SGB WEEKLY 1128 by SportsOneSource

JULY 11, 2011

The Weekly Digital Magazine for the Sporting Goods Industry

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JULY 11, 2011

The Weekly Digital Magazine for the Sporting Goods Industry

Senior Business Editor Thomas J. Ryan (917.375.4699) tryan@sportsonesource.com Editor/Analyst Kyle J. Conrad (704.987.3450 x111) kconrad@sportsonesource.com Contributing Editor Fernando J. Delgado Creative Director Teresa Hartford Graphic Designer Camila Amortegui Advertising Sales Director Casey Vandenoever (303.997.7302) caseyv@sportsonesource.com Advertising Sales / Account Manager Katie O’Donohue (704.987.3450 x110) katieo@sportsonesource.com Circulation & Subscriptions subs@sportsonesource.com Technology Chief Information Officer, Mark Fine VP Research & Development, Gerry Axelrod Manager Database Operations, Cathy Badalamenti

SportsOneSource Publications SGB TEAM Business Sportsman’s Business The B.O.S.S. Report Sports Executive Weekly SGB Update Footwear Business Update Outdoor Business Update Sportsman’s Business Update Team Business Update SGB Weekly Team Business Weekly

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NEWS

4 5 6 7 8

STEELERS’ MENDENHALL Sues Champion VF LICENSED SPORTS GROUP Taps VPs of Sales FOUNDER OF SPORT CHALET Passes Away WHOLESALE PRICES for Sporting and Athletic Goods Dips in June RAWLINGS Honors Former SportAs, Inc. CEO ADIDAS/ARGENTINA Extend Sponsorship THE AWARD for the Smartest Retailer of the Summer SPORTS DIRECT Pays Out Mega Bonuses to All Full-Timers After a Strong Fiscal Year NIKE Signs Top NBA Draft Pick Irving to Shoe Deal

FEATURES 10 FLASHING THE LEATHER Individuality and comfort highlight gloves in the 14

Spring 2012 line-up PLAYING IT SAFE A Look At Protective Gear For Spring, 2012, As Improved Technology For Traditional Gear And NewMethods Of Protecting Players Continues To Be In Heightened Demand.

Sportsman’s Business Weekly Footwear Business Weekly

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18 I AM…SGB Jeff Wheeler, VP Sales, Implus Footcare Hosiery Division

On cover: Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels Photo courtesy of Louisville Sluggers Copyright 2011 SportsOneSource, LLC. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed by writers & contributors to SGB WEEKLY are not necessarily those of the editors or publishers. SGB WEEKLY is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Articles appearing in SGB WEEKLY may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express permission of the publisher. SGB WEEKLY is published weekly by SportsOneSource, LLC, 2151 Hawkins Street, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28203; 704.987.3450. Send address changes to SGB WEEKLY, 2151 HAWKINS STREET, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE, NC 28203; 704.987.3450.

WEEK 1128 | SGBweekly.com

NEWS

STEELERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; MENDENHALL SUES CHAMPION

Twitter has claimed another athlete endorsement deal. Rashard Mendenhall is suing Champion for over $1 million after the company fired the Pittsburgh Steelers running back as an endorser over tweets Mendenhall made referencing the 9/11 attacks. Mendenhall's sponsorship agreement was severed with five years and over $1 million remaining on the deal after he made controversial tweets in response to the death of Osama bin Laden. The lawsuit was filed Monday in District Court in North Carolina, where Champion's parent company, Hanesbrands, Inc. is headquartered. "This case involves the core question of whether an athlete employed as a celebrity endorser loses the right to express opinions simply because the company, whose products he endorses, might disagree with some (but not all) of those opinions," the suit reads. According to published reports Mendenhall's tweets included: "What kind of person celebrates death? It's amazing how people can HATE a man they have never even heard speak. We've only heard one side..." Referencing the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, those reports said he wrote "We'll never know what really happened. I just have a hard time believing a plane could take a skyscraper down demolition style." That particular tweet was removed the next day. When asked about the topic in June, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin

VF LICENSED SPORTS GROUP TAPS VPS OF SALES VF Licensed Sports Group has promoted both Ken Wood and Mike Pardini to the roles of vice president, sales (LSG). Wood will direct the overall sales strategy for the sporting goods, department store, mass and team dealer channels. Wood has been with VF since 1999 and possesses 23 years of experience in the Sporting Goods industry. Pardini will direct regional sales, Harley-Davidson sales and the Internet channel. Pardini has been with VF since 2009 and has 18 years of experience in sales, marketing and account development.

