ISSUE 1208 FEBRUARY 20, 2012
The Weekly Digital Magazine for the Sporting Goods Industry
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ISSUE 1208 FEBRUARY 20, 2012
Bill Garrels
Group Publisher bgarrels@sportsonesource.com 303.997.7302
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The Weekly Digital Magazine for the Sporting Goods Industry
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Managing Editor Thomas J. Ryan (917.375.4699) tryan@sportsonesource.com Editors-at-Large Aaron Bible Fernando J. Delgado Mackenzie Lobby Creative Director Teresa Hartford Graphic Designer Camila Amortegui Advertising Sales Account Managers Casey Vandenover (303.997.7302) caseyv@sportsonesource.com Katie O’Donohue (704.987.3450 x110) katieo@sportsonesource.com
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SportsOneSource Publications SGB
NEWS 4 5 6
WHAT'S NEW IN RETAIL
TEAM Business SGB Weekly SGB Performance Team Business Monthly
8 CONVERSE Opens First West Coast Flagship Store 9 SALOMON USA to Open First Flagship Store EXPANSION BRIEFS: Reebok, S.A. Elite, Flip Flop Shops, Li-Ning
The B.O.S.S. Report Sports Executive Weekly SGB Update Footwear Business Update Outdoor Business Update Sportsman’s Business Update Team Business Update
SportsOneSource Research SportScanInfo OIA VantagePoint
SPOTLIGHT 10 11
ADIDAS Campaign for Men's Spring/Summer 2012 Training Collection MAGELLAN Eyes Fitness Market SKORA Debuts Minimal Running Shoes ADIDAS GOLF Debuts Fashion Collection SUUNTO GPS Watch Offers First Ever 50-Hour Battery Life NIKE SPORTSWEAR Debuts Galactic Collection
FEATURES 12 OUTDOOR BOOTS - Designers Continue to Push Minimalism Movement with Lightweight and Comfortable Technologies
SOS Research
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BY THE NUMBERS MAVERIK LACROSSE Founder Inducted Into Long Island Lacrosse Hall of Fame BILLABONG Gets Buyout Offer MOVERS & SHAKERS SGMA’S National Health Through Fitness - Top Sports Industry Brands and Athletes Join Forces
18 SPORTSJOBSOURCE.COM – Job Classifieds Cover photo courtesy of Oboz Copyright 2012 SportsOneSource, LLC. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed by writers and 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
FEB 20, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com
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NEWS
BY THE NUMBERS 18%
VF Corp. reported an 18 percent gain in organic sales of its Outdoor & Action Sports segment in its fourth quarter, led by a 22 percent hike at The North Face and a 24 percent gain for Vans. Including the Timberland and SmartWool brands acquired last year, sales in Outdoor & Action Sports coalition surged 81 percent.
15.8% Puma AG's fourth-quarter sales grew 15.8 percent currency adjusted and 15.6 percent in Euro terms when compared to last year, surpassing all of Puma’s previous fourth quarter results. The U.S. performance recovered, with sales accelerating during the fourth quarter as Puma’s lifestyle products in particular resonated well with consumers.
37.7% Skechers USA revenues slumped 37.7 percent in the fourth quarter due to difficult comparisons against a record fourth quarter 2010 that included higher priced toning footwear, combined with lower than expected sales across many of the other Skechers footwear lines primarily in its domestic wholesale business. The loss from operations in the fourth quarter of 2011 was $103.1 million versus earnings from operations of $1.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2010.
18.0% Jarden Corp. reported its Outdoor Solutions segment's operating earnings in the fourth quarter ended December 31 reached $56.4 million, up 18.0 percent from $47.8 million a year ago. After taking a one-time restructuring charge of $9.7 million, operating earnings came in at $39.1 million, up 74.6 percent from $22.4 million a year earlier. Sales reached $614.5 million, up 1.7 percent from the year earlier quarter. Jarden Outdoor Solution brands include Abu Garcia, Aero, Berkley, Coleman, Ex Officio, K2, Marker, Marmot, Rawlings, Shakespeare, Stearns, Volkl and Zoot.
25.0% Cabela's, Inc. reported net income increased 25 percent in the fourth quarter with a 1.3 percent comparable store gain. With its improved profitability, Cabela's is accelerating its expansion efforts. In 2012, it will open five next-generation stores in North America in addition to its first Outpost store, increasing retail square footage approximately 10 percent.
