SGB WEEKLY 1247 by SportsOneSource

ISSUE 1247 NOVEMBER 19, 2012

The Weekly Digital Magazine for the Sporting Goods Industry

FOR 45 YEARS WE’VE BEEN DRIVING INSOLE TECHNOLOGY FORWARD. There’s no question that gel insoles provide great comfort. But even though they feel great, there are trade-offs: flat gel insoles are often bulky and just don’t have the deep heel cupping and arch support needed for lasting comfort. That is until now. Using the contours of our best-selling TOTAL SUPPORT™ Insole, we’ve built a gel insole your customers will love: Spenco® ProForm Gel. Ultra-Thin Gel cushioning with flexible arch support. Maximum margins for you and fantastic value for your customers.

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PROFORM U L T R A - T H I N

Spenco

Love Your Feet™

Group Publisher Editor In Chief James Hartford james@sportsonesource.com 704.987.3450

Senior Business Editor Thomas J. Ryan tryan@sportsonesource.com 917.375.4699

ISSUE 1247 NOVEMBER 19, 2012

The Weekly Digital Magazine for the Sporting Goods Industry

Contributing Editors Aaron H. Bible, Fernando J. Delgado, Charlie Lunan, Matt Powell Creative Director Teresa Hartford teresa@sportsonesource.com 704.987.3450 (x105) Graphic Designer Camila Amortegui camila@sportsonesource.com 704.987.3450 (x103) Advertising Sales Account Manager / Northeast Buz Keenan buz@sportsonesource.com 201.887.5112 Advertising Sales Account Managers / Midwest Barry Kingwill & Jim Kingwill bkingwill@sportsonesource.com jkingwill@sportsonesource.com 847.537.9196 Advertising Sales Account Manager / Southeast Katie O'Donohue katieo@sportsonesource.com 828.244.3043

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NEWS

4 6

FEATURES

BY THE NUMBERS 8 HOKA ONE ONE Aims For FOOT LOCKER to Introduce Over-Sized Growth New Women's Concept 12 NEW PERFORMANCE Product NEW BALANCE Foundation Supports Round Up Sandy Disaster Relief DEPARTMENTS MOVERS & SHAKERS 18 I AM SGB... SKECHERS Presents $25,000 and Chris Brown Footwear for Hurricane Sandy Relief Principal, The Gart Companies

ON THE COVER: Hoka Stinson Tarmac (Mens). In the past 18 months the Hoka One One Stinson Tarmac Trail Running Shoe has appeared on more than 30 podiums at trail races around the world. The Stinson shoe's wide, rockered and maximally cushioned sole adds a near-weightless feel to every steep ascent and rocky descent. It's stable through a massive variety of terrain and returns energy with springy rebound, MSRP $170. 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

NOVEMBER 19, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com

NEWS

BY THE NUMBERS 20.9% Dick's Sporting Goods, Inc. reported third quarter profits grew 20.9 percent, to $50.1 million, or 40 cents per share, exceeding the company's guidance provided in mid-August calling for 36 cents a share. Net sales for Q3 of 2012 increased by 11.2 percent to $1.3 billion due primarily to a 5.1 percent increase in consolidated same store sales and the growth of the company's store network. The 5.1 percent consolidated same-store sales increase consisted of a 3.9 percent increase at Dick's Sporting Goods stores, a 2.3 percent increase at Golf Galaxy and a 46.7 percent increase in the e-commerce business.

$213.3 MILLION Easton-Bell Sports, Inc. had modest sales growth during the third quarter of 2012, hurt by a weak snow sports market. Net sales increased to $213.3 million, compared to $212.5 million of net sales for the previous year. Team Sports net sales increased $7.2 million, or 6.2 percent in the third quarter of 2012, compared to the third quarter of 2011. The increase was due to continued market share gains driving double-digit growth in sales of Riddell football products and increased sales of Easton Mako hockey sticks introduced earlier in the year.

17% Spy, Inc. reported sales of its core Spy brand products increased by $1.4 million, or 17 percent, to $9.8 million for the third quarter ended September 30, compared with core Spy brand sales of $8.4 million during the quarter ended September 30, 2011. Total company net sales increased by $700,000, or 8 percent, to $9.9 million for the quarter, compared with total net sales of $9.2 million for the year-ago comparable period.