SGB WEEKLY JULY 11, 2011

WHOLESALE PRICES FOR SPORTING AND ATHLETIC GOODS DIPS IN JUNE

FOUNDER OF SPORT CHALET PASSES AWAY

Norbert Olberz, founder of Sport Chalet, Inc., passed away from natural causes on Friday, July 15, 2011. He was 86. Olberz founded the company in 1959, served as Sport Chalet's chief executive officer until 1999 and as chairman of the board until 2001. Over the course of five decades he not only built a successful, publicly traded sporting goods business but was widely recognized in the industry for his innovative thinking, his commitment to his employees, community and his relentless belief in the power of recreation to lift an individual's spirit. Olberz is survived by his wife of 52 years, Irene, his sister, Elizabeth Lepper, his son, Eric, and by his grandchildren Karl and Markus. Trained as a pastry chef, Olberz immigrated from his native Germany to Canada prior to settling, permanently, in the United States. He learned to ski on Oregon's Mt. Hood and, captivated by the sport, sank his entire life savings - $10,000 - into the 1959 opening of a ski shop in Southern California's La Ca単ada Flintridge. They grew the business from a niche store for winter sport enthusiasts into a leading retailer of sport specialty gear that, over the next decade, came to include scuba, mountain climbing and footwear. Olberz moved into carrying team sports equipment and, in 1974, opened a 30,000-square foot store across the street from his original location. Shortly thereafter, he added an indoor "mountain" and ski ramp where customers could hone their skills prior to investing in new equipment. In 1981, Olberz doubled the size of the company by opening a retail location in Huntington Beach, CA and expanding into ocean sports and, by 1992, the company went public, trading on NASDAQ under the symbol "SPCHA." A consummate entrepreneur, Olberz opened and expanded a variety of businesses over the decades including a popular ski area motel, a travel company specializing in adventure activities and manufacturing companies that produced outdoor gear under the brand name Camp 7 and athletic apparel under the brand Pacific Mountain Sports. As a result of Olberz' business acumen, unique ability to detect trends in the retail marketplace and his commitment to the outdoors and recreational sports, Sport Chalet now operates 55 retail locations throughout California, Nevada, Utah and Arizona, as well as an online store, www.sportchalet.com. A memorial service for Norbert Olberz is scheduled for 12 noon, Friday, July 22, 2011 in the Van De Kamp Hall at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Drive, La Ca単ada Flintridge, CA, 91011.

Despite double-digit percentage increases in many intermediate goods and raw materials from a year ago, prices received by manufacturers of finished sporting and athletic goods declined in June from both May and June 2010, according to data released Thursday by the U.S. Department of Labor. The Producer Price Index for finished sporting and athletic goods declined 1.0 percent in June from May and declined 0.9 percent from June 2010, the government said. That compared to changes of -1.5 percent and 9.5 percent respectively for all finished consumer goods exluding food. The wide swing in prices for all consumer goods was attributed primarily to gyrating gasoline prices. The prices manufacturers pay for synthetic fibers at intermediate stages of production rose 1.0 percent from June 2010, but were 0.8 percent below their May levels. Other price changes at the intermediate production level included: processed yarns and threads, up 25.2 percent; gray fabrics, up 13.9 percent; finished fabrics, up 9.6 percent; leather, up 15.1 percent; plastic resins and materials, up 14.2 percent, synthetic rubber, up 23.3 percent; foundry and forge shop products, up 4.4 percent; aluminum mill shapes, up 17.1 percent. Prices for raw cotton declined for the second month in a row. They ended the monthy 17.8 percent above June 2010, but 0.9 percent below their level in May.

NEWS

RAWLINGS HONORS FORMER SPORTS, INC. CEO At the Sports, Inc. Team Dealer Show in Denver in June, Rawlings Sporting Goods honored former Sports, Inc. CEO Dave Salvi by presenting him with a Rawlings Gold Glove Award. Vice President of Team Sales, Greg Bialis, Western Regional Sales Manager, Dave Bracci, and Southern Regional Sales Manager, Randy Kirby, made the presentation. “While I am truly honored to receive such a prestigious award,” said Salvi, “I know that the reason it was given was because of our members and our staff. It is emblematic of the working relationship that we have with Rawlings and all of our vendors.” The Rawlings Gold Glove Award is awarded to the best Major League defensive players, known as the “Finest in the Field". The Rawlings Gold Glove Award is given annually to the Major League Baseball players who exhibited superior individual fielding performances at each fielding position in both the National League and the American League. Eighteen Gold Gloves are awarded each year, one at each of the nine positions in each league. “Our relationship with Dave Salvi and Sports, Inc. has been nothing but professional, and we have come to know Dave as an exemplary partner and friend,” said Bialis. Salvi stepped down as CEO of Sports, Inc. on January 1, 2011 after spending 20 years at the company, 10 of them as CEO. He remains with the company in an advisory role. During his decade as CEO, Salvi oversaw the largest period of growth in the company’s 45 year history, transforming Sports, Inc. into the largest sporting goods buying group in the country. When Salvi took the helm, Sports, Inc. had around 300 members selling just over $800 million in retail sales annually. Today Sports, Inc. has over 400 members operating in excess of 550 locations from coast to coast and generating $1.5 billion in retail sales. Said Sports, Inc. Athletics Division Marketing Manager, Travis Elam, “Dave has done an incredible amount of good for Sports, Inc., and every step along the way he has done it with the interests of the members in mind. We had a great show week in Denver, but probably the thing I will most remember years down the road will be the Gold Glove presentation. If you’re a baseball fan, you know just how big a gesture this was on behalf of everyone we work with at Rawlings.” 6

