, $30, which can hang in the tent or collapse into a flashlight with a run time of 6.3 hours, completes the set-up. Granite Gear The trend in adjustable torso packs for the 2016 camping season shows up in Granite Gear’s new Lutsen Series. Made different by their new Re-Fit System, these multi-day backpacks are highly technical in design and technology while being easy to handtailor to your exact size. The entire Lutsen line is one-size-fits-all thanks wholly to Re-Fit technology. Friends can swap packs during a trek or trade mid-season and still get a customized fit. Re-Fit is used in the Air Current injection-molded polycarbonate frame sheet, fully adjustable torso and fully adjustable hip belt that can be tuned by breaking the hook and loop connection. Also in the Re-Fit genre is the Re-Fit AC pack frame, made with molded air channels that work with dual-density molded foam backs and stretch mesh. The Lutsen 35, Lusten 45 and Lutsen 55 are made in three colors (35L - $180, 45L $200, 55L - $220), and all include shared Re-Fit construction, hydration port, internal hydration sleeve, tool loops, side stretch woven pockets, side and front compression straps and water-resistant Barrier Zipper Tricot hip belt. If you aren’t already part of the Granite cult, it might be the time to join as these easy-to-tailor packs come to market and promise to be long-lasting investments.
From left to right: Granite Gear Lutsen 35, Lusten 45 and Lutsen 55
Gregory Following the success of last year’s update to the Baltoro and Deva overnight packs, Gregory is focusing on daypacks, trail packs and travel bags for Spring 2016. “We have a lot of positive energy in the market right now and have doubled-down on our product development to ensure we keep that momentum going,” said Gregory Director of Product Development John Sears. “We’re excited to introduce our new Freespan ventilated suspension technology to our daypacks, along with major updates across our line.”
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Using an aluminum leaf spring for lumbar support and ventilation, while maximizing interior volume, the Freespan suspension system, designed to bring comfort and fit to a wide variety of body types, can be found in its new men’s Salvo and women’s Sula day Gregory Salvo packs, $99-$129, both of which are available in a variety of sizes, including 18L, 24L and 28L, for everything from travel to summit bids. Gregory has also updated its CrossFlo DTS technology in its Zulu and Jade packs. The Zulu ranges in size from 30L to 65L, with the two largest top-loading models catering to the backpacking category with sleepGregory Zulu ing bag compartments and full-body U-zips for better access. The full-size models feature a stretch front pocket, enclosed hip pockets, compression straps and integrated rain cover. The women’s Jade will come in sizes between 28L and 63L, $139 and $219. Miwok and Maya trail packs retain their core features, including a frontloaded helmet pocket, trekking pole attachment points and wide hip belt, Gregory Jade while being upgraded with new technology like Biosync ATS suspension. ATS combines flexible tendons with a pliable frame to move with the body’s natural locomotion. Sizes range from 6L to 34L for men and 5L to 32L for women, $69 to $139. Finally, Gregory’s youth backpacking line, Wander, has expanded to include a 38L model, featuring Versafit Gregory Maya suspension, providing fully adjustable hip belts and torsos for precise fit, which is an alluring feature for youth backpackers who are constantly outgrowing gear. Hilleberg The Tentmaker If you’re camping with a partner or prefer some extra wiggle room during a solo trek, Niak 1.5, $795, the “lightweight palace,” as Hilleberg dubs it, is your best option. Weighing just 3lb., 10oz., the Niak includes a Kerlon 600 outer tent fabric with 22lb. minimum tear strength, making the outside layer highly tear-proof for a lightweight model. Hilleberg sees its unique Kerlon
Hilleberg The Tentmaker Niak 1.5
fabric as the extra “insurance” every camper needs. “The Niak holds up superbly,” said Bo Hilleberg, company founder. “Even in rough conditions. Our backcountry testers have used the Niak in Scandinavia and the U.S., as well as in the Alps and in Scotland, among other places.” The Niak also boasts a single vestibule with catenary cut outer tent walls for steady airflow. The motivation behind its design was to expand the concept of lightweight, multi-season tent options, introduced by Hilleberg last year with their Enan model. Hilleberg explained, “We used the same Kerlon 600 outer tent fabric - our lightest - and DAC NSL 9mm poles, as we did in the Enan, so the Niak is as light as we are willing to make it while still having the strength and reliability of a Hilleberg tent.”
Hilleberg The Tentmaker Tarp 5
If the name of your camping game is minimalism, the Tarp 5, $165, will be a go-to, weighing only 11.3oz. while being built with Kerlon 1000 fabric - boasting an 8kg. tear strength. For the hardcore mountaineer who can sleep in any condition, Tarp 5 is Hilleberg’s way of saying, stay gnarly, sleep sound. When packed down into its integrated stuff sack, the Tarp 5 compresses to the size of a 1-liter cooking pot. “The shape of the Tarp 5 allows the user to set the level of protection,” Hilleberg said. “Pitch it fairly high off the ground, and you get the full, airy, tarp experience. Pitch it with its edges nearly on the ground, and the weather protection is impressive.” Klymit Although some outdoor veterans doubted Klymit’s entry into the backpack space, expectations are high as Klymit gears up to release the Dash 10. The Dash 10, $90, has a run-specific harness and easy pump access for en-route adjustments. With a load rating of 15.5lbs., and weighing only 15.9oz., pack as much as you can shoulder without the worry of additional fabric carry-over. Adjustable straps make the pack customizable to all body types, while the design is hydration bladder and water bottle compatible. This new pack also features Klymit’s signature Air Frame technology for comfortable movability on the trail and a different design from the anatomical, more rigid
packs on the market. With more rigid packs, load is transferred throughout the body and into the hips, but only when moving in certain ranges, said Klymit. Add contortion and unpredictability to the climb, and the load doesn’t always transfer where it should. Klymit’s Air Frame uses superlight material and pressurized air, maximizing correct load distribution while tackling the turns and dips of an excursion, while keeping up with any distance. Klymit enforced its other new pack, the Splash 25, $120, with signature Air Frame technology. Klymit Dash 10 Splash 25 was created for adventures on lake, river, ocean or stream. Integrated Air Frame makes the pack floatable while weighting 1lb., 5oz., with a load rating of 30lbs. The top of the pack has full roll closure. Montane From U.K.’s Montane, lightweight and expedition specialist comes 13 new packs ranging from ultra-running designs to haul bags. The Montane pack line is “equipment that you wear.” Matt Kemp, creator of Montane’s award-winning running packs, predicts some redefining lightweight, fully featured packs. Exploring new fabrics like ultra-light Cuben and a custom Raptor Ul fabric, paired with feedback from testers like big wall climber Andy Klymit Splash 25 Kirkpatrick, the new Montane packs are designed for mountain ascents and ultra distances where weight is critical but comfort is also paramount. Key themes of next year’s introductions include: a customizable new back system with shapeable, removable padding; durable new fabrics; expandable roll top designs and removable summit packs and completely redesigned systems for women. Montane is unveiling two new trekking/backpacking packs at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market. Summit Tour 55+15, $289, 70oz., is engineered for self-supported mountain trekking and world travel. The fully featured mountain trekking pack retains the lightweight ethos of Montane’s Grand Tour pack line, created for long, multi-
From left to right: Montane Fast Alpine, Hyper Tour, Ultra Alpine 38, Snap
day mountain walks, whether between huts or fully unsupported. A removable, lightweight 15-liter daypack provides carry capacity for summit attempts or day hikes. Also featuring side entry and large side bellow pockets, this pack allows for efficient kit organization and easy access to essential items making it ideal for world travel. The Women’s Grand Tour 50, $198, is an ultra-distance, touring, lightweight backpack designed for trail backpacking from the Pacific Crest Trail to classic routes in the Himalayan mountain ranges. The women’s specific Grand Tour 50 is fully featured
