SGB Weekly 1240 by SportsOneSource

ISSUE 1240 OCTOBER 1, 2012

The Weekly Digital Magazine for the Sporting Goods Industry

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ISSUE 1240 OCTOBER 1, 2012

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The Weekly Digital Magazine for the Sporting Goods Industry

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U.S. Olympian and Nike endorser Allyson Felix wants exercise instilled in children at an early age.

FEATURES

4 THE NORTH FACE Honors Bicycle 10 NIKE BACKS GET KIDS Sports Shop ACTIVE INITIATIVE CYCLING SHORTS 14 INTERBIKE EXPO 2012 5 DOREL'S Robotic Fit System PRODUCTS TO WRITE MOVERS & SHAKERS HOME ABOUT 6 NIKE'S Q1 Earnings Slump DEPARTMENTS FINISH LINE'S Earnings Rise IN Q2, Inks Macy's Deal 8 NIKE PARTNERS WITH CHAMPS 22 CALENDAR for First Football Store 9 DICK'S SPORTING GOODS Introduces NFL Jersey Rankings LICENSING/SPONSORSHIP BRIEFS

Cover Photo Courtesy Thule 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

OCTOBER 1, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com

NEWS

CYCLING

THE NORTH FACE HONORS BICYCLE SPORTS SHOP The North Face named Bicycle Sports Shop of Austin, TX the winner of The North Face Never Stop Exploring Award. The award, a $5,000 grant of the Explore Fund, recognizes a specialty dealer that has been nominated by their sales agency for having the most impact as a role model in strengthening their community by encouraging Outdoor Exploration. The specialty dealer was selected for many reasons, including its commitment to keeping cycling safe and accessible to everyone through trail maintenance and cyclist education. “Bicycle Sports Shop is an incredible example of a specialty shop making a big impact on the community,” said The North Face National Sales Manager for Action Sports Jeff Brusven, “Through creative clinics and events they’re making it easy for the people of Austin to learn more about a sport we all love, and helping more people to get after it more often.” As one of the largest independently owned bicycle shops in Texas, with three locations in the greater Austin-area, Bicycle Sports Shop is an advocate for cyclists through programs that protect bike trails, through events like “Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day” that help inspire and encourage new riders, and by supporting bikefriendly laws. The store organizes trail building and maintenance days at least four times a year in support of the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), and hosts a number of events, including: Monthly Women’s Ride Days, which attract 100 local cyclists on average, five mountain biking road trips a year, Wednesday evening mountain biking rides with special beginner access, free bike maintenance classes, commuter clinics focused on cyclist safety and regular road rides for all levels. “Bicycle Sports Shop owner Hill Abell is a huge champion for our mission, locally in Austin and across the nation,” said IMBA

Director Rich Cook. “It is great to see Hill and the store get this kind of recognition and support from a company like The North Face to get even more people excited about jumping on a bike." This marks the first time the grant has been awarded to a specialty bike dealer. The Never Stop Exploring Award was initially developed in 2010 to recognize specialty running dealers but this year it was expanded to recognize specialty outdoor (Outdoor Retailer Summer Market), bike (Interbike), running (The Running Event) and winter sports (SIA) dealers.

Click to view Bicycle Sports Shop Owner, Hill Abell's Story

CYCLING SHORTS The National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA), which is creating high school mountain biking leagues nationwide, is expanding into Arizona, New York and Tennessee. The Arizona league adds to the NICA activity in southwestern USA, while the Tennessee and New York leagues create substantial east coast footprints and will help develop future leagues in their respective regions. Reynolds Cycling, the maker of bicycle wheels, launched an aggressive Minimum Advertised Price (MAP) Policy. Under the policy, all Reynolds products offered for resale are advertised at 4 SGBWeekly.com | OCTOBER 1, 2012

10 percent off MSRP. Travis Erwin, most recently was a regional sales specialist at Pivot Cycles/BH Bikes, was appointed domestic sales manager. El Grupo Youth Cycling, the non-profit youth cycling team in Tucson, AZ that affords the opportunity of cycling to local teens who otherwise would not get the chance, was awarded $2,500 as part of Merrell’s initial distribution of it’s the Pack Project. The grant program awards those who bring ideas that increase outside participation to life. Other winners in the first round included Concrete Safaris, YouthCARE, Keeping It Wild and Green Adventure Project.