SGB WEEKLY JULY 11, 2011

ADIDAS/ARGENTINA EXTEND SPONSORSHIP Adidas and the AFA (Argentine Football Association) extended their sponsorship agreement until December 2022. The extension agreement comes as a result of the close relationship between both parties that started over 37 years ago. At the 1974 FIFA World Cup in Germany, Argentina already wore adidas jerseys. "We are very proud and excited to announce the extension of our successful partnership with the Argentine Football Association. adidas is the global leader in football and Argentina is without a doubt one of the strongest teams in the world," said Herbert Hainer, CEO of the adidas Group. "Therefore, we are looking forward to continuing our successful partnership and to supporting AFA in their preparations for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil and beyond." "We appreciate the continuity and the confidence of adidas. It contributes to building an unbreakable bond with AFA. This agreement fully satisfies AFA and brings important values to continue to develop football in Argentina," said Julio Grondona, President of AFA, and added, "AFA is committed and will continue wearing the shirt with pride all around the world." In addition to this, both adidas and AFA will continue working together to promote football at all levels of the game and in all age groups, both in Argentina and globally.

THE AWARD FOR THE SMARTEST RETAILER OF THE SUMMER Modell's Sporting Goods, Inc. and its CEO honored Yankee fan Christian Lopez who unselfishly gave back to Derek Jeter the baseball representing the star MLB player’s 3,000th hit and asked for nothing but an autograph in return. Mitchell Modell, chief executive officer of Modell’s Sporting Goods, gave the 23-year-old mobile-phone salesman his own personal 2009 Yankees World Series ring, which Modell told Sports Executive Weekly he received because his company was a major sponsor. The ring is valued up to $40,000. Heralding it "Christian Lopez Week," Modell's also pledged to donate 5 percent of its Yankees merchandise sales sold from July 13 through July 19, which the CEO said could net up to $40,000. The company pledged a minimum of $25,000. Lopez also received a 20 percent lifetime discount at Modell’s. Mitch Modell was on vacation in Turkey during Saturday’s game, in which Jeter went five-for-five and with a home run marking his 3,000 hit. Upon returning to New York, he read news accounts of Lopez and of his financial woes and sought to help. "We wanted to do it because the real story was never told," Modell told SEW. "Here's a guy who put the team captain, the Yankees' legacy in front of his own personal issues, which included owing over $100,000 in college loans. He's a true New Yorker in that all he wanted was an autograph. We wanted to do the right thing by the guy and also celebrate the accomplishment."

Modell's partnered with memorabilia company Steiner Sports both pledging Lopez $25,000 each. A press event held last Wednesday at the Modell's Time Square store included both Modell and Brandon Steiner, CEO at Steiner Sports. "He's going to get at least $50,000 from both of us," said Modell. The fan, who works in a Verizon store in Middletown, NY, had been praised by many for his generosity but also received a heap of ridicule for handing back the ball and asking for no compensation, especially when news of his heavy college loan debt came to light. Some estimated the ball would have fetched as much as $400,000 if sold. The Yankees repaid him by giving him four suite tickets for every remaining home game for both the regular season as well as memorabilia. However, Lopez again faced ridicule when reports claimed he would be facing up to $15,000 in taxes for the Yankee gifts. Other companies also came to Lopez's aid. Miller High Life offered to cover the possible tax bill of Lopez. "Miller High Life believes you should be rewarded for doing the right thing, not penalized," Miller High Life brand manager Brendan Noonan said in a statement. "We want to recognize Christian Lopez, and in turn everyone like him, for doing the common sense thing and help him continue to live the High Life."