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Maverik Lacrosse's founder and president John Gagliardi
MAVERIK LACROSSE FOUNDER INDUCTED INTO LONG ISLAND LACROSSE HALL OF FAME
Maverik Lacrosse's founder and president John Gagliardi from Manhasset, NY was inducted into the Long Island Metropolitan Lacrosse Hall of Fame. Gagliardi’s accomplishments include playing on four championship teams, being selected 11 times as an All-Star in college and professionally, twice being named as an All-American at Johns Hopkins University, being named an All-American at Manhasset High School and playing for Team USA at the Lacrosse World Cup in 1999 and 2006. Gagliardi's professional playing career began indoors with the New York Saints and the Philadelphia Wings where he won a championship and was selected to the National Lacrosse All-Star team. He also played outdoors professionally for the Long Island Lizards in the Major Lacrosse League from 2001 until his retirement at the end of the 2009 season. Along with Jay Jalbert, Gagliardi founded Maverik Lacrosse, headquartered in New York City. It is now a subsidiary of Bauer Performance Sports, Ltd. Maverik also launched its newest commercial, titled "The Future is Here," the first commercial of Maverik Lacrosse's "Evolve the Player, Advance the Game" campaign. The commercial debuted February 17 during ESPNU's first televised game of the 2012 NCAA men's lacrosse season featuring the match-up between Johns Hopkins University and Towson University.
MOVERS & SHAKERS
BILLABONG GETS BUYOUT OFFER Billabong has received a buyout offer from private equity giant TPG, a person familiar with the matter told Deal Journal Australia. The conditional offer, contained in a letter dated February 14, valued the company at 765.3 million Australian dollars (US $819.3 million). The offer of approximately Aus $3 a share represented a 68 percent premium to the stock’s closing last Wednesday. But the stock was trading as high as Aus $9.07 a share just last year.
Neil Fiske, who took the helm at Eddie Bauer in 2007 and tied its turn around to a return to its roots in technical mountaineering, is leaving the company. Columbia Sportswear Co. appointed Adrienne Moser as VP of global apparel merchandising and design for the Columbia brand. She succeeds Sue Parham, who left the company to pursue other interests. The Finish Line hired Jay Custard as its VP, digital marketing. He most recently served as VP, e-commerce at Crocs. Nike Inc.' s Bert Hoyt will become the VP and GM of Western Europe. Hoyt, most recently Nike's vice president and general manager of global football, replaced Brent Scrimshaw, who after 18 years at Nike has decided to retire and return to his native Australia with his family. Shock Doctor appointed Paul Rutherford as general manager, Shock Doctor EMEA. Hibbett Sports' SVP and CFO Gary Smith is retiring from the sporting goods retail chain, effective June 1, 2012. Hillerich & Bradsby Co., parent of the Louisville Slugger brand, named Kyle Schlegel VP of marketing. Schlegel joins H&B after a 13-year career at Proctor & Gamble. Gerber Legendary Blades appointed Jay McGregor as VP of commercial sales. Bodyglide hired Vince Morse as national sales manager. Morse was western regional sales manager of Nathan Sport/Penguin. Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) has appointed Rafferty Jackson, VP and general counsel of VF Outdoor, Inc., a subsidiary of VF Corporation, as chairman of the OIA Trade Advisory Council (OIATAC). Franklin Retail Solutions, which provides in-store marketing and merchandising solutions to the Sporting Goods, Outdoor and Active Lifestyle industries, promoted Ginna Larson to senior marketing manager and Catherine Smith to client services manager.
NEWS
TOP SPORTS INDUSTRY BRANDS AND ATHLETES TO JOIN FORCES FOR SGMA’S NATIONAL HEALTH THROUGH FITNESS DAY By Fernando J. Delgado
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physical education in schools with PEP and encourage active lifestyles through the PHIT Act,” said Bill Sells, SGMA’s vice president of government relations. “When we have these face-to-face Congressional meetings, it’s essential that our industry leaders communicate the magnitude of the adverse impact of sedentary living and fully emphasize the positive economic outcomes of healthier, more active lifestyles.” Other events related to National Health Through Fitness Day will include an awards reception hosted by SGMA at the U.S. Capitol Visitors Center on March 6, and a physical education demonstration featuring students and teachers from District of Columbia public schools on March 7. More than 40 organizations and companies are sponsoring the event, including sporting goods manufacturers such as Nike, Under Armour, Rawlings Sporting Goods, Mizuno, Franklin Sports, Reebok and Wilson Sporting Goods, among many others. The entire sports and fitness industry is invited to attend. More information regarding the event can be found at SGMA.com.