DOREL TO OFFER FIT SYSTEM AT MINIMAL COST TO HELP INDEPENDENT BIKE DEALERS COMBAT SHOWROOMING Dorel Industries continued to position itself as a major ally of independent bike dealers in mid-September when it said it would place a robotic bike fitting system it acquired in dealer showrooms for a nominal fee to help them compete with online dealers. Bicycling experts at Dorel’s Recreational/ Leisure (DRL) segment, which owns the Cannondale, Schwinn, GT and Mongoose bikes brands, think the Guru Experience fit system is the best in the world, Dorel’s CFO Jeffrey Schwartz said September 20 at the CIBC 11th Annual Eastern Institutional Investor Conference in Montreal. DRL, which is based in Montreal, acquired the fit system along with the Guru trademark last week from Quebec-based bike maker Guru. Dorel has reengineered software used by the system, which takes dozens of measurements to help riders customize their bike for optimum performance, and licensed the name back to Guru for use on their bikes. Dorel will place the fit system with dealers for a “very nominal amount of money,” but require that every time they use it properly to fit a customer to pay a fee, said Schwartz. Dorel will be able to track usage because the fit systems software sits on Dorel servers, Schwartz explained.Schwartz said they are able to get the machines into a lot more dealers by using this model. “It’s one differentiation for the retail player versus the

Internet,” he said. “You can’t get fit on the Internet. I think as these stores start to use the fit system, they will start showing customers the benefit of that and why you need to start coming into the store.” While Schwartz said Dorel will provide the fit system to all dealers regardless of what bike brands they sell, the acquisition comes as Cannondale is pushing hard to expand its North American dealer base, which currently numbers about 1,200. Cannondale is growing at double-digit rates in the U.S., but is not strong in all major markets, such as Boston. “There is still a lot of room for growth in both dealers and within dealers,” said Schwartz. Schwartz said Cannondale continues to grow more quickly in Europe, thanks in part to visibility provided by its pro cycling team, Liquigas-Cannondale. Cannondale announced last week it would become title sponsor of its own pro cycling team in 2013 in a move to further bolster the brand in Europe. Since it began sponsoring a pro cycling UCI team, Cannondale has seen European sales growing at about 20 percent a year. “Many times we have run out of inventory before we were able to fulfill demand,” said Schwartz. “We’ve added a significant amount of dealers, but many dealers are coming in with orders 20 to 25 percent ahead of the prior year.”

MOVERS & SHAKERS Scott Plank has retired from his position as Under Armour's EVP for business development. He is starting War Horse, LLC to focus on real estate development and community-based philanthropy Dan Templin has left VF Outdoor to join Eddie Bauer, LLC as chief operating officer and chief financial officer. Cleveland Golf/Srixon’s Greg Hopkins has resigned as CEO of the company, effective immediately. On, the new running shoe company built on patented Swiss technology, has named Christian Ward to the position of national dealer support manager. The Bauer Performance Sports, Ltd. board of directors has unanimously appointed Bernard McDonell as chairman, effective immediately. David Fee has re-joined Yakima Products, Inc. as general manager U.S./Canada a year after he left the company to head Garmont North America. The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA), which represents North America's fish and wildlife agencies, has bestowed its inaugural Johnny Morris Award to its namesake, Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops. Brooks Range Mountaineering Equipment announced that Carl Kirkpatrick, owner of Appalachian Woods, will join the Brooks Range family, serving as its Southeast sales rep. Bushnell Outdoor Products hired Jason Harris as product manager at Primos, a company it acquired in April that makes game calls and other hunting gear.

Dorel's Guru Bike Fit System shows how position changes alter power output in real time. Photo courtesy Dorel

NEWS

FINANCIAL

NIKE'S Q1 EARNING SLUMP 12 PERCENT Nike, Inc., as expected, reported earnings slid 12.1 percent in its first quarter ended August 31, to $567 million, or $1.23 a share. Lower gross margin, higher SG&A and an increase in the tax rate offset 10 percent top-line growth. But Earnings still came out ahead of Wall Street’s consensus estimate of $1.13 a share. "We had a strong first quarter and a great start to the fiscal year,” said Mark Parker, president and CEO, Nike, Inc. “Nike, Inc. delivered an amazing array of innovation across some of the biggest moments in sport." Companywide revenues reached $6.7 billion in the period and grew 15 percent on a currency-neutral basis. Excluding the impacts of changes in foreign currency, Nike Brand revenues rose 16 percent, with growth in all key categories and every geography except Japan. Revenues on a currency-neutral basis for Other Businesses (Converse, Hurley, Nike Golf) increased 9 percent, while Businesses to be Divested (Cole Haan, Umbro) grew by 6 percent. Gross margin declined 80 basis points to 43.5 percent. Gross margin continued to benefit from pricing actions and product cost reduction initiatives, however, this was more than offset by higher input costs, primarily materials and labor. In addition, gross margin was negatively impacted by a shift in the company’s mix to lower margin businesses within the Nike Brand