WEEK 1128 | SGBweekly.com

NEWS

SPORTS DIRECT PAYS OUT MEGA BONUSES TO ALL FULL-TIMERS AFTER A STRONG FISCAL YEAR Sports Direct International, LLC., the U.K. sporting goods retailer, said it would pay out a huge bonus in shares to its employees after its profits exceeded its target for the fiscal year. Excluding exceptional items, underlying profit before taxes increased 32.7 percent its year ended April 24, to £135.5 million ($217 mm). Underlying EBITDA grew 24.9 percent to £200.4 million ($321 mm). After extraordinary items, primarily financing income in the prior year, net profits slid 9.1 percent to £83.2 million ($133 mm). Revenues for the year grew 10.2 percent to £1.6 billion ($2.6 bn). The company attributed the increase in revenues to a strong performance in the Retail division, where revenues rose 11.9 percent to £1.41 billion ($2.3 bn). Its retail banners include Sports World and Lilywhites. Retail sales in the U.K. grew 10.2 percent to £1.6 billon ($2.6 bn) and grew 6.6 percent on a comp basis. International retail revenues were up 11.3 percent to £1.24 billion ($1.98 bn). The company's brands divisions' revenues decreased 1.5 percent to £187.7 million ($300 mm). The company's brands include Everlast, Lonsdale, Dunlop, Slazenger and Karrimor. Group gross margins improved 60 basis points to 41.2 percent of sales from 40.6 percent reported in the prior year. Commenting on the full-year results, company CEO Dave Forsey said the key to the company's growth was "the success of our employee bonus share scheme, which we introduced to focus the whole Group on our ambitious growth targets." According to its annual report, Sports Direct indicated that it would pay its staff a bonus in shares worth £44,000 ($70,400) after hitting its ambitious two-year targets. All 2,200 permanent staff are eligible for the payout, which is worth more than twice the average salary of £20,000 ($32,000) for a full-time worker. The firm announced a bonus pot of £88 million ($141 mm), but the staff will have to continue working for the firm until 2013 to receive the full amount of shares under the plan. The bonuses are the result of two years when the business met what were described as “stretch” targets for annual profits and earnings. Also helping drive top-line growth was the build up to the World Cup earlier in its fiscal year, the launch of its first advertising campaign, and extensive training efforts. That includes its first year of Nike Academy, which trained nearly 1,000 employees. 8

SGB WEEKLY JULY 11, 2011

NIKE SIGNS TOP NBA DRAFT PICK IRVING TO SHOE DEAL Former Duke star Kyrie Irving became the only NBA rookie other than Kemba Walker to sign a shoe deal. Irving, the No. 1 pick in June's NBA Draft, selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers, announced via Twitter that he had signed with Nike Basketball. “Feels good to officially be a part of @nikebasketball!,” Irving tweeted. “Can't wait to meet all the family I'm going to be apart of. Dreams really do come true!" The signing should set up an interesting competition with rival Under Armour, which has clearly made the establishment of its basketball footwear line a top priority. Under Armour announced recently it had signed the Bobcats’ Walker to a footwear deal. Rookie signings have been few and far between as the NBA finds itself in the midst of a lockout that many think could last deep into the 2011-2012 season. Because of their pedigrees and success in college, Walker and Irving were likely seen as “can’t miss prospects” by UA and Nike, respectively, but other top draft picks - Derrick Williams of the Timberwolves, Brandon Knight (Pistons) and Jimmer Fredette (Bucks) - remain without endorsement deals.

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SGB WEEKLY JULY 11, 2011

FLASHING THE LEATHER Individuality and comfort highlight gloves in the Spring 2012 line-up By Fernando J. Delgado

Functionality is the name of the game for baseball and softball gloves for Spring 2012. In stark contrast to baseball bats, which will see many players buying a new standard of bats for the first time, gloves will undergo less changes, but performance and individuality will remain important. Tim Rumer, business unit manager for ball gloves and protective gear at Mizuno USA, emphasizes that technology which leads to improved performance is essential, and that technological innovations have a different effect depending on the age group in question. “On the ball gloves side, there’s going to be technological trends that are mostly geared toward youth players to make catching easier,” explains Rumer. “That’s one thing that Mizuno has tried to focus on: how can you make this kid successful at 7, 8, 9 years-old so that the game’s a little bit easier for them? Anyone who’s had success at something, they’re going to have more fun. If they have more fun, they’re going to play the game more. Anything we can do to help that kid along and make the game easier at a young age, we’re always looking to do that with technology.” Making the game fun is universally desired among all age groups, making it applicable to older, more competitive youth and adult players as well. Rumer believes that, for players in high school and above, a glove which provides a distinct competitive edge becomes more important. With that in mind, at the forefront of Mizuno’s Spring 2012 glove line are the Global Elite VOP Series and Classic Pro Soft Series for baseball, and the Classic Pro Fastpitch Series for softball. Rumer is also excited about the Mizuno Pro Series Gloves with 4D technology - which allows New York Yankees starting pitcher, A.J. Burnett Photo courtesy of Louisville Slugger