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for long distance trekking, with a split shoulder strap construction for anatomical fit around the bust. Narrow body curved hip fins and a Comfort Back Pad molded to the female form make the pack a dream for women explorers accustomed to adjusting posture to accommodate gender-neutral designs. These features combined with the new VertErgo Tour back system allow the pack to be individually tailored even further. VertErgo also supports load carrying for long periods of time to ensure comfort and stability on the move. Three other new mountain/trail packs include the Hyper Tour 38, $399, the Ultra Tour 55, $149, and the Ultra Tour 40, $139. Mountainsmith Mountainsmith hits the ground hiking with a slew of new pack designs for 2016, from its new Apex line to the Lariat and Scream. “Mountainsmith is a diversified brand founded and focused on providing outdoor products with the basic principles of comfort, durability, and functionality at a cost that far outperforms their price tag,” explained Mountainsmith’s lead product designer, Luke Boldman. “Going into 2016, we’ve zeroed in on these core principles by offering an exceptional new line of backpacks and lumbar packs built to last for the long haul. By nominating Cordura fabrics for our new 2016 product line, we’re offering our customers a true investment in their outdoor lifestyle, not only for their next adventure, but for a variety of activities in years to come. A point of pride here at the Mountainsmith office is seeing a 20-plus year-old pack coming in for zipper repair or hardware replacement, but everything else looks like it just came in off the showroom floor. This happens because of our long history of using quality Cordura branded fabrics; you simply cannot beat the longevity and durability that this material offers the consumer.” The new Mountain Smith Apex Packs, 60L $200, 80L $225, 100L $250, feature multi-point ladder suspension adjustment, right-side angled water bottle pocket, sleeping bag compartment with internal divider, smartphone compatible waist belt pockets, U-shaped zippered main compartment access, Tuning Fork waist belt frame, forward pull waist belt with V adjustment webbing, front panel stretch mesh pocket, PE Framesheet with X configuration AL Stays and horizontal stabilizer bar, Anvil Airway ridged EVA back panel padding, and more. In the multi-day, roll-top-closure Lariat line, 65L $230, 55 WSD $220, look for many of the same features with the addition of a removable summit pack and back panel hydration sleeve. The 55 WSD also features conMountainsmith Apex Packs toured shoulder straps and a waist belt for a women(top) and Mayhem (bottom) specific fit. The new Scream, 25L $80, 55L $150, is a lightweight, minimalist, roll-top pack with dual front panel storage pockets, fixed shoulder straps, removable foam suspension frame, padded waist belt with dual zippered pockets, compression straps with quickrelease hardware, deep side panel mesh pockets and 3L internal hydration sleeve. The 25L stuffs into its own pocket for summit assaults and comes with breathable shoulder straps with gel pocket, Airmesh back panel, fixed top lid with zippered stash pocket, single trekking pole/tool carry mount, elastic sternum strap and bite valve catch with safety whistle.
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The new Mayhem line, 35L $140, 45L $160, also comes with packed features, including a giant opening for accessibility in tight environments, front panel mesh pocket, side panel passport pocket, angled water bottle pocket, hybrid panel loader system, wire frame load dispersion and stabilizer bar, forward pull waist belt, tool mount, and more tiny features that frame new Mountainsmith products as technical detail encyclopedias. Mountain Hardwear Mountain Hardwear Global Director of Product Design and Merchandising, Robert Fry, said the brand’s Spring collection “comes from thinking about sleeping.” The Lamina Z/Laminina Z Bags are revamped from the popular Lamina series models. New bags take fully welded Lamina construction and zone the synthetic insulation package, making the bag warmer, lighter and built for compression. Lamina mirrors the perks of down (lightweight and compressible) Mountain Hardwear while being made of synthetics. Where synthetic bag stitching Lamina Z leaves room for cold pockets, Lamina welds insulation into the bag without Mountain Hardwear stitching. Fry attested that the spark for new Ghost UL2 like the Lamina Z bags comes from never really being products satisfied with what the industry has to offer the consumer. “And since we’re all consumers, we feel that pain,” he said. Mountain Hardwear also invented a category of lamina-style welded sleeping bags that are roomier than a classic mummy. These “sleep-accelerators,” as the company dubs them, are called
the Hotbed Bags. Designed for traditional camping vacations, hotbeds come at a notably lower price point, offering first-time campers an easy way to say yes to investing in gear. MSR With weight savings as its focus, MSR debuts its new Freelite series, its lightest freestanding tents built for backpackers. The new FreeLite line is available in one-person, 1lb., 13oz., $370, two-person, 2lb., 6oz., $440, and three-person, 3lb., 4oz., $500, models, all providing three-season protection and great livability. They feature DuraShield-coated nylon (10D walls and 15D floor), taped seams, reinforced stress points for protection, large doors, spacious interiors and micromesh canopies for ventilation and moisture control. The FreeLite 2 features a 29-square-foot floor and 30-cubic-foot interior, with two 14.5-cubic-foot vestibules. Mountain Hardwear MSR also gave a makeover to its ultra-light Carbon Reflex Hotbed Bags collection of one-person, 1lb., 7 oz., $400, two-person, 1lbs., 13oz., $500, and three-person, 2lbs., 4oz., $600, tents for packers striving for minimalism. A new zipperless design sheds 11oz. from its predecessors, with new Easton carbon fiber poles dropping even more weight from the carry load. MSR FreeLite All renovated ultra-light tents come with unified pole geometry to optimize headroom, color-coded stakeout loops, clip webbing for fast setup, large doors and vestibules and a variety of storage options. Like the Freelite series, the tents also feature lightweight DuraShield-coated fabrics (10D MSR FreeLite 2 rainfly, 15D floor) and doublewall protection. At 56.5-cubicfeet, the Carbon Reflex2 accommodates two side-by-side mattresses. Also new are MSR’s Thru Hiker Mesh House two-person shelters, $200, and threeperson, $250, are made for the open trail. Both tents feature MSR Carbon Reflex2 lightweight fabrics, micromesh canopies for ventilation, and room for two or three side-by-side sleeping pads. They can also be partnered with the Thru-Hiker 70/100 Wing for additional protection. “They let us use the lightweight trekking poles people are carrying in place of traditional tent poles,” said MSR Shelters Product Manager Terry Breaux. “This saves weight and volume, letting users carry a smaller pack as well.”
MSR Thru Hiker Mesh House two-person
MSR Thru Hiker Mesh House three-person
MSR Thru-Hiker 100 Wing
Mystery Ranch Spending the last two years working on its new Mountain category, the company is selling products in the U.S. this year for the first time through a select network of specialty retailers. Previously the brand was only available in Asia or online domestically. “You have to build a pack the way people will use it,” said Mystery Ranch Co-founder Dana Gleason, of Dana Design pack fame. “That means it has to be Mystery Ranch Sphinx simple for the user to adjust and wear. Steel Hero We’ve been building mission-based packs for professionals for the last decade, and we’ve learned a lot. We’re excited to bring this knowledge home to Outdoor, where we first started.”
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The key to its success has been making packs with built-in structures for stabilization, without the need for extra straps and extra features. This ethos can be seen in its new Sphinx, 65L $300, from the Trail Collection, available in six sizes and incorporating a center zipper that fillets open for full access to gear, twin vertical torpedo pockets and hydration options, Mystery Ranch Pitch 40 Nightfall Hero and a lightweight Adventure Frame suited for everything from weekend backcountry trips to summit attempts. The Sphinx is also available in a women’s version called the Mystic, $300, a 5.3lb., pack that comes in four sizes. At 42L, the new 3.7lb. Pitch 40, $225, from Mystery Ranch’s Alpine Collection, is available in five sizes, has enough capacity for a full alpine mission, yet is able to compress down for leads and crags. Engineered with a fully integrated frame system with removable belts for comfort on big traverses, the pack carries tools and crampons externally. The line consists of Expedition, for years of mountain use and abuse; Trail, light and sleek for weekend thru-hikes; Alpine, for the fast peak bagger; and Every Day Carry, with the traditional Heritage look but made extra durable for year-round use. Mystery Ranch will also introduce a line of Hunting-specific packs in Spring 2016.