and the conversion of the China market to direct distribution for Converse. SG&A expenses grew at a faster rate than revenue, up 18 percent to $2.2 billion. The gains reflected marketing support for key product initiatives, as well as support for the Olympics and European Football Championships, additional investments made in the wholesale business to support growth initiatives, and new store openings. The effective tax rate grew to 27.5 percent from 24.3 percent due to a larger percentage of earnings coming from higher tax countries, primarily the U.S., as well as a higher effective tax rate on operations abroad. EPS figures were partly helped by a 3 percent decline in the weighted average diluted common shares outstanding. Pro Forma diluted EPS, excluding the results of the Businesses to be Divested, would have been approximately $1.27, down 9 percent compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2012 on a comparable basis. As of the end of the quarter worldwide futures orders for Nike Brand athletic footwear and apparel, scheduled for delivery from September 2012 through January 2013, were 6 percent higher than orders reported for the same period last year. Excluding currency changes, reported orders would have increased 8 percent.

FINISH LINE'S EARNINGS RISE IN Q2, INKS MACY’S DEAL Finish Line, Inc. reported earnings rose 19.4 percent in its second-quarter ended September 1, to $25.0 million, or 49 cents a share, and raised its earnings outlook for the year. Consolidated net sales, inclusive of Finish Line and The Running Company, jumped 16.1 percent to $385.0 million. Finish Line comps advanced 12.3 percent on top of an 11.0 percent increase for the same period a year ago. Digital comparable sales, which are included in the comp results, were up 29.6 percent. "Our ability to achieve double-digit comps in the second quarter, on top of a double digit comp increase in the prior year period illustrates our ability to further expand our leadership position in athletic footwear,” said Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Glenn Lyon, in a statement. “Second quarter sales were driven by market share gains in running and basketball as we have been able to capitalize on recent trends in each category enabled by our strong relationships with both vendors and consumers.” The company now expects EPS for the fiscal year ending 6 SGBWeekly.com | OCTOBER 1, 2012

March 2, 2013 to increase between 6 to 9 percent over the $1.53 in fiscal 2012, which excludes the 7 cents per share impact from the 53rd week, up from its most recent guidance of 6 to 7 percent growth. The guidance assumes an annual comparable store sales increase of 6 to 8 percent. Separately, Finish Line said it reached a deal to open Finish Linebranded athletic footwear shops in more than 450 Macy's department stores in the U.S. and online at macys.com. Longer term, the agreement is expected to result in additional sales to Finish Line of $250 million to $350 million annually. The rollout process for the 450+ locations, which will be operated by Finish Line as leased departments, will start in Spring 2013 with completion expected by Fall 2014. For the remaining approximately 225 Macy's stores that carry footwear, Finish Line will manage the athletic footwear assortment and inventory beginning in Spring 2013, without the staffing or branding provided in the leased departments. Athletic shoe assortments selected by Finish Line also will be available on macys.com, beginning Spring 2013.

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NEWS

LICENSING

NIKE PARTNERS WITH CHAMPS FOR FIRST FOOTBALL STORE Nike and Champs Sports partnered to open the first-ever Nike football-themed retail store. Nike Yardline at Champs Sports features a store-within-a-store concept housing the latest Nike football product. Located in Willowbrook Mall in Wayne, NJ, the store will provide consumers with special access to signature Nike football products, athletes, teams and experiences while connecting the local and national football community both in store and online. The store is the first of its kind to be opened by Champs Sports in the U.S. with plans to expand and evolve these locations in the future. The grand opening event on Saturday, September 8, showcased new NFL Nike “Limited” Jerseys, 32 team “Knows” tees, and limited player edition product such as the latest Nike TR1 colorways including Jerry Rice, Tim Tebow and Calvin Johnson among other unique assortments. Several NY Giants athletes including Hakeem Nicks attended the opening event. As a digital extension of the store, consumers may access champssports.com/yardline for the latest news on product launches and events. 8 SGBWeekly.com | OCTOBER 1, 2012

