Sports Trader September 2015

Southern Africa’s business-to-business magazine for the sport, outdoor and leisure industries • Vol 36 No 5 • September 2015

The state of the fishing industry What’s new in sandals and water shoes?

The right hockey products for the player level

Vol 36 Nr 5 September 2015 www.sportstrader.co.za

Industry

On the cover

Publisher: Editor: Managing editor: Proofreader: Features:

Nicol du Toit Carin Hardisty Trudi du Toit Liz Milburn Carin Hardisty, Chanelle Mac Allister, Charl Durand, Rhianah Rhode, Trudi du Toit, Yamkela Mkebe Design: Carin Hardisty, Rhianah Rhode Photography: Nicol du Toit Advertising: Nicol du Toit Subscriptions: Carin Hardisty Printing: Paarl Media Paarl Distribution: Tunleys Sports Trader is published bi-monthly

by Rocklands Communications cc.

Reg. No: 1997/057165/23.

Members: N. J. & G. C. du Toit & C. Hardisty

Contact details:

PO Box 12197 Mill Street 8010 22 Rocklands Avenue, Vredehoek, Cape Town 8001 Tel: 021 461 2544 Fax: 021 461 2549 Website: www.sportstrader.co.za Facebook: SportsTraderMagazine Twitter: @SASportsTrader Blog: sasportsindustry.blogspot.com Advertising: nicol@sportstrader.co.za Editorial: trudi@sportstrader.co.za Subscribe: carin@sportstrader.co.za Publication information: The title and contents of Sports Trader are protected by copyright. It is a business to business publication compiled to inform, entertain and educate retailers, distributors and manufacturers of sports and outdoor equipment, footwear and clothing. It is available only to members of the sport, outdoor and activewear industries and is published bi-monthly. © Rocklands Communications.

News about people in the industry.

Brands on the move

How to select a knife or multitool for different activities

Companies on the move

What do extreme trail runners require from their shoes?

News about brand activity in the industry.

News about companies in the industry.

Clothing & footwear

12 18 21 24 32 34

Kitting out different levels of school hockey players

What extreme trail runners need

Extreme trail runners advise what characteristics their running shoes must have.

Clothing manufacturers optimistic

There has been job growth and renewed retail interest in this sector.

A shoe designer shares his views

Jordan & Co designer Gordon Gassert explains what it takes to design shoes in SA

Sandal and water shoe trends

The latest summer sandals and water shoes will offer something for everyone.

Plan stock for the IRB World Cup

Springbok jersey supplier ASICS gives tips on how to benefit from replica sales.

Other replica news

News about the latest replica launches for local and international soccer teams.

Sport

35 36 38 42 46

Highlights:

Photo: Anja Koehler for Messe Friedrichshafen

The Grendha and Ipanema sandals, locally distributed by Intershu Distributors, feature a variety of colours and styles.

The Grendha sandals feature classic summer footwear silhouettes with a stylish twist that will glisten by a pool during the day, and shimmer throughout the night.

The Ipanema sandals, which combine fashion with features such as multiple sole shapes for better comfort and fit, 360 degree prints that wrap around the sole, stay in touch with current fashion trends and are sold in nearly 100 countries globally.

For more information, contact Intershu Distributors on Tel: 011 345 8000.

2 6 10

People on the move

Product Knowledge: golf balls The ins-and-outs of how a golf ball ticks.

Trends in golf clothing and shoes

Suppliers’ latest golf clothing and footwear are designed to benefit golfers.

Kitting out school hockey players

The different products required by different ages and levels of school hockey players.

Hockey range information News about new hockey ranges

Selling tips: swimming accessories

Tips on how to sell casual and specialist swimming accessories.

How to recommend a hiking pack for all members of the family p58

Outdoor

53 55

Product Knowledge: knives and multi-tools

What features to recommend in a knife or multitool for a specific activity.

New knife ranges

58 60 64 69

New knives and multi-tools to satisfy your customers’ needs

Backpacks for families

What to look at when recommending a technical backpack for mom, dad or the little one.

New backpack ranges

What’s new on the backpack market

Survey of the fishing industry

Industry members give their views on the local fishing tackle retail industry.

Fishing products shown at SAFTAD

A sample of some products introduced at this year’s SAFTAD shows

Trade shows and events

71 72 IBC

Tackle trade show news

Several brands that won best product awards at EFTTEX and ICAST are available locally.

OutDoor show news

The latest trends shown at the OutDoor show held recently.

Tips on how to plan your replica stock for the IRB World cup p34 Photo: Carin Hardisty

Trade show news News about local and international shows.

People on the move

p2 :: Industry

Puma SA recently signed agreements with five top South African athletes: distance runner Yolande Maclean, track and field athletes Jeremiah Motsau and Ransto Mokopane, and running twins Lebo and Lebogang Phalula (above).

“Our new ambassadors mirror our brand direction of ForeverFaster and we look forward to seeing them break new records on the field, road and track in our premium technical Puma athletic gear,” says Brett Bellinger, marketing director for Puma SA. The Phalula twins and Maclean made their first appearance in Puma performance wear in the Totalsports Women’s Race that took place in Durban. The Phalula twins, who were about to start training to qualify for the 2016 Olympic games, won the 10km race in 33 minutes and 44 seconds.

“It was wonderful running in Puma shoes, they're so comfortable,” says Lebogang, who completed the race holding her sister’s hand. “We are really proud and privileged to be Puma ambassadors. The sponsorship has motivated me to train harder. 2015 has been a good year for us,” added Lebo.

Maclean, who came ninth in the Totalsports Women’s Race, has held a top ten position in the Comrades Ultra Marathon for five consecutive years and won first place in the 2015 Wally Hayward Marathon. She hopes to compete in the full Iron Man in 2016.

Mokopane achieved a silver medal in the 1 500m sprint at the SA Senior Championships, and Motsau claimed a gold and a bronze medal in the 1 500m sprint in the 2014 and 2015 SA Championships respectively.

Photo: Shawn Benjamin / Ark Images

and one bronze medal, as well as set a world record in the 200m backstroke and another as part of the 4×100m medley relay team at the 2012 Olympic Games in London. The following year she won six gold medals at the 2013 FINA World Championships in Barcelona and was dubbed the mostdecorated female swimmer in history at a single World Championships.

Hassiem (above right) survived a shark attack in 2006. Despite losing a leg, he went on to compete in the 2008 Paralympic Games where he won bronze in the 100m butterfly and in the final of the 2012 Paralympic Games he set a new African record of 57 minutes and 76 seconds. He is also a conservationist, advocating the protection of endangered sharks.

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

is still going strong and shows no signs of letting up. Davies still looks forward to coming to work to help the customers as much today as the day she started with the company all those years ago, she says.

Right: Cobra Puma Golf athlete Lexi Thompson won her fifth LPGA title at the Meijer LPGA Classic in Grand Rapids Michigan while playing with Cobra Puma Golf equipment and wearing Puma golf apparel, accessories and footwear from the brand’s Autumn/ Winter 2015 collection.

She used the AMP CELL 8.5 driver in capri blue, FLY-Z+ 3-wood in blue, a hybrid FLY-Z 2/3 in black, Cobra S2 Forged irons and Tour Trusty wedges.

Her apparel during the final round included a women’s Dot Sleeveless polo, women’s pleated golf skirt, Puma Golf Performance glove and women’s BioPro golf shoes.

Photo: Dom Barnardt

Speedo, locally distributed by Brand ID, has appointed America’s five-time Olympic medallist Missy Franklin and South African Paralympian medallist and shark attack survivor Achmat Hassiem as ambassadors.

The duo, who form part of Team Speedo USA and Team Speedo SA, will encourage others to use swimming as a means to keep fit and improve their health as well as endorse the brand’s extensive product portfolio.

“We are excited to welcome Missy and Achmat to team Speedo. Both are passionate and determined swimmers whose stories are nothing less than extraordinary and inspiring,” says Stuart Hopwood, brand president of Speedo SA. Franklin (above left) won four gold

W.E.T. Sports’ Jean Davies celebrates 27 years with the company, this year.

Davies joined W.E.T. Sports after cutting her teeth with Pentagon — the wholesale division of the old Lemkus Sports — and took to looking after customers’ orders like a duck to water.

Any customer who has ever phoned into W.E.T. Sports over the years will know her friendly and efficient voice, says Andrew Wentzel of W.E.T. Sports.

“W.E.T. Sports is lucky to have someone as dedicated as Jean,” he continues. “She hardly ever calls in sick and is an asset to the business, often going over and beyond the call of duty to make sure a customer’s needs are met. Thank you Jean for all your loyal service.”

After almost three decades, she

ASICS SA has signed Springbok Sevens player Werner Kok as a brand ambassador. He joins players like Eben Etzebeth, Tendai Mtwariwra, Frans Malherbe, Frankie Horne and Seabelo Senatla who are also ambassadors for the technical apparel partner of the Springboks.

Kok resonates with the brand’s core values, says Sarah Mundy of ASICS SA. Kok made his debut for the South African Sevens Team in 2013 during the London Sevens leg and has since become a feature within the South African Sevens set-up during the 20132014 IRB World Sevens Series.

He was part of the 2014 Common Wealth gold medal-winning team and is the 2015 season’s the top tackler.

Puma athlete, Everton midfielder and former Bafana Bafana player Steven Pienaar recently returned to his hometown of Westbury, Johannesburg, for his annual Community Tournament, which featured 132 participants in the u8-20, seniors and masters categories.

The athlete has been sponsoring the tournament for the last 10 years and Puma, which came on board in 2012, sponsored the quarter finalists in all categories with new kits. “I want to get a new Steven Pienaar out of this community. Not a lot of people come around here and look for talent and this is a platform for the children to show their skills,” said Pienaar.

People on the move p4 :: Industry

Hans de Bruyn, formerly of SNT Sport, is combining his two passions — education and sport — in his new JZ Sport Agency. The new agency will be supplying sport equipment to schools and other end users.

De Bruyn has 30 years’ experience as a teacher, “majoring in sport,” he jokes. He was Director of Sport and deputy head at Randburg High School, before joining the sports industry as a supplier in 2004.

He worked for Sports Equipment Specialists, Lodhis and SNT Sport, before forming JZ Sport earlier this year.

“I would like to use my knowledge of the industry to supply the consumer with the best equipment at the best price,” he says.

Skechers has signed pop star Meghan Trainor for a global marketing and social media campaign that will run until 2017. The campaign will include television, print, online, outdoor and point of purchase.

“From her beautiful voice to her fun, carefree image, Meghan is an amazing talent who engages with millions of teens and young women around the globe,” says Michael Greenberg, president of Skechers, which is locally distributed by Footwear Trading.

He believes she is a perfect fit for the brand’s fashionable and comfortable footwear.

"I’m very excited to work with Skechers,” says Trainor. “I’m proud to get behind a company that celebrates style and being true to yourself! The shoes are SO comfortable and stylish too.”

Left: Osprey Packs’ founder and designer Mike Pfotenhauer was named the 2015 OutDoor Celebrity of the Year at the OutDoor show that took place in Friedrichshafen, Germany, in July. The annual award, known as the outdoor Oscar, celebrates individuals who have made a special contribution to the outdoor industry and the winner is selected by an international panel of leading outdoor journalists and industry representatives.

Right: Nike president and CEO Mark Parker will succeed founder Phil Knight as chairman when he retires from the company after 51 years. In order to ensure continued growth, Knight will transfer his responsibilities to Parker within the next year. He will also transfer his shares to a limited liability company.

Parker joined Nike in 1979 as a footwear designer and has since held a number of positions, including President of the Nike Brand, Vice President of Consumer Product Marketing as well as Vice President of Global Footwear. He was appointed Nike CEO in 2006. He is currently responsible for the company’s global business portfolio and for helping with the continued growth of the Nike brand.

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

Brands on

p6 :: Industry

Puma’s lightest soccer boot yet

Back row: Brooks Running's Jane Brewer, trail ninja Tom Ridl, The Durban Runner's Justin Hand, and biokineticist Stephan Terblanche. Front row: Trail magazine's Deon Braun; trail ninja Shareen Snyman; runner Michelle Gordon, and Trail magazine's Darryn Pollock. Photo: Greg Labuscagne Photography.

Brooks Running sponsors athletics and clinics BROOKS RUNNING COMPANY is the official apparel and footwear sponsor of the European Athletics Championships.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for us to grow the Brooks Running brand in Europe and bring our Run Happy spirit to this event,” says David Bohan, president of Brooks Running EMEA. “We aim to be the No. 1 choice for runners.”

Brooks is locally distributed by

SBR Agencies.

Locally, Brooks hosted a Trail Clinic at The Breathing Space yoga studio in Glenwood, Durban, in partnership with Trail magazine.

The clinic catered to trail newbies and advanced runners keen to learn about every aspect of trail running and featured top trail runner Ryno Griesel and Justin Hand of The Durban Runner.

New from New Balance NEW BALANCE has launched its new Always In Beta brand platform — which reinforces its sport strengths and promises to continue improving and inspiring athletes — and extended its partnership with tennis player Milos Raonic (right) for the rest of his playing career.

“The platform highlights our commitment to not rest on past successes, but be dedicated in our focus to continually push forward, to improve and aggressively deliver our best,” says Rob DeMartini, President and CEO of New Balance.

The marketing campaign associated with the platform, aims to engage with consumers and athletes globally while showcasing the brand’s range of products that are available. TV advert The Storm emphasises the desire to keep progressing. It features a woman, who has reached her limit, but through the help of other athletes, she finds the motivation to carry on.

Raonic will continue participating in the brand’s marketing and communications campaigns, and contribute to new performancedriven and fashion footwear and apparel. He will also work with New Balance’s digital teams to

PUMA HAS launched a number of soccer-related footwear products.

The evoSpeed SL soccer boot (below right) is the brand’s lightest yet (103g). Designed to enhance players’ speed and agility, the boot is made with a light, almost translucent, textile upper material, and a lightweight SpeedFrame and snug minimalistic heel counter for stability and support. Its traction studs support forward acceleration while five conical studs in the fore front and medial back end of the boot allow easier change of direction and quick turning. The boot is worn by local Puma players such as Oupa Manyisa and Tokelo Rantie.

The latest evoPower 1.2 soccer boot, worn by players Cesc Fàbregas (above right) and Mario Balotelli, has a completely new look: the design allows natural foot movement that enables flexibility, which improves players’ shooting and kicking ability. Soft

upper material offers freedom of movement without hindering support.

Puma’s PWRSHAPE improves women’s confidence

create content for athletes regarding tennis, training and player improvement.

New Balance will continue to support The Milos Raonic Foundation — a charitable organisation that helps disadvantaged children through sport.

PUMA’S PWRSHAPE female fitness apparel range offers structure and support for a full range of body motion. The collection, which includes a bra, knee capri and jacket, is designed to improve confidence and freedom of movement.

The bra is designed to offer better comfort and confidence during any workout. It has a strategically placed mesh for ventilation, across back design for free movement, and a soft bottom band.

In the capri tights, the front leg, hamstring and calf are supported by strategically placed bonded tape.

The jacket, designed to flatter the figure, has Lycra Sport compression material for better stretch and works with the body’s natural systems to improve performance.

Columbia partners with Ultra Trail Cape Town COLUMBIA has partnered with the Ultra Trail Cape Town (UTCT) race.

“Our business is built around real people who have a passion for the outdoors,” says Columbia SA’s Brand President Du Toit Botes of local distributor Brand ID. “UTCT is no different: from the organisers through to the runners, we all love the outdoors. This sets a

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

foundation for a great long term partnership with a shared vision.

Beyond a shared passion, UTCT is set to be the most iconic race in South Africa! With the route set over a wonder of the world, Table Mountain, it seemed like the perfect playground for Columbia.”

The event, set to take place in October, consists of three races:

100km, 65km and 20km. The 100km race will pass through the iconic landmarks of Table Mountain, Lions Head, Signal Hill, Hout Bay, Llandudno, the Constantia Winelands, Kirstenbosch Nature Reserve and Devils Peak.

A line-up of local and international elite athletes will be participating.

the move

Industry :: p7

Above: Edward (left) and Frank van Wezel (second from the right) of Hi-Tec Intl. are excited about the new Flash footwear collection. Photo: Ger Loeffen

HI-TEC HAS been making headlines with the launch of a new shoe collection, its all-ladies antipoaching unit winning an award and the success of its Vierdaagse Walk of the World.

The brand’s new Flash collection will officially launch in Autumn/Winter 2016. “My immediate thoughts of this collection is that we are very lucky to work with such a dynamic global product team always pushing the boundaries and going those extra 5 inches,” says Joanne Esterhuizen from Hi-Tec SA. Designed with well-known Hi-Tec technologies, these shoes are built for the younger consumer and will be available in low and high cuts.

The all ladies anti-poaching unit, which is sponsored by Hi-Tec from top-to-toe, won the award for Best Conservation Practitioner at the 2015 Rhino Conser-

vation Awards Ceremony. Hi-Tec has made concerted efforts with spreading awareness of rhino conservation, says Esterhuizen. The brand’s anti-poaching swing tag can be found attached to every pair of its shoes worldwide.

Hi-Tec, title sponsor of the Vierdaagse Walk of the World, has had great success with the event that attracted 40 100 walkers in Amsterdam recently. The brand has also signed a contract to continue as title sponsor of the event for the next five years.

The Vierdaagse Walk of the World aligns with Hi-Tec’s global Walking Just Got Better campaign, which aims to inspire people to get their shoes on no matter what the destination and get walking!,” says Esterhuizen. Next year’s Vierdaagse Walk of the World celebrates a century of the event and is set to take place 19-22 July 2016.

ASICS’ kiddies footwear earns approval ASICS’ CHILDREN’S performance footwear have received the Seal of Acceptance distinction from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), which indicates that shoes have been found to be beneficial to foot health.

As of July all the brands’ kiddies footwear — including those for toddlers, pre-schoolers and grade scholars — feature the APMA Seal of Acceptance on the box. The stamp shows that each pair has gone through the APMA evaluation process,

which analyses the function, flexibility, quality of materials and workmanship of shoes.

“Behind every pair of ASICS shoes is an immense amount of science and research and our children’s footwear is no exception. Receiving the Seal of Acceptance distinction from APMA is a testament to the hard work and continuous improvement that goes into making every pair of ASICS shoes,” says Kevin Wulff, President and CEO of ASICS.

2015 September :: Sports Trader

p8 :: Industry

Speedo sponsors Swimming World Cup SPEEDO IS the new exclusive swimwear and swim equipment supplier of the Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA) Swimming World Cup series, which takes place 11 August-7 November. The swim brand is locally distributed by Brand ID. “The FINA Swimming World Cup is a prestigious global series, so it’s fantastic for Speedo to be associated as the exclusive swimwear and swim equipment supplier,” says Jamie Cornforth, Vice President of Product and Marketing at Speedo International. “The series is a great opportunity for us to support our fantastic Team Speedo athletes and teams, who around the world have the ability to inspire spectators and aspiring swimmers to get in the pool.”

As part of the five year agreement Speedo will, at each of the eight events across Far East, Europe and Asia, have dedicated retail spaces and areas where spectators can meet their top athletes. The brand will have the opportunity to cover and stream the events live on its digital platforms. It will also support FINA’s Swimming for All, Swimming for Life programme.

Speedo’s reputation, quality and high-level of products is well-known by our athletes and officials, says Dr Julio Maglione, President of FINA. “The involve-

Brands on

Speedo's Florent Manaudou won gold in the men’s 50m butterfly final at the 2015 FINA World Championships.

Photo: Adam Pretty/Getty Images.

ment in our Swimming for All, Swimming for Life programme proves that Speedo is active not only with the Elite, but also in the area of Development.”

The Speedo swimmers who competed in the FINA World Championships in Russia (24 July-9 August) did well. France's Florent Manaudou won gold in the men’s 50m butterfly final, the US men’s team won the 4x100m freestyle relay and UK's James Guy won silver in the 400m men’s freestyle as well as gold in the 200m freestyle and became the first British man to win a world freestyle title. China's women’s team won the 4x100m relay and set a new record.

New features for Suunto Ambit3 watches SUUNTO, LOCALLY distributed by Ultimo, has introduced new performance features in its Ambit3 watches range.

The performance features, which were developed in collaboration with Firstbeat Technologies, include a running performance level, sleep recovery test, and quick recovery test, providing athletes with detailed and reliable information about their own running and recovery.

The Running performance level analyses heart rate and speed while running, giving a runner real time feedback about his current performance compared to average running performance. This feature allows a runner to evaluate his performance development with a 30-day trend graph of running results.

Recovery status shows the amount of stress on a runner’s nervous system. The lower his stress, the more he has recovered.

The Suunto Ambit3 watch range offers two ways to follow recovery: the quick recovery test and the sleep recovery test. Both tests measure heart rate variability to give an indication of recovery status. The higher the percentage, the closer the runner is to being recovered.

The features require a Bluetooth Smart-compatible heart rate sensor that measures heart rate variability (R-R interval), such as the Suunto Smart Sensor.

The sleep recovery test measures heart rate variability through the night to give an accurate indication of recovery status in the morning when the wearer wakes up.

These new features are available for Suunto Ambit3 Run, Ambit3 Sport and Ambit3 Peak through a software update.

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

Photo: Steven Haag/Gallo Images.

Keeping the Springboks fit REBEL ELITE FITNESS is one of the equipment suppliers for the custom designed gymnasium facility that was set up for the Springboks in the hotel in Umhlanga where they were staying while preparing for the Rugby World Cup, which starts on 18 September in London, UK.

Rebel supplied adjustable benches, bars and weight plates, Concept 2 rowers (used by JP Pietersen with Patrick Lambie above), dumbbells, kettle bells, medicine balls and sleds for the national team’s new gym. The mobile gym is aimed at addressing the players’ individual requirements.

ASICS is new AfricanX Trailrun sponsor ASICS IS the new presenting sponsor of the AfricanX Trailrun, which is set to take place 11-13 March 2016 at Houw Hoek Inn in the Boland.

The alignment brings about a synergy that allows both brands to shine, says Sarah Mundy of ASICS SA. She believes AfricanX has already earned the respect of a growing South African trail running community in its delivery of a world class, multi-day running event and they “can’t wait to #RunTough alongside Stillwater Sports and the AfricanX team,” she says.

ASICS’ innovative approach to sport is enlightening, says Michael Meyer, managing director of Stillwater Sports, organiser of the AfricanX Trailrun. “With over 60 years of industry experience, ASICS’ extensive product range is guaranteed to cater for the needs of all AfricanX entrants.”

“ASICS footwear and apparel is created with zero compromise on technical features and exceptional industry leadership,” adds Mundy.

Entries for the event opened 24 August and is limited to 300 teams of two. Each day participants will compete on varying distances of the event’s 22-34km route, which gives them the opportunity to enjoy scenic views of the Overberg.

ASICS at the 2015 IAAF World Championships ASICS KITTED out their athletes, who competed in the IAAF World Championships in August, in clothing and footwear designed specifically for them and with their help.

To develop the clothing and footwear, ASICS worked with the athletes and made modifications based on their shoe preferences, course and weather conditions, and body type.

ASICS designed apparel for the

track and field federations of Finland, France, Italy, Japan, Korea and Netherlands. The brand made a conscious decision to limit each country’s clothing colours to just one or two, to maximise the visual impact each athlete made on the track. With simplified motifs, the fabric was optimally designed to improve performance and allow each athlete to compete at his best.

the move

Industry :: p9

SA inspired Cervélo bikes for MTN Qhubeka

Photo: Cervélo/Jens Herrndorff.

Slazenger extends partnership SLAZENGER, LOCALLY distributed by Brand ID, has extended its 113 year partnership with The Championships Wimbledon for four more tournaments until 2018.

The brand will continue to be the official tennis ball supplier for Wimbledon and will provide canvas, umpire chairs, nets and tennis balls for The Championships and Wimbledon Tennis Club throughout the year.

Slazenger’s contract to be the official ball sponsor of The Championships Wimbledon is the longest commercial partnership in sport and it’s an association that has seen Slazenger become

synonymous with the most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, says Oliver Gray, global brand manager for Slazenger.

“We are delighted to continue our relationship with Slazenger,” says Mick Desmond, Commercial Director at the AELTC. He believes the partnership is a perfect reflection of the prestige and longevity of The Championships, Wimbledon.

More than 54 000 of the brand’s balls are used during the tournament. The used balls are sold to LTA-affiliated clubs and spectators, and the profits go to the LTA’s Wimbledon Balls for Schools Scheme.

THE STATE-OF-THE-ART special edition bikes Cervélo developed for the Tour de France debut of MTN-Qhubeka p/b Samsung, were inspired by the team’s South African heritage. The brand is locally distributed by Two Wheels Trading.

“The gradient lines on the front of the bikes are the heat waves cutting through the sunrise in South Africa,” says Tom Briggs, Senior Graphic Designer of Cervélo, of the graphics on S5, R5 and P5 bicycles he designed. “On the bottom of the downtube you will find the 5 colours that make up the South African flag.”

On the top tubes of the three

different models are the three English translations of Qhubeka: Move Forward on the S5, Carry On on the R5 and Progress on the P5.

“We chose to use chrome on the bike frames so that everyone could see themselves as part of the Qhubeka foundation and as part of the team itself,” says Briggs.

The bikes — fit for Africa’s first Tour jersey winner — also feature Rotor Q-Rings, custom coloured KMC frictionless chains, Enve wheels, Schwalbe tires, a 3T cockpit, CeramicSpeed bearings, Selle Italia saddles, Speedplay pedals and Lizard Skins bartape.

Contact Local Agent for the Umbro Speciali Club Version at R429.00 RSP +27 21 551 6496 salesmanager@umbro.co.za Junior and Senior sizes Multi-Stud and Turf Outsole Available for December and March Deliveries

PEPE REAL MADRID

p10 :: Industry

Its Bounty time for Musgrave Agencies THE SALE of Musgrave Agencies to Bounty Brands will not affect trade, as they still have the same team, same staff, same warehouse, same bank details ... it is business as usual.

Bounty Brands, owned by the Coast2Coast investment company, was launched in February last year when they bought Chappers Sports Direct, local distributors of Vans, and other consumer companies active in the homeware and cosmetics markets.

They recently also acquired the skate retail chain Boogaloos.

These stores, as well as Vans and the former Musgrave Agencies brands, are housed in the Bounty Wear division.

Bounty Brands has three divisions — Bounty Wear, Bounty Foods and Bounty Home & Care — reporting to MD Stefan Rabe and other executive members, who are responsible for strategy, growth and the provi-

sion of certain shared services.

During the first half of the year they have grown revenues to over R1-bn and are aiming at a portfolio of brands that are worth R5-bn and a JSE listing within three years.

“Bounty Brands invests in brands that are trusted, defensible and have a market-leading presence,” they say on their website.

“We seek established businesses with strong management teams that we can work with to drive organic and synergistic growth. Once we buy into a sector, we follow a platform strategy and actively pursue complementary brands.”