5.3% Head NV reported sales for the first nine months of 2012 were up 5.3 percent compared to the first nine months of the prior year, driven by Racquet Sports, especially in North America, and compounded by favorable exchange rate movements but offset by lower sales in Winter Sports. Winter Sports sales for the first nine months were behind the comparable period in 2011 by 7.9 percent. 4 SGBWeekly.com | NOVEMBER 19, 2012

FOOT LOCKER TO INTRODUCE NEW WOMEN'S CONCEPT Foot Locker, Inc. announced the introduction of SIX:02, an elevated retail concept featuring top brands in fitness apparel and athletic footwear for women. The first three stores will open for the holiday season in Stamford Mall in Stamford, CT, Willowbrook Mall in Wayne, NJ, and North Star Mall in San Antonio, TX. SIX:02 will feature dedicated fit zones and fitting lounge areas to assist in fitting women with fitness pants, sports bras, tops, and athletic footwear based on their body type, activity and style. Brands carried at the store will include Nike, Adidas, Asics, Under Armour, New Balance, Mizuno, Brooks, and Actra, as well as emerging fitness brands, such as Pink Lotus, Colosseum, and Spanx. "A woman's day tends to be packed with work, family, and friends. She often finds a moment for herself at the gym, during a run, or at an early morning fitness class," said Stacy Cunningham, EVP of marketing at Foot Locker. "We understand that it's her time to feel good and to look good. She deserves a place to find premium fitness and athletic gear that allows her to combine her personal style and versatility with performance features. We are excited to offer her that opportunity and experience it at SIX:02."

NEW BALANCE FOUNDATION SUPPORTS SANDY DISASTER RELIEF New Balance Foundation announced a national partnership with the American Red Cross to become a Disaster Responder Partner with a donation of $250,000 to aid current Hurricane Sandy relief efforts as well as fund future disaster recovery efforts. The partnership between New Balance Foundation and the Red Cross will continue through November 2013 and will include an internal program where New Balance associates can make direct donations to the Red Cross to support disaster relief efforts. All New Balance associate donations will be matched by New Balance through the company’s Corporate Match Program. New Balance also donated apparel and accessories to the FDNY from the brand’s participation at the ING New York City Marathon Health and Fitness Expo to those in need in the New York Metropolitan area affected by Hurricane Sandy. Donated items included long sleeve t-shirts, jackets, socks, gloves and hats. “When disasters like Hurricane Sandy occur, the American Red Cross is there to provide necessities such as food, shelter and emotional support to those in need,” said Anne Davis, managing trustee for New Balance Foundation. “As a Disaster Responder Partner, New Balance Foundation’s support ensures that the Red Cross can be on the scene of a disaster at a moment’s notice.”

NE S ERS & M OWV SHAKERS Nau appointed Carey Mullett as senior women's designer. Most recently, Mullett was the senior apparel designer for Technical Sportswear at Patagonia. In her new role, Mullett will work as part of the Nau creative team and will oversee product design for the women's category. Burton Snowboards plans to increase its support of the brand and snowboarding in Canada by hiring Sebastien Paradis, who becomes the company’s first general manager for Burton Canada. Paradis will report directly to John Lacy, Burton’s EVP of product and North American sales. Paris Glove of Canada Ltd. named Robert Langlois as CEO. Langlois is a 40-year veteran of the sporting goods and active lifestyle industries. Christopher & Banks Corporation (CBK), a specialty women’s apparel retailer, has elected LuAnn Via as the company’s president and chief executive officer. VF Outdoor & Action Sports announced a new member to the VF Outdoor and Action Sports, Canada team. Francois Goulet will join the VF Outdoor & Actions Sports Americas leadership team as general manager, VF Outdoor & Action Sports, Canada. Asics Brazil, a subsidiary of Asics America Group, appointed Giovani Decker as president effective immediately. Decker has served as Asics Brazil’s general manager and vice president since 2010 and is the first Brazilian president for Asics Brazil. Outdoor Tech (OT), creators of wireless audio and innovative tech accessories with an eye to the outdoors, added Adam Janecka as vice president of sales. 6 SGBWeekly.com | NOVEMBER 19, 2012

Skechers USA, Inc.’s elite marathon runner Meb Keflezighi, (pictured here center top,) presented a $25,000 check to the Mayors Fund in New York City on behalf of Skechers for rebuilding efforts after the destruction of Superstorm Sandy.