Photo above: Louisville Slugger’s TPX HD9 Hybrid Defense Series is a new leather/mesh line of gloves. Made with professional grade, oil-treated steerhide leather, they use the same zero-gravity performance mesh as used by many professional players. Five popular team color combinations that all include the top pro patterns are available. Pictured is the 11.5 inch XH1150NG model. MSRP $150

WEEK 1128 | SGBweekly.com

Mizuno's Global Elite VOP Series of gloves feature the Vibration Oil Process (VOP), a unique conditioning treatment that creates soft, yet extremely durable leather. This conditioning process entails each component of the glove to be hand oiled with Mizuno's Strong Oil Elite. Open back. All Global Elite VOP ball gloves use the highest quality Japanese tanned, US steerhide. Available in 12.75 (GGE7V), 12 (GGE1V), 11.75 (GGE5V) inch models. MSRP $375

for greater grip strength and transfer from the player’s hand to the ball - while recognizing that every player fields the ball differently depending on their position on the field. “We analyzed how players physically closed their glove and how they used the glove, so we put position-specific reinforcements within the glove to respond to how they actually field the ball,” he says. Functionality is the name of the game for baseball and softball gloves for Spring 2012. In stark contrast to baseball bats, which will see many players buying a new standard of bats for the first time, gloves will undergo less changes, but performance and individuality will remain important. Tim Rumer, business unit manager for ball gloves and protective gear at Mizuno USA, emphasizes that technology which leads to improved performance is essential, and that technological innovations have a different effect depending on the age group in question. “On the ball gloves side, there’s going to be technological trends that are mostly geared toward youth players to make catching easier,” explains Rumer. “That’s one thing that Mizuno has tried to focus on: how can you make this kid successful at 7, 8, 9 years-old so that the game’s a little bit easier for them? Anyone who’s had success at something, they’re going to have more fun. If they have more fun, they’re going to play the game more. Anything we can do to help that kid along and make the game easier at a young age, we’re always looking to do that with technology.” Making the game fun is universally desired among all age groups, making it applicable to older, more competitive youth and adult players as well. Rumer believes that, for players in high school and above, a glove which provides a distinct competitive edge becomes more important. With that in mind, at the forefront of Mizuno’s Spring 2012 glove line are the Global Elite VOP Series and Classic Pro Soft Series for baseball, and the Classic Pro Fastpitch Series for softball. Rumer is also excited about the Mizuno Pro Series Gloves with 4D technology - which allows for greater grip strength and transfer from the player’s hand to the ball - while recognizing that every player fields the ball differently depending on their position on the field. “We analyzed how players physically closed their glove and how they used the glove, so we put position-specific reinforcements within the glove to respond to how they actually field the ball,” he says. 12

SGB WEEKLY JULY 11, 2011

The 950 Revo Glove Series from Rawlings also makes use of new technology. Revo Solid Core Technology improves the fit of the glove to the player’s hand by enhancing grip. The glove also boasts a flexible web pattern and maximum durability thanks to a specially formulated oil, features unique to the series. Louisville Slugger’s Spring 2012 line is highlighted by the TPX Pro Flare Type F Series and TPX HD9 Hybrid Defense Series for baseball, and the Fastpitch Valkyrie Series for softball. The TPX Pro Flare uses top-grade Horween leather, and a flare design which provides a larger catching surface. The TPX HD9 are part of a hybrid leather/mesh series using professional grade, oil-treated steerhide leather used by major leaguers such as pitcher Cole Hamels of the Philadelphia Phillies. David Terranella, marketing manager for Akadema, adds that while he has noticed an increase in demand for suede and mesh in gloves, glove trends have remained relatively unchanged recently. “We’re sticking with what works, and we’re working on putting out the product that our customers demand the most with regards to our custom gloves.” Akadema will be featuring the Torino Series of gloves, which are made with kip leather that enables the gloves to be 20% lighter than similar gloves on the market. Loyalty and consistency seem to be a themes for gloves in 2012, especially when it comes to young players. “Once a kid at a young age gets into a certain brand, it’s tough to pry them out of it,” says Travis Copley, VP of sales & marketing for Old Hickory. Old Hickory will once again be offering the OH Pro line for 2012, a series which is made from US tanned kip leather and has a sewn-in palm pad to reduce sting. The female fast pitch softball player will also have much to look forward to for gloves in 2012. “Worth is really focusing on the fastpitch player in their 2012 line,” states Maria Marrs, brand manager for Worth. “We are designing products specifically for the female athlete. We want the fit of a glove to fit a female athlete’s hand. We are choosing what the female athletes want to see. We are trying to incorporate our Poron® XRD™ in any product that makes sense to include it in.” The Poron XRD technology, found in the palm pads and finger pads of Worth’s 2012 gloves such as the Liberty FPX Series and Shout Out Series, absorbs energy when impacted at high speeds to provide impact reduction. ■