The iconic Jeep brand, for example, has been a mainstay outdoor brand in South Africa for almost 20 years, says Rabe. “We believe it has tremendous potential for growth in South Africa and the focus of our involvement is to assist in realising this growth.”

Brand ID partners with Mpumalanga Black Aces Brand ID has signed an agreement with the Mpumalanga Black Aces soccer club for Canterbury to become their new technical partner. Mizuno will be partnering with five of the club’s members.

The three year partnership with the soccer club is a first for Canterbury, who will provide kit for all Black Aces teams and youth divisions.

Five Black Aces club members will also receive personal contracts with Mizuno and Brand ID will make

its SKLZ training equipment and Skins compression products available to the soccer club.

“It’s a privilege for Canterbury to be part of South Africa’s football development by passing on our expertise to the Black Aces team,” says Du Toit Botes, Canterbury’s brand president. “Through shared learning, we aim to work together in order to provide high quality apparel to Aces, while placing equal importance on providing fans with quality replica shirts”.

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

Companies Footwear Trading makes donation to CHOC FOOTWEAR TRADING, local distributor of Levi’s, has made its first donation of R30 000 towards the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC), as part of its Dunk DC initiative. Daniel Copans, nephew of Footwear Trading co-owner Lawrence Slotsky, was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, two years ago. During his struggle with the disease, Copans became interested in some of the Levi’s styles and asked Slotsky if he could design a pair himself, which he did. The design and sample was finalised two days before the young man’s death, which made his uncle decide to launch and sell the new style under the name Levi’s Dunk DC (DC for Daniel Copans) and donate a percentage of sales to a children’s cancer organisation.

Footwear Trading recently donated money from the sales to CHOC (Childhood Cancer Foundation).

“CHOC relies on the generosity of loyal donors to fund our much needed work. We are very grateful to be the recipient of a portion of the sales from Levi’s Dunk DC, particularly since these shoes are being manufactured in memory of Daniel Copans,” says Deidre May, communications manager of CHOC, an NGO that supports the parents of, and children with, cancer or life-threatening blood disorders. It also assists with improving early detection and helps with finding effective treatment.

From left: Dianri Luttig, marketing manager for Footwear Trading, Lara Slotsky, product development manager for Levi’s and cousin of Daniel Copans, Tracey Silva, marketing manager for CHOC, and Carl Queiros, MD of CHOC.

Fun activities at the TFG online store launch TFG SPORT (The Foschini Group) opened for online trading with sneaker style, shooting hoops and packed gear on July 7th. The media guests and sporting celebrities competed in fun-filled activities, after several speakers shared some sage advice and interesting experiences, while the group’s sport division opened for trading in cyberspace.

After a welcome from TFG e-commerce manager Robyn Cook (top left), TFG MD Marketing and E-commerce Kathryn Sakalis explained that their online mall, launched last year, will feature all their retail brands by 2018.

Irreverent adventurers Koos Groenewald, Uno de Waal and Roy Potterill (below right) shared some of the behind-the scenes stories of their Next weekend motorbike trip along unmapped routes between Johannesburg to Cape Town that became the 8-part YouTube Get Lost series for Levi’s.

The first woman to win both the Two Oceans and Comrades marathons in one year, Caroline Wostmann and her coach Lindsey Parry (top right), told how setting new goals for herself over the past seven years, transformed her from a new mom running to lose excess weight, into a champion who’ll always be in the record books.

Anthea Poulos of The Bread brand agency and rapper Stilo Magolides introduced the changed sneakerhead culture In South Africa: you no longer have to spend R3 000 to import the latest cool kicks from overseas, but could buy them from your local Sportscene store ... at about the same time they were introduced internationally. “In the past, you pulled on your cool kicks over the weekend to hang out, now it has become a lifestyle and a culture, added Magolides. “All kids understand what an Air Force 1 is.” The global sneaker market is worth $55-bn, in the US alone it is worth $28-bn, Poulos explained. The average age sneakerhead own 34 pairs — paying a maximum average price of $309.

Several sneaker-loving guests (left bottom) joined artist Dada Khanyisa to try and emulate the sneaker art she created.

on the move • Brand ID has moved to 3rd Floor Deneb House, corner Main and Browning Roads, Observatory, Cape Town. All telephone and fax numbers remain the same, as well as their postal address.

• Gimtrac has moved to 120 Ellman Street, Sunderland Ridge, Centurion, 0157. You can contact them on Tel: 012 666 8258.

• The first South African H&M (Hennes and Mauritz) store will open at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town this October. At 4 700m2 and covering two floors, it will be one of the biggest in the world. “We are very happy to bring our future customers what H&M is known for the world over — fashion and quality at the best price in a sustainable way,” says Pär Darj, Country Manager for H&M South Africa. They have already selected their team of employees that will work at

the store, he adds. The Swedish retail chain is currently the world’s second biggest clothing retailer, following Spain’s Inditex/Zara chain, and ahead of America’s Gap. Founded nearly 70 years ago in Sweden, H&M now has more than 3 500 stores in 57 countries. Most stores are in European countries, but they have nearly 400 stores in the US and 13 in Africa (ten in Egypt, three in Morocco).

• Both Reebok SA and adidas SA have declined to comment on industry rumours that adidas SA will take over the local distributorship of Reebok, as in other global markets.

Both companies have, however, confirmed that they are in discussion. “Our existing Reebok licence and distribution agreements run until July 2016 — we are currently in discussions on the way forward,” says Bruce Joubert, MD of Reebok SA

Industry :: p11

New racket range from W.E.T. Sports AFTER A long association with ROX PRO Racquets, W.E.T. Sports is launching a new range of tennis, squash and badminton racquets to better cater to their customers’ needs.

“We have tried a trial order with TOPPRO to test the market after spiralling material costs and the unfavourable Rand Dollar exchange rate have impacted on our racquet business”, says Patrick Franck of W.E.T. Sports.

“We have focused on the entry level and social player’s needs, where we have always done well in the market.”

They are continuing with racquet strings, grips and accessories under the ROX PRO brand name.

Most international brands grow sales in second quarter

Bokke join ASICS school clinic ASICS SA hosted a tag rugby clinic at Heathfield Primary School in Cape Town to celebrate their continued commitment to the sponsorship of the Tag Rugby Adopt a School programme. The programme emphasises ASICS’ heritage and commitment to sport in local communities and helping them prosper. “Sustainability is at the heart of the ASICS DNA. When our founder, Kihachiro Onitsuka, established the business in 1949, he wanted a company to be a force for positive change: a way of giving young people sense of direction in life through sport and fitness. Over time, this idea developed into a broader social purpose, enshrined in our corporate philosophy,” says Sarah Mundy, ASICS SA’s marketing manager. Eben Etzebeth (above) was one of several Springboks who attended the event. Photos: Rory Alexander.

As part of a Mandela Day initiative, Totalsports teamed up with Fives Futbol in Cape Town, Ajax soccer player Nathan Paulse and South African comedian and actor Siv Ngesi, and delivered 67 Totalsports soccer balls to four sports focused community centres on Nelson Mandela Day.

• The adidas Group reported a 5% (currencyneutral) sales increase for the second quarter.

Its adidas and Reebok brands’ sales, which grew 8% and 6% respectively in currency-neutral terms, compensated for a 26% drop in TaylorMade-adidas golf sales due to sales drops in most categories — especially metalwoods and irons. In the period they concluded the sale of The Rockport Company to New Balance and Berkshire Partners, an investment firm. Drydock Footwear, a New Balance affiliate, will be joined together with The Rockport Company to form The Rockport Group, providing dress and casual footwear.

• Amer Sports reported a 9% currency neutral increase (to €461.1-m) in net sales for the second quarter ended 30 June. Amer Sports owns brands such as Salomon, Suunto (distributed by Ultimo) and Wilson (distributed by The Golf Racket). The Ball Sports segment’s sales grew 7% m to €169.4-m this year while the Fitness segment improved 6% to €82-m.

Net sales for the EMEA region improved 6% from €156.1-m to €168-m.

• ASICS sales grew 12% in the EMEA region in the first half of 2015 as a result of strong growth in running, stand-out sales in tennis and acceleration in the ASICS Tiger lifestyle category.

The running category had strong growth with women’s apparel and footwear sales increasing 12% and 14%, respectively ASICS is now the #1 tennis brand in Germany, France and Spain, and grew apparel (30%) and footwear (21%) sales in the category.

• Columbia Sportswear reported a 17% increase in net sales (21% in currency-neutral terms) to a record $380.2-m for the second quarter ended 30 June. Sales in the EMEA region — including $0.3-m of incremental Prana net sales — dropped 18% (11% constant-dollar), whereas other regions experienced growth. The Apparel, Accessories and Equipment segments’ sales also increased 18% (21% constant-dollar)

to $310.2-m while Footwear increased 14% (21% constant-dollar) to $70-m.

• Jarden Corp. reported a 0.2% drop in sales in its Outdoor Solutions group to $753.3-m in the second quarter. The Outdoor Solutions segment includes brands like Campingaz, Coleman, the Pure Fishing division (Abu Garcia, Hardy Greys, Sebile, Penn, Berkley) Rawlings, Arc’teryx, and K2. Overall, Jarden Corp reported organic net sales 7.0% growth to $2.01bn for the second quarter of 2015.

• Nike’s fourth quarter revenues increased 4.7% (13% on a currency-neutral basis) to $7.8-bn.

Its fiscal 2015 revenues also increased 10% to $30.6-bn. The Nike brand revenues grew 13% on a currency-neutral basis to $7.4-bn due to growth in most regions and key categories.

Converse revenues grew 14% on a currencyneutral basis to $435-m.

• The Pentland Group grew revenues 14% to £2.2-bn for the year 2014. Revenue from Pentland brands such as Speedo, Canterbury, Mitre, etc. increased 5% to £618-m.Speedo had record sales for its second successive year with growth being spurred by its SpeedoFit and global swimwear ranges. The brand also received the Fan Brand of the Year award at the 2014 Sports Technology Awards.

• Skechers is making such huge strides in the US that online site The Motley Fool suggests Nike, which has 62% of the US athletic footwear market share, should be worried. Skechers, locally distributed by Footwear Trading, recently overtook big brand names like adidas and New Balance to claim the #2 spot in the US athletic footwear market, with Nike at the #1 spot.In the walking and casual categories Skechers is the brand to beat, and when it comes to tweens, teens and Millenials the brand knows how to get their attention. Skechers US reported that their sales grew 36.3% to $800.5-m for the second quarter and earnings increased 129.2% to $79.8-m.

2015 September :: Sports Trader

p12 :: Apparel & Footwear

What do extreme trail shoes need to withstand?

Some trail runners are more extreme than others — those you might quietly call a little crazy if you don’t share their passion. They will take on long challenging routes that take them over difficult terrain for days on end — and their trail shoes are all that come between their feet and the harsh terrain. CARIN HARDISTY spoke with extreme trail runners to hear their thoughts on what they need from their extreme footwear

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here are some amazing runners out there who jump at each new chance to challenge themselves even further in extreme races. To protect their feet on these runs, these athletes need trail shoes that can step up and handle the extreme conditions. Their footwear needs can be somewhat different to normal trail runners.

While there are a number of ‘specialised’ trail shoes on the market that are good for specific conditions (wet, mud, sand, etc.) this doesn’t help an extreme runner, Su Don-Wauchope points out. “An extreme shoe has to be far more versatile. The shoe has to be able to perform over a wide range of conditions.”

“There is no scope to change or replace shoes as the terrain changes,” adds Graham Bird.

Each event has its own challenges, but in general extreme trail shoes have to be more robust compared to normal trail running shoes, says Iain Don-Wauchope. “Typically ultra trail running shoes need to provide more cushioning and they must withstand wear and tear better.“ “An extreme trail running shoe's main challenge usually comes from environmental factors,” explains Bradley Weiss. “Hot, humid, wet and slippery are usually the most testing of conditions requiring a very well designed shoe to allow the runner maximum comfort, while still providing a solid platform to run on.”

First things they look for With all the different types of terrain, how do these athletes go about choosing their footwear? What shoe features are at the top of the tick list?

Comfort!, agree Iain, Ryan Sandes, AJ Calitz and Graham Bird. This is the most important aspect of an ultra trail shoe, says Iain. “It's important that you don't develop problems during the event such as blisters or hot spots.”

“We wear our shoes for a long time,” Bird points out. “Just one leg in the Costa Rica World Champs took us 43 hours non-stop. The shoe has to be comfortable at the start, as well as at the finish, of that leg.”

“I have flat feet so I do not need so much support, but I do want some cushioning — especially on rocky terrain,” says Calitz. “After 8-10 hours

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

on the run, the last thing you want to feel is every pebble under your foot. Nowadays you can have both a light shoe and good cushioning.”

Stability is just as important as comfort for Bird, who competes in Merrell. “The shoe needs

to be stable and not prone to rolling over when you step on any small or big items. It needs to look after my ankles so that I don’t roll them.”

Functionality is really important, adds Sandes.

“The shoe needs to offer good all- To p14

Just how extreme?

BUT WHAT do you mean by an extreme run? you might be asking. How is this different to a normal trail run? Sports Trader asked extreme runners for a taste of the most extreme conditions they have run in.

Graham Bird, leader of the top adventure racing team, the Merrell Adventure Addicts: “Being primarily an adventure racer, I have put my shoes through literally everything.

From boulder hopping along coastlines and down canyons, to running in soft sand, to running on very sharp and rocky terrain, to forest tracks, tar roads, gravel roads, off road without paths, grasslands, swimming with the shoes … and in all types of weather — hot, dry, wet, cold.”

Above: Graham Bird. Photo: Bruce Viaene www. bvphoto.co.za

SA Ultra Trail Champion, AJ Calitz, wears New Balance and has run in any conditions you could imagine: from 10km to over 100km, searing heat or deep in the negatives (not including the wind chill!). Across deserts, mountain ranges, through forests, boulders, rivers, snow, ice … “you name it, I have run in it.”

South African trail legend Iain Don-Wauchope: “A 600km adventure race in Australia that involved trail running, hiking, river rafting and mountain biking (trail shoes not required)” was Iain Don-Wauchope’s most extreme run so far. “The terrain included beach sand, hiking trails, rocks, thorny grasslands, dirt roads and tar roads. My shoes got wet at times, but mostly conditions were hot and dry.”

Su Don-Wauchope, a top-finishing ladies trail runner and mixed couple champion, together with her husband Iain, has faced a 120km Lavarado ultra trail across To p14

Above: AJ Calitz

Above: Iain Don-Wauchope. Photo: Craig Muller | Backyard Adventures

Advertorial :: p13

Ultra Boost

For the greatest run ever

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he Energy Running revolution took a bold new step middle August as adidas unveiled the latest edition of the greatest running shoe ever, Ultra Boost, during a unique running experience in downtown Johannesburg.

At the launch, attending athletes, celebrities and key influencers experienced the superior performance of Ultra Boost by participating in an energised night-time run in and around Braamfontein and Constitution Hill. The event doubled up as a teaser to the adidas RUNBASE concept, set to launch in the city in the next few months. adidas RUNBASE will be a running hub — a space in the heartbeat of the city where running and culture connect and runners can gather and connect with friends.

Ultra Boost is the ultimate expression of adidas’ revolutionary BOOST technology and was created using ARAMIS, a system trusted by

leading international engineering institutions like NASA, Boeing and Audi. The running shoe’s midsole comprises 100% BOOST foam, offering the highest Energy Return in the industry. This is complimented by a Primeknit upper, which wraps the foot in adaptive support and ultralight comfort, and a stretch web outsole that flexes naturally for a smooth and responsive transition.

“Each technology featured in Ultra Boost was built to complement each other providing energised adaptability through a customised fit, look and feel,” said Ben Herath, Vice President of Design for adidas Running. “While we’ve taken innovation to the next level, the sleek silhouette of Ultra Boost is built to look as good as it performs.”

The Ultra Boost also boasts a new dualdensity TORSION® SYSTEM, embedded into the shoe’s base. This allows more independent

movement between heel and forefoot for superior stability and a smooth, more controlled run.

“Ultra Boost is really the ultimate expression of our BOOST range and is the first of many adidas products that redefines running,” said Kate Woods, adidas Director of Running. “Our aim is to bring energy to running and ignite a culture that transcends traditional running in our key cities within South Africa. We plan to build a base for running communities to meet up, fuel up and gear up, and offer them the ultimate adidas running experience. We are excited to launch RUNBASE in Johannesburg in the near future.”

Follow adidas Running and watch energy take over @adidasZA #ultraboost on Twitter or Instagram.

For enquiries, contact adidas SA on Tel: 021 442 6200 or visit www.adidas.com/ultraboost.

p14 :: Apparel & Footwear

Extreme trail shoes cont from p12 round support, protection and should have good grip.”

When selecting her race footwear, she first looks for “lightweight shoes and shoes that don’t have anything that might begin to rub or irritate,” says Su. “How the shoe fits around the forefoot and the ankle region is the most important.”

Lightweight is a really important feature, agrees Sandes.

“I always prefer lightweight shoes,” adds Nicholas Rupanga. “They help me to enjoy my run.” He also looks for grip and breathability in his shoes.

It is no wonder these athletes enjoy lightweight footwear — with the lengthy runs they put in, they’ll be wanting to carry as little weight as possible (see Just how extreme? in the box).

“The greatest challenge when selecting the optimal extreme trail running shoe is trying to balance the elements of weight, grip and support,” says Bradley Weiss. “Opting for maximum support often comes with a weight penalty and also lacks the feel of the earth, as given by a more minimalist running shoe, which most experienced runners look for.”

What other features?

Comfort, stability, lightweight, no irritants …

An even lacing tension is an element that is often over looked by runners Once these have been ticked off the list, what else do our athletes look for when selecting the right pair of shoes for the job?

Breathability and fast drying are very important features to look for, says Bird. Also the grip of the sole — in all conditions.

Other important features include cushioning, flexibility and traction, adds Iain.

Calitz values responsiveness in a shoe. “A shoe that feels quick helps me mentally,” he explains. Generally, he looks for comfort, durability and grip in his shoes, but the features of the footwear he chooses for a specific race will very much depend on the terrain he’ll encounter.

“On sand I prefer a shoe with a Gore-Tex upper, because it keeps the sand out, but during an ultra I want low weight and comfort. If you are already struggling, blisters and discomfort can end your race,” says Caltitz. “I tend to go for a slightly heavier and more comfortable shoe like New Balance’s Freshfoam Trail or Leadville.”

In addition, Calitz also looks for an aggressive tread in his shoes when he’ll be running on sand,

but in wet conditions, his shoes need to be able to give him more grip. “Also, when running in the wet, a shoe with low water retention is a must. I also play around with inner soles somewhat, depending on the terrain and conditions,” he says. “On rocky terrain I prefer a thicker inner. In wet conditions I prefer a thin, less absorbing, inner.”

If he knows he’ll be running in wet weather, Rupanga looks for shoes with excellent grip.

“The shoes should have grip on the outer sole to withstand the slippery terrain and they should also be able to drain water when its wet.”

He also looks for a shoe that has a protection plate to prevent sharp rocks and thorns from piercing through.

An even lacing tension is an element that is often overlooked by runners, Weiss points out.

“Even lacing tension avoids hotspots during longer runs and eliminates the likelihood of blistering.”

“Some laces can slip and work their way undone when they are wet or muddy for an extended period of time,” adds Su. “What’s really important in trail running shoes is ride and it has to perform well,” says Scott Jurek. “Another key element is the fit. The shoe needs to really feel like a part of the foot — like it’s just an extension of your anatomy.”

“A performance trail running shoe doesn’t have to have a squishy soft ride,” he continues.

“You want a stiffer midsole so that To p16

How extreme? cont from p12

snow, ice, mud, rocky river beds, river crossings “and then some normal trail!”

Scott Jurek, US elite ultra champion and three times Ultra-Runner of the Year, who runs in Brooks, recently beat the speed record on the roughly 3 500km long Appalachian National Scenic Trail. It took him 46 days, 8 hours and 7 minutes — 3 hours 13 minutes shorter than the previous record set by Jennifer Pharr Davis.

Ultra distance world champ Ryan Sandes was the first runner in the world to win an ultra marathon on all seven continents: “We ran through anaconda infested swamps, rivers with pirañas in, muddy and rocky terrain in some extremely hot temperatures,” is how he describes his 235km run through the Amazon Jungle, which he won in 2009.

In contrast, he has “also run through Antartica (210km), which was about -30oC in waistdeep snow at times” to win the Racing the Planet Antarctica marathon in 2010.

Bradley Weiss, U23 Cross Triathlon World Champion: “Racing on the island of Saipan, athletes are confronted with a steep rocky and mossy ravine with multiple rock drops and waterfalls that have to be negotiated, as well as a World War II tunnel that was used

by Japanese soldiers and is lit only by candle light. Saipan is an extremely hot and humid island in the pacific ocean, adding an extra level of difficulty to this epic challenge.”

Weiss was a runner-up in this year’s Xterra Clockwise from top: Bradley Weiss (Photo: Takausami) Su Don-Wauchope (Photo: Craig Muller | Backyard Adventures) Ryan Sandes (Photo: Craig Kolesky | Red Bull Content Pool) Scott Jurek (Photo: Luis Escobar)

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

Saipan, part of the Asia Pacific Xterra Tour.

Nicholas Rupanga, trail-runner and shoe specialist at The Sweatshop in Cape Town who runs in ASICS, remembers a gruelling 5 hour trail race he took part in. “The race took place over a very technical, rocky terrain,” he says. “In addition, it was very wet and oh so slippery!”.

p16 :: Apparel & Footwear

Extreme trail shoes cont from p14 A shoe that feels quick helps me mentally propulsion occurs, so that you have that connection with the foot.” Jurek explains that he looked at rock climbing shoes when giving input into the development of Brooks’ PureGrit 3 shoe. In the rock climbing shoes the stiffer design allows for propulsion and flexibility in the metatarsals, but doesn’t allow torsional twisting.

I wish for …

If they could ask for any new feature in their future shoes, what would the runners ask for?

“Odour repellent!” requests Su. “Also, stronger and tougher materials, but that are still lightweight would be great.”

Iain would love a wider forefoot box. “Feet swell during long distance events and need extra space to accommodate this swelling.”

“I think the science in current shoes is really amazing and they have come leaps and bounds in the past couple of years,” says Calitz, who runs in New Balance. “I think the lacing systems will get better as well as the way the shoe holds to your foot.” He does have a request though.

“Most shoes struggle on wet sandy rocks. If someone could overcome that, it would be awesome!”

For Bird, a way to stop the foot sliding forward

in the shoe when going down extreme declines when wet would be welcomed.

Weiss already has his dream shoe. “The Puma FAAS 300 trail shoe, which I compete in, in my opinion has no blindspots and offers the ideal platform for anything nature could possibly throw at me. For me, this shoe is the perfect balance between lightweight, offering great breathability, while not sacrificing on support when the trail turns down and becomes rough and demanding on impact. Importantly: the adapted sole maximises grip, but still gives the runner great feedback from the trail below their feet.”

“A trail shoe that automatically adjusts to the conditions you are running through,” Ryan Sandes jokingly requests.

With the speed at which new technology is developed, Sandes’ dream might not be that far off the horizon.

Challenging the El Camino de Santiago The El Camino de Santiago pilgrimage is becoming a very popular destination for South Africans of all ages willing to face the challenge of a 1 140km 6-7 week extreme walk.

CHARL DURAND gives some insights into the conditions they can expect and the equipment needed EL CAMINO DE SANTIAGO is a series of thousand-year old Christian pilgrimage routes that start in various European cities (the most popular being Saint Jean Pied Du Port in southern France) and run westwards to the city of Santiago de Compostela in Western Spain.

Compostela loosely means field of stars in Spanish, and refers to the stars that guided an early Middle Age hermit to the reputed burial place of the disciple of Jesus, St. James, with whom the city is associated. Through the ages, millions of Christian pilgrims have walked this holy route, spending many months crossing perilous terrain in search of absolution from sin. Today more than 250 000 pilgrims walk the Camino, some for adventure, some for religious reasons, and others as a personal journey of discovery.

It was with some trepidation that my wife Adeline and I decided in late 2014 to tackle the Camino de Santiago. Our route was a little unconventional: we started in the modern-day pilgrim destination of Lourdes in France and from there crossed the snowy Pyrenees into Spain where our first large town was Jaca, starting point of the fairly quiet Camino de Aragones, which connects to the main route, known as the Camino Francès.

For such a long journey good choices of gear are, of course, vitally important. Keeping the weight of our fully loaded backpacks down was all-important on a hike that was scheduled to last forty-six days. Our packs both ended up at just above 10kg with empty hydration packs, which is fairly heavy for the Camino. We saw pilgrims walking with as little as 2.5kg!

We started off the journey in pouring rain.

Much of the following week, during which we

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

averaged about 25km a day, was spent on very wet, mountaineous, terrain, and we were very, very glad that we were wearing top notch, water-proof hiking boots.

We walked through bottle green, fairytale forests and stunningly beautiful valleys, gradually gaining height. The last stretch into Spain was an 800m climb until we reached the snow-covered upper ridges of the Pyrenees, which was covered in dense fog. For about 2km we were guided only by our GPS — the narrow sheep track we were following was buried beneath the snow!

The weather gradually warmed into the upper twenties during the following ten days, and by the time we reached the town of Estella on the well-treaded Camino Frances, our boots were no longer suited for the hot weather and different terrain, which now mostly consisted of smooth gravel paths. As soon as we reached the town we bought trail running shoes at a remarkably well-stocked sports shop, if you take into account that Estella only has 2 000 residents.

To keep blisters at bay we ritually applied a thick layer of vaseline to our feet every morning. At night pilgrims staying at albergues — hostels established specifically for pilgrims — would gather around the dinner table where,

typically, animated discussions of the pros and cons of different types of shoes, long and short pants, and what the most effective blister treatments were held.

The trail runners proved to be a good decision.

At places temperatures on the route soared to a cloudless 32-34oC with little shade along the way. Walking 35km stretches for days on end at 5km an hour, the lightweight, well-ventilated footwear helped to keep our feet from overheating.

There are many hours of — often heated — discussions in Internet forums about the right gear for the Camino. But after passing, and being passed by thousands of fellow pilgrims, we now know there's no real wrong or right, merely best practices: don't pack too heavy, take a break regularly, and take good care of your feet. We saw backpacks of all shapes and sizes, footwear from sandals to the heaviest boots imaginable, anything from small plastic water bottles to 3L hydration packs, and a few very strange hats.

But, in the end, most reach Santiago in one piece and relatively unscathed.

Every pilgrimage is a very personal experience, and the wide variety of equipment we saw reflected that.

p18 :: Apparel & Footwear

Part 1: South African clothing, textile and

footwear (next issue) manufacturing

Resurgence in local clothing manufacturing

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t least 4 000 new jobs have been created in the South African clothing industry since 2012, says Bobby Fairlamb, chairman of the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster (CCTC). “I say at least, because the data collected is for the formal sector and does not include small semi-formal start-ups that are unrecorded.”