NY Giants Wide Receiver, Hakeem Nicks attended the opening event

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GET KIDS ACTIVE INITIATIVE By Thomas J. Ryan

10 SGBWeekly.com | OCTOBER 1, 2012

ike, Inc. has thrown its weight behind a new initiative to encourage physical activity, especially among the young. The Framework for Action program is included in a 142-page report from Nike entitled "Designed to Move" that reveals the growing epidemic of physical inactivity threatening the social and economic prosperity of the world. Presented by Nike, The American College of Sports Medicine, The International Council of Science & Physical Education and several other health and sport organizations and based on input from more than 70 experts across disciplines, the report consolidates the evidence for urgent action and promises to present an action agenda to solve it. A website, designedtomove.org, has been set up to support the initiative.

Developed economies have all but eliminated physical activity from daily life and emerging markets are showing signs of following the trend, he noted. Many children are also denied access to activities that were considered commonplace for previous generations.

"Nike was founded on the power of sport and its ability to unleash human potential. We believe if you have a body, you're an athlete." - Nike Brand President, Charlie Denson On stage Sunday, September 23, at the Clinton Global Initiative in New York City, Nike Brand President Charlie Denson was joined by world track & field star Allyson Felix to spotlight the issue and to begin rallying partners in the field of physical activity. "Nike was founded on the power of sport and its ability to unleash human potential. We believe if you have a body, you’re an athlete," wrote Denson in the report. However, he lamented that in a relatively short period of time, "We have seen physical activity designed and engineered out of our lives with dramatically underestimated human, social and economic impacts."

Nike Brand President, Charlie Denson

“By committing to create a healthier future, we believe there is an opportunity for all of us to think differently and work together to help reverse those trends that continue to prevent children around the world from having access to sport,” wrote Denson. “We can break cycles of physical inactivity where they are deeply entrenched and where they are beginning to emerge.” “Designed to Move" calculates that if no action is taken, half of the Chinese and American populations will be physically inactive by 2030 along with a third of British and Brazilian populations, totaling 1 billion people. The report also outlines recommendations for how governments,

OCTOBER 1, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com

civil societies, corporations, and individuals, among others, can contribute to the solution. Key call-outs from the report include: • The top 10 killers in the 50 highest-income countries are all connected to a lack of physical inactivity. • More deaths are now attributed to physical inactivity than smoking (5.3 million vs. 5 million respectively). • The global cost of the five leading non-communicable diseases totaled $6.2 trillion in 2010, all linked to physical inactivity. • Central to the study is a finding that the first 10 years of a child's life provide a critical window for creating a lifelong commitment to physical activity. With children dropping out of physical activity earlier in life, European children are 50 percent less active by age 15 than they were at age 9; in the U.S., children are 75 percent less active at age 15 than at age 9. No other brands shaped the ‘Designed to Move’ report but the list of other organizations supporting the report included the National Football League's Play60 initiative, the Special Olympics, the Inter-American Development Bank, the International Association of Athletics Foundation, World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry, American Academy of Pediatrics, and several other sports and health organizations as well as numerous fitness advocacy groups. The report, written by Nike’s internal team led by Nike’s managing director, Access To Sport, Lisa MacCallum, details in great length how the reduction in physical activity levels is taking its toll on both physical and mental health worldwide, including early deaths and surging costs dealing with related illness. It also highlighted the strong link between active kids becoming active adults. The ‘Framework for Action’ solutions focused on two goals, described as “Ask 1” and “Ask 2.” The first is to create early positive experiences around physical activity for children, and a second is to integrate physical activity into everyday life. To increase activity among kids, the platform calls for special emphasis on encouraging activity with children before age 10 to foster a lifelong commitment to fitness. It also urges creating positive experiences early on in physical education, sports and physical play through an emphasis of high levels of activity, well-trained coaches, positive reinforcement and motivation, as well as keeping the “fun” aspect a part of sports and fitness achievement. Future generations will treat physical education classes in schools as a “must have” on par with math and science, and local communities will band together 12 SGBWeekly.com | OCTOBER 1, 2012