1. Old Hickory’s OH Pro lines of gloves are field tested to ensure maximum performance. Made from USA tanned kip leather, featuring smooth welting, contoured finger channels, thick lacing, and a sewn palm pad to reduce sting. MSRP $195 2. Mattingly Baseball’s Hit Man™ Youth Batting Gloves offer maximum comfort, feel and performance. They feature a knuckle line indicator for a proper grip, goatskin, FreeFlow breathable mesh, and backing which promotes coolness and comfort. MSRP $20 3. Worth’s Shutout FPX® Series of gloves are specifically designed for the female athlete to take play to the next level. The glove features a full-grain oil treated shell leather, swag backs, and PORON® XRD™ palm and index finger padding. Shut Out patterns are engineered to provide more leverage to open and close the glove by providing a narrower hand opening. The swag back design offers two Velcro® adjustable points, allowing for a complete custom-fitted glove. Pictured is the 13 inch glove. MSRP n/a

4. Wilson’s A2K 178-SB is an extremely high quality glove. The A2K uses only the top 5% of Wilson’s Pro Stock Leather, ensuring that every aspect of this natural product is absolutely flawless. The two properties that ballplayers seek most are perfected with the A2K: softness and durability. MSRP $300 5. Louisville Slugger’s TPX Pro Flare Type F Series Gloves feature top-grade Horween leather, and a flare design which provides a larger catching surface. Preferred by top professional and collegiate players, they Combine unmatched durability with ultra-quick break-in and utilize extra-wide lacing for added strength. Pictured is the 11.5 inch FL1151CC pitcher/infield model. MSRP $200 6. Akadema’s Torino Series Infield Glove features a 11.5” pattern, H-web with open back and medium pocket. Right hand throw only. With a light tan palm and a chocolate brown shell, the Torino Series performs even better than it looks. Akadema’s newest glove line features kip leather that enables the Torino Series to be 20% lighter, yet just as durable as US steerhide gloves. The Torino

Series gloves break in quickly and are more durable than competing gloves. MSRP $210 7. Mizuno’s Classic Pro Soft Series features rugged, rich, naturally pre-oiled leather that retains its shape over time. New ultra-soft palm liner provides excellent an feel with a soft finish. Roll welting increases structure and support throughout the fingers. MSRP $212 8. Wilson’s A2000 ZCAT-B 12 inch Fastpitch Softball Glove is made with pro stock hand selected American steerhide for rugged durability and consistent performance. This women’s softball glove has a “cat back” finger design and is great to use for all positions on the field. MSRP $200

Schuttâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Air Maxx T Batting Helmet with Aqua Tech Water Graphic MSRP $50

PLAYING IT SAFE A look at protective gear for Spring, 2012, as improved technology for traditional gear and new methods of protecting players continues to be in heightened demand. By Fernando J. Delgado

SGB WEEKLY JULY 11, 2011

ith the safety of athletes standing out as one of the stories which dominates news headlines in all sports, baseball and softball protective gear for Spring 2012 reveal some of the most cutting edge technologies. With concussions, broken bones, and, sadly, even deaths occurring from the youth levels all the way to up to the major leagues, there is no more important business than the protection of ballplayers. Despite a slow economy forcing school athletic programs to cut their budgets, protective gear is one of the few sectors in the diamond sports markets experiencing noticeable growth. This means that parents and players refuse to put a price on their safety. “Looking at our market numbers, protective is up in general,” reveals Tim Rumer, business unit manager for ball gloves and protective gear at Mizuno USA. “If protective is up, and school budgets are getting cut, that means that what was a school-purchased item in the past has now become an individually-purchased item. If individuals are going to go out and buy an item for their kid, they’re going to buy what they want, and what they feel protects them the best. It makes sense to me that the price point would be going up despite the schools cutting budgets. The parents are going to be spending more than the school otherwise would have to protect their child.” For catchers, Mizuno is offering the Samurai Catcher Chest Protector in 2012, a lightweight protector with special rebound technology. Despite being a more firm protector than most comparable catching gear, the Samurai uses a special core foam which helps deaden the impact of incoming baseballs, limiting ricochets and keeping the ball closer to the catcher. Rumer says that trends in catching gear include a demand for lighter-weight gear which is still protective in traditional areas of impact, moisture-management, and the ability to keep cool and comfortable in high temperatures, and the Samurai addresses all of them. Protective gear covers all parts of the body, from a catcher’s shin guards all the way up to a hitter’s batting helmet. However, a new area of protection - mouth guards has gained popularity among players, a trend which should continue heading into 2010. “We’re seeing an uptick mouth guard usage in baseball players,” says Darci Eckermann, marketing director for Shock Doctor. “Traditionally, it’s not a sport where you see a lot of mouth guard usage, and mouth guards aren’t mandated. But concussions have