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The Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA) will hold its 13th Annual National Health Through Fitness Day in Washington, D.C. on March 7. At the event, tabbed as “SGMA’s Capitol Hill Campaign to Get America Moving”, more than 100 leaders from organizations in the sports and fitness industries will join together to meet with the U.S. Congress and request support in an effort to raise health and fitness awareness. National Health Through Fitness Day is SGMA’s signature event. The day is geared to promote policies that will increase participation in sports and fitness activities. A delegation of well-known athletes, sporting goods and fitness manufacturers, sports retailers, concerned citizens, physical educators and association leaders will meet with members of Congress to encourage passage of legislation that will help all Americans become more physically fit. The passage of two key legislative initiatives highlights the agenda: the Carol M. White Physical Education Program (PEP) Bill and the Personal Health Investment Today (PHIT) Act. The PEP Bill will fund a competitive grant program to give school districts and community-based organizations resources to provide students with quality, innovative physical education, while the PHIT Act will use tax incentives to promote improved health by making it more affordable to engage in sports, fitness and recreational activities. “This event is a key event on the calendar for our industry,” said SGMA Chairman Larry Franklin, who is also president of Franklin Sports. “It is our opportunity to meet with Congress to explain the immense benefits that funding for PEP and the passage of PHIT will mean to this country.” The current celebrity delegation includes 1982 Heisman Trophy winner and former U.S. Olympian Herschel Walker; Hall of Fame golfer Gary Player; NFL Pro Bowl wide receiver Steve Smith of the Carolina Panthers; Olympic speedskating bronze medalist Allison Baver; former U.S. Open/British Open golf champion Johnny Miller; tennis legend Stan Smith; WNBA superstar Tamika Catchings; LPGA superstar Stacy Lewis; former NFL players Ken Harvey, John Booty, and Aaron Beasley, among others. “In the budget-cutting environment on Capitol Hill, our goal is to save
TAKE A CLOSER LOOK Just click on the video icon to see the Childhood Obesity: Quality Physical Education as a Solution
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W H AT ' S N E W I N R E TA I L
CONVERSE OPENS FIRST WEST COAST FLAGSHIP STORE Converse opened its first West Coast specialty retail store in Santa Monica, CA, the brand’s third inline location in the United States. Like its stores in New York City and Boston, the location pays homage to its century-plus heritage as a performance store and, more recently, a style icon. “We are excited to open our first West Coast flagship in Santa Monica, bringing Converse to such a dynamic and innovative community,” said Jim Calhoun, chief executive officer and president, Converse. “With this store, Converse hopes to give consumers the opportunity to unleash their creative spirit by taking customization to the next level and making our merchandise their own. We look forward to offering our most expansive product assortment yet and an unparalleled shopping experience that truly celebrates our consumer’s originality.” The West Coast flagship takes the interactive retail experience beyond traditional screen-printing. At the Converse Customization Station, individuals are able to screen-print various styles of footwear, apparel and accessories using over 150 graphics - more than ever before - including collaborations with local artists and designs that tie back to the Santa Monica community. Customers will also have the ability to customize the details of Converse bags, t-shirts, fleeces and hoodies by adding grommets, swapping out drawstrings, and modifying the piece to suit their individual style. The design of the 7,000+ square foot store evokes the imaginative spirit of California and speaks directly to Converse’s sport and rock 'n 8 SGBWeekly.com | FEB 20, 2012
roll heritage. The Customization station is located in the front of the store and is set against a 25-foot window backdrop that showcases the process to pedestrians. Three large skylights fill the store with natural light while bespoke wall-installations designed by local artists celebrate the brand’s DNA and reflect the local southern California lifestyle and Converse’s Santa Monica exclusive merchandise. The feature wall at the back of the store repurposes discarded highschool bleachers where footwear is also displayed. Over 200 different key styles of Converse footwear, apparel and accessories will be available for men, women and children throughout the Santa Monica location including Chuck Taylor All Star, Jack Purcell, All Star, Skateboarding, One Star and Converse by John Varvatos, as well as other premium footwear collaborations. The store will also feature a new line of men’s and women’s apparel and accessories and will highlight designs from the local design and art community.
E X PA N S I O N B R I E F S
Reebok will be launching a new retail concept store at 420 Fifth Avenue (between 37th & 38th Streets) in New York City. The 12,500-square-foot concept store will sell Reebok CrossFit branded clothing, footwear and accessories and house a 10,308-square-foot CrossFit "box." The store is scheduled to open in June.