A metalized film layer provides insulation. As for the camper who wants to bring comfort to the outdoors, Nemo’s large inflatable mattresses have led a new population of campers out of the house and into the wilderness. The decadent Nomad, 2lbs. 15oz., $200, offers six inches of plush loft, horizontal baffles and built-in foot pump - no battery-powered or 12V pump needed. Two Nomads could be joined together to make a Queen-sized bed. Nemo extends new offerings into the sleeping bag category with Salsa, $240-$280. Using its award-winning Spoon Shape, Salsa is wider at the knees and elbows for natural side sleeping. New stretch stitching at the waist enhances space even further, while horizontal baffles insulate. The DWR shell is comprised of Insotec FlowGates and 650 FP DownTek; available in 15 and 30 degree F ratings with the 30F weighing in at 2lbs. 3oz. Nemo’s first waterproof tube sleeping bag, Moonwalk, $280, provides an option for dry directto-ground sleeping. For bike packing and other ultra-light travel, the 30F, 700 FP DownTek bag has a hoodless cut with drawstring collar. A pad sleeve loads from above, NEMO Salsa (left) & Moonwalk (right)
NEMO Nemo Equipment Inc. reaches into the 2016 season with its brand mantra to pursue unNEMO Escape charted paths. In tents, it dePod 1P Bivy buts the Wagontop 6P, with an easy set-up pole configuhelping the Moonwalk withstand dampening from rain and mud. ration unique for a hovering The bag can be paired with the 7oz. Escape Pod 1P Bivy, $120, with 6.5-foot-high shelter. Single inflatable-rib AirSupported Technology that helps it pack down to wall construction acts as a the size of a grapefruit. durable weather shield, while multiple sealable windows NEMO Concerto Selk'bag and a screened front porch The Patagon 5G Suit will be Selk’bag’s with roll back rain fly promote airflow. Nemo added most technical model to date. For campwindow covers for privacy. If you’re a heavy packer, ers new to the Selk’bag revolution, think Nemo’s Accessory Garage gives more room for storage. of a comfortable body suit made from Move to pads and accessories for the new Concerto, your favorite sleeping bag. $400, an integrated Blanket Fold bed sheet with ranges The 5G model was built to promote from 20 to 80 degrees Farenheit. Made from 700 FP greater freedom of mobility, thanks DownTek, the bed consists of a quilted mattress top, to the detachable bootie system that integrated pad sleeve and hood, and snap closure top assumes wearers will use their own quilt. If that sounds like too much, its ultralight cousin, Selk'bag footwear while staying snug in the body the 11oz. Tensor 20R Mummy, $120, takes Spaceframe NEMO Tensor 20R Mummy Patagon 5G technology baffles, basically die-cut trusses of low-stretch of the suit. Velcro roll-up straps allow for secure quarter Suit fabric, to eliminate springiness and stabilize the sleep surface. sleeves. 5G also presents consumers with a more technical
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construction, adding to it an improved shell material, new pockets and never-before-seen material for the 5G line called Krekran. The currently sold Selk’bag Original and Lite suits will also be upgraded with 5G features. The Marvel Kid’s Suits bring the bravado of your child’s favorite superhero to summertime family adventures. Suit up in one of the four designs - Spider-Man, Iron Man, The Hulk or Captain America. The booties are removable, making the suit easy to transition between a backyard slumber party and trip to the grocery store. Selk'bag Marvel Kid’s Suits
Sierra Designs When creating the Frontcountry Bed, Sierra Designs challenged the status quo - a zipperless bag with built-in comforter and over-sized openings. The larger-than-average openings allow for comfortable back, side or stomach sleeping. Intended more for car and destination camping, some Frontcountry models hold enough space for a twin or queen air mattress. Sierra didn’t stop at bedding: the Nightwatch Tent, $240, is lightweight and freestanding, with a retractable rainfly that is integrated into the tent body and positioned to offer unhindered visibility. Other features include an awning, large side gear closets and the new Night Glow accessory attachment, $15,
Sierra Designs Frontcountry Bed
Sierra Designs Nightwatch Tent
Sierra Designs Night Glow
that illuminates the tent with nothing but a headlamp. The light’s versatile attachment system hangs from a central hook to any ceiling loop, using an adjustable string lock. The Night Glow will be included in all standard Sierra Designs’ tents in 2016 and alo available separately. Tailgaterz From parent company Exxel Outdoors comes a new niche camping line and brand, Tailgaterz. The goal is to give a good first impression of the outdoor experience, making camping approachable to novice customers. “Home-gating,” gear that is easily transportable from the kitchen to the event and back home again, with multi-use and simple set up, is the push behind these 2016 products. The Game Day Buffet, $80, folds down into a slim briefcase but expands up to a waist-high serving station. The heat-resistant tabletop made of Laminated Multi Density Fiberboard can withstand high temperatures. Added features include organizers and enough room for party supplies. The Take-Out Seat, $50, is a foldable chair with removable seat cushions that doubles as a stadium seat. The company added a side table with adjustable cup holder, which isn’t found on many folding chair models today. A nice detail is the added foot strap. The All Terrain Table Cart offers a way to haul food and camping accessories. All terrain wheels and a removable storage bag get you from car to campsite, and then double back without taking the whole cart with you. Dual storage on either side allows for dry and cool compartments, while a built-in heat resistant table flips out for a prep surface.
From top-bottom: Tailgaterz Game Day Buffet, Take-Out Seat and All Terrain Table Cart
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The Hang-N-Haul, $28, is a portable multi-pocket folding organizer made of flexible material with reinforced mesh pockets and a detachable clear pouch to sort dirty utensils apart from clean. Quick-clip adjustable straps easily hook to branches or the car door, so the organizer can be set up without hassle. Tailgaterz brings its Cool-N-Carry, $26, to market,
Tailgaterz Hang-N-Haul
with one main insuTailgaterz Cool-N-Carry lated compartment, two expandable side bins for dry storage, and exterior mesh pockets for smaller items. An adjustable shoulder strap makes carrying easier, and once emptied, the cooler folds down for compact storage.
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Tailgaterz Instant Party Pavilion
Instant Party Pavilion takes only one person to set up and tear down, as opposed to traditional pop up models that require the strength and maneuvering of many. The reflective water resistant coating with UPF 50 sun protection defends against the elements and a movable panel provides shade to any side.