to support youth activities, the report heralded. Digital innovations will make physical activity fun, stimulate demand and help track progress. Parents and other influences in the future will recognize their roles in supporting children grow up active. The report states, “A lot is already known about what can motivate children to engage in physical activity and potentially develop a lifelong passion for it. High-quality options that are designed well and expertly implemented have the potential to completely change kids’ life trajectories.” Around the second goal of integrating physical activity into everyday life, solutions include integrating playing fields, green space, trails, sidewalks, bicycle lanes and multi-use paths through buildings. It called for transportation planners, schools and parents to work together to create a voucher system in public transportation that deliver children safely and cost effectively to sports programs. The report envisions a world where transportation policy ensures safe places for running, school physical education teachers are prepared to teach proper form, and communities organize running events that enable and celebrate celebration. Physical activity in schools in the future will be measured and reported on just as schools do with academic subjects. Health care professionals will screen for injury risk and age-appropriate physical development. Reimbursement for screening and fitness-related education will be available through insurance companies Overall, given the many benefits to health, crime reduction, and increasing education attainments, the report called for future generations to make physical activity a higher priority at every legislation level and with decisions around health systems funding, transportation strategies and community and economic development funds. Beyond support, the report sees a change in the cultural mindset around physical activity as ”fun” rather than as “work as it is seen by many today”. "Sport, and more importantly our children, will not thrive if populations are not physically fit and if the world has a physical inactivity epidemic as a backdrop," wrote Denson. "Our goal is to not only change the conversation, but create a world where physical activity, play, and sports are both highly valued and an expected part of life. We’ll focus our efforts on children, so they enjoy positive experiences in sport earlier in life to help them realize their potential. We’ll help inspire and motivate them to a new, healthier future and this Framework for Action will provide the best roadmap to start that journey."■

OCTOBER 1, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com

14Thule SGBWeekly.com | OCTOBER 1, 2012 Pack n' Pedal Bags

INTERBIKE

PRODUCTS TO WRITE HOME ABOUT

SGB provides new product highlights and insights from industry leaders surrounding this year’s Interbike trade show By Aaron H. Bible

nterbike International Bicycle Expo 2012 began in the heat and blowing dust of Boulder City, NV, in the desert outside the Las Vegas strip with the largest-ever DemoDay attendance to date. Interbike reports total show attendance was 25,536, up 10 percent from last year. Store attendance and buyer attendance was up five and six percent respectively. “To say we’re pleased with the 2012 show is an understatement. Our goal was to create an ideal environment where decision makers can get educated on 2013 product, learn new business practices through seminars and panel discussions, network and ultimately conduct the business of cycling among the best and the brightest in our industry,” Pat Hus, managing director for Interbike, said. “It’s great to see industry leaders like Cervélo coming back to Interbike and reinforcing their commitment to retailers domestically and globally.” Brands such as Niner, Zoot Sports, Fox Head, Spy, Envy Composites, Guru and more were back on the show floor with renewed interest in engaging the Interbike audience. “The companies here are so active in working with teams, cyclists and retailers to research and develop products that the quality of goods available truly enhances the cycling

experience whether you are a pro or casual rider,” said Universal Sports Network cycling analyst and commentator Todd Gogulski. “A lot can be said about the positive health of the industry by the fact that the team owners I spoke with have so many competing brands who see value in sponsoring their teams.” “It’s great from a small business standpoint as it gives you access to so many great buyers, media and sourcing. Between the outdoor demo, industry party and the mobile social cruiser ride, the opportunity to build lasting relationships were very available,” commented Davidson Lewis, president of Ecologic Designs, Inc., makers of Green Guru Gear, who enjoyed a strong corner presence upstairs. “Our relationship with Nielsen is a wonderful opportunity to help them reduce their waste stream by up-cycling their old vinyl banners into cool messenger bags and notebooks. With the show moving to Mandalay Bay next year there is big opportunity to reduce the waste that would have come with changing the venues. Very exciting.” And while it would be impossible to highlight or even list all new products and innovations seen from approximately 1,200 exhibitors at this year’s Interbike, following is a look at a few that stood out. OCTOBER 1, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com

Splitting the show into two levels might not have been good for everyone, but the downstairs certainly didn’t lack for vibrancy or innovation and was anchored by the fashion stage, test ride areas, and heavy hitters such as Teva, now into its second year with cycling product. “All around, we couldn’t have been more pleased with the response at Interbike,” said Teva PR manager Jaime Eschette. “From retailers, media and athletes alike, the brand was humbled by the positive reception to the direction we’re going and we’re more than happy to do our time downstairs while we’re at it. The vibe around the booth was constant and it didn’t hurt to be next to the coconut water guys to help with the mornings,” The company showed its new Links Mid - a play off its amazing Links freestyle shoe - as well as giving a sneak peak of its new clipless-pedal freeride shoe, built in partnership with bike component manufacturer Crankbrothers to attain perfect integration.

said. “The retail environment was challenging over this past year, and still, the mountain bike category is our fastest growing segment globally. Our booth was busy. We had a lot of fresh product to show with more all-mountain and women’s products and a new kids line. The mood at the show seemed optimistic, and we’re looking forward to seeing the orders roll in."