There had recently been a 1.5% increase in the number of employees in the clothing, textile, footwear and leather (CTFL) sectors the latest figures from the Stats SA Quarterly Employment Survey (QES) for the March 2015 quarter show. This increase is not only yearon-year for the 1st quarter, but also for the 1st quarter 2015 compared to the 4th quarter 2014. According to the survey there are now 88 657 people formally employed in the sector.

Before 2002, it was estimated that 210 000 people were employed in the industry.

Domestic garment manufacturing remained fairly static in Rand terms between 20022013, while imports have risen steadily, says Fairlamb. In 2013 retailers sold approximately R13-bn worth of domestic garments, compared to about R35-bn in imported product.

In the 1st quarter of 2015 the Rand value of clothing imports (R5.5-bn) was 11% higher than the corresponding period the previous year, although the volume of imports (139-m units) was only 0.5% higher, according to The Clothing Trade Statistics Report Jan-March 2015, compiled by the Apparel Manufacturers Association of SA (AMASA) (see table p18).

These figures include imports from the neighbouring BLNS countries — Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia and Swaziland. Swaziland and Lesotho are amongst our biggest imported clothing suppliers.

During the period overall average prices in-

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

While local clothing manufacturers still face many challenges, BOBBY FAIRLAMB, chairman of the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster is optimistic about the future and the gains the industry has made

creased by 10.5% to R39.52 per unit.

Fairlamb believes that a resurging interest from retailers in locally supplied product is, however, starting to create a shift towards more domestic garment manufacturing. “Unfortunately, trade statistics only come out two years after the fact and we’ll have to wait to see the actual numbers.”

As an example, he mentions that they had created about 200 additional jobs since 2009 at the K-Way factory, where he is general manager. They did this by expanding their factory size and capabilities substantially and through subcontracting to outsourced CMT’s that work almost exclusively for them.

We now have a stateof-the-art factory, making high value technical products, in small runs and short lead times. Now the East has no chance of competing with us!

Hard data on factory closings and start-ups are elusive, says Fairlamb, but the job creation figures suggest that factories are expanding and new ones are opening up — “a different scenario from a few years ago when closures were the only news.”

Assistance for manufacturers Part of this resurgence can be attributed to the increased assistance government has been giving to local clothing, textile and footwear manufacturers over the past few years. Five years ago the old Duty Credit Certificate (DCC), which probably did more harm than good to industry, was starting to be phased

out, explains Fairlamb.

Two forms of assistance have since been introduced, which have been vital to local manufacturers recapturing market share: • The Production Incentive: Since 2012 this incentive has allowed manufacturers to plough nearly R3-bn back into their companies in terms of new and upgraded equipment, staff training, facilities and systems, he says.

• Regional Clusters — the CCTC and KZN CTC (Cape and KwaZulu Natal Clothing and Textile Cluster) — were funded 75% of the total costs of introducing lean manufacturing improvement support to the participating manufacturers, “which has driven major productivity and efficiency improvements in our businesses,” says Fairlamb. “Our success so far at K-Way is evidence of the value of this assistance from the DTI and local government.”

Local manufacturing benefits The weakening of the exchange rate has certainly added to the local retailer’s urgency to look to local supply to manage those rising costs and risks, so there is some benefit for manufacturers in a weakened exchange rate, he says.

But, it is a double-edged sword: since local manufacturers import the majority of their fabrics for conversion into garments, there is an increase in fabric costs as a result. “Overall, however, the results are currently positive for local clothing manufacturers.”

He also believes that retailers are recognising more and more that local manufacturers can compete effectively if given the opportunity to offer a full-service solution.

“For example, at K-way, we were for a long time only asked to make basic fleeces and oth-

Apparel & Footwear :: p19

er simple garments. At the time we could not make any margin and struggled to compete with mass production from the East.

“With support from retail, the DTI and Western Cape government, we upgraded our equipment, adopted lean manufacturing, trained our staff and improved our design capabilities. We now have a state-of-the-art factory, making high value technical products, in small runs and short lead times. Now the East has no chance of competing with us!”

Competing with the East Cheap imports from the Asian continent remains a challenge, but Fairlamb believes that the local industry can compete, provided that they keep on improving — and keep in mind that the East is also constantly improving.

“We are differentiating our service in a way that the East will struggle to compete with us on certain garments,” says Fairlamb. “We don’t really want the cheap, easy to make stuff, as that is only about price. We want to contribute on design, shorten lead times, enhance quality and ensure that our customer is always in stock of in-demand product.”

He nevertheless believes that import duties on clothing remains necessary in order to allow local manufacturers to compete fairly. “Fundamentally, South Africa needs to revitalise its manufacturing sector if the economy is going to grow and create jobs. But, we also need decent work as we don’t want to become a nation of exploited workers, working in unsafe environments, as we so often see overseas.”

It is therefore necessary to protect the manufacturing industries, as any other country does globally, he maintains, but the import quotas introduced on Chinese products as a temporary measure some years ago were scrapped because they had no visible positive

impact.

“Significantly, we are still having to pay high 22% duty on fabric we import, even though the fabric we use is not, and cannot be, manufactured, in South Africa,” says Fairlamb.

“This also negates duties charged for finished products and we are struggling with the DTI to come up with a plan to solve this problem.”

Various role players in the clothing industry — AMASA, Texfed, the clusters, unions and retailers — have put forward a solid duty rebate mechanism, giving an import rebate to manu-

facturers who use local fabrics, that will start to sort out the fabric supply issue, says Fairlamb. “In this regard we really need the DTI to step up and adopt the proposal.”

Exports negligible While small pockets of industry benefitted from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which gives African manufacturers preferential access to US markets, South Africa’s exports to America are too negligible to have an impact and the agreement To p20

How clusters assist manufacturers Both the Cape and KwaZulu Natal Clothing and Textile Clusters have various assistance programmes for members, developed with the help of B&M Analysts, who work closely with the individual factories. the World Class Manufacturing Programme aims to assist with upgrading of manufacturing processes and skills development — also in SMEs — through management training, peer review and lean manufacturing best practice study tours, and benchmarking firms to ensure that they maintain their competitive level by reporting on their performance of over 30 key measures in areas varying from financial performance, cost control, HR development, value chain, quality, innovation, etc.

With lean manufacturing factories are encouraged to implement the 5S workplace organisation method based on five Japanese words that can roughly be translated into sort, straighten, shine, standardise, and sustain — for example, by improving demarcation of work areas, providing equipment next to machines to promote cleanliness, reducing motion and inventory in the sew line, etc. These methods are all aimed

at improving efficiency and competitiveness. the Clothing and textiles Competitiveness Improvement Programme (CtCIP), partly funded by the Industrial Development Corporation, is a 4-year support programme offering training and mentoring programmes to participating firms who want to enhance their competitive capabilities.

The Value Chain Alignment Programme aims to assist manufacturers as well as clothing retailers to work together to improve Quick Response (QR) in the supply chain through academic research, pilot programmes and retail study tours to enable the clusters to refine practical tools and techniques for QR and provide a training programme for retailers and manufacturers.

Further Assistance: The Cape cluster assists members to gain access to government incentives and grants, including the CTCIP, MIP, a Working Capital Facility, and the Production Incentive (PI). In KwaZulu Natal, CMTs in the Durban area can join the CMT SPV /Project Management to enjoy some of the skills training offered to bigger manufacturers.

See more at: www.capeclothingcluster.org.za and www.kznctc.org.za.

2015 September :: Sports Trader

p20 :: Apparel & Footwear

Q1 2015 SA clothing imports — Top 8 countries in value Country

Units

% change R value

R% change

Value % total

Ave price/unit

China

97.5-m

-0.4%

3.34-bn

13%

61%

R 34

Swaziland

7.8-m

5%

356-m

13%

7%

R 46

Lesotho

4.3-m

-4%

344-m

6%

6%

R 81

India

7.2-m

8%

273-m

29%

5%

R 38

Bangladesh

3.7-m

6%

227-m

-1%

4%

R 62

Mauritius

4.5-m

22%

188-m

33%

3%

R 42

Madagascar

6.5-m

5%

162-m

6%

3%

R 25

681 000

31%

81-m

13%

2%

R 118

100%

R 40

Tanzania

Q1 2015 SA clothing imports total in value from all countries Total of all

139-bn

1%

5.5-bn

11%

Q1 2015 SA clothing exports — Top 5 countries in value R value

R% change

Value % total

Namibia

402-m

15.9%

35.9%

Botswana

242-m

9.3%

21.6%

Lesotho

133-m

34.2%

11.9%

Swaziland

89-m

5.1%

7.7%

Zambia

35-m

32.9%

3.2%

1.1-bn

21.1%

100%

Country

Total of all

Source: Clothing Trade Statistics Report Jan-March 2015, compiled by AMASA. Clothing exports from South Africa are dominated by our neighbouring BLNS countries (Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia and Swaziland), accounting for a total of R862.9-m in the 1st quarter of 2015.

In comparison, clothing worth R21-m (1.9% of the total value of clothing exports) was exported to the US, despite AGOA. This is less than the clothing worth R29-m exported to the UK in the period (2.6% of the total).

The total represents all clothing exports for the period.

Clothing manufacturing cont from p19 has done little for the clothing industry itself, believes Fairlamb.

Lesotho, Swaziland and Mauritius did benefit due to the single conversion rule (they can use fabric and yarn sourced from abroad and still qualify for local origin status), but in South Africa the two-stage conversion rule applies, requiring that garments have to be made from local fabric in order to qualify as Made in South Africa.

“One could argue that keeping people gainfully employed in these land-locked states reduced the influx of work seekers to South Africa, so maybe there was some indirect benefit that way,” he adds.

Challenges faced Therefore, while the clothing manufacturing industry faces several challenges, Fairlamb believes none of them are insurmountable.

• The import duties on fabric is the biggest challenged faced by local clothing manufacturing industry, but this can be addressed by the implementation of the duty rebate mechanism proposed by the industry.

• An untrained labour force is frustrating as the institutions that used to supply training for machinists have diminshed to a large extent. “Our response has been to do the training in-house,” says Fairlamb. “The bigger frustration is the lack of a skilled workforce — mechanics, electrical technicians, tool makers, etc. The educational environment is just not producing adequate numbers of skilled people in these fields.”

• Cost of labour is less of an issue than the

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

The table left show the statistics for clothing imports from the ten biggest suppliers to South Africa in the 1st quarter of 2015. Figures are compared to the 1st quarter of 2014. This indicates the massive impact of imports from China: although the unit price per garment is low, garments to the value of R3.34-bn were imported from China, which represents 61% of the total value of all clothing imports.

In comparison, the average price of garments from Tanzania is much higher. The total represents all clothing imports for the period.

productivity of labour. “K-Way has made massive strides and we are very proud of how productive our workforce has become.

If we are productive and quick, with limted waste in our production process, then the cost of labour per unit produced can be reduced. That’s the ideal — to get the combination of decent work, while still being competitive.”

• Unions regulating the industry is not a healthy situation in any country, but, the reality is that unions are our partners in manufacturing and we both want the same thing: decent work and more employment, he says. I believe the methods of achieving the above are aligning as the unions better understand the need for productivity and competitiveness, and business better understand how to engage and communicate with the unions and workforce.

• Labour legislation can create impediments to factories who want to introduce flexible working hours and adapt to seasonal fluctuations. “The current process of having to negotiate specific terms when a flex is needed, even if it means workers earn more in the long run, is difficult,” says Fairlamb.

Other challenges clothing manufacturers are facing, are: • Counterfeiters remain a challenge for the brands, and will be there as long as the brands can command a premium price. “As with under-invoicing of product, which is probably a bigger challenge for our local manufacturers, this is something only customers and SARS can resolve.”

• Cost of raw materials is probably a lesser issue than the availability of domestically produced raw materials. “I am confident that if we could get more local supply, we could also work on better pricing that would be in everyone’s interests. The availability of fabrics and trims is probably the biggest current challenge and has to be a big focus area for the DTI,” says Fairlamb.

• Lack of trust from retailers in local manufacturers is a challenge for many, “but given where we have come from, a degree of risk management from all parties is to be expected. There is increasing recognition that we need each other and no one party can really succeed and thrive without the other. Trust can onloy be earned, so really the challenge for industry is to respond to the opportunities becoming available and delight our customers.”

Further ways in which the local clothing manufacturing industry can be aided is for the Production Incentive to be extended in a more focussed form for the next five years and proper support for the CCTC and KZNCT and vertical clusters, suggests Fairlamb. “This is the responsibility of national government and industry has clearly articulated this need.”

From the retail industry, manufacturers need the opportunity to engage meaningfully, and for retail to recognise that there is a massive opportunity in quick response supply right on their doorstep, he says. “As manufacturers we have to be more agile and flexible, use the PI wisely to invest in our core competencies and engage in clusters to increase learning and knowledge sharing. We can only succeed if we work together,” he concludes.

What it takes to be a shoe designer in SA

Apparel & Footwear :: p21

CHANELLE MAC ALLISTER spoke to Gordon Gassert about his career as footwear designer for the Jordan & Co brands Olympic and Bronx

I

t is widely believed that Hollywood star Marilyn Monroe said give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world.

If Monroe’s quote rings true, we need people like Gordon Gassert, Product Developer at Jordan & Co, and one of South Africa’s leading shoe designers.

Born and raised in Cape Town, Gassert followed in his dad’s footsteps. “My father was one of the greats in his day,” says Gassert.

“The shoe trade chooses you somehow! I believe it’s in my genes.”

He believes the best way to learn is to spend time on the factory floor in all departments and absorb as much knowledge as you can.

“Each day has its problems and the more you know, the easier it is to find solutions,” he observes. There are, however, footwear design schools both locally and internationally.”

One of the brands he designs shoes for is the Olympic active footwear ranges for women, men and children. Gassert comments that once you’ve mastered the basics of shoe design, it not as challenging as people may think.

“As long as you know what the function of the shoe will be, i.e. casual wear, sport, etc. you can apply the necessary detail to create the shoe you need.

“The components you choose to use will determine the comfort of the shoe. A padded collar and tongue and a soft inner sock will make a massive difference to the comfort, compared to a shoe without those features.”

Gassert also enjoys designing rugged, street fashion men’s footwear and he has been work-

ing on the Bronx range for many years now.

“I adore shoes with attitude,” he says. “I love to use natural leathers that emphasise the defects such as tick marks, scratches etc. as this give the shoes a more natural, worn in look. Even though the shoes are mass produced, they each have a distinct look and feel due to the way the leathers pull up.”

Quality and comfort has been the foundation on which the Bronx brand has been built “and we incorporate these features in all our shoes,” he says. “Quality soles, padded col-

Once you understand the practical side, the design side will fall into place lars and tongues, quality leathers and comfort socks all contribute to the making of a comfortable shoe.”

Gassert has a keen eye for identifying proportions, colour combinations and fashion trends.

“A sound knowledge of leather is essential, as is the ability to work in a team.”

Good knowledge of the market is important when predicting which designs will be most in demand in the future, he believes.

“You need to know who you are catering for, listen to customer feedback and know that anything too fancy will probably have limited sales value. Again, it depends on the kind of footwear you produce. A good basic will al-

ways boost your sales.”

As a designer, he follows trends on the Internet. “It’s critical to pick up on trends. International travel to the trade shows and fashion magazines should also give you a good idea of what is trending in the footwear world.”

Gassert started his career in shoe designing by spending three years on the factory floor, learning the art of shoe manufacture.

“I then spent one year on pattern cutting, followed by 20 years of designing, which also includes selling, range building, sourcing leathers, soles and various other components, designing trims, labels and shaping lasts. I’ve also been lucky enough to travel the world through my job.”

His advice to those dreaming of giving people the right shoes to conquer the world, are simple: “Try to become an intern at a shoe factory to learn as much as you can about how shoes are made by spending time on the factory floor in each department.

“Once you understand the practical side, the design side will fall into place.”

The biggest challenge faced by a shoe designer is learning how to handle criticism of your designs, he adds. “Everyone likes to be told that their designs are great, but I’ve learned so much by listening to the critics and seeing where I went wrong.”

Gassert, is married with two daughters, two dogs and a cat. He spends his free time on family outings, allowing his Husky to take him for a walk. “We love outdoor activities.”

His ambition is to always create better ranges.

2015 September :: Sports Trader

p24 :: Apparel & Footwear

Photo by Messe Düsseldorf

New sandal and water shoe trends Sandals and water shoes offer a variety of colours, technologies and designs that will suit any customer’s taste, reports RHIANAH RHODE

S

uppliers are offering sandals and water shoes for summer that will appeal to both the fashion conscious as well as the consumer who is more concerned about the technology than the aesthetics of the shoe. The casual and technical sandals for men and women come in a variety of styles, colours, in bright and dark shades, that will ensure that there is something for everyone.

Brands have made use of leather, canvas and even recyclable materials in their sandals.

Bronx men’s Hawai Suppliers are looking after the environment by creating materials that are themselves recyclable, as well as by using recycled materials to manufacture the footwear – thereby doing their part to clean up waste. Your environmentallyconscious customers will want to know about these new sandal ranges.

Bronx men The Bronx men’s summer sandals range is rugged and good looking, says Gordon Gassert from the brand’s local distributor, Jordan & Co. It features masculine colours that include different variants of black and brown.

This sandal range includes designs that have a full leather bandage wrap across the top of the foot with a padded suede leather footbed or leather and canvas combos that have a worn in look for the customer who wants a more casual look.

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

The range offers various options and either way the wearer will look and feel great in any of them, says Gassert.

The Hawai bandage sandal goes well with shorts, jeans or even a pair of chinos. “Slide a pair on after a day at the beach on the way to a casual beach front restaurant,” he says.

Their Savannah is a crossover style with a leather and canvas combination and soft padded foot-bed.

“It is stylish and will have your Ipa customer covered for his day on the nem a yacht,” says Gassert.

The Blaze sandal has an aggressive bandage in a burnished leather and canvas combination. It boasts a lightweight PU sole and upper detail that will turn heads, he says.

The Rade is a finely tuned combination of fashion and aggression that is set on an EVA/ leather foot-bed and offers the wearer both comfort and style. The distressed leather and frayed edges of its canvas sets it apart from the usual beach sandal. “This is an easy-on-easyoff everyday sandal with rugged good looks and a bad attitude,” he adds.

Grendha The Grendha sandals, which are manufactured in Brazil, are in touch with a relaxed lifestyle and still has the stylish edge with which it has become synonymous, says Philip Fouché of local distributor Intershu Distributors.

“The 2015 summer collection features classic summer footwear silhouettes with a stylish twist that will glisten by a pool during the day,

and shimmer throughout the night.”

Ipanema Ipanema, locally distributed by Intershu Distributors, features a range of bright thong sandal styles made from fully recyclable plastic material.

The vibrant flip flop sandal collection, Ipanema, is named after the exotic and famous Brazilian beach in Rio de Janeiro. It is a global icon that is recognised for its fun, chic and colourful Brazilian spirit, says Fouché. The brand is “the perfect blend of a relaxed seaside lifestyle with the sophistication of city glamour”.

The Ipanema sandals stay in touch with current fashion trends and are sold in nearly 100 countries globally. They have a fast-growing presence in the closets and on the feet of Hollywood’s elite celebrities such as Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, Kate Hudson, Ashton Kutcher and so many others, says Fouché.

They combine fashion with features such as multiple sole shapes for better comfort and fit, 360 degree prints that wrap Gr en around the sole, and dh a “amazing strap and overlay details that make them unique. People notice the styles when they’re on feet!”

The brand’s styles are creative and comfortable, and are kind to the environ- To p26

p26 :: Apparel & Footwear

Sandals and water shoes cont from p24 ment by using soft and durable Flexpand 100% recyclable plastic materials. The entire collection is made using at least 30% recycled materials while 99% of all its factory Jeep Den waste is either reton cycled or reused.

The thong designs in the range include a variety of bright orange, yellow, mint, turquoise, etc. as well as bolder navy, black, grey, etc. hues.

Jeep The Jeep sandal collection for men and women boasts a variety of styles for everyone from the outdoor enthusiast to the fashion forward consumer, says Dianri Luttig from local distributor Footwear Trading.

Due to popular demand, the brand has extended its men’s outdoor range, consisting of trail and adventure categories. Their durable outdoor sandals have non-slip outsoles and cushioned midsoles. They also feature full grain leather uppers, which guarantee durability on harsh terrain and make them able to withstand the African landscape, she says.

Jeep’s men’s fashion range — also divided

Suppliers offer a wide selection of water shoes that will suit your customers’ needs this summer.

into two main categories: mules and thongs — features designs with durable full grain leather uppers and distressed canvas trims that highlight the heritage and craftsmanship Levi’s of the brand.

These styles are constructed with utmost Levi’s range of classic and timeless flip flops comfort in mind and can be worn with a fa- and sandals for men and women are ideal for vourite casual outfit. “Jeep shoes are staple the long and sunny summer days that are apitems for any man looking for comfortable and proaching, says Dianri Luttig from local disdurable summer footwear,” she says. tributor Footwear Trading.

The men’s range offers a variety of colours These shoes offer durable comfort that can including chocolate, tan, brown, etc. Some of be paired with casual swimwear, denim shorts, the outdoor sandals feature velcro and draw- summer dresses and everything else in bestring closure systems. tween, she says.

The ladies’ range features a small number of The men’s range of EVA rubber flip flops is outdoor styles as well as fashion thongs, which beach and surf inspired, but includes modern are constructed of high qualupdates such as the distressed denim trims ity, durable materials with that feature on the Macphail. versatility and functionality Another update is embossing. The Bells’ as priority, says Luttig. sole mimics embossed wood, which The ranges’ colour ways gives it an authentic Levi’s ap(blue, turquoise, grey, yellow, etc.) peal, and the Bowmore offers are fun yet versatile, and the femia sporty look with a deep emnine silhouettes make the footwear easy bossed foot bed.

Levi’s Mimosa to pair with outdoor and leisure wear. The The versatile ladies’ Mimosa and ladies’ thongs feature detailed straps such as Bellini flip flops both feature comfortable EVA braided straps and the outdoor sandals fea- rubber soles and are available in striking meture velcro criss-cross straps and drawstring tallic colour ways such as blue, bronze, charclosure systems. coal and purple. “The metallic colours on both

Apparel & Footwear :: p27 styles have a vintage finish for that “lived in” charm,” Olymp says Luttig. ic Inte rnatio nal Ae “Mimosa is ro a woven t-strap style that adds Grecian flair to any outfit and Bellini is a classic thong that will enhance a casual summer outfit.”

Summer sandals and water shoes will appeal to the fashion conscious and consumers who are concerned about technology.

ton Jessop of local distributor, Because I can clothing.

Olympic International The collection will include a fashion version Olympic International, locally distributed by of Swellular technology, which combines fashJordan & Co., offers a range of polyurethane ion and function for the global traveller. Swel(PU) and Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) lular technology is built around sandals for the younger and older three layers of material: a male customer. soft and contoured The men’s Aero and Flip sandals foam deck for instant both feature blue, black and white comfort, a mediumRee f Ro ver colour combinations. The Aero outdoor density midsole for sandal features a polyurethane upper and long-lasting support, and thermoplastic rubber (TPR) outsole, whereas a high-density rubber outsole that provides the Flip has a PVC bandage strap upper and traction, protection and durability. outsole. Both are available in sizes 6-11.

The Rover LE is a men’s sandal that combines The black and grey kid’s Eagle outdoor san- water friendly vegan leathers and a simplistic dal has a PU and mesh upper and TPR outsole. upper to bring an entirely new classic look to It is available in sizes 9-1 and 2-5.

Reef’s most innovative sandal yet. Its triple density construction provides the same comReef Brazil fort, support, and traction that the Reef Rover The surf and lifestyle sandal brand Reef Bra- sandal provides, with timeless leather appeal, zil continues to build off the momentum of says Jessop. the Reef Swellular technology platform and The Rover Hi is a women’s sandal that comhas expanded its Rover Collection, says Bren- bines function and fashion with a slide con-

struction complimented by a wrap around the ankle that is made of stretchy elastic goring for extra comfort.

The Rover HI LX version features soft Napa Leather wrapped around Swellular foam for comfort. The triple density construction provides comfort, support and traction and lends itself to be the most versatile sandal Reef has ever created, says Jessop. Its styling has a more global feel with a lot of attention Ride r to detail. “The fusion of fashion and technology continues to excite us because it delivers such versatile products,” he adds.

Reef’s Fanning sandal is an ever popular standout in terms of innovative comfort and functionality features suited for the most discerning customer, says Jessop. The brand prides itself on a ridiculously comfortable mentality, and that is exactly the premise behind the Fanning sandal, he says. This sandal features a water friendly synthetic nubuck upper and a contoured compression moulded EVA foot bed with built-in anatomical arch support that contributes to the overall comfort.

It also has a full 360 degree heel airbag enclosed in soft polyurethane, a To p28

p28 :: Apparel & Footwear

Sandals and water shoes cont from p27 grippy outsole that makes it ideal for use on wet slippery surfaces and a church key bottle opener that comes in handy Merr on most occasions, says ell All Out S Jessop. ieve

Rider

styles.

The kiddies versions feature bright royal blue, yellow and neon pink colours. The adult models also have neon offerings, but offer neutral colour variants such as grey and royal blue as well.

The range offers numerous closure options that include adjustable toggles (Hydro Tech), elastic laces (Hydro Cross) and Velcro straps (Hydro Glow).

Rider sandals, which are also made in Brazil and locally distributed by Intershu Distributors, are driven by a culture that celebrates an acHi-Tec l tive outdoor lifestyle rve Ma y k Hi-Tec’s Wolf River ladies’ and men’s water and the spirit of freeRoc dom and self-expression. shoes feature high performance uppers, which The flip flop and slide designs in this range make them supportive, durable and breathable. flects a represent an attitude that reThey have a toggle fastening system that more laidback way of life, says allows for easy fastening, as well as drainage Fouché. They are also made ports that allow for optimum performance in to conform to the wearer’s and around water, says Joanne Esterhuizen. foot to cushion every step “On the rocks or in the boat these are and accommodate natural great shoes at an affordable gait. price for the everyday water Born from Brazilians’ passion Hi-Te c junkie!”

Wolf for life, these shoes are inspired by River extreme sports, fashion trends and the Merrell great outdoors. They look as good as they feel and are built to last by eco-friendly manufac- Merrell’s AllOut Sieve is designed for hydro turing plants using 15-30% recycled materi- hiking and offers the wearer traction in and als, says Fouché. “Rider recycles 960 tons of out of water. Merrell is locally distributed by material on a monthly basis reducing environ- Medicus Shoes. mental impact by 11 500 tons per year.”

The midsole uses Unify technology, which connects the wearer to the trail and protects Rocky him from the terrain.