SALOMON USA TO OPEN FIRST FLAGSHIP STORE Salomon USA and its parent company, Amer Sports Winter and Outdoor Americas, (ASWO) announced the planned opening of Salomon’s first flagship store in the U.S. Set to open in March 2012 in Salt Lake City’s City Creek Shopping Center, the store will carry Salomon apparel, footwear and other softgoods items found on the Salomon website. While Salomon hardgoods will not be available for sale at the location, consumers will be referred to the authorized Salomon dealers around the state of Utah. The store will be outfitted with Salomon’s latest generation fixtures as part of a global Salomon fixture launch featuring digital technology and tactile displays. "Opening our first Salomon flagship store in the U.S. is a key step forward in offering our consumers a more rounded brand experience," said Tim Wakaruk, director of retail operations for ASWO. "Our directional goal is to work collaboratively with our current retail, wholesale and online partners as well as our own e-commerce strategy. This holistic approach will allow all of us to grow markets and ultimately, the overall industry." Amer Sports also owns Wilson, Atomic, Arc'teryx, Precor, Suunto and Mavic.
S.A. Elite, the specialty store owned by Sports Authority, will open its first east coast store at the Mall in Columbia in the Baltimore area. The 10,500-square-foot store is scheduled to open late this summer in the lower level of the mall next to Nordstrom. S.A. Elite was launched in summer 2010 by Denver-based Sports Authority. The chain currently has seven locations in California, Colorado and Illinois.
Flip Flop Shops, the franchisor with more than 50 shops operating throughout the U.S., Canada, Guam and the Caribbean, plans to expand its footprint to 90-plus shops by the end of 2012, with an additional 40-plus already in the pipeline for 2013.
Li-Ning closed its Pearl District retail store last week. The company’s U.S. operations are being managed from Chicago.
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S O TSL I G H T NP EW
MAGELLAN EYES FITNESS MARKET
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Chicago Bull Derrick Rose
ADIDAS INTRODUCES CAMPAIGN BEHIND MEN'S SPRING/SUMMER 2012 TRAINING COLLECTION •
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Argentine soccer star Leo Messi
TAKE A CLOSER LOOK
To support the adiScape performance/lifestyle collection, Adidas enlisted the help of Chicago Bull Derrick Rose who showcased the adiscape Hoody on the basketball court in South Chicago where he played as a child. The Essentials sporty casual apparel campaign will star David Beckham. On the performance side, the campaign for its Clima 365 Range, which pays particular attention to ventilation in training, features Argentine soccer star Leo Messi. NBA star Dwight Howard, tennis star Andy Murray and a number of other athletes, are featured in ads supporting its Techfit compression collection. On the footwear side, the men's training collection features the adizero F50 trainer, Adidas' lightest trainer at 250g, and the adipure trainer that promotes natural movement.
SKORA DEBUTS MINIMAL RUNNING SHOES
Skora Form MSRP $195
Skora Base MSRP $125
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Skora, a Portand-based footwear company, rolled out its Base and Form zero-drop performance running shoes. Skora builds each shoe on their custom R01 platform , including the anatomically correct RealFit last. Designed to fit like a 'second skin', the R01 mimics the contours of the foot as it moves to allow for natural movement. "Skora was founded with a true passion for running and a commitment to excellence in product and performance. The Base and Form truly are the best running shoes ever and after 4 years in development, we're so excited to finally be sharing them with our customers," said David Sypniewski, Founder and CEO of Skora Running.
Just click on the video icon to see the Switch and Switch Up by Magellan
Magellan introduced The Switch and Switch Up, the company’s first fitness-oriented products that utilize GPS technology to meet the needs of runners, cyclists, and multisport athletes. The Switch wristwatch, primarily aimed at runners, features customizable sport profiles, easy-to-read high-resolution display, eight hours of battery life, a high sensitivity GPS receiver, 50-meter water resistance, and compatibility with ANT+TM sensors. The Switch Up shares the same features as the Switch and adds a barometric altimeter for precise elevation data, a thermometer to monitor and capture outside temperature, vibration alerts for notifications in louder environments, and an innovative quick-release mounting system to transition easily between sports. This added capability makes the Switch Up more adaptable to multisport athletes. Both watches in the Switch series will include Magellan’s Activity Pacer, which not only shows runners if they’re on target with their goal, but provides specific targets to attain the desired result. Users can also upload information from their Switch fitness watch to either Magellan’s fitness website or third-party fitness sites like MapMyFitness, TrainingPeaks, Strava, and more. Magellan also plans to release an API that will allow any third-party website or application to access data from the Switch watches. Available Spring 2012.