Dakine Concept Glove

Teva Links Mid

“Our bike collection is truly a labor of love for the brand,” said Chris Hillyer, Teva product manager of innovation. “From support of some of the best events in this space to the wealth of knowledge and experience found in our incredible athlete team, we’ve been able to respond with product that fits the performance needs of top athletes without sacrificing the style that is a vital part of the mountain bike culture.” With a growing and increasingly competitive, if not saturated market, manufacturers and retailers - not to mention their consumers - are looking for ways to differentiate themselves, whether through customization, graphics or innovations. Guru bike fitting, Footbalance footbeds, and Riivo shoes were just a few of those offering custom solutions. “We’re pleased with the success we found at Interbike this year. We were in the downstairs hall of the show, surrounded by innovative brands and head-turning products, so we certainly felt some great energy,” Lauren Wilson, Footbalance marketing director said. “But we were most impressed by the dealers’ high level of motivation. They understand the importance and benefit of offering their customers a custom fit solution. So we spent a lot of time having impactful conversations about turning the custom fit opportunity into a profitable solution for dealers.” Upstairs, Dakine introduced its new Concept Glove, billed as the world’s thinnest and lightest mountain bike glove on the market. "We had a great show,” Dakine national sales manager Chico Bukovansky 16 SGBWeekly.com | OCTOBER 1, 2012

Pearl Izumi introduced the X Project, a new entry into mountain bike footwear that hikes and runs as well as pedals. A patentpending carbon shank provides power transfer while offering vertical and torsional flex in foot strikes. At just 320 grams average, X Project features co-molded rubber lugs on hollow TPU lugs for superior traction, with running shoe molded-heel EVA strategically placed for increased comfort. “For serious mountain bike junkies and cyclocross addicts, the question isn’t whether you’re going to get off the bike and hoof it, the question is when,” said Pearl cycling footwear product line manager Tony Torrance. “This shoe is pure performance on the pedal, just as efficient as any carbon shoe, with the added benefit of hikability off the bike.” The X Project line will retail between $160-$280, available in January 2013.

Pearl Izumi X Project

Mavic also introduced the mid-top, heavy-lugged Scree Mountain Bike Shoe, featuring Gore-Tex uppers. MSRP $190 Bell was back with renewed vigor this year and promoted, among others, the Super Helmet, coming in at 390 grams with plenty of ventilation in an urban inspired cross-sport mountain helmet, and models now feature two types of integrated POV camera mounting points. MSRP $125

In bikes, Pure Fix continued to draw stares with its low price points and the introduction of the Kilo glowin-the-dark fixed-gear bicycle. The company allows college students, and now even younger kids with its Micro series, to get into one of their bikes for sub$500. Pure Fix is now sold in the Sport Chalet chain but 20 percent of sales are direct to consumer. "Interbike is one of the best shows in the industry because it’s simply a hub for top talent,” said Pure Fix Cycles co-founder Zach Schau. “The best cyclists, dealers, manufacturers and designers are in the house and it makes for incredible networking and business opportunities." Lazer Wasp Time Trial Helmet

Lazer helmets, just one of many exhibitors from across the pond, hit hard with its Wasp Time Trial Helmet, competing with POC and others in this highly specialized market. Lazer also introduced the new ROX Helmet for mountain bikers, with 24 vents, 280-gram in-mold construction, and Lazer’s Rollsys retention system that accepts the Rollsys Taillight. The Belgian’s also introduced the Argon and Magneto Sunglasses for cyclists.