SKECHERS PRESENTS $25,000 AND FOOTWEAR FOR HURRICANE SANDY RELIEF Skechers USA, Inc.’s elite marathon runner Meb Keflezighi presented a $25,000 check to the Mayors Fund in New York City on behalf of Skechers for rebuilding efforts after the destruction of Superstorm Sandy. Keflezighi also appeared at a special fundraising event at the Skechers Times Square store where the footwear company donated 20 percent of all sales raising additional money for the Hurricane Sandy New Jersey Relief Fund. To aid families that have been displaced or lost their homes during the hurricane, Skechers worked with Fashion Delivers to get 500 pairs of footwear immediately into the hands of two relief efforts: the Secaucus Municipal Center in New Jersey and The Legacy Center in Queens. Skechers also will be donating a large number of pairs via its charity footwear line that will reach children impacted by the storm in December. “I arrived last week in New York to run as I have so many times before. Then after witnessing the storm’s devastation and hearing stories from those affected, the priorities of this amazing city became crystal clear,” said Keflezighi, who appears in the global marketing campaign for Skechers GOrun ride. “There’s always another race, but those who lost their homes or friends or family members need our assistance today. I’m fortunate to be here and I hope that together with Skechers we’ve been able to help some of those who need it most.” “Many of our retail associates and retail partners were impacted by this storm,” added Skechers president Michael Greenberg. “So, we quickly mobilized to figure out how to best help and we’re glad Meb was able to collaborate on raising both money and awareness. We also want to thank the countless runners - both local and visiting for the marathon - who attended our fundraising event on Monday. It’s truly a fantastic and supportive community.”

AIMS FOR OVER-SIZED GROWTH WHILE VIBRAM’S FIVEFINGERS CERTAINLY LED TO A RADICAL RETHINKING OF RUNNING FOOTWEAR DESIGN AROUND A LESS-IS-MORE APPROACH, HOKA ONE ONE IS SLOWLY PROVING THAT NATURAL RUNNING MOTION SHOES CAN COME IN A MUCH BIGGER PACKAGE. By Thomas J. Ryan

Hoka One One is seen by many as the antithesis of minimalist running shoes. Loosely translated from the ancient Maori language to mean, “Time to fly,” Hoka One One’s unconventional design features a midsole with volume two and a half times greater than traditional running shoes. But while the look is certainly unique for a running shoe, more shocking to some has been the shoe’s success on the trail. Long distance runners and endurance athletes wearing Hoka One One shoes have recorded more than 30 podium finish8 SGBWeekly.com | NOVEMBER 19, 2012

es on five continents in the past 18 months. And they’ve also attracted a major investor. In late July, Deckers Outdoor, the parent of Ugg and Teva, acquired a minority stake in Hoka One One. Deckers Outdoor’s President, CEO and Chairman Angel Martinez, said at the time, “Hoka’s visionary design and undeniable performance have made it a coveted brand among some of the best runners in the world,

Hoka One One Stinson Evo Tarmac (Mens) combines the best features of sister shoes the Bondi B and Mafate. The Stinson Evo Tarmac features an improved outsole more suitable for use on road and concrete surfaces yet still performs on trail and off road surfaces. The fit and comfort of the upper has been improved in the forefoot. The midsole has been enhanced with a more contoured sidewall for slightly more width while still remaining snug.