ADIDAS GOLF DEBUTS FASHION COLLECTION Adidas Golf has launched an entirely new category aimed at expressing individual style called Fashion Performance. Featuring bold colors and unique patterns, Fashion Performance combines tour-proven performance technologies with contemporary, fashionforward styling. “Fashion Performance means so much to Adidas Golf because it allows a specific segment of golfers to benefit from performance while staying true to their personality on course,” said Susan Bush, VP global apparel, Adidas Golf. “Uniting Adidas Golf’s renowned Clima technology allows us to deliver key performance benefits, optimal fit and comfort in the training tops and bottoms while allowing Fashion Performance players the welcome opportunity to express their individual style.” The debut line for men and women includes color-blocked polos, fashion bottoms, training tops and stylish sweaters made to match and amplify personal style. Adidas Golf Tour Staff professionals Jason Day and newcomer Jessica Korda will wear Fashion Performance throughout the year on tour. In conjunction with the launch of Fashion Performance, Adidas Golf also has introduced a line of colorful footwear, adiStreet, featuring spikeless shoes with full-grain leathers.
SUUNTO GPS WATCH OFFERS FIRST EVER 50-HOUR BATTERY LIFE
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Suunto released what it claims to be the first GPS watch to offer up to 50 hours of battery life in GPS mode. The Suunto Ambit comes in two colors, black and silver, and includes features like a 3-D compass, barometric altimeter, temperature and complete functionality as a heart rate monitor. The Ambit can display speed and distance in real-time and geo-cache way points to use to navigate in situations where visual cues are not available. "Having 50 hours of battery life opens this device up to multiple-day mountaineering expeditions, ultra-marathon runners, 24-hour mountain bikers and a host of users that need more than 15 hours of battery life from their GPS instrument," said Rusty Squire, president of the Heart Rate Watch Company.
TAKE A CLOSER LOOK Just click on the video icon to see more on the Suunto GPS watch
NIKE SPORTSWEAR DEBUTS GALACTIC COLLECTION Ahead of basketball’s All Star Weekend in Orlando, FL, Nike Sportswear is introducing a collection of styles inspired by central Florida’s association with space exploration. The collection features a galactic theme on the Nike Dunk, Nike Flight One and Nike Foamposite One. Interior graphics pay homage to the phenomenon of the Supernova while fonts and badging are featured within the collection as a nod to Orlando and space. With a motif inspired by astronaut space suits, the Nike Dunk features a waxed canvas upper emulating training suit material. Military stencil font is prominently featured on the upper and outsole, while the inner lining features the supernova graphic print. Available in three colors including rogue green, flat gold and blue grey,
the Nike Dunk also features a removable tongue top patch and Nike Swoosh. With the weekend’s festivities returning to Orlando for the first time since 1992, Nike brings back the Nike Flight, a Penny Hardaway retro sneaker, in two colorways, with one featuring glow-in-the-dark details on the sole and midsole spheres. The Nike Foamposite One, showcasing a galactic print upper, includes a Polyurethane midsole and a Nike Zoom unit in heel for low-profile, responsive cushioning. Made popular in its debut on the college hardwood in 1998, the Foamposite breaks the mold of conventional footwear design. The collection will be available at select retailers and NikeStore.com starting February 23. FEB 20, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com
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Photo courtesy of Oboz
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OUTDOOR Designers Continue to Push the Minimalism Movement Further with New Technologies that are both Lightweight and Comfortable By Thomas J. Ryan
Boots have become more athletic and ever-lighter for the last two decades. The minimalism and barefoot trend that erupted from the running world is forcing designers to push the envelope even further. While some cushioning and protection is required in a boot, more minimalist influences could be found in many mid- and low-profile models at the recent Outdoor Retailer Winter Market in Salt Lake City. "The market continues to trend toward product for moving lighter and faster," said Mark Matthews, director of sales for Scarpa North America. "The minimalist movement in running is spilling over into hiking and backpacking and influencing designs, though there is still a traditional customer base that continues to search for more substantial footwear and that's influencing what boot buyers want to see. The Holy Grail is a boot/shoe that is lightweight and comfortable but still provides the support and protection of a heavier product. New materials and technologies are making this more achievable each season." Greg Duffy, senior director of performance footwear at Timberland, said while more than a few brands went "barefoot crazy" on the run side with extremely low-profile, zero-drop shoes, many were seeing the larger opportunity as the 'minimal' option with shoes still offering cushioning and support yet encouraging the foot-strengthening running gait of the 'natural' running style. Likewise, boot makers were eagerly addressing the minimal opportunity but also recognized the need for durable materials, midsole cushioning and ankle support. Following a trend seen with cars, computers and other industries, minimalism is influencing boot construction. "We've gotten very clean in all our styles and even our larger, multi-