Rocky's Marvel, locally disA durable Vibram outsole with a water tributed by Crown Footchannelling design also helps keep the wear, is a durable and wearer upright on wet surfaces.

Aq comfortable sandal with a ua Its neoprene lining allows it to L i leather upper, EVA moulded footne Hy dry quickly and an adjustable bundro bed and rubber toe cap to protect the T gee cord lock-lacing system transiwearer's toes. The taupe sandal also fea- ech tions in and out of water with ease. tures an adjustable quick-fastening lace system and neoprene lining.

Water shoes on offer

Water shoes are the ideal footwear for the outdoor enthusiast who will be fishing, hiking or doing any activity where his feet may get wet. To cater for this consumer, suppliers have a wide selection of water shoes that will suit your customers’ needs this summer.

These water shoes offer a number of closure systems, colours that appeal to both men and women, and features such as breathability, drainage ports, rubber soles, etc. that are useful when taking part in water-related activities.

AquaLine The AquaLine range of water shoes, locally available from De Wet Sports, offers excellent grip through the rubberised soles and breathability with mesh uppers.

The range is available in adult and kids’

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

Rock Spring

The Rock Spring range of footwear is ideal for activities such as fishing. Designed for outdoor durability and leisurely style, Rock Spring’s non-slip sole offers comfort and style for men and women looking for function and fashion.

The Rock Spring range of washable and breathable footwear is locally distributed by Intershu Distributors. These shoes are made mostly Rock Sprin with an elastic upper g ladies’ that breathes and ensures a comfortable fit on the foot, says Fouché.

The styles range from regular lace-up to an easy slip-on in a multitude of colours — combinations of khaki for men and metallic colours, as well as brighter pink, yellow and purple combinations for women — and sole designs.

SRL8690

SRL8687

SRL8677

SRL8683

SRM9007

SRM9005

RSP: FROM R399.99 COMFORT / DURABILITY WASHABLE / BREATHABLE

HEAD OFFICE Trade Enquiries until 16:30 Tel: (011) 345 8000 www.rockspring.co.za

Will the 2007 ‘Bok fever be repeated?

p32 :: Apparel & Footwear

Planning stock for an event like the 2015 IRB World Cup can be tricky as nobody can predict if we’ll see a repeat of the fan-fever towards the end of the 2007 World Cup when even the most unlikely fans were frantically searching for Green and Gold.

Springbok jersey supplier ASICS gives some tips on how to benefit from replica sales

O

, but for a crystal ball when having to plan replica stock — especially for a major event like an IRB World Cup! Cast your minds back eight years to the final few weeks of the World Cup in France: as the possibility of one more glorious ‘Bok victory became more and more of a reality, rugby fever gripped the country as never before.

Retailers were desperately trying to order any possible kind of Springbok replica as even the most unlikely customers came looking for team supporters gear. In the week before the final, it would have been a rare South African who did not at least wear something in green and gold and an estimated 80 000 jerseys were sold in retail stores.

Yet, in Paris, retailers couldn’t give away an All Black shirt after the host nation knocked the favourites out at the quarter-finals stage.

The problem that South African retailers faced then — as now — was that it took quite a while for South Africans to “vang gees”. Remember the team selection criticisms, the transformation controversies, the low expectations after the Springboks managed only one win in the Tri-nations series preceding the World Cup … nothing to predict the mass pride and euphoria that had even the most unlikeliest supporters showing their colours.

For ASICS SA, who has to ensure that there is sufficient supply for all their retail customers,

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

“being able to accurately project the demand and ensure there is sufficient supply in the market for everybody to be able to get their hands on a replica item” is like walking a tightrope.

“We are fortunate enough to have an experienced team who has been through the planning of both a rugby and soccer world cup which helps bring extra support to get the right mix,” says ASICS SA National Sales Manager Craig White.

But, while he acknowledges that “team performance is always critical to any replica business, if the team performs jersey sales will al-

Fans will wear any Springbok jersey if there are no more specific tournament jerseys available ways go up” he also points out that a World Cup offers consumers much more.

“It is a unique opportunity to fully get behind not only your team, but your country. We would highly encourage fans to get behind the ‘Boks prior to the kick off of Rugby World Cup and align to the call to action around Bok Fridays.”

The support from government and the call by Minister of Sport and Recreation, Fikile Mbalula, that South Africans should wear their Springbok colours on Fridays, is a far cry from the negativity that preceded the departure of the Springboks in 2007 when the controversial chairman of the Parliamentary Committee for Sport was so critical of the team selection.

But, again, retailers need to decide whether it was the unusually long and cold winter that discouraged fans from buying — and wearing — their Springbok supporter jerseys in their thousands in the month before the ‘Boks departure

… and whether they will rise to the occasion when the weather improves and the tournament gets underway.

Retailers will also remember the doublescourge of not being able to meet demands: as they ran out of stock during the 2010 FIFA World Cup as well as the 2007 IRB World Cup, their customers turned to the illegal street vendors for gear. In two raids in 2007, police confiscated 126 000 counterfeit Springbok jerseys.

In South Africa, sales of replica and supporter gear do not fill retailer tills as in England, for example. According to a report by PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC), South African entertainment and media outlook: 2012-2016, the South African sport merchandising market is worth about R535-m per year. Of that, sales to rugby supporters will account for about a third, or R178-m per year. This includes all merchandising — bags, beanies, shirts, t-shirts, flags, etc. as well as discounted sales of old shirts.

While sales of Springbok jerseys can double during a World Cup year — especially as the team advances during the tournament — retailers will also know that the Springbok jersey is by far the best seller among all the local rugby team shirts, selling about double or three times as many as Super Rugby team shirts. They will also know that fans will wear any Springbok jersey if there are no more specific tournament jerseys available.

“We would recommend that our customer stocks up on a mix of both options to ensure they have the authentic Green and Gold in their store,” he says.

Retailers will therefore not run the risk of having tournament-specific stock left over, should things not go as well as everybody hopes for the Springboks.

The Springbok jersey also has international

Apparel & Footwear :: p33

appeal. Many a South African travelling overseas has made the mistake of happily greeting a wearer of the jersey as a compatriot … only to discover that he is actually a Frenchman, Welshman or American who had bought the jersey as a souvenir. There will therefore always be a demand for the Green and Gold.

But, ASICS SA is optimistic about the ‘Boks chances and have been preparing for the last minute rush by making sure they have some additional stock leading into the tournament.

“We are gearing up for last minute orders as the tournament progresses and as the team continues to perform,” says White. But, even they cannot budget for unlimited supply and will only be able to supply on a first come first serve basis while stocks last.

They supply a full range of jerseys ranging from replicas of the top end test jersey, to take down fan tees and accessories. “These cover a range of price points and we have ensured that there will be a suitable option for each customer’s pocket. We offer some of these items in kids and infant sizes.”

They have three types of replica shirts available for retailers, says Sarah Mundy of ASICS SA. The SB Test Home shirt is a direct take down of the players’ jersey and features silicone grip-

per technology on the body panels. The SB M’s Home Shirt is the official fan jersey, is made of 100% polyester and features embroidered logos on the chest area. The SB M’s Fan Shirt is made with a lightweight 100% polyester fabric and features printed logos.

Most suppliers of jerseys for other teams in the IRB World Cup will rely on internet sales of their supporter wear, but ASICS SA will also supply the Wallabies jersey they produced and manufactured.

All Black jersey from adidas Adidas recently introduced the new 2015 All Black World Cup jerseys — the team’s most technically advanced jersey yet. Three replica styles — the cotton-based supporters’ version, the traditional replica version and the performance version — as well as a full legacy range, are available.

The players’ jersey pays tribute to The Originals — the iconic All Blacks team that won 34 of the 35 matches during their 1905-1906 tour of the UK, US and France.

“The Originals were really the first All Blacks team to capture the rugby world’s imagination, especially in the UK, so we think it’s fitting that the team is heading back to the UK this year

with that on their chest,” says Simon Cartwright, Senior Director of adidas Rugby Global.

The new jersey has a subtle patterned design in the shoulder and chest area, which was developed with input from team’s management and senior players, and reflects the leather yoke used on The Originals’ jersey.

The jersey was developed using techniques applied in the aerospace industry and included the body mapping process known as Dynamic Stretch Analysis, which measures bodies during motion while monitoring strain on the skin.

Based on this research, adidas produced two jerseys suited to the needs of the forwards and backs that mimic players’ skin movement.

They also feature the brand’s Woven Carbon, which is a fabric-weaving technology with two-way stretch that does not compromise the strength, flexibility, weight or comfort needed during play.

Suppliers of 2015 IRB World Cup team shirts Pool A

Pool B

Pool C

Pool D

Australia:

ASICS

South Africa:

ASICS

New Zealand: adidas

France:

adidas

England:

Canterbury

Samoa:

BLK

Argentina:

Nike

Ireland:

Canterbury

Wales:

Under Armour

Japan:

Canterbury

Tonga:

BLK

Italy:

adidas

Fiji:

BLK

Scotland:

Macron

Georgia:

Under Armour Canada:

Under Armour

Uruguay:

Kooga

United States: BLK

Namibia:

Canterbury

BLK

Romania:

2015 September :: Sports Trader

Other replica news

p34 :: Apparel & Footwear

Adidas launches new local and international soccer team shirts ADIDAS’ NEW Orlando Pirates and Chelsea kits have been designed to connect closer with the fans, the new Manchester United away shirt has a historical connection, while the Real Madrid kit is aimed at giving fans a perfect experience.

The Pirates home jersey represents the team’s mantra of The Spirit Never Dies, which is an expression of the resilient and loyal nature of the team’s unwavering supporter, The Ghost.

It features the iconic black strip with a lighter chest that gives the jersey more depth and a modern look. It also has a v-shaped neckline and 3-D badge over the heart, as featured on some famous international soccer kits.

"We worked with Orlando Pirates to develop what we believe is a trendy jersey that is appealing to the fans, and further entrenches a strong emotional connection with the club," says Adrian De Souza of adidas SA. The new Manchester United away kit takes inspiration from some of the historical away shirts, including the shirts worn by the legend-

New Arsenal kit from Puma The new Arsenal home kit, combines the club’s traditional red and white with a modern look. The shirt features a grandad collar with a gold piping trim around the collar edge and its white sleeves features the brand’s classic form strip, highlighted with red piping, and mesh inserts that help improve breathability. A full collection of fan wear is also available. The 2015/16 Arsenal cup kit, which the first team will wear for the away games of cup competitions like the UEFA Champions League, which starts in September. The new kit has a modernised design and features stripes in seasonal colours like white, gold and capri breeze blue on an overall anthracite base.

The shirt features a modern interpretation of a soccer sash in the form of diagonal stripes across the chest and its sleeves feature the brand’s classic form strip as mesh panels.

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

ary Busby teams of the 1960s. It has a classic V-neck collar and three stripe design down the shoulder, as well as a graphic design on the hem of the shirt taken from the 1990 shirt worn by Ryan Giggs in his debut season.

Inspired by some of the iconic three-stripe United kits from the 1980s, the classic red and white is back in innovative designs. The shirts feature the latest in adidas lightweight and breathable technologies.

The shirts were launched as part of the Break Expectations campaign to demonstrate the start of a new era for the football club as they return to the UEFA Champions League The Chelsea home kit has a new look and has been launched as part of the playful If it's not blue, it will be campaign, which emphasises their determination to dominate in UK and European soccer. It takes inspiration from a number of 1980’s classic designs. The home shirt features the brand’s Climacool technology that keeps players cool and dry, as well as allows

good freedom of movement without sacrificing the garment’s flexibility and resilience.

The club’s away kit also has a new look in the club’s classic white, red and blue colour scheme as well as adidas’ Climacool technology.

The Real Madrid home and away kit represents the team’s mantra of only perfect counts. The colour combinations reflect the team’s ideals that just winning is not enough: every victory must be perfect. The home shirt features three stripes in a combination of white and silver, while the away kit is grey with a metallic tone.

New logo for Sunfoil Dolphins THE SUNFOIL Dolphins, sponsored by TK Sports, has launched a new logo for the first time in 15 years. The logo represents a new friendly identity for the team and fans. The new logo will appear on the team’s chest on field for the first time against the Chevrolet Knights on 11 October in Pietermaritzburg.

Fans go ‘Bok A HUGE crowd of fans and media gathered for the #BoksInASICS Springbok Signing Session at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Tygervalley recently.

Sportsman’s Warehouse staff (left) joined fans — from babies to grannies — sporting their green and gold to meet and greet Springbok squad members Faf de Klerk, Eben Etzebeth, Zane Kirchner, Frans Malherbe, Lionel Mapoe and Tendai ‘Beast’ Mtawarira (left below).

The queue went right around the large store and was nearly out the doors.The players answered questions about their experiences testing and helping with the development of their kit at the ASICS Sports Science Institute in Kobe, Japan.

The experience in Japan was awesome, said Etzebeth. A Japanese restaurant he and Beast visited in their time off had to specially import a few extra cows for the two of them, he joked.

35

Visit Sports Trader’s website for more product knowledge: www.sportstrader.co.za

What makes a golf ball?

G

olf balls have come a far way since the days of the woodenand the featherie ball (a leather pouch filled with wet feathers and coated with paint; the feathers would expand when they dried and create a compact ball).

The surface of the modern golf ball is covered in small dents, or dimples. What started off as a defect in the older versions, which were completely smooth, turned out to actually be a great innovation in getting the ball to travel further and higher — a smooth golf ball only travels about half the distance one with dimples would.

• Dimples help to reduce drag: when the ball moves through the air, the air right against the surface of the ball sticks to the surface and moves a lot slower than the air around the ball. Between the stuck air against the surface and the fast moving air is a boundary layer of slow moving air. This boundary layer of slow moving air is a source of drag – it lets the air stick to the surface and whip in behind the ball. This air behind the ball in turn creates a low pressure area, which creates a vacuum.

Therefore, the thinner the boundary layer, the less drag. This is where the dimples come in. The dimples make the molecules in the boundary layer tumble against each other, which makes them move closer to the fast moving air and reduces the difference between the speed of the molecules and that of the ball. The airflow in a turbulent boundary layer on a dimpled ball is thinner than on a smooth one. When the layer is turbulent, due to the tumbling molecules, the ball loses less energy to the fast moving stream of air, which means less drag.

• Dimples affect the lift of the ball: when putting backspin on a ball, the airflow is warped around the ball, similar to the effect of air on an airplane's wing – the air pressure at the bottom is higher than on top and creates an upward force on the ball. The dimples in turn optimise this lift force.

Generally speaking the more dimples, the higher the ball flies, but too many dimples could mean the ball travels too high and not very far in distance. Each manufacturer has

Our cut-out-and-keep series to assist retailers with product knowledge Words: Carin Hardisty. Compiled with the help of Jaco Kotze of The Golf Racket, Aaron Russell of TaylorMade-adidas Golf, and websites www.usga.org, www. golfball-guide.de, hsportsnscience.utah. edu, and www.scientificamerican.com.

their own formula for the ideal number of dimples, but it is considered that the best number is between 300-400 dimples per ball.

The shape and size of the dimple also makes a difference to the flight of the ball and the distance covered.

• Shape: traditionally, dimples have a spherical shape, but some are hexagons.

• Dimples are typically about 0.38cm in diameter.

• Shallow dimples: more spin and the ball stays on a low flight.

• Deep dimples: increase lift and the ball stays in the air longer and rolls less.

• Small dimples: better control in the wind and a lower flight.

• Large dimples: higher and longer flight.

Construction A ball can be made several ways: • One-piece: ball for beginners and used at driving ranges. Thermoplastic polymer core; • Two-piece with a solid rubber core and a thermoplastic polymer cover; • Three, four or five-piece multi-layer construction: made with a solid construction (no windings or liquid-filled centre). It features a strong rubber core, intermediate layers consisting of a combination of rubber and ionomer (depending on performance and player target), and a cover made of either ionomer or urethane.

The outside of the golf ball can also be made from various materials, each with their own pros and cons.

• Urethane: either cast or thermoplastic urethane materials. This material allows golf manufacturers to use soft materials, for more control or spin, and provides excellent cut resistance.

• Surlyn: a durable outer material that offers good cut and abrasion resistance. It feels hard and has a lower spin rate.

The USGA (Unites States Golf Association) lists the following rules for golf balls: • Weight: maximum 45.93gm. No minimum.

• Diameter: minimum 42.67mm.

• Velocity: maximum 274km p/hour The ball should be designed to behave symmetrically.

Compression Originally, the ball’s compression rating was a measurement for the quality of three-piece balls, where a long rubber was wound around the core. The perception was that the tighter the wind, the better the ball performed.

Today, technology has improved and the compression rating relates to the deflection that a golf ball undergoes when it is subjected to a compressive load (how much the shape changes under constant weight).

Balls typically have a very low compression and the majority has a rating of 100 or lower.

• The lower the compression, the softer the feel.

• For every 1/1 000ths of an inch that the ball compresses, it drops a point down.

2015 September :: Sports Trader

New in golf apparel and footwear

p36 :: Apparel & Footwear

No matter the playing conditions, suppliers’ latest golf clothing and footwear will help your customers hit the perfect stroke. YAMKELA MKEBE reports on what retailers can expect to see in the ranges

G

olf brands have gone to great lengths to ensure that the end user is comfortable and enjoys wearing their clothing and footwear. This is achieved through the use of technology, special materials and even strategic cuts.

The latest golf clothing ranges have been designed to benefit the golfer. Be it added comfort, protection from the elements or designs to allow maximum manoeuvrability, your customers will enjoy the added features.

Cobra Puma Golf The TitanTour and Yarn Dye polo golf shirts, new from Cobra Puma Golf, are designed to accommodate the wearer’s movement and to keep him feeling fresh and looking good all day long.

The cutlines on the TitanTour polo golf shirt offer an unlimited range of motion throughout the player’s swing and allow for easy and flexible movement, while the moisture wicking yarn helps keep the player dry. “For a sport that requires a lot of standing still, golf also requires a ton of flexibility. That’s why we engineered this polo with Titan Tour construction,” says Nicholas Garner of Cobra Puma Golf SA. The shirt is made of 56% Polyester, 39% Polyester Coolmax and 5% Spandex. For extra comfort on warm days, stretch coolCELL fabric is used on the back panel for ventilation and the shirt also features UV Protection of UPF 40+.

The Yarn Dye stripe polo golf shirt allows the wearer to “transition to the fun side of the game,” says Garner. The shirt features CLEANSPORT NXT fabric that keeps a player feeling and looking good the entire play. It’s lightweight and breathable, with a soft and natural feel.

The shirt is made from 92% Polyester and 8% Spandex, features side openings and UV protection, and has a self-fabric collar. The shirt

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

also features the stretch dyCELL moisturewicking fabric.

Hi-Tec Hi-Tec offers performance lifestyle range that will work on a golf course, up the mountain to a braai, says Joanne Esterhuizen of the local office.

Their performance-driven softshells and waterproof jackets will keep your customers warm and comfortable, she says. “Ewart and Satomi are great softshell options and the Dron and Lady Moon waterproof jackets will keep them dry.”

The ladies Satomi comes in a trendy light charcoal with purple zip heads. It has a sneaky zipped back pocket to stash your gloves, a chest pocket for storage, and also features a stretch draw hem to ensure it fits snugly.

The waterproof breathable lamination fabric, which resists moisture, has a silky feel.

The men’s Dron is a best-seller in the range.

It is ultra-light and compact as it fits into its own foldable pocket, which can easily be stored in a golf bag. It has a zipped chest pocket and single hand draw string for a flexible fit.

“The TECPROOF 500 fabric technology will ensure your customers’ swing is kept as bright as the sun during those rainy golf days!”

PING The new golf clothing range from PING, locally distributed by Opal Sports, has been designed to protect the serious golfer against the elements.

The new line “offers the highest specification fabrics, combined with the craftsmanship and unrivalled innovation associated with the PING brand,” says Doug Vilas of Opal Sports.

The technical golf apparel collection features the new Sensor performance fabric technologies (Sensor Cool, Sensor Warm and Sensor Dry), set to be preferred by serious

golfers keen on combining protection against the elements, but maintaining a clean and refined style on and off the course. “The Sensor platform maximises playability, whatever the conditions,” says Vilas. "From base layer to outerwear, the on course performance needs of the serious golfer are met.”

Sensor Warm technology embodies a thermal layer created to trap warm air and maintain a preferable body temperature. The layer also functions as barrier to resist wind chill and the subsequent affect it can have on a swing.

Sensor warm garments are created to reduce weight and therefore distraction through the use of breathable and stretch fabrics. These qualities also allows the garments to work with the body to respond to the demands of a round.

The Sensor Cool category uses a number of different technical moisture management fabrics and a new addition to this is the COOLMAX ALL SEASON fabric technology, which complements the body’s natural thermoregulation capabilities through Channel and Hollow Fibre technology, “offering the perfect solution for the varying conditions experienced during a golf round,” he adds. The fibres with a channelled surface to move moisture away from the player’s body and keeps a player cool and dry in warm playing conditions. Fibres with a hollow core offer insulation for added comfort on colder days.

Within the Sensor Dry category, PING has partnered with Pertex, a brand whose performance fabric technology heritage and dedication to innovation and excellence has resulted in partnerships with the most prestigious brands in the outdoor industry, he says.

Sensor Dry technology provides better, longlasting waterproof and wind resistant protection from all elements. The garments that uses the technology are air permeable and therefore highly breathable. The outerwear is specifically cut in lightweight and noiseless

Apparel & Footwear :: p37

fabrics to eradicate distractions that are normal associated with weather protective gear.

The fabrics applied hold stretch qualities intended to move with a body through the golf swing.

The Eye logo, featured in the new collection, draws its inspiration from the iconic Eye 2 iron, which enjoyed success in the mid1980s, explains Vilas. The range features a subtle branding, illustrating each garment’s improved qualities. This is reflected through clean colours, innovative fabrication and a tailored fit. The “Eye Mark” plays part in connecting the apparel brand to PING’s innovative, hardware heritage and will be used as a signature in future brand and product direction.

“Following the acquisition of PING Collection Europe just under two years ago, PING apparel is now designed and manufactured exclusively under PING’s direction," says Vilas.

TaylorMade-adidas The ClimaChill Heather Solid polo shirt from TaylorMade-adidas, worn by professional golfer Jason Day, is designed for comfort. “The comfort of our garments, with the added benefit of our cooling technology ClimaChill gives us a market leader in the golf apparel industry,” says Sandra Krige of TaylorMade-adidas & Ashworth.

ClimaChill is a fabric designed to keep athletes cool and comfortable during and after play. Its fibres are woven with small, aluminium silver dots that help to pull heat away from the player’s body as well as provide a cool, refreshing touch to the skin. ClimaChill is strategically created to offer cooling and breathability in the areas where athletes need it the most. Its microfibre construction allows for moisture to pass through almost as soon as it forms.

The 100% polyester shirt features Puremotion stretch.

For extra comfort, the design includes a stretch woven collar and cuff inset with additional buttons for the hidden button-down collar.

Golf footwear now features brand new technologies that have been introduced for the first time.

durable rubber and classic profile. The shoe also offers a leather welt construction with superior craftsmanship.

The Cardiff ADC 2 shoe features a rich, soft tumbled leather upper. The shoe also features an OrthoLite EVA sockliner, dofter PU midsole and full-length cushioning insole for improved comfort lasting all day. “Our new comfort last offers a more generous forefoot for increased comfort," says Krige. "The versatile spikeless outsole delivers increased traction, additional cushioning and enhanced flexibility,”

Adidas

Cobra Puma Golf

Footwear

Adidas’ Boost technology is now also available in their latest golf shoes, the Adipower Boost and Adipower Sport Boost.

The Boost technology, that consumers know from adidas’ running footwear, is designed to deliver increased energy return, responsiveness and unparalleled comfort.

Not only will the wearer feel comfortable, he can rest assured that his feet won’t get wet. The shoes each come with a two year waterproof warranty.

The Adipower Boost collection is available in clear grey/white/collegiate navy colourways and the Adipower Sport Boost in clear grey/black.

Ashworth The Leucadia Tour and Cardiff ADC 2 shoes from Ashworth are exceptionally comfortable.

Leucadia Tour features the brand’s highly regarded, soft leather for a better look and feel. Additionally, the EVA heel insert and KHP foam on the insole work together to provide better cushioning and all day comfort. “The OrthoLite EVA sockliner offers remarkable cushioning with a rich, elegant appearance,” says Krige.

Its 7-cleat outsole features Pulsar PINS cleat,

The TitanTour golf shoe is Cobra Puma Golf’s first golf shoe to feature the Outlast cooling technology, which is designed to keep the player’s foot cool.

“Excess heat is absorbed by the Outlast coating on TitanTour’s memory foam insole, creating a noticeable cooling effect on the foot," explains Garner. Outlast stores this excess heat away from the foot and, if the foot gets too cold, it is released back to the foot.

"TitanTour with Outlast is a shoe that’s not too hot, not too cold, but just right for golf."

For added comfort and stability, the shoe features a full grain leather upper and the Shapelock memory foam insole. Additionally, the supportive Power Vamp wraps across the forefoot and provides increased stability.

The shoe’s ultra-thin TPU frame wraps the EVA midsole ensuring lightweight strength and durability, increased flexibility and better traction. Its stealth cleat is a new low-profile cleat made with K5 for long lasting abrasion resistance.

“High-performance golf footwear without the high-performance foot sweat; it’s a simple idea. But getting there meant going to space and back,” says Garner.

2015 September :: Sports Trader

p38 :: Sport

The hockey market has undergone such changes over recent years that now, a high school player can easily be a beginner and a primary school pupil one with years’ of experience playing the sport. RHIANAH RHODE found out what the different product requirements are for school hockey players at different ages and levels and what retailers should pay attention to when recommending products

Kitting out different levels of hockey players

H

ockey has undergone a transformation over the past few years with the game being introduced to first time players as young as five or six — but also older, high school players getting to know the game for the first time as hockey is sweeping into non-traditional school markets where learners didn’t have the opportunity to play in primary school.

This is especially happening in traditional Afrikaans schools where hockey is rapidly making gains on rugby as the winter sport for boys.

Level of play is therefore no longer related to an age group as 16 year olds may be just as clumsy with a stick as a six year old. But, a clumsy sixteen year old will be able to inflict much more damage than a six year old.

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

From high school upwards a player’s stick should be chosen on the basis of his skill level, and what he prioritises.

Therefore, because players will have different skill levels, the type of stick they use will differ in material, weight, size, etc. at different ages.

Sticks for beginners Skill development and getting used to managing the stick are of key importance for beginners as they are still figuring out their abilities. They

are also more affordable than composite sticks, which will appeal to parents who are not convinced that hockey will be their child’s chosen sport for many years to come.

Wood can be more forgiving and shock absorbent than composite materials and therefore it is the better option for young beginners who will not need the extra power generated by a composite hockey stick, says Nicola Ludlow of JRT Crampton, local distributor of Kookaburra.