Therm-a-Rest Sleep is a dominating theme in the 2016 camping category, and Therm-a-Rest adds its expertise to the new-offerings landscape. Since its invention in 1971, the company has focused on finding better ways to bring restful sleep to overnight outdoor adventures. For 2016, Therm-a-Rest debuts a new sleeping pad, the NeoAir Camper SV, $140, a 2lb., 25”x77”, two-season air mattress with a “wicked fast” Speed Valve for quick inflation. Toting it as “the best combination of comfort and ease of use created in an air mattress,” the company depends on the new Speed Valve technology to inflate in one-third the time of a similarly sized mattress, and deflate in even less time. “It’s a game changer,” said Spokesman Jim Meyers. “We’ve had a great reception already, and it solves real problems for our customers.” A roll-top closure on the Speed Valve provides a wide opening and, by blowing into the valve from even a slight distance, pressure differential is created, pulling in surrounding air to speed the inflation process. The valve inflates a Regular Camper SV, 2.5” thick and 72” long, in three to five breaths. Raised side-rails in the Camper SV keep sleepers on
the mattress, and three-inch thick WaveCore construction, forming over 100 insulating cells to double warmth without bulk, makes for insulating and stabilizing quality. The pad’s warmth is increased by ThermaCapture Radiant Heat Technology, a proprietary reflective coating that reflects radiant heat back to the user’s body. “It amplifies warmth without the excess weight or bulk of added, conventional insulating materials,” said Meyers. Also new is the company’s 3-D construction, netting 20-percent more useable sleep surface, being introduced on its four-inch-thick MondoKing 3D. Also to premiere this summer in its EvoLite mattresses collection is the new Air Frame construction, available in the Basecamp AF Pad. “We reduced the foam inside to a simple truss pattern, much like ribs with alternating air channels, to achieve a high loft while still offering the stability of a foam core, selfinflation and packability,” said Meyers. “It combines portability and comfort with great value.” ■ Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Camper SV
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Outdoor Hardgoods
SUP Surfs Ongoing Wave of Popularity A study by the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) listed SUP as the most popular outdoor activity in 2013. Projections continue to be high for 2016 as brands lean toward inflatable options for continued growth. By Scott Boulbol
I
from 70,000 units in 2013; still only seven t was in the late 1990s, when this combination of surfing, percent of kayak sales. And if it doubles kayaking and paddleboarding began its modern renaisagain in 2015, which seems plausible, sance as an adventure sport. Although the modern upsurge SUP sales will exceed kite boards and began off the shores of Hawaii and California, the practice become 10 percent of the entire paddle has traceable roots dating back hundreds and maybe thousport industry, in units sold.” sands of years. Helping fuel the growth - especially Richard Ohman, founder, Point 65, a company that makes over the last 10-15 years - has been the portable modular boards - a small but growing niche of SUP increasing availability and quality of - sums up the sport’s growth in the last two years: “Growth is portable SUPs, most notably inflatable now driven by consumers who enjoy the activity for several or iSUP boards. What started as a novreasons. It has the appeal of surf culture and the coastal lifeelty item for SUP enthusiasts looking for Richard Ohman, Founder, Point 65 style and it’s a very social activity that allows consumers to an easy-to-transport and more durable enjoy the scenery while also getting great exercise.” Ohman noted that in the beginning, “Visibility was initially driven by numerous alternative to their long, delicate and expensive fiberglass and brands and many retailers jumping on board. Sales were pretty small but growing foam boards has become a legitimate category. Enthusiasts and rapidly up until 2014 when sales passed 150,000 units worldwide, which had doubled first-timers alike are opting for the more accessible models.
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“Inflatable SUP is certainly a quickly growing segment of the industry. I believe the accessibility of using an inflatable SUP is what makes it so appealing to folks entering the sport. Inflatable SUP board sales have grown tremendously for us, and have quickly become one of our fastest growing categories,” said Mike Barker, product developer for NRS, one of the earliest brands to market inflatables.
Mike Barker, Product Developer, NRS
To meet demand in both portables and traditional, one major player in the inflatable market will increase iSUP models and even add some rigid boards. “AirheadSUP has been a 100-percent iSUP manufacturer, and our sales have been growing at 300 percent a year,” said Jeff Turner, national sales manager for Kwik Tek, Airhead SUP’s parent company. “For 2016 we will introduce two fiberglass and two foam boards, plus 10 new iSUP and three carryover boards.”
SUPs can easily be over 10 feet tall and over two-feet wide, with up to three fins or more, so portability of traditional boards is a major concern. Even on rooftop carracks, these boards are unwieldy. If dropped or scraped the damages can be severe and expensive. The growth of portables has allowed SUP’s popularity to move into the interior, and with that, Jeff Turner, National Sales Manager, Kwik Tek into far more consumers’ hands. While iSUPs can be a bit heavier, slower and less maneuverable, they offer benefits that for most consumers outweigh the detractions. “Benefits are many: portability, storage and durability just to name a few. You can put your board, pump, paddle and PFD in a rolling golf bag or include it in a storage duffel/backpack and travel just about anywhere to paddle. Try that with an 11-foot6-inch rigid board,” said Turner. Add to that the storage issues in many homes and portables become quite an attractive option for all but the most competitive paddlers.
The whole SUP package can weight more than 30 pounds, so portables are not yet ready to be backpacked into a campsite, for instance, but they can certainly be thrown into a car quickly and easily to drive to a local lake, or along with car-camping gear for a weekend trip. Furthermore, these boards are extremely durable, handling drops or banging into a tree on the trail. They’re constructed from tough PVC (or polyethylene for the modular), rather than foam or fiberglass, so even the sharpest rocks are rarely a threat. If they do puncture, patches can fix the leak. Drop-stich construction, where the deck material is stitched to the hull with tens-of-thousands of polyester threads, generally from 4” to 6” of space between them that gets filled with pressurized air, keeps these boards surprisingly stiff and stable when pumped to the suggested pressure (usually 12 to 15 psi). Early versions were generally all-purpose boards intended for basic recreation, aside from a few pioneers using them for riding waves and fast rivers. But brands are increasingly designing boards for more focused uses, including virtually any style of riding, from big waves to flat water, and from racing to fishing. There are even boards designed for SUP yoga, one of the recent trends in SUP where users paddle out to practice poses on the water, the less stable surface helps practitioners improve balance and technique. Based in Colorado, Kwik Tek has been making watercraft and inflatables for more than 20 years. Their SUP brand, Airhead SUP, will debut its full line of 2016 models at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market and Outdoor Demo, including boards for a wide range of uses. All come with a pump, pressure gauge, board strap, day bag, valve wrench and repair kit. Select models even include a modular paddle. For the more speed-inclined paddlers, their new Pace line will include the 1030, $1,200 10’6” x 30” x 6”, 32lbs, and 1230, $1,300, 12’6” x 30” x 6”, 36lbs, which inflate to a stiff 15 and 18psi respectively, for speed on flatwater or even open water racing. The 6” thick design, plus a longer 5” front rocker (turned-up nose) and flat rear means a faster board. Each has a single removable fin and flexible rigging storage. For more recreational use, the Cruise 930, $950, 9’ x 30” x 4”, 29lbs, and 1030, $1,050, 10’6” x 30” x 4”, 32lbs, feature an old school “woodie” look and three removable fins for better tracking. They too have a 5” front rocker and storage cords. For recreational paddlers who may hold the occasional headstand or warrior pose, the ladies’ Bliss 930, $1,000, 9’ x 30” x 4”, 26lbs, and
Kwik Tek Pace 1030 and 1230