and it will be our pleasure to help build the business through sourcing and development support, and bring more runners to the brand over time.” In an interview with SGB Weekly, Jay Taylor, who recently was appointed Hoka One One’s president, said the brand in the short to midterm will focus on specialty run. But he said management long-term believes Hoka One One and over-sized shoe design has a much bigger opportunity not only to reach mainstream status in the run category but will also apply to other footwear categories, including comfort and walking as well as medical, rehab and other service areas. “The concept really has benefits to all footwear in and out of running shoes,” said Taylor, who has overseen Hoka One One’s distribution in North America, Australia and New Zealand. “We get daily requests from the medical field, including surgeons, for a shoe they can wear in an operating room as well as to prescribe for post-op patients. As well as from people in

the service industry and people that have worn the running shoe as it has helped them with mobility problems and are looking for a casual version.” Hoka One One was founded by Jean-Luc Diard and Nicolas Mermoud, both adventure racers personally looking to create a trail running shoe that would allow them to fly downhill even if they were heel striking. Driven by a trending popularity in outdoor recreation, namely trail running, the two noticed that athletes were becoming increasingly faster, and that variation in performance was most noticeable during descents. Downhill running is often synonymous with fatigue, impact and muscle strain. At the same time, the two saw the benefits of oversize design techniques in skis while working at Salomon Group. Diard had formerly been president and CEO of Salomon while Mermoud was his former marketing manager. Those benefits extended into golf clubs, tennis rackets and other sports categories. The whole “oversize” concept, according to Taylor, is to alter the user experience to make the activity or sport more enjoyable as it becomes easier. “For example, it’s easier to hit a golf ball with a head NOVEMBER 19, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com

Hoka One One Stinson B Evo The first thing you notice about the Hoka One One shoes is that they have a HUGE midsole that acts as a cushion which not only absorbs the rocks and roots of any trail, but comforts and supports ankles, knees, hips, and back movements for longer distances.

that is bigger in cc’s (cubic centimeters),” said Taylor in an interview with SGB Weekly. “Return of a tennis ball becomes more manageable with a sweat spot that is bigger in the face of the racquet. Skis have the most dramatic change as the added surface area creates lift in softer snow, reducing effort needed to turn the skis. With Hoka, the oversize sole puts the ‘Rocker’ in the forefoot to get the athlete from foot strike to toe off quickly. The cushion in the shoe ensures that the foot doesn’t move into a pronation phase of the gait cycle to aggressively enhance reducing muscle fatigue. The original Hoka One One trail shoe launched in May 2010 and expanded into outdoor, hiking and road running in Spring 2011. This fall, Hoka One One launched the Stinson Evo Tarmac, a shoe with a more vertical sidewall and a road-specific outsole. The design features more rocker due to its overall geometry to enable the shoe to roll a little faster. The brand now does around $5 million in annual sales. In the U.S., Hoka One One has been embraced by ultra-runners who find they can run further with less effort and recover quicker. These include ultra-running stars Jason Schlarb, who set a new course record of 4:28:30 in the Jemez 50K wearing the Hoka One One in May. In the same month, Dave Mackey, the 2011 Ultra Runner of the Year, won the Miwok 100K, and Chris Prince took second in the shoes. Another fan is world-class endurance runner Karl Meltzer, who holds the record for most 100-mile trail race wins. Not surprisingly, Hoka One One’s popularity has been particularly strong in Boulder, CO, which Taylor describes as the “epicenter for distance trail running” and where Hoka One One’s team placed much of its initial effort. But the brand is now starting to gain more traction in the Midwest, Florida and the East coast and also finding fans among those running half or full triathlons or marathon distances. 10 SGBWeekly.com | NOVEMBER 19, 2012

Taylor said Hoka One One is seeing more athletes starting to exclusively use Hoka as their shoe of choice to train and race in, especially as distances increase or training millage increases. At the same time, others are using Hoka One One as an alternative in their “toolbox” of available shoes, depending on their training regimen. “For example, they may use their Vibram product for technique and speed work on grass for 30 minutes a week,” said Taylor. “Run in a traditional training shoe for a workout or two and then a Hoka shoe for distance or an active recovery run. This is especially important for Ironman distance triathletes.” He credits Vibram’s success with FiveFingers with helping open the door for other approaches to shoe design in the “conservative running market.” By definition, Hoka also fits the bill as a minimalist shoe as it features a 4mm to 5mm heel-to-toe drop. Despite its width, the shoes are still 15 percent lighter than conventional running shoes to also play to the lightweight theme. Said Taylor, “We get there a slightly different way by adding some protection to reduce vibration that hits the muscles.” Much like Vibram’s FiveFingers, he sees others following Hoka One One with their own take on the over-sized category, further lending credence to the opportunity. He has noticed other run brands experimenting with more cushioning than they used to. To further support the brand, Hoka One One has expanded its field force, increased its marketing spend and are in conversations with other elite athletes to help promote the brand. Noted Taylor, “The special part of Hoka has been that it has been sought out for the solutions it provides, so we have quite a few incoming calls.” The brand also has innovative projects in the works for 2013 and 2014 that it promises will continue to push conventional boundaries visually as well as technologically. “We will concentrate on making fast shoes that are also lightweight,” said Taylor. “We have new materials available that weren’t six to eight months ago that will help the brand evolve from a technology and performance standpoint.” ■