Wood is also the least stiff material used in hockey sticks and it adds a degree of flexibility and forgiveness to compensate for lack of skills, agrees Patrick Franck of W.E.T. Sports, local distributor of Star, who believes entry level- or painted wooden sticks are great for learning the basic skills required to later play the To p40

p40 :: Sport

Kit out hockey players cont from p38 game at a competitive level.

Therefore, a purely wooden stick with some benefits such as vibration dampening, cushioned grip, material wraps below the grip and under the sleeve that assist in dampening the shock and vibration on impact with the ball will assist young players at this level, explains Steve Gallienne of Brand ID, local distributor of Slazenger.

But, young players may have other ideas, cautions Charles Painter of Kevro, local distributor of Blackheath: “Even my kids playing at primary school level have composite sticks, same as 90% of their teammates.”

For the junior high school player who didn’t learn hockey skills at primary school, suppliers also recommend wood or more entry level composite sticks such as glass fibre, etc.

Beginner high school players should use longer wooden sticks, as required, and move on to glass fibre and graphite, as and when they can afford to and when they have developed the correct power and control, says Gallienne.

Recommending the correct size and weight are also most important at beginner level, adds Ludlow.

At beginner level one needs a stick that has a soft feel and a more conventional shape, which makes it easier to play with and master the basic skills of the game, says Shane Schonegevel of OBO SA, local distributor of Gryphon.

Beginners at primary and junior high school level should be offered a Maxi toe shape, which provides a large hood surface and long length for greater hitting and stopping, says Lauren McCleland of Orbit Sports Manufacturers, local distributor of Stormforce. A low bow provides better stick control and reduces lifts.

High school player sticks From high school upwards a player’s stick should be chosen on the basis of skill level, and what the priorities are, says Schonegevel. Players should really use composite sticks, which are much more durable and play much better than wood, he believes.

When recommending a stick for this player consider the power generated when hitting or slapping the ball. “This is dependent on the shaft stiffness and is main advantage you gain when moving up in a range of sticks,” Schonegevel advises. Another important feature to look at is the feel the stick generates when in contact with the ball. “Sticks with a harder feel are a bit more difficult to play with, especially for players with a lower skill level,” he says.

As high school level players’ strength and requirements for control, stiffness and power generation develops they should move onto graphite sticks, which have variable percentages of carbon, kevlar and glass fibre, says Gallienne.

A casual junior school player’s needs will be different to the player with aspirations of making the 1st team one day or aiming for provincial colours and his/her stick itself will have a different feel, flexibility, bow and weight to it, says Franck. He believes that most of the selection here will depend on personal preference, or the

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

Level of play is therefore no longer related to an age group as 16 year olds may be just as clumsy with a stick as a six year old.

But, a clumsy sixteen year old will be able to inflict much more damage than a six year old. position you play.

Lastly, the shape of the stick is important to take into account. Sticks with a low bow (high point of the curve low down in the shaft) are useful at this level as they assist aerial skills.

In terms of the head shape of the stick, Schonegevel finds that modern players tend to prefer the new oversized head with a thin profile, which assists with general ball control and getting the stick’s head underneath the ball.

When fitting a stick for this level player, retailers should remember that the correct size and weight are most important, adds Ludlow.

First team/provincial level sticks The content of carbon or graphite that will be required depends on the players’ skill level, style and position of play, say suppliers.

Carbon graphite sticks concentrate and improve performance through control and power generation, depending on the position and skill set required by the player, says Gallienne.

For more advanced players retailers should recommend a stick with high carbon content as it adds stiffness and power, but typically reduces stick weight, says McCleland. A stick made from this material will be less forgiving and therefore requires greater skill to manoeuvre.

When fitting a stick for this level player she would also recommend larger bows, which produce higher speeds from drag-flicks and offer more dynamic control. The stick weight for this level player should be determined by his/her position. Defence players usually favour heavier sticks for added power, whilst offense players will prefer a lighter stick for quick movement, she adds.

Although selection for this level player will mainly be based on personal preference, the stick’s stiffness, bow and head shape should be considered as well, adds Ludlow.

Measuring sticks Players at school-level are from different age groups — from as young as six years old to U19 team players and because sticks are usually measured from the height of the hip bone, this will vary from player to player as two players on the same level may either be shorter or taller than one another.

There are different ways of measuring the correct stick for a player.

The Dutch method of measuring a stick to a player indicates that the player should hold the head of the stick under his armpit and the best suited size will end near the middle of his kneecap, says McCleland.

“For kids the stick can be around the hip height (when measured from the ground) as they are growing quickly and this size should cause no difficulty of use,” says Ludlow. For adults, on the other hand, a hockey stick should sit an inch or two below the hip bone when standing upright. The average adult hockey stick size would be about 37.5 inches, she says.

Hockey bags The features the hockey bag requires will depend on the amount of gear the To p42

p42 :: Sport

Kit out hockey players cont from p40 player wants to carry around, affordability, etc.

Generally, primary or junior high school players will require the least space and will usually only require a bag with capacity for one or two sticks, whereas a two to four stick capacity, which caters for personal belongings, will work better for a senior high school player, says Ludlow. Players at a higher level than this would require more space for equipment as the bag may be used for travel to matches and tournaments and therefore a bag that can hold more than four sticks would be best. Although bag selection will depend on the player’s needs, better players will normally have extra sticks, etc., says Schonegevel.

A combo type bag may be more desirable by competent school and club players, says Painter.

He believes it offers enough space for equipment as well as apparel.

Goalie-specific products Goalies at all levels will need a standard kit that includes a stick, kickers, pads, abdominal guard, padded shorts, chest guard, gloves, helmet, throat guard, hand protectors, leg guards and armguards, but senior and first team high

school goalies should also invest in a neck guard and arm guards for ultimate protection, says McCleland.

Male and female keepers should also have box or groin protectors and pelvic guards, while junior and senior high school players would also benefit from body armour that will protect the shoulder and arm as well as the chest, says Schonegevel.

Safety accessories With protective equipment, retailers need to ensure that fitments are personalised, says Gallienne, because one cannot sacrifice protection it is imperative that you gear up accordingly.

Slazenger therefore offers retailers in store training on fitting their protective products to customers as part of their service all year round, he says.

Shin guards: “It is important to implement a rule that young players use shin guards from the very beginning of their hockey career,” says McCleland.

Shin guards should cover the shin and end just before the knee.

The shin guard should not impede your ability to run or make sudden changes of direction and therefore it should fit snugly and comfortably

in your sock, cover your ankles and shin, says Franck.

Gloves are becoming more and more common at all levels of competition, says Ludlow. When fitting a junior or beginner’s glove, make sure it is comfortable and not bulky enough to limit hand movement on the stick. It will also only be used on the left hand, she says. When fitting a glove to any level player, he/she must be able to grip and control the stick with it on.

Hand gloves are a great benefit for players who need to protect their knuckles, adds McCleland.

While a glove is optional and dependent on the players preference it is recommended from high school upwards, says Schonegevel.

It is also useful when playing on astro turf, adds Franck.

Face masks: The use of masks are still rare at school level, but it will usually only be higher level team players who defend short corners that will ask for protective masks.

Protective eyewear: “To my knowledge it is only in the US where there are rules that require the use of eye protection,” says Ludlow.

If a player is wearing eyewear, a retailer should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for fitting it and make sure his vision and comfort are not impeded on in any way, she says.

The latest hockey ranges Blackheath Blackheath, locally distributed by Kevro, offers a number of hockey products that are suitable for players who are developing their game.

The wooden Flash stick with its PVC grip and durable construction is ideal for beginners and development purposes. It is available in 2836” sizes.

The durable Pro Shin Guard is shaped for comfort and made with high density foam for shock absorption. It also features adjustable straps.

For schools and juniors in a club, Kevro recommends their nylon hockey stick bag. It comes with a padded shoulder strap, bottom zipped pocket and can hold two sticks.

The Players Starters Kit includes an entry level hockey stick, shin guard, practice ball and bag. It is available in a range of sizes from 30-36”.

The brand offers a range of products for goalies such as goal keeper sets in small, medium and large sizes. Each set consists of a helmet, body protection, arm protector, gloves, padded pants, leg guard, kickers and a kit backpack.

The hard shell helmet assists in all round protection with its high carbon steel cage and is fully adjustable. The shoulder pads are hinged for easy mobility while the high density

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

cell foam chest guard and padded pants fully protect the upper and lower body.

The fully adjustable arm protectors feature elasticated Velcro and covers the user’s entire arm without hindering elbow movement. The large blocking face gloves have good rebound ability and, like the leg guards, feature a high density outer foam.

The leg guards’ curved ends maximise protection while their shape and style help improve the wearer’s movability. The kickers have high-density pre-shaped vertical and flat sides, rounded toes and also feature extra strength PVC adjustable straps.

Other goalie gear includes a 100% polyester mesh Goalie Smock that features the X-tech quick dry moisture management finish on the mesh fabric, which helps improve its breathability. A sublimated print is also featured on the smock, which is available in junior, youth and senior sizes.

The PVC reinforced Abdo Guard maximises protection and features elasticated straps as well as Velcro adjusters.

Their lightweight composite fibreglass and Kevlar Goalie Hockey Stick has a hook design that maximises blocking.

The Corners Face Mask has a high impact resistant polycarbonate shell and features dual density foam padding and adjustable straps.

Gimtrac Gimtrac’s new hockey goal design allows the net to hang inside the frame, in accordance with FIH norms.

Gimtrac has been manufacturing and supplying hockey goals to colleges, schools and universities for more than two decades, says Gerhard Ferreira, MD of Gimtrac. “I would estimate that most of the Astro turfs have our aluminium goals on their fields.”

Their aluminium and steel goals are manufactured in the company’s own factory using square aluminium or steel tubing. The front sections are re-enforced to double the thickness in order to withstand the continuous hammering of the hockey ball. They are powder coated white, feature rubberised back boards and are re-enforced with fastrap plates. The aluminium goals feature 3mm imported nets, while the steel goals feature 3mm locally-made nets.

They recommend their aluminium goals for use on Astro turf and the more budget friendly steel goals for grass.

Gryphon Gryphon has added the Samurai and T Bone shape sticks to its range, which already includes the CC, Pro and Deuce II. Now offering five shapes, it has a perfect match to suit any player’s game, says Shane Schonegevel of local distributor OBO SA. The Samurai and T Bone were a To p44

No limits with Xpro

Advertorial :: p43

The locally manufactured Xpro range of protective wear, which is considerably lighter than traditional protection, won’t hold athletes back from performing to the best of their abilities

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our customers will love the Xpro range of protective wear, available within the Stormforce brand from Orbit Sports Manufacturers.

The protective wear is lightweight, doesn’t restrict the wearer and will withstand multiple impacts! The wearer’s performance is therefore not limited by heavy, cumbersome products.

Also, the Xpro range of sports equipment and protective products is the first of its kind to be manufactured locally!

The Xpro range is the first to offer protective padding that can rival and outshine international competitors. After all, Xpro, which stands for Xtreme Protection, has been specifically developed to provide its users with the latest advancements in impact technology.

How does it work?

The advanced foam technology has properties such as repeat impact protection and durability, which in turn provide a soft, flexible and comfortable alternative to traditional hard shell protection.

Not only does Xpro protect the wearer against knocks, the foam is also infused with Microban® Antimicrobial Protection to help fight against the growth of odor.

Knee and elbow pads are the forerunning garments in the Xpro range. These protective garments are suited to a large variety of sports wherein players are susceptible to abrupt landings, falls and grazes. The garments are available in a variety of sizes, easy to wear and washable.

Padding is fixed to a compression sleeve to

purposefully protect the knee and elbow joints.

Xpro works by absorbing energy from the impact, as well as distributing the impact over a greater area of the material — instead of directing the impact through the material to the wearer on the other side.

Upon impact the foam hardens, absorbs more than 90% of the impact, and dissipates the impact energy before returning to its original soft state.

Xpro makes use of an open cell system, unlike other products that make use of a closed cell system. The open cell system enables the product to withstand repeated impacts and keep on protecting the wearer.

Xpro offers …

The range of Xpro products caters to a variety of active consumers such as those who participate in rugby, cricket, hockey, and MMA. The Impact range, which embodies a range of multi-functional sports protection garments, is the core range from Xpro. Moisture wicking fabric and high impact padding create products that offer world-class protection.

For the cricket range, Xpro has paired with XRD to revolutionise cricket protection. Through the partnership, thin, flexible, high impact padding now replaces traditional bulky foam.

The Xpro rugby range has been developed to help the user optimise his training: padding is strategically placed over the areas that receive repeated impact to reduce the risk of player injury.

In the MMA category, Xpro has developed innovative kick pads to use in intense training sessions. The range can also be supplemented with

a number of products from the Impact range.

The hockey range has been developed to increase player protection. It consists of shin guards, gloves and a face mask.

Expanding the range Xpro is in the process of releasing an appealing extended range of padded garments. Cyclists, skaters, and anyone else involved in an activity that could benefit from added protection will appreciate the following padded products: shin and forearm protection, shorts, long pants, shirts and long sleeve shirts.

As the product range grows, the public will have greater access to comfortable compression wear that is fitted with strategically placed high-impact protection pads.

Xpro integrates local manufacturing with international materials allowing South Africans to purchase world-quality merchandise in their favourite stores.

Internationally recognised It’s not only South Africans who are able to benefit from the world-quality products. Orbit Sports Manufacturers is also focusing exports on the European market.

This year was the third year in a row that Orbit Sports Manufacturers exhibited their Stormforce Xpro range at the ispo trade show in Germany, which provides a platform for retailers from across the globe to view the latest developments in sporting products.

Having broken into the European market, Xpro is a South African success story among locally made products.

p44 :: Sport

Hockey ranges cont from p42 complete sell out success and have therefore been further extended down the range.

The Samurai features a concave face, dual rails and raised lip, which make this shape the new standard for power and accuracy while drag flicking, says Schonegevel.

The slightly forward angled, ultra-thin, oversized head on both models make them the perfect weapons for close reverse stick and 3D skills, he adds.

The Taboo and Tour ranges’ lay-up refinements and Gryphon’s moulding technology ensures that they will once again deliver the stiffest and most powerful sticks available, says Schonegevel.

The Tour features the brand’s unique silicone sleeve technology that gives it a silky smooth feel to go with all the power, says Schonegevel.

The Chrome series has been extended and will include five models for 2016. These sticks utilise a unique cork laminate Energy Reduction System, which increases vibration dampening to give a cushioned feel. The addition of a Power Integrated System lay-up ensures that the series has class leading power, says Schonegevel.

The Initiation range completes Gryphon’s other offerings and provides excellent entry level price points on fully synthetic sticks, says Schonegevel. These durable and easy-to-

use sticks are available in a variety of colours.

The fully painted, re-enforced wood Cub is a junior stick at an excellent price that makes it an ideal starter stick, he says.

The new Aero G3 boot is built on the successful Aero platform, which has a multi-stud hockey configuration that provides brilliant grip on both synthetic and natural grass surfaces, says Schonegevel. Its lightweight phylon midsole provides excellent cushioning and it combines superb forefoot flex with rear foot stability and a premium new non-stretch upper. The boot is available in blue, pink and lime green colour ways.

Gyphon will introduce the cork centred PVC Pro ball in 2016, which is comparable to international standards and will for the first time be affordable to the average hockey player.

“Gryphon’s glove, shin pad, grip and ball ranges are the most extensive available, offering excellent value and plenty of colour options and models,” says Schonegevel.

The bag range includes 12 models (including the Little Mo and Frugal Fred backpacks), five different colours, covers all angles of hockey bags and provides superb value and cutting edge designs.

Medalist Medalist, locally distributed by De Wet Sports,

offers a wide range of hockey products including sticks, bags, shin guards, gloves and hockey sets. New for this year are their Fenix, Talon and Rogue sticks, as well as a hockey set known as the Rebel.

The Fenix is available in 33-35” and the Talon in 36.5-37.5” medium or large sizes. Both sticks have full composite 10% carbon fibre shafts and midi heads. The Talon also features a 21mm bow.

The Rogue, which also has a midi head and is available in 36.5-37.5” medium and large sizes, has a full composite 20% carbon fibre shaft with a 24mm bow.

Other sticks in the range include the glass fibre reinforced Blast and Primal, which have indoor and outdoor models.

The Rebel hockey set contains a wooden junior stick, shin guards, a smooth practice ball and stick bag for 28-32” sticks.

The brand offers three hockey bag options: the adjustable Sticksak bag caters for sticks from 30-36.5”; the larger Reload bag can hold up to five 38” sticks and has three compartments for the storage of players’ gear; the Massif is a huge professional bag that features three compartments, two strong shoulder straps, and it can be carried as a backpack.

Medalist’s Armour and Armour Pro shin guards are anatomically shaped to provide good lower leg protection and are uniquely moulded to protect without causing discom-

Bringing quality hockey equipment to South Africa for over 20 years!

MALIK Hockey South Africa @MALIKhockeySA Unit 3, Heritage Park Cnr. Jurg Street and Tobie Street Hennopspark, Centurion, 0157

Cell: 081 262 3928 Fax: 012 653 4086 Email: info@malik.co.za

www.malik-hockey.com

Sport :: p45 fort. The Armour Pro has an extra adjustable covering for an improved fit. Both are available in small to large sizes.

The Response glove is available in small-medium sizes and offers the wearer foam protection with an elastic leather fit.

OBO One of the world’s leading goalkeeper brands, OBO, once again has a full range of top technical products catering for all levels of hockey goalkeepers.

The unique manufacturing process and designs used in OBO products means that they offer good performance and durability. They are without a peer in terms of this, says Shane Schonegevel of local distributor OBO SA. “It is important to note that when viewing OBO’s cost to product life it also by far the best value available,” says Schonegevel.

There are four ranges that offer a full complement of everything a goalkeeper needs and each caters to the different needs of players of all ages and levels.

OBO’s quality products are used by the majority of national and international keepers.

These products completely dominate the goalkeeping market, says Schonegevel.

Opro Opro, locally distributed by Brand ID, offers a comprehensive range of mouth guards, from a new Snap-Fit Flavoured to the bite and Boil series, which offer superb protection, says Steve Gallienne of Brand ID. The Snap-Fit mouthguards are available in flavours like lemon and mint, three colour options and junior and adult sizes.

The Fin series is enhanced with easy-tobreath designs and technologies, and the brand also offers an Ortho Guard for players with braces, says Gallienne.

Slazenger Slazenger, locally distributed by Brand ID, offers a range of sticks that caters for any player

whether beginner, intermediate or advanced.

The new Demon and Flick series of performance sticks are suited to junior high school players, whereas the Ikon range would work well for primary school level players, says Steve Gallienne of local distributor Brand ID. The Aero series offers the more skilled player superb control and the unique patented shape and design result in unbelievable performance, says Gallienne.

These sticks feature Quad Core technology, which adds up to 15% lateral stiffness and torque resistance to increase the delivery power of the stick without increasing its weight.

The thicker reverse edge allows greater power transfer when reverse hitting (tomahawk shot). Combined with a thinner bottom edge, it provides a high aerodynamic quality that allows greater head speed through the air.

The squoval shaped handle on these sticks provide better grip and is ergonomically suited to the position of the hands. The structure of the squoval handle also provides good torsional strength that helps improve overall stiffness of the stick.

The Ultimate — which contains 90% carbon, 5% kevlar and 5% fibreglass — has a low bow.

The Elite and Pro sticks both feature midi bows. The Elite contains 70% carbon, 5% kevlar and 25% fibreglass and the Pro 50% carbon, 5% kevlar and 45% fibreglass. All three sticks are available in two size options and weights of 540-575g.

The brand also offers a number of sticks for beginner and intermediate players.

The wooden reinforced 5-ply head Blade is a beginner stick available in 28-36”. The glass reinforced fibre Strike has a smooth bow and is ideal for the beginner or intermediate level player. It is available in 32-36” sizes. The Xtreme features variable percentages of carbon (20%), Kevlar (5%) and fibreglass (75%), and a midi bow. It is available in 36.5” or 37.5” and 550-595g weights.

Slazenger also offers shin guards, gloves and hockey bags.

The Pro Shin Guard, as supplied to all professional players, does not compromise on protection, says Gallienne. It follows the contours of the wearer’s legs to fit comfortably, features a reinforced moulded shell and EVA foam lining that improves protection.

The glove range includes the Foam and Pro, which feature chamois palm that gives the wearer additional grip and comfort. The Foam is a knuckle protector while the Pro is a full hand glove that uses high density foam for increased protection. The Classic is an open palm glove that is made from moulded foam and features flex grooves.

The new Aero and Strike stick bags make great holders for players’ kit, shoes, accessories, etc. The Aero features one large and two smaller compartments. This bag holds up to four sticks and features netting areas for shin pads and drinks bottles.

It has a double harness system to assist carrying and distributing the weight evenly on the back and a rubberised bottom for wear and tear and preventing sticks wearing through the bottom of the bag, says Gallienne.

The 2-3 capacity Strike features a front pocket for accessories, a padded shoulder strap and internal padding that protects sticks.

W.E.T. Sports W.E.T. Sports has added new match- and dimpled balls as well as shin guards to the range that will suit various customers’ price and match needs.

The Astro Star match ball is ideal for use on all Astro turf and is available in a white finish.

The always popular smooth glitter ball is also available in silver and pink colours.

They have added a more affordable dimpled ball, “which is a perfect training ball for customers looking for an even more cost effective option,” says Patrick Franck of W.E.T. Sports.

The STAR shin guards are both cost effective and attractive with a neon green backing and white front finish. They are available in small, medium and large sizes.

Please visit our new factory…

120 Ellman Street, Sunderlandridge Centurion +27 12 666 8258 - Office +27 12 666 8257 - Fax www.gimtrac.co.za sales@gimtrac.co.za St Anne’s College, St Dunstan’s College, University of Pretoria, University of JHB, HS Noordheuwel, HS Edenvale, Krugersdorp HS, HS Ruimsig, St Albans College, St Dominic’s, St Stithians, HS Waterkloof, Wits University, University of Stellenbosch, University of Swaziland, All African Champs

p46 :: Sport

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Henri Engelbrecht of Boland Sports was nomig tips f nated as a top salesman by Andrew Wentzel Junior of WET Sports Importers, who believes that Engelbrecht’s many years in 14 the business of selling swimming accessories and his ability to supply customers with good advice on all types of swimming equipment makes him a good salesman.

“He also makes sure that he always has stock available so that he can assist his customers when they come into his stores,” adds Wentzel.

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We’re looking for top salespeople We’re asking successful sales people in the industry for tips on how they clinch that sale in this series on Sales tips from top salespeople. Send nominations to Trudi du Toit on Tel: 021 461 2544, Fax: 021 461 2549. Email: trudi@sportstrader.co.za.

Selling more... swimming accessories

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ou have to be very keen, enthusiastic and passionate about the sports retail trade to survive for 27 years like he has, says Henri Engelbrecht of Boland Sports in Worcester. In order to sell products well, you need a combination of a friendly approach, experience and product knowledge of the particular item that you are selling. These have been the essential ingredients in his own recipe for success in sales.

Building relationships with your customers is also important. “In the platteland we know most customers by name, and skud blad [shake hands] when we see each other,” he says. His customers see him as more than just the person selling them products. “My customers come to me for guidance and I do appreciate and value that,” he says.

The salesman should have confidence when he is selling and it is only possible to recommend and sell with confidence when you have the proper product knowledge, he says. It is therefore crucial that you keep yourself updated with product developments as they change all the

time, he reminds.

The salesman should make sure he knows the benefits, advantages, disadvantages and any other information related to the products he is selling. He can gain this knowledge by comparing similar items from different brands and a retailer should also not be scared to show stock and variety in store, he says.

He suggests that a retail salesman update this knowledge by reading up on new products. “I’ve seen a few red faces in my time! At least know your product,” he says. Managers and store owners can help their staff get into top shape by role playing with them, which is something Engelbrecht does. “I often play the customer with my sales assistants to test proper sales approach and product knowledge. It really is still the best way to refresh and update selling skills,” he explains.

He found that why is this better? is the most common question customers ask about products, and as the salesman you should know why, he says. Being open and forthcoming with infor-

mation can be beneficial and he recommends that you make any information you do have available to your customer, because “that’s why he preferred coming to you”.

How you interact with customers is an important aspect to ensuring sales go well, but it is a skill that is learnt over time and comes with experience, he admits. There is a fine balance between being polite in sharing product knowledge and trying to give your customer so much information that he feels bombarded. “Don’t be a nuisance,” he cautions.

A good salesman will learn to attend to his customer and show him the range of products he is interested in, while simultaneously giving him space to browse and decide what he wants. You need to be able to read the situation and then offer your assistance, opinion and recommendation once you know what is needed. This too is a particular skill that develops with experience, but in time you will gain the knack for knowing when it is better to sell to a customer and when to let him buy something, he says.

Over the years, Engelbrecht bought the Bo-Peep Sports stores in Strand, Stellenbosch, Paarl, Robertson and Gansbaai, with some branches changing ownership and others being incorporated into the Somerset- and Boland Sports chains. He also currently manages and owns stores in Gansbaai and Hermanus, which trade as Sport &

Tackle.

Engelbrecht had previously worked as a training officer at Anglo American for eight years and is a keen sportsman. He describes himself as a jack of all sports, but no master of any particular one, although he has played some disciplines on a representative/ provincial level as a junior and senior.

More about Henri Engelbrecht HENRI ENGELBRECHT, the owner of Boland Sports in Worcester, has nearly 30 years’ worth of experience in retail, which started at the very same store that he now owns.

The Engelbrecht’s — Henri and his brother Jaap, owner of Somerset Sports in Somerset West — bought the store in 1988 when it was still trading as Lemkus Quarteracks.

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

Tips for selling casual swimming accessories WHEN FITTING swimming accessories, the first thing a salesman should do is enquire with regards to the level their customer participates in and thereafter eliminate products that are not suited to their needs. For example, if your customer is at a competitive level you can already exclude entry level price-point items, which will not be relevant, or any other products you know he will not use.

Henri Engelbrecht of Boland Sports in Worcester says there is an important market for casual and beginner swimmers and these customers are often looking for funky styles like “crazy creatures” and “Aqua Animal” goggles, he says.

Goggles When fitting goggles for casual swimmers, sizing is very important.

• Goggles are normally available in kids, youth, junior or senior sizes, but because they are a personal item that changes from person to person, a one size fits all approach will not work.

• You can help customers select the right pair by allowing them to fit products in store before they purchase. This way you will also ensure products do not get returned for fitting

poorly.

• Goggles with a flex frame design and double head strap are recommendable as they allow a soft comfort seal, says Engelbrecht.

• Polycarbonate lenses are advisable as they are durable and offer the wearer clear vision.

• In general, he feels a one-piece silicone construction goggle with a 100% UV protection and anti-fog lenses and an easy adjustable strap is always a good choice. For more technical customers he would recommend a goggle with a wide angle curved lens. Goggles with a mirror coated lens will help reduce glare and goggles that have an interchangeable nose bridge offer the wearer a more personalised fit.