men’s Fit 1032, $1,180, 10’6” x 32” x 6”, 33lbs., feature full decks of sticky EVA padding, plus a rounded nose and sides for all-around stability under the unique demands of yoga on a paddleboard, plus storage cords. River paddlers need wider, extra stable boards for the rougher waters, as do fishers who move around more and Kwik Tek have to balance out the pull of a catch. Cruise 930 and 1030 For them, Airhead offers the Rapidz 938, $1,300, 9’ x 38” x 6”, 38lbs, and Rapidz 1138, $1,400, 11’8” x 38” x 4/6”, 46lbs. Both have separately inflated Kwik Tek Bliss 930 pontoons/outriggers around the front third for added sideto-side stability and a much wider platform. The three fins are not removable, but there are storage cords in front (and rear on 1138) for extra gear. And both have a tail rocker for maneuverability. Also in this category, carrying over from 2015, is the popular SS model (Super Stable), available in Camo and basic graphics, $1,300/$1,200, 10’8” x 38” x 6”, 32lbs. It also has pontoons, but they run almost the full length of the board for maximum stability and the center fin is removable. Kids will have their own new offering for 2016 - the junior 730 “Popsicle”, $780, 7’ x 30” x 6”, 25lbs, has a rounded profile, rocker tip and four fixed fins for stability and easy tracking. Also increasing their inflatable offerings is BicSUP, whose SUPAir line will double in 2016 to eight models. Bic boards are known for their lightweight, thanks to their single layer deck and hull combined with a Dyneema Stinger stabilizer down the center to maintain rigidity. They also feature 10” US fin boxes on all, which allows them to be universally compatible with any type of fin (unlike most typical proprietary fins found on inflatables). All feature two-way, high-pressure pump/gauge for easy inflation to 15psi and include an oversized backpack, high quality fin(s) and repair kit. New for 2016 is the River model, $950, 9’2” x 36” x 6”, 20lbs. This river-running, whitewater board has a wide forward deck to handle the rigors of rough water, plus five handles - front, back and three center - for the increased likelihood of falling in and having to retrieve the board. Front elastic rigging for storage is included in the design. A new yoga-compatible board, the Fitness, $950, 10’6” x 34” x 6”, 21lbs., comes to market, which can also work well as an all-around recreational board. But the 34” width and wider tail allow for added staFrom top to bottom: Kwik Tek 730 “Popsicle”, BicSUP River and Touring
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Photo courtesy BicSUP
bility and it features an extra-long, yoga-style deck pad. A kid’s board, $700; 8’4” x 28” x 6”, 18lbs, rounds out the line. This cross-use board is ideal for kids, or even smaller adults, up to 120lbs, and includes three fins with removable center. Finally, their Touring model, $1,000, 12’6” x 30” x 6”, 23lbs., returns from 2015 with a major overhaul to include the same features as the other 2016 boards, like the lighter single-layer deck and hull construction (double layer on the sides). The longer, narrower profile is faster and more efficient for longer days on the water but less moving around. It has three handles and elastic rigging in the front, plus one 10” removable fin and D-ring for leash attachment. While they’re not offering any completely new iSUP models for 2016, NRS has completely revamped its iSUP lines for the season to include new double-sidewall construction, a lighter, dropstich method - saving an average of two pounds per board - and new flexible urethane fin boxes. The NRS Adventurer, $1,300, 12’6” x 30.5” x 6”, 25lbs., features load capacity for longer day trips and overnighters. Made specifically for adventure touring, it combines lightweight with a sleek shape and rugged system of D-rings for rigging gear. Its proprietary Axis Technology is an acrylic-stiffening agent designed to add rigidity without adding weight. With 342 liters of air volume, the 6” thick board can handle paddlers From left to right: NRS Adventurer and Imperial
up to 260lbs. The Imperial, $1,300, 10’6” x 32” x 6”, 25lbs., is an all-around SUP for recreational paddlers looking to do a bit of everything including yoga, touring or light river running. At 4” thick it can still handle a 220lb. paddler. Its five interchangeable fins means you can customize your board for tracking and turning to suit the water you're riding, plus they’re made from flexible nylon to improve durability. Imperial is also available in a 6” model for larger paddlers or heavier loads, with D-rings for rigging and a leash. Another multipurpose model is the Earl line for efficient paddling and smooth turning. These also have five interchangeable fins, but add two webbing handles in front for extra grip when swimming, plus tail and center for carrying. The brand synonymous with off-road, multisport racing, Xterra, also has a line of inflatable SUP’s, showing the sport’s continued attraction as a crosstraining activity for endurance athletes. They offer two iSUPs, the simply named 10’, $1200; 10’ x 30” x 5.5”; 25lbs., for all around fitness, and the 12’, $1,400; 12’6” x 30 x 5.5”; 30lbs. The 5.5” height means plenty of volume but a slightly lower position than the standard 6” boards, and some weight savings. But what sets these apart the most is that both come with an aluminum paddle (three-piece for 10’ and two-piece for 12’). The 10’ includes a leash and features three fins - the center one removable even when inflated - and the 12’ has just the removable center fin. Both feature 6 D-rings for storage. For an additional $150 you
Xterra 12
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can purchase their Traveler’s Roller Bag, which is also a Backpack with room for the entire load. While inflatables certainly offer their share of advantages and conveniences, not all consumers want to pump up their board for every outing, then deflate, roll up and pack when done. That’s where the new Point65 Rum Runner 11.5, $1,000, 11’5” x 32”, 57lbs., and Xterra Backpack 12.5, $1,100 12’5” x 32”, 62lbs., modular SUPs from Point65 come into the picture. Both are modular polyethylene kayaks that come in three parts - a nose, middle and tail with retractable fin. They snap together using a tongue-in-groove connection and two ratcheted buckles at each junction. Assembly and breakdown are quite easy and the boards are ultra-sturdy. If you don’t need to pack it in, but need to be able to store the boat in your small apartment or transport without a rack, this is a smart option, especially if adventure touring is your game. And they can carry loads of up to 265lbs. and 300lbs. respectively. “The Rum Runner is specifically designed for flat water paddling where its V-shaped, displacement hull [which tapers
Photo courtesy Xterra
towards the tail] is a huge advantage,” added Ohman. “As a SUP is paddled with only one paddle blade, like open canoes, tracking is imperative so that the paddler does not need to switch sides between each stroke. With a displacement hull SUP the paddler can take 5 to 10 strokes on one side before having to switch sides.” The deck of the Rum Runner is slightly dug out so the sides are extra stable, and structured EVA foam padding covers the center floor. The nose section has two builtin cup holders and sports a large oval hatch. The deck also features D-rings for installation of the optional Point65 Air seat. ■
Point65 Rum Runner
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ocsports.com 58 2015 SUMMER SHOW ISSUE
h g u o n e d e n r u t e v ’ e e l c r w i c r e o h t t c i r b Toge a f o t n i s e l t t o plastic b . s e m i t e v fi h t r a the e the t o c ir c le ic t s la p enough and we e dump e t’s d e m w L . r a ls e ia y r ! y r a w m a te T B IL L IO N But ever X ll . E S a c E N L e T E T w H BO what S TO T B IL L IO N d. HERE’ s r e th in k e t’ s e u L . T H AT ’ S 1 n s e e e ti m eady b ver 200 h a t ’s a lr w f p la n e t o o e s better u a ll m a k e
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SPORTS & FITNESS
Outdoor Athletes Dine Gourmet Bars, Brews, Bites and Chews: A first look at tomorrow’s tastiest comestibles By Allison Woods
Photo courtesy Wild Zora
T
he food scene for outdoor athletes has never been better. From paleo-inspired snacks to rich desserts and gourmet freeze-dried dinners, this hot list of the season’s best new comestibles contains four major categories. The best part? With a return to natural ingredients, everything tastes better than in days of yore. Our list of meats, bars, on-the-fly and freeze-dried food is sure to make your belly happy and the impending summit that much easier to conquer and enjoy from the top. Meat Wild Zora Meat and Veggie Bars, 12-1oz. packs | $34
Wild Zora’s meat and plant bars are made with meat that’s been coarsely ground, mixed with organic vegetables and seasonings, extruded, then dried into small two-bite bars (each package contains three pieces total). The result? A savory bite with plenty of chewiness. Taste testers loved the parmesan beef with tomato and basil. All five flavors are gluten, nut and soy free.
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Wild Zora Meat and Veggie Bars
200-calorie bar. Picky’s entire line is created to a set ratio of four-parts carbohydrates to one-part slow-burning protein for optimal athlete performance. Nature's Bakery Pumpkin Spice Fig Bar, 6-2oz. twin packs | $6
Picky Bars Ah Fudge Nuts! Bar
Photo courtesy Fusion Jerky
Hearty whole wheat replaces the moreprocessed ingredients found in mainstream fig bars, while the sweet and spicy pumpkin spice filling add depth and complexity to this soft yet toothsome cookie. High in carbs, low in protein, Gluten, Dairy and GMO free. Probar Base Coffee Crunch Bar, 122.5oz. bars | $34
Fusion Jerky, 3oz. bag | $7
Fusion Jerky pairs the softer texture common to Asian-style jerkies with adventurous flavor combinations that Americans love. Their eight-flavor line features tastes like beef with chipotle and lime (and quite a kick of heat!) and chicken with basil and citrus. All jerky is gluten and nitrite free. Epic Hunt and Harvest Mix, 8-2.25oz. packages | $40
Meat bar purveyors Epic play into the ongoing paleo craze with their new Hunt and Harvest Mix. One-half of the twopart package (split to prevent sogginess) contains beef jerky, while the other is packed with nuts and fruits. Everything is finely chopped, making it easy Epic Hunt and Harvest Mix to eat on the run, and ideal as an add-in for hikers wishing to fancy up bland grocery store meals. Four gluten free flavor combinations are available.