Pure Fix, Kilo glow-in-the-dark fixed-gear bicycle

Nuun made a splash with its easily dissolving, all-natural, no-sugar-added, vitamin-enhanced hydration tablets. The new Nuun All Day product is sweetened with stevia and available in four fruit flavors. MSRP $30 / pack of four

Lazer Rox Helmet

The Hero Kit for mountain biking received stares as well. It’s a repair kit small enough to fit in a pocket and contains tools, materials, and easyto-follow instructions that empower riders to take control of their rides. "Based on the feedback we received at Interbike, people seem to love the simplicity of having (almost) all you need in one package, the high quality of all the kit components and the fact that detailed and well-written instructions are included,” said the product’s president and founder Jason Berv. “Based on the great reception our initial product received, we now have plans to expand our product line to include Hero Kits for Road Biking and other action sports." MSRP $45

Nuun All Day

Both Shimano and SRAM component manufacturers introduced new drivetrain options with increasingly wider gear spectrums. “These new options are designed for more comfortable climbing and descending and a simple design that avoids the mechanics and cross-over issues that accompany triple-chainring setups,” reported Bicycle Retailer’s Show Daily. 18 SGBWeekly.com | OCTOBER 1, 2012

Lazer Sunglasses

The Hero Kit

Tern gained accolades at the show with its precision folding bikes. The Eclipse X20 weighs in at 23.6 pounds, folds down in 10 seconds to get it on a bus or in a trunk, and features fast 24” wheels and a SRAM 20-speed drivetrain. They are beautiful and functional little machines.

Thule Rack

Tern Eclipse X20

Thule introduced a number of innovations and dominated floor space at the show. The company’s Pack n’ Pedal bike racks and bags, however, took center stage. The line includes lightweight and adaptable racks, panniers, saddlebags and handlebar-mounted bags. Bags are easily attachable and convert quickly to luggage/ commuter solutions, and are extremely durable. The company introduced a stand-alone series of urban packs as well. Thule was also showing off its new line of Chariot child carriers that convert from baby jogger to bike trailer to ski trailer; as well as innovations in its Sport Rack line of affordable racks and many upgrades to the Thule rack and cargo systems.

Thule Cargo System

For rack maker Küat, the Vagabond X cargo rack and Skinny cargo tray and the new Rüfee roof top tray were top hits, as was the new LinK bottle lock, the surprisingly light NYC chain lock ($49). The Vagabond X, delivering to dealers now, was much anticipated and the Skinny saw lots of interest in a competitive rack market. The Rüfee ($209) has an integrated wheel lock and is bomber, also nicely featured for the price.

Küat Rack

Another interesting lock development was the TiGr Lock - a minimalist titanium bow that is lightweight and tough to break. Included straps latch handily to any top tube, and the lock makes it possible to capture both wheels or lock several bikes together. Thule Chariot Child Carrier

OCTOBER 1, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com

Startup Company Ultralight, also located downstairs among dozens of up-and-coming entrepreneurs, introduced the currentlylightest road cycling pedal cleat system to the marketplace at 112 grams. It utilizes a simple straight shaft design with unique lock-in mechanism, available in a titanium and steel model. “You can’t help but be impressed when you first see and hold the pedals,” said former Garmin-Slipstream ProTour rider Will Frischkorn. “However, it’s the lower rotational weight, the ride quality and the increased power transfer the pedals deliver that really makes them special.”

Ultralight Pedal Cleat

Photo Courtesy of Thule

Sending out samples with riders on DemoDay, Native eyewear introduced new styles to its stable with a focus on the N3 lens, a technology not currently in the line. Native frames also now seamlessly incorporate a co-injected, grippy, comfortable molding into the plastic. The team at eVent fabrics introduced waterproof and air permeable fabrics that can be sublimated, allowing custom apparel for cycling - perfect for teams and clubs - that is weatherproof, breathable, and also sports their own logos, designs and colors. Three different weights of 3-layer fabric can be sublimated and are available to custom cycling apparel manufacturers as well as to any customers of eVent fabrics - including Castelli, Hincapie, Bontrager, Sugoi and Showers Pass, in the cycling world. HydraPak also showed spunk with a unique bladder and hose design, and the first insulated water bottle made with PrimaLoft - the Wooly Mammoth - utilizing a double-layer design borrowing technology from the apparel industry. Polypropylene construction means lightweight, dishwasher safe, and BPA and Phthalate-free. ($16) It also debuted the Softflask, oddly squishable for holding gel and getting down to the last drop. Bicycle innovations were clearly too many to mention. Suffice it to say, however, that 29ers ran away with the show, driving an eight percent growth in mountain bike sales this year. The 650b wheelsize movement, spearheaded by companies like Norco, has yet to go mainstream. Belt drives (such as the Honey Badger 29er from Spot Brand Bikes), downhill beasts (such as the $30,000 Phil Wood DH), and fat tire bikes (such as Moot’s Titanium FrosTi Snow Bike) were all show standouts. Electric bikes continue to come into their own. 20 SGBWeekly.com | OCTOBER 1, 2012

Introductions such as the e-bike by snowmobile leader Polaris, the eFlow by Currie Technologies, and the Voltage Cycles production Sport model are attempting to push e-bikes into the mainstream for both transportation and recreation.