NEW

PERFORMANCE

PRODUCT

ROUND SGB WEEKLY WRANGLES UP SOME OF THE BEST NEW PRODUCTS FOR PERFORMANCE RETAILERS AND ATHLETES By Aaron H. Bible

12 SGBWeekly.com | NOVEMBER 19, 2012

he number of citizen-athletes participating in performance sports today is staggering. The Boston marathon sold its near 27,000 spots out in less than eight hours. The recently cancelled NYC Marathon had 140,000 applicants for 47,000 spots. The Leadville 100 Trail Run accepts the first 850 applicants, and getting a spot is said to be nearly impossible. And just last week, Ironman Foundation set a new record as 2013 Ironman Florida sold out in less than a minute. These days in active cities around the world, you just never know the caliber of weekend athletes you will pass on the street; and that means a lot of opportunity for the performance and sporting goods supply chain. Here's an exclusive look at some of the products driving demand.

PATAGONIA FOOTWEAR For Spring 2013, Patagonia Footwear focuses on several performance segments, the biggest of which is trail running. The new line includes a range of products that meets the needs of different runners and different terrain - from training to long distances, as well as multi-surface running. Patagonia Footwear introduces EVERmore, its lightest shoe to date (6.2 oz. for women and 7.8 oz. for men). The EVERmore has a durable, breathable air mesh upper with protective overlays and drainage ports to dissipate water after stream crossings. The soft, counter-free heel, integrated footbed and flexible midsole and outsole allow the foot to naturally connect with terrain while retaining some cushioning, MSRP $110.

Patagonia EVERmore

NOVEMBER 19, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com

Salomon EXO S-Lab Tank

Salomon Sense Hydro S-Lab Set

SALOMON Poised to revolutionize how trail runners hydrate, the Sense Hydro S-Lab Set is Salomon’s next innovation in the hydration world. Putting hydration literally in the palm of your hand, the Sense Hydro is the lightest, simplest solution for hydration while training or for short-distance running. This unique system using SensiFit is designed around the human hand, with soft, vented fabrics, which allow any soft flask from 150 to 1000ml, to fit into the clasp of your hand without water bouncing or sloshing. Sold by the pair in Small, Medium and Large. Includes a 250 ml PVC-free bottle, MSRP $40.

Salomon EXO S-Lab Twinskin Skort

lightweight jacket. Utilizing windproof fabric that balances wind protection with breathability, it is standard equipment in the essentials’ packs of endurance competitors, MSRP $80. The Light Tank is a close fitting, breathable, wicking tank. Reflective branding on the front and back add safety for running at night, and flatlock seams help to eliminate chaffing; it’s designed to provide maximum postural and upper body support for aggressive runners, MSRP $80. The Twinskin Skort is built with a light compression short that provides muscle and postural support, with a lightweight over skirt, MSRP $140. Footbalance Performance Footbed

Salomon Advanced Skin Belt

Billed as “the most minimal trail running belt for carrying your essential equipment in trail races,” the Advanced Skin Belt by Salomon is designed in conjunction with real athletes for intense races. This super lightweight form-fitting belt with front and back compartments eliminates bouncing and twisting during trail races. It weighs in at a scant five ounces and features Sensifit Construction for ultra formfitting stability, rear equipment storage, reflective material, 3D mesh and power mesh for compression, front hydration and energy storage with intuitive access, Twin link adjustment for ease of adjustment on the run, and auto centered elements for high load balance, MSRP $70. Salomon is also introducing new trail running apparel for women: the S-Lab Light Jacket, the EXO S-Lab Tank and the EXO S-Lab Twinskin Skort. These products are all built by the Salomon Running team at the S-Lab in Annecy, France. The Light Jacket is an easily compressed, 14 SGBWeekly.com | NOVEMBER 19, 2012

FOOTBALANCE The new Footbalance Custom Insoles Performance Footbed is made for those who want light support with a minimalistic feel and those that can benefit from dynamic energy return. They are ideal for activities where speed and performance come first, such as Nordic skiing, downhill skiing, mountain biking, snowshoeing, etc. Available in sizes 34-38 and weigh 1.4 oz., MSRP $80.