Nature's Bakery Pumpkin Spice Fig Bar
Packed with 20-grams of plant-based protein and 55 mg. of yerba mate derived caffeine (about 2/3 cup of coffee equivalent) the Coffee Crunch Bar packs a wallop of energy. Flax and chia
seeds add texture, while a chocolate coating makes this bar just plain delicious. Vegan, Gluten and GMO free. Also new: BASE Chocolate Bliss, 12-2.5 oz. bars | $34
Probar Base Coffee Crunch Bar
Sweetwood All Natural Beef Jerky, 2oz. pouch | $8
Sweetwood All Natural Beef Jerky
Sweetwood Cattle Company launched an all natural line with cleaner ingredients, (like sea salt and evaporated cane sugar) adding to their award-winning Original jerky packs. Nitrate free and available in two flavors, original and teriyaki.
Bars Picky Bars Ah Fudge Nuts! Bar, 10 bars | $28
The Ah Fudge Nuts! date-based bar includes brown rice cereal, providing crunch, while single-origin Peruvian cacao adds a chocolate, slightly tannic punch to this
Photo courtesy Probar
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Setton Farms Pistachio Chewy Bites, 6-1.42oz. two-pack bags | $6
Loaded with heart-friendly, antioxidant-rich pistachios and cranberries, these two-bite, two-pack bars boast big flavor and texture. Higher in healthy fats and protein than most comparable bars, Chewy Bites are bound to be a hit with hikers and winter athletes. Vegan, Kosher, Gluten and Dairy free. Health Warrior Chia Protein Bar, 12-1.76 oz. bars | $25
Setton Farms Pistachio Chewy Bites
This new, four-flavor line combines the distinctive crunch of chia seeds with nutrient-dense ingredients such as almonds and dark chocolate. These less sweet bars pack ten grams of plant-based protein and are high in fiber. Kosher, Gluten, Dairy, GMO and Soy free. Photo courtesy Honeystinger
GoMacro Thrive Bar, 1.4 oz. bar | $2
Inspired flavor pairings such as ginger lemon and blueberry lavender make GoMacro a runaway star in the flavor department. Key ingredients provide micronutrients that are said to improve cognitive functioning and digestion. Organic, Vegan, Kosher and GMO free.
Health Warrior Chia Protein Bar
Kind Healthy Grains Popped Bars, 40-1.2oz. bars | $28 GoMacro Thrive Bar
Kind Healthy Grains Popped Bars
Toasted and popped sorghum adds a popcorn-like texture to these salty and sweet bars. They’re packed with hearthealthy grains such as millet, quinoa and amaranth. With an 8:1 carb-toprotein ratio, these bars appeal to recreational snackers. Two flavors include popped salted caramel and popped dark chocolate with sea salt. GMO and Gluten free.
On-The-Go Calories Plus from Nuun, 6-serving tube | $7
Nuun has taken their game-changing fizzy-tablet-in-a-tube form to the next level with Plus. Drop two Plus tabs in your drink bottle (advertised as flavorless, but it does impart a slight tang - try adding a traditional drink tab on top of Plus and the flavor disappears) and get an extra blast of electrolytes and sugar-based carbs. Vegan, GMO and Gluten free. Skratch Labs Fruit Drops, 10-1.8oz. bags | $25
Skratch Labs Fruit Drops
Boulder-based Skratch Labs adds a pair of fruit flavored chews (orange and raspberry) to their wildly successful real sugar mix line. The clean Plus from taste of fruit is balanced with a kiss of citric Nuun acid in the sugar coating. Offered in two flavors, raspberry and orange, both gluten and dairy-free.
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NuttZo 2go, 10-5oz. packs | $10
NuttZo’s distinctive nut butters’ upside-down jar packaging is joined by a single serving form factor that can be consumed on its own, or added to oatmeal or smoothies. All three nut blends are high in alpha-linoleic acid, known to improve cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation. Vegan, Organic, GMO and Vegan free. GU Big Apple Energy Gel, 24 1.1oz. packets; 15-serving bulk container $35 I $15 | GU; $25 | Roctane
NuttZo 2go
The new flavor in GU’s perennial favorite fast-energy gel line possesses the tart/sweet punch of a ripe Honeycrisp. Great news for runners and other gel-flask GU Big users: GU is also rolling out a new Apple Energy 15-serving bulk container for their Gel salted caramel and strawberry banana gels, and blueberry pomegranate and sea salt chocolate Roctane formulation. Honey Stinger Organic Grapefruit Chews, 12-1.8oz. packs | $27
Certified organic and gluten free, these tasty treats are the latest additions to Honey Stinger’s chew line. The tart kick of grapefruit beautifully balances with the mellow sweetness of honey. They’re fortified with immuneboosting Vitamin C, and packed with easy-to-digest carbs.
Honey Stinger Organic Grapefruit Chews
Clif Organic Energy Food, Sweet: 3.17oz. pouch | $2; Savory: 4.23oz. pouch | $3
Clif delivers a four-product range of screw top pureed fruit and vegetable blends, designed to recognize the common complaint of athletes: everything tastes the same. The single-serve pouches are high in carbs, sodium and poClif Organic Energy Food tassium, and feature two savory blends. The pizza marguerita, in particular, is true to form. Organic, gluten-free, vegan and kosher. Freeze-Dried For the lightest, easiest-to-prep trail meals, most hikers reach for freeze-dried. The two leading brands, Mountain House and Backpacker’s Pantry, use different manufacturing processes. Mountain House prepares meals fresh, then cooks and freezedries, while Backpacker’s Pantry assembles their meals from already dried ingredients. Consumers have two distinct options: Mountain House meals tend to have a casserole-like flavor and texture, while Backpacker’s Pantry meals resemble sautéed dishes. Try them both to see which is your favorite prep style. Backpacker’s Pantry Chicken Picatta with Tagliatelle Pasta, 2-13oz. servings | $13
At last! Hikers can now enjoy an Italian classic in the backcountry. Tender egg noodles combined with perfectly rehydrated chicken (due to Backpacker’s Pantry test kitchen being located in Boulder, CO, at over a mile above sea level) added with the bright tartness of dried capers and brought together in a lemony Parmesan sauce. Delizioso! Backpacker’s Pantry Chicken Picatta with Tagliatelle Pasta
Backpacker’s Pantry Granola with Milk and Bananas
Backpacker’s Pantry Granola with Milk and Bananas, 2-13oz. servings | $9
Small batch granola baked with generous amounts of almonds, coconut and butter make a basic breakfast taste like an indulgent dessert. The creaminess of the banana evenly offsets the crunch of the granola blend. Cold-water prep makes this quick meal a perfect choice for high-mileage days.