Atlanta Braves Catcher, Brian McCann courtesy of Mizuno15 WEEK 1128Photo | SGBweekly.com

been in the news so much lately, and there’s been an increase in the general awareness of youth players to the benefits of using mouth guards. Parents are looking for more protection.” Shock Doctor offers the Baseball/Softball STC which stands for Super Tight Fit Compression - mouth guard. Featuring MORA technology, the Gel-Fit lined guard helps with positioning of the jaw, lowering the jaw down and forward which can increase strength and athletic performance. Designed to be low profile to enhance breathing and speaking during usage, the STC mouth guard has a Shock Transfer Core - a lightweight lower profile which directs impact away from vulnerable teeth area. Shock Doctor will also offer an Ultra Sliding Short - one standard, and another model for catchers - and a Double Compression Short with Bioflex Cup. Both shorts use X-Fit for ease of movement without sacrificing protection. “Our ultrasliding shorts are the most popular,” says Eckermann. “X-fit is a huge benefit because it contributes more comfort.” McDavid USA offers cutting edge protective technology with their HexPad products, including the HexPad Sternum Shirt and Dual Density HexPad Elbow/ Forearm Sleeve. The compression shirt protects the front of the chest from impacts with lightweight, breathable pads. The hex-shaped pads stretch along the contours of the body in order to continuously protect the body, while simultaneously preventing skin irritation and chafing. The sleeve, meanwhile, offers protection using the for fielders in particular who may risk cutting themselves when making diving catches, or base runners making slides. Baseball’s most vital piece of protective equipment is the batting helmet. As part of their 2012 line, Rawlings is looking forward to offering the Electron Batting Helmet. The one-size fits most helmet has removable jaw pads to allow for a custom fit, and meets Nocase standards. ■

1. Rawlings’ Electron Batting Helmet is one-size fits most helmet, 7 – 7 ¾. It has variable thickness, removable jaw pads which allow for a custom fit, and a rubberized matte paint finish. MSRP n/a

2. McDavid’s Dual Density HexPad Elbow/Forearm Sleeve. This quality Dual Density - 14mm thick pad features revolutionary HexPad® protection-wrist to upper arm-that is lightweight, breathable, and comfortable in order to protect the arm from cuts and scratches. Includes one pair of sleeves, designed specifically with a contoured notch for right and left arm. MSRP $50

Photo courtesy of Columbia

It features the X-FIT™ Cup Retention System, double layer thigh compression, and a BioFlex Cup, which is a unique, vented bio-shape body with integrated gel perimeter pad for unrestricted movement and improved comfort. MSRP $35 5. Akadema’s Praying Mantis Chest Protector has angled padding that ensures great control for blocking a wild pitch. Clasps are made from strong metal. MSRP $80

3. McDavid’s HexPad® Sternum Shirt is a compression shirt with HexPad® MC protecting the front of the chest from impacts. Patented lightweight, breathable HexPad® are individual hex shaped pads that conform to and stretch with the body for continuous protection. Compression fabric supports large muscle groups to reduce muscle pulls and fatigue. Moves with your body to prevent skin irritations, chafing, and abrasion. HexMesh provides maximum airflow to the shoulders and back keeping athletes cool. Hydravent hDc™ Moisture Management Technology keeps athletes dry. MSRP $38 4. Shock Doctor’s Core Double Compression Short with BioFlex Cup is constructed with supportive four-way stretch anti-microbial fabric that wicks moisture away from the skin. Includes interlocking flat seams, a ventilated inside cup pocket and comfort fit waistband.