ULTIMATE DIRECTION New for Spring 2013, minimalism meets hydration with the Anton Krupicka-designed Ultimate Direction AK Race Vest. Weighing just six ounces, the AK Race Vest is being billed as the world’s lightest hydration pack. With all the features needed for short to medium runs and races, the vest offers twin front-mounted bottle pockets and a 4.5-liter main compartment for gear or a hydration reservoir, and several smaller pockets easily accessed on the go, MSRP $89.

into effective and efficient hydration for use during performance sports. Nuun has also expanded its product line from sports performance hydration to include all natural, vitamin-enhanced products for every day use. Nuun All Day elevates your water with light, refreshing, fruit-flavored tastes and hints of necessary vitamins and minerals, MSRP $6.50/tube.

FLAT OUT SOX

Click to view the video of Anton Krupicka: On designing his new Ultimate Direction Race Vest

Also new is the Scott Jurek-designed SJ Ultra Vest with twin chestmounted pockets for easy access to water bottles while a four-liter main compartment carries trail essentials or a 100 oz. hydration reservoir. Space-age materials include hyper-breathable, light and strong Hex Mesh and the virtually indestructible Cuben Fiber, MSRP $124. Ultimate Direction tapped Peter Bakwin for the 12 oz. PB Adventure Vest, also new for Spring with a no bounce/no pressure-point design, industry-leading volume-to-weight ratio, twin chest-mounted water bottle pockets, and reservoir compatibility. Light and durable, it is also made with Hex Mesh and Cuben Fiber and offers abundant storage including an 8.5-liter main compartment, storage pouch and two zippered pockets, MSRP $149.

The Flat Out Sox are compression socks that boost circulation and stabilize muscles for optimal performance and maximum recovery. The bold graphic design works a lot like kinesiology tape - supporting major muscles to reduce fatigue and enhance endurance. Made from 85 percent nylon and 15 percent spandex, the sock boasts anti-chafe padding on the ball of the foot and ankle, MSRP $65. 110% compression products are unique and effective, especially in the way they integrate icing into compression. Product packaging includes its own cooler to keep innovative ice packs cold while you ride or run for post-race use.

Flat Out Sox 110% compression products

Nuun Hydration Tablets

Clean Bottle Runner

CLEAN BOTTLE

NUUN

Clean Bottle is perfect for any athlete who utilizes drink mixes in his or her water bottles. It unscrews at both sides making it possible to get the gunk out without having to throw a bottle away. One of Clean Bottleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new products is the Runner, which fits in

Nuun Hydration Tablets offer bright, colorful packaging and add flavor to your water without sugar or calories. The original Nuun tablet, Nuun Active Hydration has a special formulation of electrolytes to help increase the amount of water thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s absorbed into the bloodstream. With the proper electrolyte-fluid balance, Nuun turns regular water Clean Bottle Square

NOVEMBER 19, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com

the palm of the hand and has a special carrier specifically for an iPhone. Clean Bottle is also debuting the Square which, according to the manufacturer, “is the sexiest and most functional water bottle on the market,” MSRP $35.

triathletes, cyclists and teams. For 2013, they are introducing their new Tattoo Cycling Kit, made from Ti-Ex fabric and offered in both long and short sleeve jerseys in two color schemes. Their Brazilian Bikini is also a new 2013 product for performance athletes, featuring a string back and athletic look. Cycling Kit, MSRP $119 to $129; Bikini $100.