Photo courtesy Backpacker’s Pantry
Mountain House Chicken and Dumplings, 2-1-cup servings | $7.50
Mountain House Chicken and Dumplings
This creamy stew has all of the classic components. A hearty white sauce enshrouds fat chunks of chicken, peas and carrots, and the cubed biscuits to deliver carb deliciousness. A hint of spice makes for a wellbalanced flavor profile. Mountain House Cheesecake Bites, 1-1.94oz. serving | $3.50
Mountain House Cheesecake Bites
These crouton-sized, ready-toeat cubes definitely look like space food, but the tang of cream cheese and earthy undertones of the graham cracker crust are strongly reminiscent of cheesecake… only crunchy instead of soft. This easy-to-eat snack begs to be accompanied by a cup of cocoa, as the Bites are on the drier side. ■
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ACCESSORIES
Green Water: Hydration Companies Work To Reduce Single Use Products Hydration companies no longer simply make bottles and accessories to support outdoor enthusiasts’ fluid consumption, but now work toward an overall industry goal to reduce, reuse and recycle. By Aubrey Volger
Photo courtesy Hydro Flask
F
ar from just a clichĂŠ, the ongoing initiative to reduce, reuse and recycle is both timely and encouraging. The world uses 17 million barrels of oil per year to make single-use plastic bottles - and only 23 percent of those are recyclable. While it might take more energy to make a reusable bottle, after an average of 10 refills, the reused bottle becomes more efficient. This summer alone, sponsorships for refilling stations at events have increased more than 50 percent. Companies like Eco Vessel and Klean Kanteen support this movement by sponsoring events where plastic bottles are banned and refill stations are set up instead. Also as members of 1% for the Planet, Eco Vessel gives at least one percent of sales to Water for People - an organization that builds clean drinking water projects in third world countries. On another level, we see companies aiming to reduce trash in landfills. KOR
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Bottles makes filters that last twice as long as others on the market. Product developer Product Architects, Inc., the company behind Polar Bottle insulated water bottles, launched the first recyclable hydration bladder on the market, The Cenote Hydration System. Being the first in the industry to use glass, Lifefactory saw benefits beyond reusable and recyclable. Glass is made from abundant natural ingredients and is free of Bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates and bisphenol S (BPS). While many consumers are aware of the dangers of BPA, it is less known that the replacement, BPS, is also harmful. Lifefactory was a leading company to certify their entire product line as both BPA and BPS-free.
This summer, Lifefactory is introducing the Café Collection, their first hot beverage bottle featuring a high-quality borosilicate glass bottle for durability and taste purity. A protective sleeve provides insulation, non-slip grip, plus it's cool to the touch. The cap features a safe sipping well and one-hand open and close.
Lifefactory Café Collection
Other companies are encouraging consumers to purchase a wide range of products to encourage habits of taking reusable bottles wherever you go. Hydro Flask VP of marketing, David Visnack said, “It takes a lot to break habits, but one way to try is to create an experience that makes that change enjoyable. Our products do this.” Hydro Flask is known for bringing double walled insulated products to the outdoor market. In summer 2016, the company expands on their expertise through TempShield Insulation and
Hydro Flask bottle and and the new cap design
a new cap design. TempShield is Hydro Flask's unique way of applying vacuum insulation to ensure temperatures remain cold up to 24 hours and hot up to six hours. Their innovative cap design introduces Hydro Flask’s Honey Comb Insulation, which helps lock in temperatures even longer. Designed for easy portability and all-day carry, the new cap aims to make it easy for consumers to transport their hydration, no matter the terrain. The outdoor industry is also seeing a bigger push of insulated products from hydration industry leaders such as CamelBak, expanding its line to introduce the Chute Insulated Bottle. This stainless steel bottle is durable, double-walled and vacuum insulated, with a leak-proof, tethered cap for easy filling. The micro-welded double wall keeps liquids cold for 24 hours
and eliminates condensation on the outside. Retail availability is March 2016. Klean Kanteen is also expanding on insulation with their new Growler. Available in 32oz. and 64oz. capacity, the Insulated Growler is stainless steel with an electropolished interior that doesn’t retain or impart flavor. A durable, double-wall construction keeps fluids icey for 24 hours. Topping the market with capabilities to keep liquids hot for eight hours and cold for 36 hours, Eco Vessel is launching a larger size of their convenient Boulder CamelBak Chute Bottle. The new 32 oz. Boulder Bottle has Insulated Bottle multiple-sized lid openings that make for easy filling, cleaning and drinking. The bottle includes an integrated strainer for tea, fruit, and/or ice. Retail availability is January 2016. For the Earth-loving explorers, Vapur provides a collapsable bottle with filtration system. Their new Microfilter Replacement is a lightweight, chemical-free water filtra- Klean Kanteen Insulated Growler tion system that allows consumers to safely, conveniently and quickly filter water. The filtration system utilizes the most advanced hollow fiber membrane technology available, safely removing 99.9999 percent of waterborne bacteria (such as Salmonella, Cholera and E. coli) and 99.9 percent of protozoa (including Cryptosporidium and Giardia). The filtration system meets the U.S. EPA Eco Vessel 32 oz. Boulder Bottle standards and exceeds CDC recommendations for water purity. Purchased as a single unit, consumers can use the filter with any .7 and 1-liter Vapur bottle, including the new grey and turquoise color option of the Element Bottle. Constructed from a three-ply combination of BPA-free nylon and antimicrobial Polyethylene, the Element is foldable, freezable, and dishwasher safe. Lastly, meet Silipint, a relatively new company to the industry taking branding to a new level. SiliPint offers a unique line of patented silicone drinkware that is BPA-free, plus dishwasher, Vapur Microfilter Replacement and Element Bottle freezer and microwave safe. The cups insulate hot and cold liquids, and are customizable with food-grade silicone inks that will not chip, scratch or wear off. SiliPint offers outdoor companies a unique token to share with customers. Their lineup includes four sizes of drinking cups, straws, travel lids and folding travel dog bowls. For Summer 2016 they will add a new 12oz. Base Cup with a sturdy base Silipint and thin lip for a pleasurable hydration experience during your next event. ■
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Category Rising Inspired by the sure-footed Tibetan Yak, Yaktrax created the traction aid category and has led its global progression.
Yaktrax Run
Yaktrax Pro Yaktrax Walk. Photo courtesy Yaktrax.
“Yaktrax is the leading supplier of ice and snow traction devices worldwide.”