sport hiker now has a minimal feel to it," said Duffy. "There are not a lot of overlays. Not a lot of extra parts and trinkets than what you would find in the outdoor industry and even the athletic industry. Minimal is not just about lower-profile and lightweight. It also affects the whole genre of the line and how you treat the parts, what parts you choose to put on, and what parts you choose to leave off." For Timberland, the minimalist approach in boots is best represented by the Radler Camp Insulated, which builds on the success of its ultrapackable, zip-up Radler Trail Camp shoes launched last fall. Bringing the innovation to winter, the Radler Camp Insulated is designed to be a complement to the bulky snow boot. While providing warmth in a lighter and low-profile model, the fact that they are collapsible and zip together for compact storage makes them easier to bring along. Mark Nenow, VP of global footwear merchandising at Columbia Sportswear, said new materials and manufacturing processes are helping many trends to work in the marketplace. "It's hard to talk about trends in boots because there is a collision around innovation," said Nenow. "Technologies are letting you have a lot more with less so in boots that means you really deconstruct them. You can take a lot out of it and still deliver warmth, protection, and durability. But then also when you talk about boots, you have to talk about 'classics' and 'retro.' That whole trend is coming in a big way and that's a different deal. When you talk about trends, you have to be on almost two or three of those things." For Fall/Winter 2012, Columbia is bringing back the Bugaboot that was first introduced in 1993. Nenow said the boot feeds into FEB 20, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com
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the 'classics' trend with most design details, including the sizeable Columbia logo in the heel, intact. At the same time, it addresses the demand for innovation since the boot incorporates a smarter outsole and has been infused with Columbia's latest technologies, including a version with Omni-Heat Reflective and another with Omni-Heat Electric. A nonrubber shell version is also due out. Nenow remarked that at the time the Bugaboot came on the market, it also addressed many of the principles around minimalism, including providing a more athletic approach, greater flexibility and a lower footprint. The reason the Bugaboot originally came to be was because a very popular boot at the time, the Caribou from Sorel, had such a wide bottom that you couldn't even drive a car wearing them. Said Nenow, "This was a real innovation at the time because all winter boots were big and clunky and they didn't fit close to the foot like more of an athletic shoe." He sees minimalism as a marriage between the barefoot conversation in running and the "going lighter/faster and less is more" push that has steadily gained traction in outdoor footwear for the last two decades. At Columbia, the minimalism push is leaning to ever-lighter, flexible and lower-profile models on the 'trail' side, which includes light hikers, multi-sport and trail shoes, as the brand works to grow that part of the business to complement its established winter boot business. Overall, however, Nenow said he's surprised it's taken this long for the minimal trend to fully develop in outdoor footwear. "This industry is a little bit slow," remarked Nenow. "When something like that pops up in a category like soccer boots or running shoes, you see things rotate in two years. This minimalism thing in outdoor has been coming for a long time and I think right now it's hit a critical mass. I think the trends swing too far one way and then swing back to some new normal." JP Borod, director of product management for footwear, The North Face, believed minimalism and lightweight is creating excitement in the boot category. "The running shoe industry has been pushed dramatically forward in the past few 14 SGBWeekly.com | FEB 20, 2012
years as manufacturers have introduced new interesting materializations, different construction methods, exciting eye catching colors, and unique bio mechanical platforms and they have given the market a plethora of choices for the consumer," said Borod. "In an age of dramatic footwear change and revolution, the boot buyers are ready for uniqueness in their space, too. Sure they want product to fit well, offer good traction, be lightweight, supportive and durable, but they want a story to tell. They are salivating for a fresh approach to a category that has remained stale for too many years. They want to attract a younger customer that doesn't want to wear their grandfather's sluggish heavy leather boots. They are ready to recharge their space and are looking for brands to take more risks. Why should the running buyer have all the fun?" Peter Sachs, general manager, Lowa Boots, said Lowa has long been building footwear that is lighter weight, lower profile, less structured, more versatile and more flexible, particularly on the trail side. He also noted how Merrell is certainly among those finding success translating the minimalism trend from the performance side to the casual side with low-profile takes even in boots. But he questioned the overall demand for minimal offerings from athletes, noting that recent research showed 84 percent of running shoes sold continue to be traditional models. He said Lowa will focus on providing the proper stability and protection that the outdoor enthusiast needed, especially in boots. "You still need a certain amount of protection, structure and stability," said Sachs. "It's got to work with crampons and so on and so forth. People ask, 'Can't we make it lighter?' And we answer, 'Well, what do you want to sacrifice? Underfoot? Around the ankle? Around the toe box?' We're not going to sacrifice performance to chase a trend." On the other hand, Lowa is having no problem chasing the shearling trend with the introduction of a collection of more stylish boots that still packs the brands' monowrap frame technology. "Fashion is not our cup of tea historically," admitted Sachs. "We do traditional really well. The [fashion] products that are out and selling like bananas, they're warm and trendy but they're not waterproof and their soles are terrible. We're excited about where Lowa can add value to that product." ■