Rock Tape hi-tech athletic tape

Clif Bar Chocolate Cherry

CLIF SHOT BLOKS

ROCK TAPE Rocktape is a thin, stretchy hi-tech athletic tape that can be used to treat a wide variety of sports injuries such as shin splints, plantar fasciitis, runner’s knee and others. It is sometimes known as the “gold standard” in kinesiology tape and also has a reputation for enhancing performance, legally. Rocktape comes in unique and fun prints and colors. It is a product that is seeing wide growth in popularity among runners, cross fit athletes, and physical therapists, MSRP $18 to $40. Betty Designs Tattoo Cycling Kit

Betty Designs Brazilian Bikini

The market-leading energy chew for performance athletes announced a category-first flavor, Chocolate Cherry, marking a departure from fruit-only flavored energy chews. Made with 95 percent organic ingredients, Clif Shot Bloks provide an optimum balance of carbohydrates and electrolytes for quick energy and proper muscle function. They are easy to chew and use during activity with their convenient, performance-friendly packaging. Each packet of Shot Bloks contains six energy chews. With 100 calories per three pieces, it’s simple for athletes to customize and track nutritional intake. The addition of Chocolate Cherry to the Shot Blok lineup gives athletes nine flavors to choose from, MSRP $2. GU Chomps Lemon Chomps

GU Chomps offer a change of pace from gels and are the perfect fuel to chomp on when riding, skiing, swimming, hiking or just about any other activity. For 2013, GU is adding breadth to their line of highly touted chewables with Lemon Chomps. Easy to stash and ready whenever, Chomps provide the right amount of carbohydrates, amino acids, antioxidants and electrolytes to restore balance and replenish energy, MSRP $36 for box of 16.

PEARL IZUMI

BETTY DESIGNS Betty Designs offers women bold, edgy and unconventional racing kits for cycling and triathlon, as well as sexy yet functional swimwear. Betty Designs has designed suits and kits for world champion 16 SGBWeekly.com | NOVEMBER 19, 2012

GU CHOMPS

Beginning Spring 2013, Pearl Izumi will release the Project E:Motion shoe line featuring a newly crafted design focusing on the midsole, which will deliver a smoother sensation with an ever-changing heel to

Pearl Izumi Project E:Motion

ball-of-foot offset throughout each stride. This is different from the static offset most running shoes offer, and PROJECT E:Motion will drive the runner forward with an intuitive flow and a natural, no-slap motion, making for a smoother, more efficient running experience. The E:Motion line will consist of seven variations with multiple options in trail, road and tri models, MSRP $115 to $125.

INJINJI Offering a number of different styles and models, the Injinji Performance Toesock series proInjinji Performance vides comfort and functionality Toesock with no restriction of free movement and eliminates skin-on-skin friction. The Performance 2.0 Run Series keeps feet dry and protected on any surface at any distance. Available in three different weights and various colors and cuts, this Toesock features a mesh top, arch support and moisture management, making it a go-to choice for runners of all abilities, MSRP $12.

The anatomically correct butterfly shape at the back of the knee provides complete range of motion and enhanced comfort over extended distances. Zamst was founded in Japan in 1973, and now has over 500 stores carrying its products throughout Europe, with expansion into the U.S. market this year. Zamst products are developed in consultation with orthopedic surgeons, certified athletic trainers and elite athletes. The RK-1 is the only product of its kind that provides immediate relief of IT Band Syndrome. On Zamst’s website athletes can find an extensive selection of braces for other injury prone areas.

GORE BIKE WEAR Every racer knows that the first layer is critical. GORE Base Layer Shirts are windproof, available in short- and long-sleeve, and ideal for windy and cold days. They provide warmth and quick moisture management and protect from cooling in breast-, shoulder- and kidney-areas. Features include an extra-long back, an elastic Windstopper insert on front, at sleeves, over shoulders and on kidney area, a thin, soft fabric construction, minimized seams for less chafing, and flat-lock seams, MSRP $80 / Long Sleeve. The Xenon Soft Shells are a group of multi-functional,

HYDRAPAK The Hyrapak Laguna is the all-day pack designed with straightforward functionality and durability. Hydrapak’s premier three-liter ShapeShift Reservoir is surrounded by 360-degree insulation, and the pack keeps necessities organized and accessible whether on foot or mountain bike. Its waist and chest straps allow for Hydrapak Laguna customized security, while EVA padded shoulder straps provide enhanced stability and comfort, MSRP $120. Beyond their packs, Hydrapak will also be emphasizing their Softflask line for 2013.