6. Akadema’s Praying Mantis Leg Guards are light and flexible, which allow the catcher to drop down or move from side to side to smother any pitch. Clasps are made from strong metal. Sold in pairs. Comes in Three Sizes: Large 17.25” , Intermediate 15” , Small 13”. MSRP $79.99 Mizuno’s Samurai Catcher Chest Protector offers lightweight, comfortable, yet sturdy protection, and features rebound technology which helps catchers keep baseballs from bouncing too far away from them. MSRP $100 7. Schutt’s Air Maxx T Batting Helmet with Aqua Tech Water Graphic offers industry-leading protection through the introduction of the proven TPU liner system. The removable and hygienic TPU liner allows unrivaled air flow for maximum ventialtion. Available on the AIR Maxx T and all Schutt’s helmets is the new Aqua Tech Water Graphic. 20 stock patterns are available. Pictured is the tie-died graphic design. MSRP $40 8. Shock Doctor’s Baseball/Softball STC Mouthguard offers ultimate protection in a compact size for easier breathing and speaking. It has a GEL-FIT™ liner custom-molded to teeth for a tight, comfortable fit, a Shock Transfer Core™, and MORA performance enhancement which, when fitted and worn correctly, positions the lower jaw down and forward, which may increase strength and athletic performance. MSRP $20 9. Akadema’s Praying Mantis Hockey Style Catcher’s Helmet/Mask gives complete protection with its shock absorption technology and strength resistant cage. The facemask provides full visibility and a Velcro attached chin protector inside the helmet offers both comfort and protection. Large fits 7” -7.75”. Small fits 6” -7. MSRP $100

WEEK 1128 | SGBweekly.com

I AM... SGB

when they were just starting to get into socks and saw their total commitment to the sporting goods industry. That inspired me to join them to get the Sof Sole brand into the sock’s market. Socks are an impulse buy. As a sock supplier, we have to create packaging, quality and value for the consumer and provide the best product to help them perform their best. WHAT’S THE SECRET TO SELLING SOCKS?

Bill Durrant, who was VP of sales at Ridgeview. He taught me how to treat people and earn their respect by following the Golden Rule. His energy was contagious and I learned how people respond to that. DID YOU HAVE A PARTICULAR CAREER MENTOR?

After 28 years in the industry, I still value the relationship you build with your customers and helping them grow their business. I have had a lot of support over the years from my co-workers who all have had the same goal - give the customer something that helps them perform their best. WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB NOW?

JEFF WHEELER

counts

VP SALES, IMPLUS FOOTCARE HOSIERY DIVISION I loved all sports and grew up playing tennis and baseball but found my best sport was basketball. I didn’t start until I was 11 but adapted quickly and was soon a b-ball junkie. I ended up being recognized with All State honors and earned a college scholarship to UNC-Charlotte. FAVORITE SPORT GROWING UP?

NAME ONE THING THAT THE INDUSTRY MAY BE SURPRISED TO

I worked in the warehouse at Ridgeview to start my career. While every kid wants to come out of college at the top level, I was told I needed to learn the business from the ground up and that really helped me in the long run. KNOW ABOUT YOU?

WHAT SPORTS DO YOU PLAY NOW?

The biggest one came during an open league game when I was 36 and made an improbable game winning 3-pointer from 30 feet under heavy pressure. While not the rarest feat in the world, the memory ranks high because my then 8-year old son ran onto the court in total elation and jumped into my arms.

25 and still play.

WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP? A

FAVORITE VACATION DESTINATION?

PROUDEST MOMENT?

teacher and a basketball coach. I helped our local high school team before my kids starting growing up and enjoyed teaching kids the necessary skills to become successful. It carries over into the real world as you get older. I started working for a local tire retailer for about a year but moved into hosiery at Ridgeview, Inc. That job launched my career. I was there for five years and then moved to Moretz, which gave me the opportunity to expand and get entrenched in the industry for the next 20 years. I joined Implus FIRST REAL JOB?

SGB WEEKLY JULY 11, 2011

FAVORITE BOOK? FAVORITE MOVIE?

I picked up golf when I was

A Season on the Brink Caddy Shack Hawaii

Kevin Plank from Under Armour. He took a dream and turned it into a legacy. A BUSINESS PERSON YOU MOST ADMIRE?

WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE TO SOMEONE LOOKING TO GET A JOB IN

Learn from the ground up. Get in the trenches and soak up all you can. In the long run, it will pay dividends. Treat people the same way you would want to be treated. THE TEAM BUSINESS?

COME SEE US AT OUTDOOR RETAILER SUMMER MARKET SALT LAKE CITY, UT AUGUST 4-7 BOOTH #37037

THE OFFICIAL RESEARCH OF THE OUTDOOR INDUSTRY™