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1. Adidas Terrex Softshell Mid is a rugged, lightweight, breathable, outdoor boot that lends itself to mountain marathons and general hiking. The extra support for the ankles and Adidas' Traxion tread make the boot perfect for boggy, wet, and uneven terrain. The forefoot protection plate and TPU toe cap provides protection for scrambling over loose rock and trails. Includes speed lacing system. MSRP $150 2. Columbia Bugaboot with Omni-Heat membrane reflects your own body heat back into the boot for lightweight warmth without the need for bulky insulation. The upper is constructed with durable Nubuck and split suede leather with rustproof speed hooks for a secure fit. Inside is a contoured EVA footbed, lightweight molded midsole, and 200gms of Thinsulate insulation for a rating of -25º below zero. Road-hugging traction by a non-marking, dual-density Omni-Grip outsole designed specifically for the demands of winter weather. MSRP $110 3. GoLite TracLite waterproof trekker for men and women features zero drop outsole, where the sole is the same thickness from heel-to-toe for a natural midfoot
strike reducing shock with each step. Traction comes from hundreds of tiny lugs on the Gecko outsole. Rock Absorber technology puts the soft part of the sole against the ground where it gives to the terrain for better traction and stability. Shearling added for warmth. Seam-sealed waterproof and wicking technologies keep moisture out. MSRP $160
7. Oboz Madison Mid offers waterproof nubuck leather and high abrasion textile upper; Oboz BDry waterproof breathable liner; Oboz women's specific last; 2-part midsole-dual density EVA-Nylon midfoot shank; high friction, non-marking carbon rubber outsole; madison outsole board; BFit deluxe insole. MSRP $135
4. La Sportiva Xplorer Mid GTX is a synthetic, waterproof light hiker with superior cushion and stability for performance on or off the trail. MSRP $180
8. OluKai The Mauna Iki features a lightweight gusseted tongue embossed with Polynesian Moko artwork, metal Big Island emblem detail. Includes a triple-layer anatomical footbed lined with Merino wool. The leather used on the upper is sourced from one of the most environmentallyfriendly tanneries in the world. MSRP $250
5. Lacrosse Myrick is built with a patent-pending design which marries an all-natural, hand-crafted rubber base with knit uppers in a variety of colors and designs. With 10” and 14” heights, the Myrick's knit patterns conceal a fleece lining. MSRP $125 6. New Balance 1099 insulated boot is one of the lightest in its class - weighing almost 1 lb. less than most competitors. Offering waterproof protection, Vibram Ice Trek outsole for traction, and 200g PrimaLoft insulation for warmth. Versatile for a light day hike, short snow shoe trek or casual walking. MSRP $110
9. The Lace Up Boot from Rockport's Peakview Collection features a padded collar and tongue, reflective details to promote safety in the dark, full grain leather, EVA with adidas adiPrene shock-absorbent cushioning that protects the heel at impact, and CMEVA for lightweight shock absorption to reduce foot and leg fatigue. The rubber outsole provides durable grip, while the flex grooves in the outsole offer forefoot flexibility. MSRP $140
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1. Sanuk The Endoro combines the comfort of Sanuk footwear with the functionality of a boot. Featuring fade- and water-resistant Sunbrella fabric, grippy lug rubber Train Traction outsole and a unique lacing system with D ring and lace hook options for a customized fit. MSRP $100 2. Tecnica The Moon Boot W.E. Duvet, slimmer and more versatile silhouettes that takes the 40-year old Moon Boot brand from the resort to the city. Features a baffled goose down upper for comfort and warmth and a Magic Carpet 3D anatomic footbed underfoot for insulation and all-day support. Available in five colors. MSRP $200 3. Teva Jordanelle with 250gms of 3M Thinsulate LiteLoft insulation in its removable liner and waterproof shell materials, the Jordanell doesn’t sacrifice warmth and weighs about half the weight of other boots. The most
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noticeable feature is it compresses down to the size of a normal shoe for easy storage. MSRP $170 4. Teva Bormio is lighter than most winter boots on the market, but still has 200gms of Thinsulate insulation to provide warmth and White Spider Rubber grip for traction. MSRP $150 5. Timberland Radler Camp Men's boot zip together for compact storage. 400gms of lofted Thermolite insulation provide warmth with a rugged outsole made from a combination of Gripstick and Green Rubber to move safely over terrain. MSRP $95 6.Vasque Pow-wow for women is designed with an 8� upper, rubber toe cap, compression molded EVA midsole with a TPU mid-foot shank, and an ultraaggressive outsole for traction in the snow. Also features a waterproof suede upper and faux fur trim
for style. Vasque's insulated program utilizes 400gms of 3M Thinsulate Ultra. UltraDry, a Vasque proprietary waterproof membrane, keeps feet dry. Its counterpart is the men's Snowburban. MSRP $140 7. Ahnu Truckee was designed for traditional or fast hiking and is armed with 200gms of insulation letting you stay out in the elements longer and features the Numentum Hike technology along with eVent waterproofing and Vibram outsoles. MSRP $180 8. Merrell Perdal blends soft leathers, tweeds and autumnal colors with relaxed, outdoor minded style, MSRP $150 9. Salomon Snowcat WP features a ClimaShield waterproof membrane, furry lining, full waterproof bootie construction. A non-marking winter contagrip on the outsole is added for traction. MSRP $150
292 miles mountain biking 14 trips to the farmers market 28 kids’ soccer games 1 run in with stranger’s latté 3 school field trips 2 unexpected downpours 6 concerts in the park 1 stormy ferry ride 5 sunrise hikes Teflon fabric protector means ®
less washing, less dry cleaning, lower wash and dry temperatures, less energy, less wear and tear, and that can mean less impact on the planet. For more information, visit www.teflon.com/sporting.