Moot's Titanium FrosTi Snow Bike

This spring, look for even more growth in compression apparel, sport tape, air-flow backpacks, integrated LED lights, tires, energy food and drink, and flat pedals to boot.■ Note: Interbike, currently run by Nielsen Expositions, who also produces Outdoor Retailer, was founded in 1982 and has been grounded in Las Vegas since the mid-1990s. The show recently announced a move to the Mandalay Bay Conference Center and Hotel for 2013 through 2015. The show begins with the OutDoor Demo in Boulder City, NV, on September 16-17, 2013, followed by the Interbike Expo from September 18-20.

For full year calendar go to sportsonesource.com/events

OCTOBER 2012 3-5

OIA Rendezvous Boston, MA

6-7

The Retailing Summit Dallas, TX

NOVEMBER 2012 3-4

NBS Fall Athletic Market Indianapolis, IN

8-9

TAG Fall/Winter Show N. Charleston, SC

13-14

A.D.A. Fall Show Las Vegas, NV

18-20

Athletic Show Sports Inc. Las Vegas, NV

DECEMBER 2012 3-4

Sports Inc. Footwear & Apparel St. Charles, MO

3-5

EORA Southeast Market Asheville, NC

5-7 Atlanta Fashion Shoe & Accessory Market Atlanta, GA

JANUARY 2013 5-7

ASI Orlando Orlando, FL

7-8 ATA Show (Archery Trade Association) Louisville, KY 7-10

EWSRA/SWRA Winter Sports Market Atlantic City, NJ

7-10

NEWSR Winter Sports Market Manchester, NH

10-12

Surf Expo Orlando, FL

14-15

Metropolitan New York Shoe Market Secaucus, NJ

22 SGBWeekly.com | SEPTEMBER 17, 2012

15-18

SHOT Show Las Vegas, NV

15-16 Première Vision New York, New York 17-20 NBS Winter-Specialty Market Denver, CO 17-19

Sports Licensing & Tailgate Show Las Vegas, NV

18-20

Imprinted Sportswear Show (ISS) Long Beach, CA

Outdoor Retailer All Mountain Demo Salt Lake City, UT

23-26 Outdoor Retailer Winter Market Salt Lake City, UT 23-26 PGA Merchandise Show Orlando, FL 24-27 ASA-ICAST Chicagoland Fishing, Travel & Outdoor Exposition Schamburg, IL 29-31 WSA Show Las Vegas, NV 30 - 1 NABA Trade Show (National Archery Buyers Association) Reno, NV 31-3

SIA Snow Show Denver, CO

FEBRUARY 2013 1-5

NBS Spring Semi - Annual Market Fort Worth, TX

3-6

ISPO Munich 2013 Munich, Germany

5-7 FFANY New York, NY 6-8

ASI Dallas Dallas, TX

13-15

Magic Marketplace Las Vegas, NV

13-16

Sports Inc. Outdoor Show Phoenix, AZ

TRADE ASSOCIATIONS | BUYING GROUPS

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 / 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 / Suite 300 Boulder, CO 80301 t 303.444.3353 f 303.444.3284 outdoorindustry.org SGMA 8505 Fenton Street Silver Spring, MD 20910 t 301.495.6321 f 301.495.6322 sgma.com 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 / Suite 110 Victor, NY 14564 t 585.742.1010 f 585.742.2645 sportsspecialistsltd.com Team Athletic Goods 629 Cepi Drive Chesterfield, MO 63005 t 636.530.3710 f 636.530.3711 tag1.com Worldwide 8211 South 194th Kent, WA 98032 t 253.872.8746 f 253.872.7603 wdi-wdi.com

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// t wit ter.com/SGB_MAG OCTOBER 1, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com

SEE YOU IN

SALT LAKE

Photo Credit: Adam Barker

TRADESHOW | JANUARY 23-26, 2013 | SALT LAKE CITY, UT ALL MOUNTAIN DEMO | JANUARY 22, 2013 | WASATCH RANGE, UT

TRADESHOW | AUGUST 1-4, 2013 | SALT LAKE CITY, UT OPEN AIR DEMO | JULY 31, 2013 | JORDANELLE STATE PARK, UT OUTDOORRETAILER.COM