There are many styles and brands of goggles to choose from and a salesman should therefore advise customers to compare designs and materials, even if products are from a less popular brand. You should also not be scared to recommend a value for money product, he reminds.

The salesman should remind customers that the goggles they purchase are an investment, even if the customer is at an entry level. “Although there is a market for the entry level goggles, I always push for a better quality one,”

Sport :: p47

says Engelbrecht. A pair of ill-fitting and bad quality goggles is the one item that can be very frustrating during swimming sessions, he adds.

Caps When your customers selects a swimming cap, it is pretty much a personal choice between latex (most affordable), silicone (more durable than latex) and lycra (most durable) caps, says Engebrecht. But he finds that lycra swim caps seems to sell better these days.

• Lycra caps are good at keeping the wearer’s hair in place because it is fitted with an elastic band around the base that ensures it fits securely.

• Lycra swim caps are made of fast drying materials and are more gentle on longer hair than silicone or latex caps, he says.

• Although other caps may be less comfortable than lycra, they do keep hair dry.

Other swimming accessories like adjustable soft silicone nose clips and silicone earplugs have proven useful and effective items to have for swimming, says Engelbrecht. “There is really a wide range of swimming accessories available on the market, swimmers are spoiled for choice!” he adds.

Tips for selling specialised swimming accessories The competitive swimmer and the person learning to swim for the first time have different needs when it comes to buying accessories, especially for training. RHIANAH RHODE asked suppliers of some brands for advice TYR distributor Peter Baker advises There are a number of items to consider when selling swimming accessories and retailers must interact with their customers to establish which aquatic activity they will be engaged in, their level of competency, as well as their budget, says Baker of Action-ize.

With caps, the salesman must determine the customer’s requirements in terms of product composition i.e. must it be safe for kids, lead compliant, contain no phalates, etc. Find out what the product will be used for: training, racing, etc. and the material required i.e. latex, silicone, lycra, Durafast chlorine resistant fabrics, etc.

For easier fitting you may want to recommend polyester with a four way stretch, latex with ribbed edges, wrinkle free silicone for less resistance and dome shaped caps for racers, says Baker.

When recommending goggles, comfort and fit are priority. When it comes to size, racers

should look at low volume whereas a higher volume is more recommendable for training and recreation purposes. The open water competitive swimmer will also benefit most from a mask or wide frame, says Baker. The goggles’ gasket composition should have a good seal made of silicone, thermoplastic rubber, thermoplastic elastomer, etc.

Kickboards for competitive swimmers should have streamline ergonomical designs with moulded hand grips and tracking channels that help place the body in a natural swimming position to reduce shoulder stress and increase buoyancy, says Baker. The customer’s size and weight will determine whether or not they require an adult or junior board. Pull buoys should also have an ergonomic design with a robust construction and be made of materials such as compact EVA that has non-absorption properties.

Snorkels for this type of swimmer should be lightweight. A sliding head piece for targeted

positioning and a simple and secure release button will allow for quick and easy strap adjustment. The design of multi-purpose training fins will help elevate customers’ swim, says Baker. Short and long blade fins will increase tempo and speed while still offering resistance to build leg power and help customers improve their technique.

Soft rubber foot pockets that conform to the foot will ensure a secure comfortable fit.

Paddles with unique shapes helps improve water feel and distributes pressure evenly to reduce stress on the shoulders. Paddles with a curved surface guides the arm through the stroke to accentuate a proper form and maximise training regimen, says Baker. Retailers should recommend that competitive swimmers select paddles with a lightweight polypropylene construction and multiple lacing options for flexibility and fit.

To p48

2015 September :: Sports Trader

p48 :: Sport

Selling tips cont from p47 Deidre Scodeller of Speedo advises “Our equipment range is driven by our deep understanding of water, technology, and the swimmer,” says Scodeller of local Speedo distributor, Brand ID. “We are driven to push innovation to its limits, enabling your customer to have an unforgettable swim experience every time he enters the water. Whether an Olympic athlete striving for gold, or a child learning to swim, we want to help make every swim better than the last.”

Speedo’s training aids offer a complete solution for swimmers of all abilities who are looking to improve their health and fitness, technique or performance in the water. Both packaging and product are clearly segmented to appeal to either the Performance, or Health and Fitness consumer instore.

The Speedo Data Centre, included on all training aids, features an anatomical diagram detailing the key muscles exercised when using the product. In addition, a simple rating system ranks the performance of each product in the key areas of Strength, Endurance, Technique and Calorie Burning, allowing swimmers to select products that enable them to achieve their own identified fitness goals.

Their silicone swimming cap, ideal for training, is made of a synthetic compound, weighs more than latex, but is more durable and is easy to fit. The polyester cap features a seamed construction to fit the head, is made of Chlorine-resistant fabric, and is ideal for first time swimmers and Learn to Swim.

The IQfit goggle provides a class-leading fit with a 3D Goggle Seal, that ensures maximum leak resistance and a secure fit with less strap tension, and a hi-tech design that made use of head scanning to create a product that fits the face’s contours better. The innovative tensioning scale on the

strap enables the wearer to achieve a secure and accurate fit every time.

Biofuse is a unique technology “designed to achieve an experience so comfortable your customer could almost forget he’s wearing goggles,” says Scodeller. Soft and flexible materials adapt to the shape of the face for cushioned comfort. The goggles are designed with deeper, softer seals that means they mould snugly to the contours of the eyes. The soft, flexible frames hug the face’s contours, adapting in shape to enhance the comfort while in the water.

The strong internal frame is wrapped in a soft gellike skin that ensures stability on the face.

For training, Speedo’s Biofuse training fins help to increase kick rate, to enhance ankle flexibility, increase leg strength, and improve cardio conditioning. They are made of 100% high grade dualdensity silicone for a soft foot and still blade. The softer and more comfortable foot pocket means it’s easier to fit a wider foot and the still blades maximise propulsion.

The Biofuse fitness fins are lightweight with dual-density blades. The rigid blades mean greater propulsion and the fins are slightly longer than the silicone fin, which means they affect a greater surface area.

Colin Farrer of Zoggs advises Competitive swimmers, who spend a lot of time in the water, should wear silicone caps, says Farrer of CorSport, local distributor of Zoggs. Although the silicone version is more expensive than latex, it is more durable.

“Our Easy Fit silicone cap, which stretches 30% more than a standard cap, is ideal for swimmers with long hair. It provides a better and more comfortable fit.” With the extra stretch, the wearer can easier fit long hair into the cap.

Retailers should recommend that customers purchase EVA kickboards, pull buoys and kick buoys, which do not absorb water like high density foam and also last longer. “Swim coaches prefer buying once, rather than having to replace items all the time. As they coach hundreds of swimmers per week, longevity in their swim aids is essential,” explains Farrer.

With a long list of ‘firsts to market’ Zoggs are always stretching the boundaries with regards to goggle technology, says Farrer. The brand recently launched its first photo chromatic lensed goggle called the Predator Flex Reactor, which automatically adjusts the level of tint dependent on light conditions. “This makes it an all-round winner, as you don’t need to purchase two or three lens types.”

Their Fusion Air range of goggles has an air-filled gasket or seal, which gives the wearer a comfortable fit and reduces the ‘Panda eye’ effect, caused by heavy suction on the eye socket.

“Another first for Zoggs was the launch of our Aqualast fabric, which is 100% Chlorine Proof and comes with a lifetime guarantee,” adds Farrer.

Tammy Rutherford of Second Skins advises When selecting a swimming cap, a competitive swimmer should choose a moulded silicone version if they want it to be stretchy and keep their hair dry. Caps made from nylon elastin are popular with children because they are easy to fit and don't pull their hair when fitting and removing, says Rutherford.

“They don't keep hair dry but satisfy all pool requirements. They are also cooler to swim in if you are training hard”.

When fitting goggles, retailers should focus on matching them to the customer’s face shape. “A comfortable pair of goggles will enhance your swim training as much as a poorly fitting, or worse, a leaking pair will spoil it,” says Rutherford.

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Sports Trader :: 2015 September

p50 :: Sport

Selling tips cont from p48

Customers will have different needs for training and racing and therefore could invest in two pairs. “You may want to train in a model that is really comfortable but advise your customer to buy a second, more streamlined, style to use on race days,� he says. If the customer will use the goggles for a mass swim where he may take kicks to the face, a mask may be more appropriate. These are more secure and very comfort-

able, explains. Rutherford.

If the customer is a child, something simple that can be adjusted whilst in position would be best, says Rutherford.

When fitted, well-designed goggles will allow good peripheral vision and if the customer will be training outdoors, he may want to invest a little more in a lens with a decent UV coating, says Rutherford.

Short blade training fins will help promote ankle flexibility and develop leg strength, he says.

Retailers may recommend a high density foam kickboard if the customer is working on his kicking, as they don't retain water.

New look from Conti waterpolo THE CONTI Swirl water polo ball, locally distributed by Opal Sport, offers a new look.

As the name suggests, the ball features a swirl design, which comes in two colour ways (yellow/blue and yellow/green/blue) on size 4 and 5 balls.

The Swirl is made from a specially blended rubber that is characterised as offering great grip and a tacky feel in the water. A deep grooved channel and brushed finish further improves handling in water.

Aqualine distributor Kevin de Wet advises AQUALINE OFFERS training and swimming accessories for your junior and adult customers, says De Wet of De Wet Sports.

Their new Orca goggle, for example, caters for the adult market. This silicone goggle features a one-piece design with 100% UV protection and anti-fog lenses. Also new to the range is the low profile designed Race, which features 100% UV protection, anti-fog, a mirror coating that reduces glare, and a silicone strap. With its contoured seal, the Plasma SNR silicone goggle offers a good fit and has a crosslink buckle that enables the wearer to easily adjust the strap tension. Like Orca, the Flare and Fusion JNR goggles for the youth market also feature a one-piece design with 100% UV protection and anti-fog lenses.

The swim aids, for example the Float Suit for girls and boys and the Standard Arm Bands, are NRCS (National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications) approved. The float suit has high, UPF50, sun protection and is

available in three sizes for 2-6 year olds. This suit has a high quality construction, uses floatation inserts to keep little ones afloat and is designed to allow ease of movement. The durable laminated PVC Standard Arm Bands have two air chambers, safety valves and come in two sizes for 2-12 year olds. They also have a high quality construction and are designed to allow ease of movement.

The training and swim fins feature a short rubber blade and a soft rubber pocket. The training fins are available in sizes 1-13, the swim fins are available in sizes 1-15 and both are available in an assortment of colours.

Training aids such as pull buoys are available in junior, senior and pro options. The multi-coloured pro pull buoy is made of a durable and comfortable EVA material.

The Sprint is an advanced training board that is ergonomically designed with multiple hand positions to reduce drag.

Unbreakable LED Silicone Solar Bottle

p52 :: Advertorial

T

he SLS (Silicone LED Solar) multi-bottle is an unbreakable, rechargeable LED silicone solar bottle that can be charged via solar or with a USB cable, which comes with the bottle.

To recharge fully takes about 3-6 hours.

Charging on-the-go is ultra convenient: recommend to your customer that he attaches SLS to the outside of his backpack when hiking — this way SLS charges while your customer hikes.

The bottle features 3 light modes: High, Turbo and Flashing. On the High setting, SLS has a run time of 12 hours and a run time of 5 hours on the Turbo setting.

The LED lasts for over 50 000 hours.

SLS is lightweight (weighs 200g) and because it folds up, it is very convenient to store This means that the bottle can easily be stored in any space, when not in use. And it’s unbreakable!

Available in 5 fun colours (lime, orange, sky, pink, white), SLS makes a colourful addition for your customers.

Multiple uses It’s an ideal lantern for your customers to take with camping and it can even be used as a waterproof storage container, which makes it ideal to hold items such as first-aid supplies, mobile phones, lighters, and other valuables that your customers won’t want to get wet.

Not only is SLS waterproof — it floats as well!

The uses for SLS are endless: travelling, camping, hiking, general outdoor use, in the garden, on a path, at a party, as a child’s night stand … wherever a light is needed.

With today’s electricity uncertainties, SLS is also a useful item to have around the house for power outages.

SLS has also been designed to be used in Flashing mode as a vehicle hazard warning or as a signalling device.

UltraTec is distributed

by Lite Optec

To place your orders, call your rep or our telesales office Tel: 011 462 6986 sales@liteoptec.co.za www.liteoptec.co.za Please call us should you wish to view our showroom at 9 Straal Street, Kya-Sand, Randburg, Johannesburg

53

D

How to select a knife or multi-tool for an activity

ifferent activities require different types of knives or multi—tools and retailers have to take various factors into consideration before recommending a knife or tool for a specific activity.

When selecting a knife blade for an activity, the factors to take into account would include hardness — edge/sharpness retention and the ability of the steel to resist indentation; strength; flexibility; toughness — how much energy it will absorb before breaking; , corrosion resistance and wear resistance.

A fixed blade usually has a tang — the part of the blade that extends into the handle — which makes it stronger than a folding knife. It is also more suitable for tasks that require a robust, hard-working, knife with a longer blade. Also, where it must be immediately available.

A folding blade pivots into the handle and has one of various locking mechanisms to keep the blade from accidentally closing during use. It is more compact and can fit in a pocket. It should ideally be possible to open it with one hand.

Words: YAMKELA MKEBE. Compiled with the help of Bruce Woodroffe of Awesome Tools, Rob Beamish of Brentoni Distributors, Kim Romanis of Liteoptec, Patrick Franck of W.E.T. Sports and the articles: Blade Boot Camp: A Buyer’s Guide To Choosing Your Knife from http://gearjunkie.com; How to Choose the Best Knife for Hunting from www. survivopedia.com; How to Choose a Hunting Knife from www.adventure.howstuffworks.com; Hunting Knife Buyer’s Guide from http://1source.basspro. com; What To Look For In A Diving Knife from www. world-dive.com; Why Picking the Perfect Pocket Knife is So Damn Hard! from www.knife-depot.com; How to choose a pocket knife from http://ironandtweed.com; Best Knife for Camping from www.besthuntingknives.org; and How to Choose the Perfect Survival Knife from www.artofmanliness.com.

Hunting Knives

Blade materials Stainless steel is commonly used for outdoor knife blades because it resists corrosion and rust and is easy to maintain, but, it is not totally rust-free and knives need to be treated with care to prevent corrosion.

• In order to be classified as stainless steel, the blade must at least contain 13% chromium — a shiny and brittle metal that is corrosion-resistant, but is less easy to keep sharp.

• Carbon ensures a better cutting edge and is easy to sharpen, but is more inclined to rust.

Stainless steel blades contain different elements in different percentages that determine the qualities. A few examples are: • High quality CPM S30V is a premium stainless steel developed in the US especially for knives.

It is a powder-made steel with a uniform carbide distribution and clean steel properties.

It offers excellent corrosion reistance and superb edge qualities.

• The affordable 400 series is popular for knife blades because it is easy to sharpen and has fairly high corrosion-resistance. When a combination of stainless steel and carbon is used, HC will indicate a higher carbon content. For example, the 420HC is often used in sport knives, as it is economical and has high corrosion-resistance. On the other hand, the 420J2’s low carbon, high chromium, content results in a tough, shock absorbing knife blade with excellent corrosion-resistance and a moderate edge holding ability, which is good for use in salt water.

lar in skinning and filleting knives.

• The popular clip point blade runs straight from the handle until about halfway, then clips away to form a thin and sharp tip, which can be useful for cutting in tight places.

• The drop point blade is especially popular in hunting knives. It has a slow convex curve towards the tip, which gives it a stronger point, less likely to pierce organs, and a large slicing area.

• A gut hook blade has a sharpened semi-circle hook used by hunters to open the abdomen of the animal without slicing into the muscle.

• The sheepsfoot blade has a straight edge and blunt back that curves towards the edge at the end. It is good for slicing where a point is not needed.

• The pen blade is typically found on smaller folding pocket knives. It is symmetrically curved on both sides of the spine, but one side is sharp and the other blunt.

• The Sandvik series, especially the 12C27 and 14C28N, is anti-corrosive thanks to the addition of chrome and requires no special maintenance. Its carbon content gives an excellent cutting edge.

• 154CM is a more affordable, high carbon stainless steel with very good edge retention, good toughness and fair corrosion resistance.

• AUS has vanadium added to improve wearresistance and sharpening. AUS-8 (or 8A) is a high carbon, low chromium stainless steel that balances toughness, strength, edge holding and resistance to corrosion.

• In the VG series from Japan the VG-10 is popular with brands like Spyderco, and it contains vanadium for a finer grain and cobalt and nickel to improve toughness. VG-1, for example, has very high performance for sharpness, edge retention and strength.

Blade profiles • A normal or straight back blade has a curving edge and flat back.

• A trailing point blade has a back edge that curves upward, with a larger curve on its edge, providing a large cutting area, which is popu-

Hunting knives are designed for skinning, cutting and general use and they usually have a single sharpened edge.

Blade: High carbon stainless steel blades, like 420HC or S30V, are popular amongst hunters because they are tough and do not require much care.

• Interchangeable hunting knife blades gives the user a variety of options when performing different tasks.

• The drop point blade is ideal for skinning bigger animals, as the blunt point minimises accidental cutting. The wider belly offers a good skinning sweep that helps in getting through thick layers. It is versatile and can also be used for splitting ribs and pelvic bones.

• The clip point provides good control for detail work and cutting in tight places, although it is less efficient for skinning, splitting and gutting.

• A trailing point blade has a larger curve on its edge, providing a large cutting area needed for skinning.

• A gut hook is used by some hunters to open the abdomen without slicing into the meat.

Handle: The handle material should be nonabsorbent and slip-resistant for easy working under all conditions. For safety, a hunting knife handle should feature a finger or thumb stop and a contour or other guard where the handle joins with the blade to prevent the hand from sliding forward on the blade.

• Wood, bone and leather are popular in hunting handles, as they are functional, warm to the touch, and pleasing to the eye. They are, however, less durable than synthetic handles and can be difficult to grip firmly when wet with water or blood from skinning. To p54

2015 September :: Sports Trader

p54 :: Outdoor

Select the right knife cont from p53 • Synthetic (polymer, nylon) handles offer a combination of a secure grip and economy.

They are also lightweight.

Fishing knives Fishing knives are used for various activities like harvesting and cutting bait, cutting fishing line, filleting fish, etc. Your customer might want to purchase more than one knife, depending on the intended activities.

Bait knives traditionally have a broader blade with a serrated edge.

Filleting knife: The blade must be flexible. The average length is between 10-23cm and standard sizes are 10cm, 15cm, 19cm and 23cm long, depending on the size fish you are most likely to fillet. A fillet blade will be long, thin, and sharp with a non—serrated edge for fine cutting.

Snoek and other bigger fish will require a durable knife with a heavier, broader blade.

Blade: A rust-resistant stainless steel is recommended for fishing knife blades, which will regularly come into contact with water. The shorter and mid-sized blades should be flexible.

• Some fishing knives have both straight and serrated edges to add versatility.

• Clip point, drop point and trailing point designs are some profiles the experts recommend, as they are ideal for filleting, preparing bait and other tasks. Some fishing knives will have a notch in the blade with a small projecting spur for cutting fishing line.

Handle: Fishing knife handles are commonly made of plastic, a good quality nylon or soft rubber — often with rubberised overlays that can assist with traction in wet conditions. Wooden handles are used on filleting knives.

• Bright colours are ideal on handles as they are easy to spot in rock pools or in a boat.

• The handle should offer a good, comfortable, non-slip grip in wet conditions • Some handles have indented finger grips that can add to better comfort and grip. These should, however, be the correct size for the user’s hands.

Multi-tool: There are several multi-tools that have features ideal for fishing.

• Anglers will, for example, appreciate a multitool with features like pliers that can help with pulling the hook out, or a pair of scissors to help with snipping braid or line.

• A knife blade is essential to carry out tasks such as cutting open a fish, amongst others.

• Other fishing-specific features are tools that assist with sharpening hooks, cutting wires, changing lures, removing scales, etc.

Diving Knives A diver uses a knife for various tasks: to cut through kelp, line, or rope, to tap a signal when needing to draw attention, to cut fishing line, dig for clams, to fillet and dress a speared fish, etc.

Size: A medium-sized, 10-13cm blade, is recommended because a too big knife can become heavy, awkward and pose dangers like accidentally cutting an oxygen hose. A medium-sized knife has the required heft and strength and can be strapped in various locations, including to arms and legs, for easy reach when needed.

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

Some divers prefer a small 5-7cm mini knife because it can fit anywhere, including clamped onto a hose for quick access.

Blade: High corrosion-resistant stainless steel should be used for diving blades, and your customer must be made aware that even these blades will rust if not cleaned after a dive. The shiny finish of cost effective 420 and 440 stainless steel gives less purchase to salt than a satin finish, reducing the chance of rust. Coatings that provide rust-resistance add to the cost of the knife.

• Titanium is highly corrosion-resistant and stay sharp longer, but it is more expensive. As diving knives are often lost, your cutomer might not want the extra outlay.

• H1 steel is also recommended as it contains nitrogen to compensate for the trace of carbon, which makes it more rust-resistant.

• A diving blade can be serrated, or straight, or can have a straight edge on the front and a serrated edge on the back. A straight edge is good for cutting fish line, nylon rope and other materials that can be sliced. A serrated edge is better for sawing through natural fibers like natural rope and kelp, but is more difficult to sharpen.

• A serrated sheepsfoot blade offers versatility as the blunt tip is less likely to accidentally cut through an oxygen line or wetsuit. A spear point can be used for precise cutting.

Handle: Synthetic materials like nylon, rubber and plastic that offer a good grip and will not be affected by salt water, is recommended. Some of the best-selling diving knives feature a thin coating of brightly coloured rubber over a steel handle, which offers a good grip, is easy to see underwater, and is slim enough that it isn’t in the way when moving through kelp.

• A dive knife handle should be more or less as long as the blade, but if the blade is very short, a longer handle is recommended. It should be long enough to allow the diver to get a full, firm grip, with all four fingers around the handle. Some handles are notched to ensure the exact placement of each finger and others feature a non-slip grip. The handle should offer a firm grip even when the diver is wearing gloves.

Other features: A diver might want to strap his knife to his leg or arm, on a dive belt, or buoyancy compensator. It is important that the strap is comfortable and in a position that is easy to reach with one hand.

• A sheath is important to hold the knife securely and allow the diver to draw the knife with one hand. Sheaths are sometimes made of plastic, which does not blunt the knife.

• A lanyard hole allows the diver to attach the knife to a wrist thong.

• An effective guard between the handle and the blade helps prevent the diver from cutting his fingers accidentally on the blade. A hook on the bottom side for the fingers and a thumb rest on the top side are also handy.

Camping A camping knife does not necessarily have to be bigger to perform better — a 23-28cm knife should suffice. But, it needs to be versatile and

perform a number of tasks around the campsite, from food preparation, cutting rope, digging, prying cans open, chopping wood, among many others.

Blade: A non-corrosive stainless steel blade, which is not too big to perform small tasks, nor too small to be used for more rugged tasks like batoning, is preferred. A 10-15cm blade should be ideal. A camping knife should have a singleedged blade with a flat spine to be more versatile.

Handle: There are various handle options for camping knives, ranging from wood, stainless steel, rubber, bone, plastic, etc. The basic rule is that a handle must be the right size for the user, e.g. he should be able to wrap his fingers around it with no difficulty.

Multi-tools: The many diverse tasks that need to be performed around a campsite, a versatile multi—tool is almost a must-have.

• Some basic features that will come in handy include eating utensils, a cork screw, a can and bottle opener, scissors and pliers for basic repairs, a knife with combo edge and screw drivers.

• Your camping customer will also appreciate features like a sharpener for straight and serrated blades, a fire-strating rod, a hammer to knock in tent stakes and a whistle.

Pocket Knives Pocket knives come in different shapes and sizes, depending on the functionality, with single, or multiple blades, offering the user a variety of options. A folding blade is recommended because it is safer to carry in a pocket, without causing accidental harm, provided it has a reliable locking mechanism. The blade and handle should work together without excessive play in the open position.

Blade: A small blade of 7cm or less is easier and more convenient to carry around. A medium blade (7-10cm) is small enough to be conveniently portable, but can perform a wider range of everyday tasks.

• A large blade (10cm upwards) can perform the same tasks as a fixed blade knife, but the fact that it can be folded for convenient carrying, gives it an upper hand. Large blade pocketknives are, however, not practical for everyday use.

• Pocket knives have serrated or straight edges, or both. A straight blade is better for everyday activities that require a clean cut, but a serrated blade is better for sawing through cardboard, or rope, cutting bread, etc. A combo edge can perform a greater variety of tasks with ease. It is important to take note of where the serrations are placed within the blade.

Handle: There are an endless variety of handles available for pocket knives and some of the popular materials include bone, wood, plastic, stainless steel, aluminium, rubber, etc.

Multi-tools fall under this category as they are popular items to carry around for everyday use. They are available in different sizes, ranging from minimalist, ultralight designs, to rugged workhorses with full-size pliers. Choosing a multi-tool to carry around in a pocket should be less about the number of tools it has, than the tools your customer will require.

Outdoor :: p55

New in knife and multi-tool ranges Benchmade The 15003-2 Saddle Mountain Skinner knife for hunters (right) has a blade made from top quality CPM S30V stainless steel to ensure a superior cutting edge and high corrosionresistance (see p53). The knife features a straight blade with a modified clip point and a skinning hook for cutting in tight places, says Bruce Woodroffe of local distributor Awesome Tools.

The handle is made from Dymondwood, which is a birch powder composite material backfilled with resin that is much more resistant to environmental hardships than natural wood.It also comes with a rich leather pressure-fit sheath.

De Wet Sports De Wet Sports offers a wide range of knives for various activities, ranging from knives for diving, skinning, pocket knives, etc.

They have five diving knives, all with sheaths and straps: The Raptor is made from solid stainless steel and has a slim one-piece design. Its blade is 10cm long. The Mariner has a 11cm stainless steel blade and an ergonic rubber han-

dle. The Magnum has the same features as the Mariner, except its blade is 16cm long.

The Saber has a unique contour handle and also features a stainless steel butt plate. The stainless steel blade is 13.5cm long.

The Cutlass feature a 14cm long stainless steel blade an ergonic rubber handle.

rubberised handles for secure grip under all conditions. Prodigy is made from 420HC steel with a black oxide coating, which improves corrosion resistance and reduces visibility and shine.

The Bear Grylls Ultimate Fixed Blade Pro knife features a tough steel capable of completing most camping tasks, including batoning (see p53).

Kershaw Gerber Gerber’s legendary Gator fixed blade hunting knife is constructed from 420 HC steel that has been heat treated for better edge retention, and has a fine edge drop point. It is available with or without a gut hook and features Gerber’s patented Gator grip — a glass filled nylon core chemically bonded to a moulded Santoprene rubber overlay.