ZAMST With runner’s knee being the second most common injury in the sport, Zamst addressed the issue by creating an innovative product that concentrates on alleviating excess stress to the knee. Zamst’s RK-1 Knee Brace is designed to maintain and provide proper positioning and corrects lower leg alignment to reduce the stress on the IT Band.

Zamst RK-1 Knee Brace

GORE Base Layer Shirt

Gore Xenon Soft Shell

hybrid jacket and jersey in one. They offer wind chill protection in a tight ergonomic fit and are an ideal early morning or springtime piece. Offering great protection with maximum breathability, Xenon combines the comfort of a soft mid-layer and the water resistance of a shell in one garment. The jacket includes three compartment pockets on back; body-mapped material mix; reflective hits throughout; and a number of other attributes. Windstopper Soft Shells keep the rider comfortable with freedom of movement and can be worn in all weather conditions, MSRP $190. ■ NOVEMBER 19, 2012 | SGBWeekly.com

I AM... SGB WHAT FIRST DROVE YOU TO GET ACTIVE? The pure enjoyment of sports. My dad was a lacrosse player in college so he gave me my first stick when I was very young. I also got into tennis and ice hockey as well, starting around second grade. WHAT SPORT WAS YOUR FAVORITE AS A KID? Lacrosse. Even though I grew up in Denver, the grade school I attended is a big lacrosse school. I looked up to a ton of older guys who always had their sticks with them at recess and around school. I wanted to be just like them. Really motivated me to get better. WHAT WERE YOU LIKE AS A YOUNG PERSON THAT SET THE STAGE FOR YOUR CAREER? I had a lot of energy and couldn’t sit still. It continues today but in a much different way. I like being on the move because I feel like I am doing things. Whenever I spend too much time behind my desk I get worried. HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE OUTDOOR/SPORTS BUSINESS? Started with my current job working for the Gart family/Gart Capital. I grew tired of working in finance and I was not overly passionate about it. Today I am passionate as ever and love what we are doing in specialty retail. WAS THERE ONE PERSON WHO SERVED AS YOUR MENTOR FOR YOUR CAREER? Hands down, my dad. He taught me to work hard, be humble and, most importantly, be honest. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WORKING AT RSG? I get to meet with people who have started their own businesses and built them into what they are today. They have amazing stories and I respect them for taking the ultimate risk and following their passion. And I love the specialty running category because it’s about much more then just selling product. You can change people’s lives.

CHRIS BROWN Principal, The Gart Companies

Chris Brown is a principal at Gart Capital Partners in Denver, CO. He started with The Gart Companies seven years ago when they formed Gart Capital to transition from being true owner/operators into private equity investors in specialty retail. Today, his focus is 100 percent on the company’s recently acquired Running Specialty Group (RSG). Brown played on three national championship lacrosse teams at Princeton. And when he’s not out enjoying sports on his own, he can be found playing with his three daughters, and no doubt instilling a bit of competition in them as well. 18 SGBWeekly.com | NOVEMBER 19, 2012

WHO'S THE BUSINESS PERSON YOU MOST ADMIRE AND WHY? Tony Hsieh. Zappos cares so much about their employees and that is a major factor in making them successful. Yvon Chouinard is also up there because he is not afraid to push the boundaries of corporate thinking and environmental responsibility. IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANYONE IN THE WORLD, WHO WOULD IT BE? Buffett, Gretzky and Dave Matthews. That covers it all for me. WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO SOMEONE LOOKING TO WORK OR GROW HIS OR HER CAREER IN THE SPORTING GOODS/ OUTDOOR INDUSTRY? Follow your heart and don’t get wrapped up with the paycheck. Heart and passion are so much more important. If you love it, the money will follow. I truly believe that.

THE FILA FLEXNET MEMORY HAS A SPECIALLY CONSTRUCTED MEMORY FOAM FOOTBED, MOLDING TO YOUR FOOT WITH EACH STEP. THAT MEANS INCREASED COMFORT, EXPERT CUSHIONING AND A GREAT FIRST FEEL. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> FILA.COM

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