Copyright ©2012 DuPont. All rights reserved. The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPont , The miracles of science , and Teflon are trademarks or registered trademarks of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company or its affiliates. ™
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TO READ THE FULL JOB DESCRIPTION, PLEASE CLICK ON JOB TITLE
BSN Sports
Sage, RIO Products and Redington
Purchasing Coordinator
Director of Finance
BSN Sports Inc., the national leader in the institutional Sporting Goods Industry is looking for an enthusiastic, energetic professional with a positive attitude to work in our corporate office in Farmers Branch, TX as a Purchasing Coordinator . Responsibilities include...
The Director of Finance will provide exceptional financial and strategic leadership to the organization. Responsibilities include accurate and complete presentation of the company financial condition; monthly and yearly financial statements; forward financial models; board approved audits of financials and 401K Plan; accurate product and overhead costs…
Outdoor Research has an opportunity in Product Development for Apparel. This role will support the Technical Designer and Product Manager in the development of new products from initial design concept through to the final production tech packs. Key responsibilities include establishing detailed accurate design and material specifications for all products; prepare and…
New Balance
Louisville Slugger
Easton-Bell Sports
Apparel Product Manager
Vice President and Chief Product Officer
Category Planner – Giro
As a Product Manager-Apparel, you will develop and execute a business plan and marketing strategy; work in cross-functional teams to successfully develop, design, manage, merchandise, and drive a product line that meets business plans and long term visions; evaluate competitors' businesses and the marketplace to capitalize on market opportunities; evaluate on-going in-line products…
The Vice President of Innovation and Chief Product Officer will oversee all activities related to new product development and product/production engineering support for existing products; be an integral part of the Senior Leadership Team and help shape the strategic direction for the company by driving innovation and directing all aspects of research and development (product/material/ process), testing, certification…
This supply-chain role is responsible for managing the demand and supply requirements of all customers across various business units. The focus is on creating and maintaining accurate sku/customer forecasts while driving replenishment PO plans based on inventory needs within the SAP system. The position will require being the owner of inventory and having close communicative and collaborative efforts with the sales team, management and...
Big Rock Sports
Forty Seven Brand
Merchandise Manager-Camping
Field Sales Representative – S. California
K2 Sports
The Merchandise Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing merchandising strategies to maximize sales opportunities within assigned categories; develop category plans that incorporate strategies for pricing, placement, and vendor relations; support the product development process, budget management and functional operating plans; perform business and industry analysis…
Responsible for increasing our market share in Southern California (Southern California, Las Vegas, Arizona) by presenting our seasonal product line to Arenas, Stadiums, Bookstores and Retail Chains throughout the territory. The ideal candidate would have a history of being able to maintain consistent activity levels, possess a thorough understanding of time and territory management and the ability to close new business…
Outdoor Research Product Developer – Apparel
Product Planner (Footwear and/or Winter hard goods) The Product Planner will ensure accurate and timely delivery of footwear and/or winter hard goods from supplier (manufacturer) to global distribution centers. Principal accountabilities include acting as the main point of contact between vendor and K2; responsible for collecting, creating and monitoring PO placement on behalf of the U.S. and K2 subsidiaries; collecting and maintaining records of full-year forecasts for all regions by item…
FOR INFORMATION CONTACT 704.987.3450 OR SPORTSJOBS@SPORTSONESOURCE.COM
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