“The advent of Bear Grylls collaborating with Gerber (above) resulted in a whole range of survival specific products, most recently the Ultimate fixed Blade Pro, which features 9Cr19MoV blade steel,” says James Laughton of local distributor Lite Optec.

The Gerber Prodigy survival knife and the Ultimate Blade Pro fixed blade knife feature drop point profiles and are full tang. Each utilises

Kershaw’s knives, locally distributed by Cutlery Distribution Group, are ideal for the hunter, fisherman and general outdoorsman.

The Kershaw 1259 fish filleting knife features a 23cm long high carbon 420JS stainless steel flexible blade which enables quick and easy filleting.

Its ergonomic co-polymer handle allows for firm grip in wet conditions, while reducing fatigue.

It is supplied with a sheath for protecting the blade and weighs 108g.

The mid-sized Kershaw 1895 hunting knife (above) has a curved belly, which is ideal for skinning and general use and features a thumb recess and heavy mid-spine. The knife is designed to offer a number of grip options and fine control when in use. The knife’s blade features a titanium carbo-nitride coat- To p56

p56 :: Outdoor

New knife ranges cont from p55 ing for additional protection from the elements. Its large (10.8cm) fixed blade is part of the LoneRock series of state-of-the-art hunting knives from Kershaw who are world famous knife manufacturers. The new series provides a collection of tough, versatile outdoor tools created to deal with any task encountered whilst hunting in the great outdoors.

Its handle features Kershaw’s rubberised K-Texture technology which provides extra grip in wet or dry conditions.

The knife’s overall length is 23.8cm and it weighs 158.8g and is supplied with a nylon sheath.

There is also a model which features a gut hook option.

also be cleaned in a mild solution of detergent and water,” advises Woodroffe.

The MUT EOD is a tactical/survival multi-tool ideal for those situations where giving away a position would be costly. It is widely used by the military because the black oxide coating on its 420HC body reduces glare and reflection.

Its 15 tools include a 7.6cm combo knife (straight and serrated blade), 154CM replaceable fuse-wire cutters, a military performance spec cap crimper, a saw, replaceable cutting hook, and a replaceable bronze and carbon scraper.

Leatherman

Opinel

Leatherman has a wide selection of multi-tools suitable for various outdoor activities, says Bruce Woodroffe of local distributor Awesome Tools.

Signal, the latest multitool in the range, offers a camper all the tools that he might need in one place. Apart from the traditional Leatherman tools such as pliers, saw, can and bottle opener, awl, a variety of hex and Leatherman bit drivers and combo knife blade, the Signal offers tools like a shaped diamond coated sharpener to maintain a straight or a serrated blade, a fire-starting ferrocerium rod with its man-made metallic material that gives off hot sparks when scraped against a rough surface, a hammer with a textured end to reduce the chance of it slipping, and an emergency whistle.

The Wingman, ideal for fisherman, is constructed from 420HC stainless steel, strengthened by heat treatment. The 14 tools include a 6.6cm combo knife (straight and serrated edge), spring-action long-nose pliers for removing shallow hooks, springaction wire cutters and scissors for cutting fishing line, screwdrivers, a can and bottle opener and a wood/metal file, amongst others. It is important that the tool be kept clean. “If the Leatherman had been exposed to salt water, it should be thoroughly rinsed in fresh water, dried, and lubricated with a water-displacing product. If debris or sticky substances have accumulated between the blade the Leatherman may

The blade of Opinel’s No 8 knife, locally distributed

by Awesome Tools, is made from Sandvik 12C27 anti-corrosive stainless steel, containing chrome and carbon to ensure a better cutting edge.

The strong, straight, 2.5mm thick folding blade includes a 3.5cm serrated area to cut natural and synthetic ropes. It also has a shackle key for 4-10mm shackles.

The handle is injected with polyamide containing glass fibre, which ensures a high resistance to shock, water, and temperature extremes (-40°C to +80°C ). A 100dBs whistle with a range of about 300m in open areas is integrated in the handle, which comes in bright colours for easy identification.

The stainless steel Virobloc safety ring, invented by Marcel Opinel in 1955, can lock the blade in both the open (safety in use) and closed position (safety in transport).

ProHunter & Saekodive ProHunter and Saekodive offer several options for fishermen and divers.

Saekodive‘s popular 3008 folding blade knife (below) with lanyard cuts through almost anything, is nice and compact and can fit into a pocket, says Darren Wentzel of local distributor W.E.T. Sports. The brand also offers BC knives and bigger knives that can strap to the user’s leg. “We offer a knife to cater for the personal preferences of

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

Outdoor :: p57 most fishermen or divers,” he adds. ”For the Western Cape’s snoek fisherman, we import a durable wooden handle knife with a heavier, broader blade.”

ProHunter’s Floating Fillet Knife for divers, comes with a sheath that can float and has a handy hole to put the lanyard through. “No more losing a knife that’s fallen overboard!” he says.

ProHunter also offers smaller Bait knives and Oyster Knives in their range.

Spyderco One of the brand’s newest knives is the Spyderco Matriarch 2 Emerson opener blade from Lite Optec (above).

This knife features a VG-10 steel fully serrated reverse S-shaped blade. The Spyderco blade has been specific to Martial Blade Craft (M.B.C.) for over 20 years.

The Atlantic salt and Ennuf knife are both ideal for diving. Each knife features a straight edge blade, which is easier to sharpen, with a blunt, rounded, tip, which can confidently be used during an emergency rescue situation. The diving knives each feature a serrated sheepfoot blade, which offers better versatility.

These salt water knives are manufactured from high corrosion proof H1 stainless steel that contains only trace amounts of carbon (0.15%).

The H1 steel, which features Nitrogen to compensate for the lack of carbon, is not heattreated like carbon steel, but is hardened by grinding and shaping the steel. “This results in a blade that has differential hardening,” says Andrew Taylor. “The edge will be harder than the spine of the blade, thus creating a blade that has excellent edge holding capabilities as well as great toughness.”

The handles are made from high visibility yellow fibreglass reinforced nylon (FRN), which features bi-directional texturing that creates excellent traction, even under water. They also feature titanium clips, which won’t rust.

Tekut Your fishing customers will love the Tekut Orion U knife, locally distributed by Lite Optec. The 5Cr15MoV stainless steel 420HC blade features a classic drop point profile and the non-serrated edge is ideal for gutting and filleting. Its blade is heat-treated to create optimal edge holding capabilities.

Its handle features rubberised overlays to assist with traction in wet conditions.

Gerber’s 6” pro grip features a Gator grip handle and a moulded sheath with built-in ceramic sharpener.

Tramontina De Wet Sports, local supplier of Tramontina, offers ten knives under the butcher category — including, boning, skinning, heading, filleting and utility knives.

Four are categorised as strictly butcher knives.

Two have wooden handles and 13cm and 15cm

stainless steel blades; while the other two have poly handles and also 13cm and 15cm blades.

Both boning knives have Krupp stainless steel blades (13cm and 15cm) with poly handles.

The heading (30cm), skinning and fillet knives (15cm) all three have the same blade and handle type as the boning knives. The smaller utility knife has a 7cm blade.

Their sheath (fixed blade) knives are available in three different types, all with a sturdy sheath and belt clip and a durable stainless steel blade.

One has a contoured rubber grip handle to improve grip in wet conditions, while another has a filleting blade and a contoured floating handle, which will be ideal for fishermen.

Scalpel and Torrent are two pocket knives from this range. They both feature 8cm stainless steel blades and a 10cm woven epoxy handles and handy pocket clips, but the Scalpel blade is straight, while the Torrent has a halfserrated blade.

Victorinox The Victorinox range of knives and multi-tools, locally distributed by Cutlery Distribution Group, have features that will attract a variety of outdoor customers.

The V0.8873.4 folding hunting utility knife is ideal for hunting, hiking and camping as it satisfies all the user needs while in the outdoors.

The product is small (11x31.5x18.5mm – length x width x height), lightweight (97g) and compact and will fit nicely into a backpack, hunting gear, pocket or toolbox.

It features a unique serrated stainless steel gutting blade, and a matte nylon handle. It also features the rugged wood saw for cutting branches and tree limbs that might be in the way. The knife is available in two colours: red and olive green colours.

Offering more than 20 tools, Victorinox’s V1.3763.71 utility camping pocket tool is handy for campers, hikers, park rangers and general outdoor or home users. The tools include both a large and small blade, a can and bottle opener, screwdrivers, scissors, wood and metal saws, and cork reamer.

The blades are manufactured from high grade stainless steel, offering long-lasting durability, excellent edge retention and rust prevention.

The multi-tool has a length of 91mm, is 27mm wide 23mm high, and weighs 133,4g.

The new Victorinox V2.3913.SE utility pocket tool features 15 convenient features for the hiker or traveller. At only 85mm long, weighing 90g, it is lightweight and fits into any pocket comfortably. The ergonomic handle, with concave and convex contact points, makes the V2.3913.SE comfortable to hold.

The Victorinox V3.0224.L multi-tool features a range of tools and is ideal for home or professional use. The tools include needlenose pliers, screwdrivers of different lengths (2mm, 3mm and 6mm), a wire cutter for thin and soft wire, a cap lifter, scissors, a metal and wood saw, a capable stripper, etc. All the implements lock securely in the open position for safe handling during use and supplied with high quality leather belt pouch.

2015 September :: Sports Trader

Recommending backpacks for the family

p58 :: Outdoor

Because men, women and children are anatomically different, there are different things to look at when recommending a backpack for each. RHIANAH RHODE found out what retailers should pay attention to when recommending a technical backpack for mom, dad or the little one

M

en are from Mars and women are from Venus is an expression that not only describes the differences in their communication style and emotional needs, but is also apt for expressing the differences in their natural body shape. The physical and personal needs of the customer will also influence the decision of what the best backpack option will be and does not allow a one-size-fits-all approach when recommending backpacks.

Size and weight The most important thing to determine when recommending a backpack — whether for a man, woman or child — is the activity it will be used for, which will give you an indication of the carrying capacity that is needed.

Probably the most common question they are asked is: I’m doing a five day hike, is this bag big enough? says Leo Rust of Adventure Inc., local distributor of Osprey. But it’s a question that he quite honestly cannot answer as he has no way of knowing what the customer will be carrying on that hike. When recommending the bag size for your customer there is no right or wrong answer, as it will depend on how much food, clothes, luxuries, etc. he wants to take with him on his trip, says Rust.

The carrying capacity needed by your customer will increase as the duration of the activity increases. Therefore, you will find that one needs a smaller bag for shorter day hikes, explains Jamie Owen, local distributor of Thule backpacks.

Generally, retailers can work with this guideline: day packs up to 35L are ideal for day walks, weekend packs that hold 35-55L are suitable for holding items for overnight trails of approximately one to two days, and trekking packs, which hold more than 55L, are designed for multi-day trails where customers will carry heavier loads of equipment.

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

A backpack’s shoulder straps, hipbelt and frame are the most important factors to look at to determine comfort and functionality.

Of course, the size (and strength) of your customer will also play a role in the size of the backpack that he can use.

On average, men produce ten times more testosterone, which stimulates muscle development, than women. This makes men stronger and able to handle heavier loads.

Younger children are physically incapable of carrying 20kg on their backs. Osprey’s rule of thumb for children is that they should not carry more than 20% of their body weight on their back, says Morne Strydom of Adventure Inc. When recommending a backpack for children for longer trips, where they will require more items to fit into the backpack, retailers should remind them to select gear wisely i.e. lightweight sleeping bags, tents, etc., advises Rust.

Even if the items that the customer selects are bulky, ensure they are not too heavy. If the weight is too much for the child, it could cause strain on joints and muscles, which can lead to injury or bad posture as their bodies are still developing.

Finding the right fit After establishing the customer’s volume requirements, a retailer needs to ensure the fit is right for the customer. This is not about your customer fitting the pack, but the pack fitting him or her, explains Rust. That mind-set will ensure that mom, dad and the children all have the right backpack for their needs.

The first thing to look at is your customer’s torso length, as this will determine the size he

requires. Generally, a man and woman of the same size will not have the same shape in this area. A woman’s torso will be shorter than a man’s of the same height and she would therefore require a pack with a shorter back length.

To compensate, Osprey developed a womenspecific fit with a shorter back length, yet with a harness system similar to men’s, in their top end packs. They give the following tips for retailers to ensure that the pack will fit correctly: • The torso length of the wearer will determine the backpack size. In order to determine this size, measure the customer’s back from the iliac crest (situated above the hip bone) until the C7 vertebrae, which is the knobbly bone at the base of the neck. Make sure the customer is standing straight when taking the measurement and should his measurement fall in between two sizes let him fit both packs in order to find what suits him best.

• It is advisable to measure the circumference of the hips around the iliac crest to ensure the belt is centred and fitted around the hip bone. The hipbelt needs to fit snugly with the padding wrapped well around the customer’s hips with a gap of 7-15cm between the tips of the hip pads once securely tightened.

• When properly fitted, the backpack’s harness system should end 5-7cm under the armpit and no webbing should touch the customer’s body below the padding. Any padding that is on the harness must make full contact with the top of the customer’s shoulders as well as slightly down the back side. There should also not be any gaps near the top of the customer’s shoulders.

Supports and padding A backpack needs to fit perfectly and allow the body to move easily, says Owen, and this is determined by the backpack’s harness system, which consists of the shoulder straps and hipbelt.

Once the customer’s pack size has been determined, retailers may move onto fine tuning

Outdoor :: p59 Photo: Anja Koehler for Messe Friedrichshafen

the fit of elements such as the hipbelt, shoulder harness, etc. A well-fitted pack will not have any pressure points or gaps. Osprey gives the following tips: • When fitting the hipbelt to a customer, make sure the backpack’s compression straps are tightened, but all other elements such as the shoulder harness, sternum straps, hipbelt, etc. are loose. Buckle up the hipbelt over the customer’s hipbones with the padded portion wrapping around the front of his hips.

• Tighten the shoulder straps by pulling the ends down and behind the customer. If he is doing the fitting himself, his hands should point toward the back pockets of his pants as he pulls. The shoulder straps should make full contact with the customer’s shoulders.

• The sternum strap should be buckled and sit approximately 5cm below the collarbone. It should pull the shoulder straps comfortably away from the customer’s armpits and centre them over the shoulders. Warn your customers that the sternum strap should in no way disrupt regular breathing.

• Lastly, tighten the load lifter straps in order to draw the weight against the back and take pressure off the shoulder straps.

A backpack’s shoulder straps, hipbelt and frame are the most important factors to look at to determine comfort and functionality, emphasises Deidre Pieters from the local Black Diamond distributor, Ram Mountaineering. The award-winning Black Diamond active suspension system offers unparalleled comfort, efficiency and load transfer, as the straps move with the customer, without restricting movement in any way.

Many brands offer adjustable harness systems, which allow for the lengthening and shortening of the space between the hip belt and shoulder straps to accommodate a variety of torso lengths.

Hipbelts: Whether fitting a pack for a man, woman or child, a retailer should ensure that most of the weight is resting on the hips and not

A woman’s torso will be shorter than a man’s of the same height and she would therefore require a pack with a shorter back length. the shoulders, explains Owen.

The hipbelt is therefore the most important part of the backpack, as it carries most of the weight, and has to fit properly, agrees Rust. Retailers should be careful not to fit the hipbelt in the waist area, but on the hip. Many beginner hikers want to wear the belt in the narrowest part of the body, but that is not correct. It should sit on the hip, he says.

Hipbelts for women: Women’s hips are more curved and their hipbelts should conform to their frame shape. For this reason the hipbelts of Osprey’s women-specific backpacks are more angled and conical shaped to give the customer a more customised fit, explains Rust.

Shoulder straps for women: Because of characteristic differences in men’s and women’s shoulders, their backpack straps should have different shapes.

Men generally have broader and more muscular shoulders than women and therefore men would benefit more from wider shoulder straps, whereas narrower strap designs are more ideal for most women.

Shoulder straps should be wide enough to avoid contact with the neck, but not too wide so that they easily slip off the shoulders. Women may also benefit from a sternum strap that will prevent shoulder straps from sliding off the shoulders.

Women have a more protruding chest area than men and therefore shoulder straps with a more aggressive curve that avoids this area, are

more recommendable.

Straps for children: Children’s backpacks should have padding on the shoulder straps and be carried symmetrically on the back, as too much weight on one side of the body may lead to injury.

Children’s backpacks should have narrower shoulder straps than adults’ and a shorter back length.

Baby and child carriers Moms and dads might want to take their child or baby along on their adventure. A baby or child carrier is not only designed to enable an adult to carry a baby’s weight over long distances, but can even accommodate a toddler who is unable to keep up with adults or walk over difficult terrain.

Baby carriers are frameless and allow customers to carry their little one in front of them.

These can hold approximately 15kg so the baby and other gear can be accommodated.

For older and heavier children, you may, on the other hand, recommend a child carrier, which has a built-in frame and allows customers to carry the child behind them. To use this type of carrier, the child must sit upright on his own and cannot weigh more than approximately 18kg — the weight the carrier can handle with gear.

Child carriers should fit similarly to a backpack. When fitting the carrier, retailers should know the child’s weight and make sure the customer that will wear the carrier can handle the child’s weight, says Owen.

The carrier should be as close to the wearer’s body as possible to prevent the weight pulling back on the wearer. As with a regular backpack, the hipbelt of the child carrier is important and should sit on the hipbone in order to carry as much weight on the hips as possible.

Retailers should ensure that the bag has space for other items the customer will want to carry and make sure the customer is able to load the child into the backpack, says Owen. The child should also be comfortable and protected from the sun or rain.

2015 September :: Sports Trader

Pack range info p60 :: Outdoor

Black Diamond Mercury 75

Womens Elixir 45L - R2569 (RRP)

Mens

Element 60L - R2699 (RRP)

Medalist

www.rammountain.co.za

Medalist, locally distributed by De Wet Sports, offers a range of technical packs that will have something for every customer.

The Flipside 20, Rover 27 and Escape 28 hy-

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

dration compatible bags are manufactured using Ripstop fabric, have padded breathable mesh backs and mesh/ nylon water bottle pockets.

The Flipside 20 with its single large compartment and Rover 27 with two large compartments both feature dual compression straps and bungee cord gear stashes. The Escape 28 also features two large compartments with quad compression straps and a hip belt.

The Vital daypack protects its contents with the help of its drawstring and flap closing system. The one-compartment pack also features straight-cut, padded shoulder straps and two side utility pockets.

The 600 Denier Nylon Nomad pack has one large main compartment and two front utility pockets. The S-curve shoulder straps have breathable mesh padding and an adjustable sternum strap. A back panel with breathable mesh padding, hip belt that improves stability and side compression straps are just a few of the other features this pack offers users.

The durable Trail Scout pack, available in 40 and 50 litre capacities, features a sculpted back system with removable aluminium rods and a large hip belt that improves support. The bag features numerous web and mesh side pockets.

The bags have integrated rain cover, trekking pole loops, bungee cord gear stashes, removable phone pouches and S-curve dual compression shoulder straps with breathable mesh padding.

Osprey Osprey has been in the backpack market for just over 40 years and what sets them apart from other brands is the concept of not one size fits all, says Morne Strydom of local distributor Adventure Inc. The brand offers several gender-specific backpacks that cater for the differences in men’s and women’s hips (women’s hipbelts are more conical shaped), back lengths (men’s packs have longer backs) and shoulders (women’s shoulder straps are more curved).

Their best-selling Aether (men’s) and Aerial (women’s) are lightweight and offer a custom fit. These hydration-compatible packs fea- To p62

Osprey Aether

Black Diamond, locally distributed by Ram Mountaineering, offers backpacks for the multiday hiker who will be putting in the long miles.

The men’s Mercury 75 and ladies’ Onyx 75 are built for rough trails, big-mileage days and maximum comfort over the long haul. These backpacks combine classic backpacking features with sleek, modern designs and freedom of movement.

The front zippered panels allow full access to the inside of the backpack, while multiple pockets, dividers and straps help secure and organise gear during extended trips. The brand’s SwingArm shoulder straps, which form part of the award winning ergoACTIVE XP suspension sytem, move in concert with a hiker’s stride by sliding through the bottom of the pack with low-friction cable and housing. Each of the straps are linked to the other by cables, which helps maintain an even, balanced load across both shoulders.

Their ergoACTIV hipbelt is the key to the ergoACTIV suspension system and has a customshaped ball joint that attaches the hipbelt to the frame. The simple, durable three-dimensional system allows the hipbelt, and by extension the backpacker to move unrestricted in any direction.

These ergoACTIV XP packs feature M-Motion aluminium frames that enhance stiffness for additional support and load transfer. Each has a 20mm centre stay and back panel contouring.

The men’s Element and the ladies’ Elixir are light, streamlined and built with the lightweight multi-day backpacker in mind. They feature the reACTIV suspension system with SwingArm shoulder straps and high-flow OpenAir back panel, which maintains ventilation on warm days.

Each offers top-loading access, a large zippered sleeping bag opening, and a top lid that converts into a lumbar pack for quick side hikes. Additionally, quick-cinch side- and hipbelt pockets offer extra storage space for on-trail essentials.

All these packs are hydration compatible and feature retractable trekking pole/ice axe loops and sleeping pad straps.

Medalist Trail Scout 50

Black Diamond

p62 :: Outdoor

ture convertible top pockets and technologies such as AddOn Compatible and InsideOut Compression. They also have J-Panel access, Red Internal Compression Straps, sleeping pad straps, as well as tool attachments.

In their premium range the interchangeable hipbelts allow the user to replace the hipbelt with a more suitable size. Some models have interchangeable shoulder straps.

Some of their top-end models feature mouldable hipbelts that can be heated in an oven-like gadget and then be placed on the customer’s hips to take the shape of his hips.

The brand also offers more affordable items like the one-size-fits-all Volt (men’s) and Viva (women’s). They are lightweight, easy to fit, comfortable, and offer adjustable shoulder straps and hipbelt areas, says Leo Rust. With these bags even the padding on the hipbelt is extendable to accommodate for larger sized hips.

The Ergo Pull design, used in the webbing, draws tension along the top and bottom of the belt, instead of through the centre, allowing a more even distribution of weight. This system also allows the user to pull the load tighter to his back without having to worry about toppling over from lifting a heavy weight, explains Strydom.

Their Anti-Gravity suspension system uses an almost-sprung-loaded hipbelt system that naturally creates the tension necessary for the pack to cling to the body. It also features mesh that

creates an air vacuum for improved breathability. This is an important development for areas where walks in summer can result in a sweaty back without a lot of ventilation, says Strydom.

This technology has won numerous awards such as the 2014 Outdoor Retailer Pack of the Year in the US and the Gold Award at the Outdoor Industry Awards in 2014.

Next year they will be extending this antigravity suspension system into their baby carriers, some of the smaller daypacks, etc.

The back system on their Poco baby carrier is designed to offer a versatile fit and is easily adjustable. The carrier is ventilated and features a zippered lower compartment, removable drool pad and side wing mesh pockets. The higher price point Poco Premium and Plus baby carriers offer built-in sunshade and larger zippered compartments.

All Osprey’s packs are covered by the All Mighty Guarantee (AMG), which is a guarantee “pretty much for life,” says Strydom. They will either repair a damaged bag or replace it. The only products not guaranteed by the AMG are their bladders, which have a year factory warranty.

The AMG is applicable in more than 60 countries worldwide and customers can therefore rest assured that the guarantee will cover them wherever they may go and not only in the country they purchased the product, says Strydom.

Red Mountain Local backpack manufacturer, Red Mountain, makes a wide range of bags with top quality specifications in their Cape Town factory. Their bags are especially popular in the school market.

“We import the bulk of our bag fabrics ourselves as the high specification we require on our fabric is not available for sale in South Africa,” says Reinette Visser.

For example, most of their school and sport bags have a Polyurethane (PU) waterproof coating, which is superior to PVC, because it has a much higher seam strength that is not weakened by needle punctures that cause piping tears.

“PVC coatings are damaged by seams as the needle punctures cause weaknesses in the coating,” explains Visser. PU coated fabrics are almost impervious to abrasion, and is very difficult to remove from the face fabric. PVC, on the other hand, can be pulled away from the fabric in large chunks, even after moderate abrasions, she says.

“Due to the fact that we import our own fabrics and fittings directly, we are able to offer

Red Mountain Graffiti 18

Pack range info cont from p60

Outdoor :: p63

Thule Thule’s proven expertise in manufacturing carrying and storage products have now been extended to a new technical backpack range.

The men’s Guidepost 88L features a customisable TransHub suspension system with a single

aluminium stay and a spring steel wire frame that effortlessly transfers the pack’s load to the wearer’s hips, which results in a more comfortable carry. The pivoting hipbelt allows the pack to move with the wearer.

With its smart lid that transforms into a spacious 24L summit backpack, the pack offers two packs in one. The contents can be accessed via a large J zip side access panel while two large zippered front pockets provide storage and organisation for frequently used gear.

The hydration-compatible Guidepost also features 15cm torso adjustability and a QuickFit shoulder harness, with three different shoulder strap width settings.

The backpack has a breathable back panel that provides padding and support at critical contact points while allowing air to circulate around the back, keeping the wearer cool. It also features two attachment loops for storing hiking poles or ice axes and two zipped hip beltand side stretch pockets to store water, snack, or other items.

The men’s Capstone 40L hiking pack is ideal for a full day of hiking or a quick overnighter. It features a MicroAdjust suspension system that allows 10cm adjustment while wearing the pack to easily determine the perfect fit, and a tensioned mesh back panel that provides breathability and keeps the wearer cool and dry.

This pack features a removable rain cover that keeps gear dry during wet weather, zippered pockets in the lid and hip belt that are useful for storing small items such as sunglasses, and a

stretch fabric shove-it pocket offers fast access to often used gear. Side compression straps and hiking pole and ice axe attachments are also features included in this hydration-compatible pack.

The Sapling child carrier comfortably carries precious cargo while on the trail and effortlessly transitions between parents with simple torso and hipbelt adjustments.

The zippered hipbelt pockets offer more storage space while load stabiliser straps allow onthe-go adjustments to the backpack's centre of gravity and pulls the child closer to the parent for a more comfortable carry. The Sapling also features mesh pockets, an hydration reservoir sleeve and two large zippered compartments for storing clothes, water, diapers, etc.

This child carrier offers sunshade, an ergonomic seat and removable stirrups that the little one can use to adjust himself. It also features dual access loading, which makes it easy to load the child from the top or the side of the carrier, and a back panel provides padding and support in key areas and keeps the wearer dry.

It is distributed by Thule Cargo and Sport SA.

Thule Guidepost 88

higher quality items on all our products at the same price — or cheaper — than the lower specification fabrics and fittings available locally,” says Visser.

Their fabrics have a tighter weave than most local fabrics, which makes them stronger. Their zips are manufactured to the highest standards and carry lifetime guarantees. The thread is custom manufactured for use in the motor industry for the sewing of seatbelts and conform to rigorous international safety and strength standards. “Most people are unable to break our thread by hand, it needs to be cut.”