Y
aktrax ice and snow traction devices were originally inspired by a Himalayan Sherpa who’d wrapped his feet with rope to provide better stability on icy, mountainous terrain. What was seen on the Sherpa's feet sparked a revolutionary invention - the Yaktrax patented coil traction device. The original Yaktrax in 1999 was a simple design of steel wire coiled around an elastic polyeslastomer band that could stretch over boots. Coils run heel-to-toe biting into ice and packed snow in all directions, giving the user remarkable stability. Yaktrax continued to fine tune its designs and in 2002, the original product became the Walk and made room for the Pro in 2003, developed with thicker steel coils, a tougher Natural Rubber band, and the addition of a Velcro strap for a
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more durable and versatile product that could be worn for long term use and more rigorous activities. A later addition of the “Shaped-Edge” coil had 90-degree angles that bite into ice more aggressively than its rounded predecessor on the original design. Further developments introduced the Yaktrax Run - a hybrid traction system using both spikes and coils designed specifically for trail runners. Toe spikes provide the best possible traction on ice when pushing off and coils in the heel prevent slipping in all directions when feet are landing in stride. They’re anatomically designed left/right for proper weight distribution to maintain a more natural running stride on ice and snow. Later innovations include the forefoot/toe strap, which helps keep the Yaktrax Run on the shoe through the high impact stresses associated with running, and further established the brand’s market dominance. The Yaktrax Ski also debuted around this time, designed to protect ski boots from wear and tear while providing traction and a more natural walk; as well as the XTR, an extreme spikebased product for climbing steep slopes of packed snow. As Yaktrax gained credibility with athletes and outdoorsmen, its presence in sporting goods opened the doors to other channels of distribution. Yaktrax eventually created a Safety/
Industrial sales team to focus its attention on industries whose professionals work outside in cold weather climates. Today Yaktrax is the leading supplier of ice and snow traction devices worldwide. Having established itself as a dominant player in the traction industry, Yaktrax in 2012 expanded into the Warmers category, first with The Sports Authority, broadening distribution in 2013, followed by explosive growth in 2014. Products include: Hand warmers, Adhesive Toe warmers, foot warmers, body warmers, Thermal Insole (not technically a warmer, but an insulating footwear insole made of wool, radiantex, and felt) Beyond traction aids and warmers, other Yaktrax products include a boot brush, a boot tray, boot protector and now cold weather wool socks, available only at Dick’s Sporting Goods. ■
OR SUMMER MARKET BOOTH #32148
Where Innovation Meets Comfort Š2015 Implus Corporation. 7.15
AUGUST
November
4-6 FFANY
4-6
NBS Athletic Show
New York, NY
Ft. Worth, TX
5-7
BCA International Billiard & Home Recreation Expo
22-24
Sports, Inc. Athletic Show
Las Vegas, NV
5-8
Outdoor Retailer Summer Market
Las Vegas, NV
Salt Lake City, UT
13-15
Sports, Inc. Outdoor Show
San Antonio, TX
16-18
EORA Greenville Summer Market
Greenville, SC
17-19
MAGIC Show
Las Vegas, NV
17-19
Agenda Las Vegas
Las Vegas, NV
20-23
NBS Fall Semi-Annual Market
Ft. Worth, TX
24-26
EORA Killington Primary Expo Show
Killington, VT
December 1-3
MRA December Lansing Market
Lansing, MI 2-4 FFANY
New York, NY
8-9
MRA December Cincinnati Market
Cincinnati, OH
January 2016 4-6
ASI Orlando
Orlando, FL
5-7
Archery Trade Association Show
Louisville, KY
September
6-9
CES Show
Las Vegas, NV
1-3
WDI Worldwide Fall Show
11-13
MRA January Novi Market
Reno, NV
Novi, MI
8-10
SFIA Industry Leaders Summit
12-15
NBS Winter Show
New Orleans, LA
Ft. Worth, TX
Imprinted Sportswear Show 14-16 Orlando, FL
10-12
Surf Expo
17-20
NRF Retail Big Show
Orlando, FL
New York, NY
16-18
Interbike International Trade Expo
19-22
SHOT Show
Las Vegas, NV
Las Vegas, NV
26-29 Eurobike
10-12
Friedrichshafen, Germany
Surf Expo Orlando, FL
20-23
Outdoor Retailer Winter Market
October
Salt Lake City, UT
22-24
Imprinted Sportswear
5-7
OIA Rendezvous
Long Beach, CA
Seattle, WA
24-26
Sports Licensing & Tailgate Show
5-7
Shop.org Digital Summit 2015
Las Vegas, NV
Philadelphia, PA
27-29
PGA Merchandise Show
Orlando, FL
8-9 The Retailing Summit
Dallas, TX
15-17
Imprinted Sportswear Show
Ft. Worth, TX
27-30
NASGW Annual Meeting & Expo
Reno, NV
29-31
ADA Fall Buying Show
Baltimore, MD
TRADE ASSOCIATIONS | BUYING GROUPS
INDUSTRY CALENDAR
Athletic Dealers of America 1395 Highland Avenue Melbourne, FL 32935 t 321.254.0091 f 321.242.7419 athleticdealersofamerica.com National Shooting Sports Foundation Flintlock Ridge Office Center 11 Mile Hill Road Newtown, CT 06470 t 203.426.1320 f 203.426.1087 nssf.org National Sporting Goods Association 1601 Feehanville Drive I Suite 300 Mount Prospect, IL 60056 t 847.296.6742 f 847.391.9827 nsga.org Nation’s Best Sports 4216 Hahn Blvd. Ft. Worth, TX 76117 t 817.788.0034 f 817.788.8542 nbs.com Outdoor Industry Association 4909 Pearl East Circle I Suite 300 Boulder, CO 80301 t 303.444.3353 f 303.444.3284 outdoorindustry.org Sports & Fitness Industry Association 8505 Fenton Street I Suite 211 Silver Spring, MD 20910 t 301.495.6321 f 301.495.6322 sfia.org Snow Sports Industries America 8377-B Greensboro Drive McLean, VA 22102 t 703.556.9020 f 703.821.8276 snowsports.org Sports, Inc. 333 2nd Avenue North Lewistown, MT 59457 t 406.538.3496 f 406.538.2801 sportsinc.com Sports Specialists Ltd. 590 Fishers Station Drive I Suite 110 Victor, NY 14564 t 585.742.1010 f 585.742.2645 sportsspecialistsltd.com Tennis Industry Association 1 Corpus Christi Place I Suite 117 Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 t 843.686.3036 f 843.686.3078 tennisindustry.org Worldwide 8211 South 194th Kent, WA 98032 t 253.872.8746 f 253.872.7603 wdi-wdi.com
Photo courtesy Goal Zero
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I AM…SGB
Tom Barney CEO, Osprey Packs
T
om Barney currently serves as CEO of Osprey Packs in Cortez, CO, a role he has occupied for the last 13 years. Prior to Osprey, Barney held various leadership roles at Royal Robbins. He also held senior roles in banking, at General Mills and the Gallo Winery, after graduating from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College in 1987. Osprey's original group of nine when Tom started has grown to 85 in Cortez, 30 in Osprey’s Ogden distribution center and 45 managing design and production in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Osprey is now distributed in 58 countries around the world and is the leading technical pack, travel gear, hydration and ski pack supplier in the U.S. outdoor market. A committed cyclist, hiker, paddler and golfer, Barney loves living in Durango and enjoying life in Colorado with his family. Serving two terms as a board member of the Outdoor Industry Association, Barney currently sits on OIA PAC Board as well as the Colorado 14’ers Alliance Board. He enjoys working with companies and groups for responsible growth, local employment and making a difference in communities. What's the best thing about working in the Sporting Goods/Outdoor Industry? We’re all privileged to work in the sporting goods and outdoor industries. These are exciting, innovation-filled and fun businesses where we can grow professionally and make life-long friends. But for me, the biggest appeal of sporting goods and outdoor is the potential to make and break rules on how business is normally done. There is still massive room to employ creativity and independent thinking in product innovation launching and supporting new product and inspiring our shared customer. A group of dedicated friends pursuing their business dream can still shake up the industry. We are maturing as an industry but the excitement of breakthrough product and new business models can still rock the world. How did you get your start? My family gets credit for pushing me into the industry I love but was afraid to join. I was leading some big wine brands in Modesto, CA, when – as a birthday gift – my family arranged lunch with Royal Robbins. I showed up in business clothing and biked to the restaurant in shorts. I knew I was in the wrong world from that moment on. Here I was climbing and paddling around California every weekend and loving it, but I wasn’t bringing that excitement to my work. Joining Royal Robbins – with all of it’s creativity and chaos – led me to the outdoor industry 23 years ago, and I’m so blessed for it. What inspires you? I’m a lifelong seeker of growth in every form. From personal growth to the professional growth of the team members I work with, to the sales growth of the businesses I’ve worked on. I love change and challenge. A smaller, well-run and exciting outdoor brand like Osprey has been the perfect anvil to hammer out a growth curve. Nothing is more
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rewarding professionally than the growth and success of my friends at Osprey and our shared business. What’s the biggest challenge facing your segment of the industry this summer? I have to point to the West Coast port delays as Osprey’s biggest summer challenge. We were teed up pretty well with exciting new technology such as the Anti-Gravity Suspension on Atmos and Aura when, as an external force we couldn’t control, containers started backing up and ship dates were at risk. Our forwarder and Ops Team were superstars in moving merchandise through the system and giving us visibility. But still we saw delays that shrunk the sell windows and limited our ability to support retailers. It was a critical lesson on how every link in the chain is essential and you have to be buttoned up in all aspects of your business to weather the unexpected. Best piece of advice for folks coming up in the industry? Get going and do it now! I waited awhile to get involved in the industry I love. But waited for what? More experience? More savings? Let an MBA or social expectations get in the way? I think folks interested in sporting goods and outdoors should dive in right away, take any and every role they can, build experience fast, bring a super positive attitude to their work and become future stars of our industry. I hope we see a flood of people at all stages of their career enter sporting goods and outdoor to make a difference and be successful. After all, it’s the best place to work and play in the world! ■
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