Their plastic fittings (like buckles) are generally made from the more expensive imported polyamide (PA), which is superior to the more commonly used Polyoxymethylene (POM) nylon. PA plastics are softer and more elastic than POM, which can become very brittle in colder temperatures and crack or shatter easily, or can snap under pressure. Red Mountain offers an unconditional lifetime guarantee on all their plastic fittings. “This means that we will replace, free of charge, any broken plastic fitting on any Red Mountain product of any age, regardless of how the damage occurred, even if the dog chewed it,” says Visser.

p64 :: Outdoor

How well prepared did your customers

Import figures indicate that there had been a drop in demand for fishing tackle over the past few years. Sports Trader did a survey to ask members of the fishing industry for their views on trading conditions. Photos: NICOL DU TOIT

Go Fishing?

I

t may be true that when times get tough, the tough go fishing. But, they don’t necessarily go fishing with a new rod or reel.

Although South African retail sales figures for fishing tackle are unfortunately not available, the steep drop in the number of fishing-related products imported over the last year or two, seems to indicate that anglers have not been buying as many rods and reels as before: figures from the Department of Trade and Industry indicate that after a record volume of imports in 2012, the number of goods imported had dropped to a 10-year low in 2014.

The volume of rod imports has been declining since 2012, and in 2014 it was 14% lower than in 2013. The volume of hook imports were 32% lower in 2014 than in 2013, but the number of reels imported grew 18% in 2014.

Yet, despite the drop in imported goods, most (55%) of the respondents in the Sports Trader survey of the local fishing tackle industry* say that trading conditions have been satisfactory over the past three years. Retailers were more satisfied, with 62% describing trading as “satisfactory”, compared to 50% satisfied suppliers.

But, a quarter of the suppliers responded that

Sports Trader invited local retailers and suppliers via email and our newsletter to respond to our online survey of the tackle trade. All comments quoted are from responses to the survey trading over the past three years had been “excellent”, indicating that although fishing tackle imports were down, they were very happy with the sell-in to retail.

Retail respondents, however, were less happy with their sales to consumers: 23% said that trading over the past three years had been very tough and only 15% described trading over the past three years as excellent. The high prices of new tackle products, due to the unfavourable exchange rate, is a common complaint from retailers who responded to the survey.

“The ever-changing exchange rate makes replacement cost high, while the disposable income of consumers have decreased,” com-

Fishing imports 2005-’14 units/ million

Fishing imports 2005–’14 R’m 25 20 15 10 5 0

The number of fishing tackle products imported dropped to a 10-year low in 2014 (right), yet the Rand value was only slightly down from the 10-year high in 2013 (left). This can be attributed to the unfavourable Rand exchange rate, which increased the cost of imports.

With the exception of reels (see p66), the volume of all other fishing tackle imports dropped in 2014: rod imports was 14% down and 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 hooks 32%.

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

mented Ziyaad Mahomed Moosa from Lucky’s Discount.

To add insult, the weather has also been unkind to the industry. “In my opinion the fishing industry, and all outdoor activities in general, are all strongly governed by our weather conditions,” commented Unwar Meer of Dreamcast Angling. “Presently, the drought we are experiencing has taken its toll of the retail sports industry.”

The economy impacted more on customers in certain areas than others. “We have noticed that in the mining provinces, business has taken a steep decline due to closure of mines,” commented a supplier. Other suppliers complain of higher turnovers being negated by higher costs.

The effect of the exchange rate is best illustrated by the fact that fewer fishing tackle products were imported in 2014 than in the previous ten years, yet, the Rand value of imports was the second highest in ten years (see charts below). Last year, the average price per imported fishing tackle item was R28, considerably higher than the preceding years, when it was R20 (2013), R17 (2012), R19 (2011) and R15 (2010).

To p66

14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

Source: Trade Statistics from the DTI.

p66 :: Outdoor

The SA fishing retail market cont from p64 Interestingly, this trend had been reversed in reels: last year reel import volumes had grown 18%, but the Rand value was 11% down on the previous year, indicating that the imported reels were cheaper than the previous year, despite the exchange rate.

The low margins in fishing tackle (10-25%) further affected retail profits, another respondent commented.

Fishing tackle exports have also been growing in volume and Rand value over the past ten years — especially since 2009 when there was a sudden spike in exports to African countries and the bulk of fishing tackle exports had been to Africa, namely: 81% in 2009, 89% in 2010, 84% in 2011, 79% in 2012, 75% in 2013 and 86% in 2014.

Current trading The survey respondents were more divided about the current trading conditions: a little more than a third (36%) of all respondents say that current trading is much the same as last year, with more retailers (46%) selecting this option than suppliers (30%).

This view, that current trading conditions is not much different to last year, is supported by the volume of tackle imports recorded for the first six months of the year: in the first half of 2015 there was only a negligible increase in tackle imports over the same period in 2014, which was the lowest since 2010 (see below).

These figures indicate that the tough times will be with us for a while.

As one would expect in tough economic times, replaceable items like hooks, lures, line etc. are by far the most popular items among retail customers, with 69% retailers indicating that these constitute most of their sales. Only 23% said that most of their sales income came from in rods and reels, even though these are higher margin items. On the other hand, hooks, lures and lines not only have to be replaced often, but they are quite affordable for the angler who wants to treat himself to something new.

Marketing of products Company reps and sales agents are still the mainstay of the industry, with 67% of the respondents saying that they either place most orders with reps/agents (69% of retailers), or mainly use reps/agents to introduce their products to the market (70% of suppliers).

This is followed by the SAFTAD (SA Fishing Tackle Agents and Distributors) industry trade show as a means of introducing new products,

as indicated by nearly half of the respondents (48%). More than two-thirds of the respondents (67%) have attended the SAFTAD trade show in Johannesburg during the past three years — either as a retail visitor (85%) or exhibitor (60%).

Although so many of the retail respondents visited the SAFTAD show, less than a third of retailers (31%) indicate that they place their orders through trade shows. This would imply that while the SAFTAD show is popular, retailers do not primarily visit the show to place orders.

In the first half of 2015 there was only a negligible increase in tackle imports over the same period in 2014, which was the lowest since 2010 Pre-show roadshows When counting only the number of distributors (92) that supply fishing-related products to Southern African retailers, it would appear that the industry is dominated by small businesses who supply fewer than five fishing brands, namely 63 (68.5%) of all suppliers. But, that would not be a true reflection of the fishing market: this large number of small distributors only supply 27% of the brands — in many cases one local brand developed by the supplier.

On the other hand, more than half (54%) of the more than 500 fishing-related brands are distributed by a minority, namely 13 (14%) of the distributors. And they include most of the sought-after brands. The six biggest distributors supply 36% of the fishing brands to local retailers. Because of the wide number of product categories they supply and the prominence of the brands they import, these companies dominate the market.

They are therefore the drawcard for retail visitors travelling to a trade show, and one can expect that the retailers would order a fair percentage of their stock from them.

When these companies invite retailers to place their orders before the trade show, one could expect other, smaller distributors, to become angry. This practice has indeed elicited some strong responses from distributors who responded to our survey — even though we didn’t ask any specific questions about the pre-show roadshows or elicited comments.

Imports 1st 6 months 2010 -’14 volume/ million 5 4.5 4 3.5 3 2.5 2 1.5 1 0.5 0 2010

2011

2012

2013

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

The chart left show the import volumes in millions for the first half of the year from 2010. In the first six months of 2015 there was only a slight increase in import volumes from 2014, which seems to indicate that 2015 would again be a tough year for the tackle trade.

2014 2015 Source: Trade Statistics from the DTI.

“The big distributors are ruining the trade shows by flying the top customers up to their showrooms before the shows to secure pre-show deals and have them spend their budgets before the show,” one distributor voiced a comment made by several others.

“A lot of these big dealers are not coming up for the show any more, as they’ve been flown up to Johannesburg three or four times before the show. This is destroying the trade shows and future of shows. The companies that are guilty of doing this are all on the board of SAFTAD — I don’t know why we bother — they don’t give a x@&t about the industry,” said another.

“I think approaching tackle traders before a show like SAFTAD actually decreases the attendance numbers at the show, and this has a negative impact on other distributors,” agrees Brent Webber of Blue Water Gear. This is one of the reasons why he no longer exhibits at SAFTAD, adds Gerry Venter of Wondermix, as “the larger retailers get pre-shows from the larger suppliers, therefore negating my presence at the trade show.”

After peaking with 250 retail stores attending in 2012, the number of retailers sending representatives to the Johannesburg SAFTAD show dropped to 171 stores in 2013 and 187 in 2014 sending representatives to the show.

“We see our customers monthly and show them our new products,” says John Geils of Xplorer Flyfishing. “The only reason we attend the show is to show face and keep relationships with the dwindling number of dealers that still attend. The show is certainly not growing, regardless of what SAFTAD reports.”

One or many shows As can be expected the Johannesburg SAFTAD show was again the biggest trade show attraction for respondents this year, with 58% indicating before the show that they would either exhibit (55% of suppliers) or visit (69% of retail respondents).

At the time of going to press, the final visitor numbers for this year’s SAFTAD show in Johannesburg were not yet available.

In the past the smaller, informal, satellite shows had been organised by about ten or so exhibitors in Cape Town (attended by 21% respondents), Durban (attended by 12%), and the Eastern Cape and Knysna (18%). These minishows have been held in low-cost venues and exhibitors all invited their own customers from the area who didn’t want to travel to the main show in Johannesburg.

Last year a media company, however, organised a more formal show in Durban, with wider invitations and publicity to attract To p68

* During July and August this year Sports Trader asked Southern African fishing tackle suppliers and retailers to complete our online survey of trading conditions in the Southern African fishing retail trade. This was done via email (several) and our online newsletter, News Trader. All responses were anonymous, except where names were supplied to be quoted. Apart from clicking on response options, survey respondents could provide comments if they felt strongly.

The article is compiled from the responses we received from 26% of suppliers and 8% of retailers supplying tackle equipment, clothing and accessories.

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p68 :: Outdoor

Fishing market cont from p66 visitors and exhibitors. The success of the show prompted SAFTAD to investigate the possibility of organising regional shows and the first one was held in Durban in the beginning of August this year.

The possibility of hosting a SAFTAD show in Cape Town in 2016 is being investigated.

This opened a debate in the tackle industry: is the tackle trade best served by one, big, show in Johannesburg where most distributors exhibit and a large number of retailers visit … or should the shows be taken to other regions closer to the retailers?

Most of the respondents (36%) believe that the industry will be best served by one major show in Johannesburg, followed by respondents who want shows in all the major cities (30%), with less than 10% wanting trade shows in all regions, including the Eastern Cape and Free State.

Several retailers commented that shows closer to home would benefit them. “Many retailers cannot attend the Johannesburg show as it is too far,” says Moosa. “The three shows in the majors cities make it easier as the shows comes to you, and the retailer does not have to travel away from his business.”

Distributors are more keen on one show only, as 40% of the supplier respondents indicated that this option will be best for the industry. Most who commented mentioned that the travel and exhibition cost of multiple shows will be too much for smaller exhibitors.

“If a trade show is held in every city it will not benefit smaller exhibitors as they will not travel to the other shows. It will also prevent them from seeing retailers that will not be traveling to the Johannesburg show anymore. Hosting a trade show in every city will do more harm than good to both retailers and suppliers,” says Arno Laubscher of Scientific Fly. “One central show, where exhibitors and retailers all come under one roof maximises the potential for most, if not all exhibitors, to attend,” is the choice of Jeri Drake of Excalibur Tackle. “Multiple shows will not see the attendance of many of the smaller exhibitors because it will be too expensive and will dilute the visitor numbers and exposure of products.”

An anonymous respondent said: “I don’t feel our market is big enough to have a trade show in every province. I feel that all distributors should showcase (their products) each year in one province, under one roof, as this has far more impact.”

Interestingly, a relatively high number of respondents (21%) attended international trade shows — a quarter of the suppliers and 15% of retailers. But, nearly a third of the respondents (30%) say they are not interested in attending trade shows at all: 35% suppliers and 23% retailers.

Response from John Pledger We submitted this article to SAFTAD chairman John Pledger for comment before publication and received the response below: I belIeve that there are some valid points (in the article), but I have been unable to ascertain, other than the one dealer that you mentioned, from whom you have gathered the information. All the distributors that I have spoken to have advised that you hadn't made contact with them regarding the survey.

As far as the attendances at the show are concerned, collectively between Durban and Johannesburg we had 246 dealers that attended shows. The show attendance in Johannesburg was 8 dealers down on last year. Generally speaking, most of the exhibitors were happier with the type of dealer they received this year as they were busier generally than they were last year. We believe that this is a fair reflection on the industry, taking into account the general economic conditions in South Africa.

I have been in the industry for over 50 years and during all that time in recessionary periods, you find that the terminal tackle sales increase and that the larger items like rods and reels, generally speaking, decrease. This I believe is a world tendency as well.

The comments about the exchange rates are valid and it is becoming almost impossible with the weak rand to hold prices on imported goods to within inflation rates. We are arriving at this scenario where importers that have recently received stock are out on price, compared to the ones that have older stock. With the fluctuating rand this trend will continue for some time.

The current trading in rand terms certainly is very much the same as last year, if not slightly higher, but when converted to unit sales you will find that there is definitely a downturn.

What you have failed to mention is that SAFTAD via SACRAA have already spent R184 000 on the opposition to the gill-netting in Vanderkloof dam, as this is one of the prime breeding areas of the largemouth Yellowfish.

We have also undertaken a large EIA of the recreational fishing market in South Africa. This is currently being undertaken by Rhodes University Department of Ichthyology, and the findings should be available towards the end of 2016. This will solve the problem that you mention in your article of statistics on the industry not being available. This is another initiative of SAFTAD/SACRAA. The implication of SAFTAD being the bad boys in your article, therefore, are not really true, as we do worry about the industry, we do worry about long-term sustainable angling and we do worry about the condition of our oceans and inland waters. Perhaps a few positive comments as against all the negativity would be appreciated.

As you have experienced in the past, I am always available for comment on most issues, but in this instance your lack of interest in the SAFTAD shows and what is happening within the recreational distribution industry, and the total lack of contact with me, have been distinctly noticeable.

The main purpose of shows is to display and advise the trade of all the new items and to reaffirm, to those who have forgotten, some of the other established items. It is also to have contact with the dealers to discuss problems and promotions. In a lot of instances dealers make notes of all the items in which they are interested and only place orders once they have returned to their businesses. This has certainly been the case for a long as I can remember, and it was a principal that I personally adopted many years ago, when I used to visit all the international shows when I was buying for Tatlow and Pledger at the time.

Unfortunately, you cannot satisfy all the people all the time. SAFTAD once again gave all the exhibitors a questionnaire on how they found the show and all these questionnaires are studied at the first meeting after the show, which this year is scheduled in September, to analyse and if possible to implement suggestions to improve the show. This has been the procedure for many years.

(The article was compiled from responses to an online survey. We included comments supplied by respondents — where several respondents commented on the same topic, comments were used that reflected the views of all — editor.)

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

Left: W.E.T. Sports enjoyed another good SAFTAD show in Johannesburg this year with their new catalogue and new products well received. L.t.r. Patrick Franck, Darryl Dickerson and Andrew Wentzel Jnr on their stand.

Outdoor :: p69

Right: The SAFTAD Show was a great experience for the new local distributors of Columbia PFG, says Letha Viljoen of local distributor Brand ID. With her are Eugene Brown andJustin Schunke of their sales team.

New in fishing ranges The annual SAFTAD show usually coincides with the launch of new fishing tackle products into the Southern African market. Here are a few samples of what was seen

I

t is no coincidence that most of the shows to introduce new products to retailers take place in August and early September. According to import figures supplied by the Department of Trade and Industry, the highest value of tackle imports occur either before, during or just after, these months.

In 2013, for example, the value of tackle imports during the four months July, August, October and November were more than 20% higher than the combined figure for the other eight months of the year.

Therefore, July, August and September have traditionally been the main months that suppliers of fishing equipment and clothing show retailers their products. Here are a few samples of what were seen at the shows.

Apex Walker Brands Several new products supplied by Apex Walker Brands were very well received at the recent

SAFTAD trade shows. The Rovex Big Boss 11 Spinning Reel (right) is for those times when “you want the power to fight tough saltwater fish,” says Claire Ramsden of local distributor Apex Walker Brands.

The Big Boss II series is constructed with an aluminium body and side plate, a machined aluminium handle, aluminium spool and extra-heavy-duty polymer rotor. The reels are strong on the inside, too, with six stainless steel ball bearings, a stainless steel main shaft, rock-solid infinite anti-reverse and a powerful-yet-smooth carbon-fibre drag system.

“The 4.9:1 gear ratio provides plenty of torque for those hard-core battles with saltwater pred-

ators and the generous line capacities ensure you’ve got plenty of braid or monofilament in reserve for when the big fish run long,” she says.

The new Fin-Nor Lethal Spinning Reels are engineered for targeting big fish, offering big line capacity, a robust build and a tough multi-stack MegaDrag with carbon fibre washers that are sealed against water intrusion, says Ramsden.

“The Lethal spin reel series has a tough, slimline aluminium body and side plate.” It’s ready for fishing braid, too, with a rubber braid ring fitted to the bearing-supported aluminium spool. The stainless steel main shaft has a tough support design and the gear set-up includes a brass pinion gear and alloy main gear.

There are four Lethal spin reels. Sizes 40, 60 and 80 have a tough polymer rotor, while the big LT-100 has a metal rotor. All models have a solid To p70 bail wire and a line roller bearing.

p70 :: Outdoor

New fishing products cont from p69 The Lethal spin reel design incorporates six double-shielded stainless steel bearings plus one Mega-Lock instant anti-reverse bearing. The size 40 has a 5.2:1 gear ratio while the 60, 80 and LT-100 utilise a 4.9:1 system. The generous line capacities range from 270yd of 30lb braid up to a massive 310yd of 100lb braid in the big LT-100.

The Quantum Icon Baitcaster has 11 stainless steel ball bearings, which makes for an extremely smooth reel, says Ramsden. It has a one-piece aluminium frame, Ceramic multi-disk drag system, brass PT main gear and drive shaft and a lightweight machined skeletal spool. The 7.0:1 has a Max Drag of 18lbs and the 6.3:1 has a Max Drag of 17lbs and weigh 6.9oz. the Fin-Nor Fire Power spin reels, a new introduction for November 2015, offer great value and are braid-friendly, says Ramsden. All models have infinite anti-reverse.

The lightweight graphite body is matched with a strong aluminium spool and all ball bearings are stainless steel. “These reels will be a hit with bait fishers and lure casters alike,” she predicts. Available in sizes 2000, 4000, and 7000.

Columbia PFG fishing garments

Columbia’s Omni-Shade UPF 30 sun and builtin UV protection. Made of lightweight nylon, it dries fast and mesh-lined cape vents at the back shoulder keeps the angler cool.

The Bonehead, in soft cotton that’s garment washed for lived-in comfort and a relaxed fit, features fly box pockets and a rod holder loop at the left chest to make even the most discerning angler happy. The Omni-Shade UPF 30 further provides maximum protection for long hours in the sun, with a flip-up collar providing even more sun protection. A mesh-lined vent helps to keep the wearer cool.

The PFG Super Tamiami long and short sleeve shirts in men and women’s styles are made in the lightest-weight in crisp yarn-dye wicking fabric.

The long sleeve offers ultra sun protection with Omni-Shade UPF 40, while the short sleeve offers UPF 30 protection. Mesh-ventilation at the back keeps the wearer cool in the sun, while the Omni-Wick 100% polyester, high-performance, wicking fabric actively breathes and pulls moisture away from the skin. Anti-microbial treatment protects the shirt from bacterial growth, which causes bad smells.

But, not all days spent fishing are sunny, and the PFG Storm Jacket is made for the days when the shore is as wet as the fishing water.

The fully seam-sealed, waterproof, but breathable jacket can pack into its own pocket to be carried around with ease. Apart from the OmniTech technology, zippered hand pockets and a drawcard in the hem help to keep the wearer dry and comfortable.

Daiwa Saltist Nero

This year’s SAFTAD show was a first for the new distributors of Columbia Sportswear, Brand ID, who enjoyed showing the brand’s new PFG fishing shirts that have almost become a local fisherman dress code, seen on so many competitiors at fishing competitions.

“Having taken over the Columbia distribution license recently, the SAFTAD show was a great experience for us,” says marketing manager Letha Viljoen.

“We feel there is an opportunity in the independent market for the PFG category, which has yet to be capitalized on. Through the contacts we made at the show, we should see some solid growth within this category.”

There is a wide variety of shirts in their PFG range, ranging in price, as well as technologies, which provides sun protection, wicking and ventilation. “There are, however, a few that have been the bread and butter lines for quite a few years,” says Viljoen. “These are normally the styles that most retailers buy into.”

Top sellers in the PFG shirt line are the Bonehead and Bahama shirts, in both long and short sleeve. They are available in a variety of colours, varying from the basic black, blue’s, and white, to the more daring and colourful oranges, greens etc.

Designed for anglers who spend many hours in the sun, the durable, Bahama shirt offers

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

The latest reels launched by Daiwa always attract plenty of interest from trade show visitors, and this year was no exception. “Observing the traditions and reputation of the acclaimed Saltist name, the new Saltist Nero delivers a balance of performance, strength, reliability and outstanding value, encompassed in a modern, dark and mysterious, matt black exterior shell,” says Mike Pereira of the local Daiwa distributor, The Kingfisher.

The all-metal body houses Daiwa’s revolutionary Digigear Drive System that delivers up to 15% more cranking power than with conventional gears, he continues. Digigear has a highprecision cutting technique and allows for superior gear precision and strength. The strong, corrosion resistant alloy created gears that are lighter, yet stronger, and allow for flawless gear meshing and superior cranking smoothness and power.

The Saltist Nero (right) features a CRBB bearing for corrosion resistance, and reel longevity. “Unlike standard bearings, these are shielded for extra protection to seal out sand, fine grit, salt crystals and other abrasives for extended bearing life,” says Pereira. “Daiwa’s Full-Time Dual Stopper Infinite AntiReverse system ensures ultimate gear control, with the highly refined system delivering precision cranking and the elimination of handle

back play for increased reel sensitivity and hook setting power.”

The ABS spool provides a huge line capacity along with trouble free casting. The reverse taper of the spool enables greater line control and increased casting distance, while minimising unwanted line loops and tangles to ensure optimum casting and line management performance.

“Combined with Daiwa’s Twist Buster II technology and a titanium nitride line roller that delivers unrivalled smoothness, strength and line roller longevity, they work seamlessly to deliver trouble free line management,” he says.

New from W.E.T. Sports “We always look forward to the opportunity to meet up with our customers who have become friends over the years,” says Patrick Frank.

There are several interesting additions to the W.E.T. Sports’ ever-expanding fishing ranges for this summer season (See p53) and these, as well as their new catalogue, were very well received, says Frank.

The Prohunter Face Scarf is ideal for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities in the sun. The highly breathable UV50 fabric will keep you cool all day long and block out 95% of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. They also have active odour control to keep you fresh in action and the unique design presents multi-functional headwear applications.

They also introduced several new lures and spinners to their ranges: The K5 Trend slow jigging metal spinner (right) is available in 45 , 60 , 90, 110 and 135 grams. It comes with an extra strong single assist hook and is available in 3 fish catching colours.

The new 80mm (15.5gm) Prohunter Lively Tail floating lure with a segmented body offers an attractive swimming action at depths of 1–2m. It is available in three eye catching colours.

The Jelly Floating Katak is made with special US floating soft plastic and offers a unique twopronged attack to suit your fishing conditions, says Andrew Wentzel. It comes with two frogs per pack: one has a weighted weedless hook, while the other offers a weedless hook ideal for top water fishing.The 2 ¼” ( 58mm ) frogs come in four vibrant colours.

The Pop Monster, 120mm (45 gm) top water lure has a strong body construction with super sharp treble hooks. It is available in three colours, including a stunning lumo Fire Tiger finish, says Wentzel.

The 50mm (11 gm) Predator X7 mouse is a great addition to every freshwater anglers tackle box, he adds. It is available in three colours.

Prohunter also introduced a new rust free Fish Gripper, made out of strong engineering grade plastic with stainless steel parts. It has a powerful jaw design for handling toothy and poisonous fish. It is also easy to clean.

Trade shows :: p71

Tackle trade show news Several of the fishing tackle brands that won best product awards at the 2015 EFTTEX and ICAST tackle trade shows are available from distributors in the local market

Category Overall winner Rod Freshwater Rod Saltwater Rod Fly Rod Fly Reel Fly Line Fly Accessory Fixed-Spool Reel Multiplier Reel Saltwater Reel Freshwater Reel Monofilament Braided/Multifilament Line Hard Lure Soft Lure Accessory Terminal Tackle Clothing (technical) Clothing (lifestyle) Footwear Soft/Dough Bait Eyewear Box/Holdall/Luggage Visitor’s Choice Combo Fish Smart Kids’ Tackle Giftware Electronics Boating Accessories Boats

EFTTEX product Silverna Taki TZ

EFTTEX Brand

ICAST product

ICAST supplier

C-135 YakAttack Edition

eddyline kayaks

E6X Bass

G. Loomis

Avid Inshore

St. Croix

A Tec Inc

MOD

Sage

Mojo Bass Fly

St. Croix

CLICK Series

Sage

Pflueger Medalist Fly Reel

Pure Fishing

Single Handed Spey Line

RIO G3 Guide Stockingfoot

Simms Fishing Products

Penn Clash

Pure Fishing

Stradic C3000HG-K

Shimano

Revo MGX Spinning

Abu Garcia (Pure Fishing)

Revo Toro Beast Low Profile

Abu Garcia (Pure Fishing)

Shock Leader

Momoi

Dura-Silk

Spiderwire (Pure Fishing)

Maxcuatro

PowerPro

Spin Glider

Sébile (Pure Fishing)

Hard Shrimp

Savage Gear

Duck Fin Live Shad

Daiwa

Hollow Body Sunfish

Koppers Fishing

Waterwolf Bottom Fishing Kit

Svendsen Sport

RinseKit

RinseKit

True Hopper Set

Vania Flies

Lazer Sharp Fillet Knife

Eagle Claw Fishing

Gore-Tex High Loft Suit

Daiwa

Aegis Lifeshirt

Lifeshirt

UA Storm Covert Pant

Under Armour

Current Shoe

Simms Fishing Products

Jelly Baits Maggots

Energofish

Cortez

Costa Sunglasses

Rooster

Costa Sunglasses

Urban Hip Bag

Rapala

KastKing Rack ‘em Up Rack

Eposeidon Outdoor

Spintube Flash

Eumer Mach 1 Combo

Lew’s Fishing Tackle

Freshwater Release Rulers

Release Ruler

Tangle-Free Combo

Steinhauser

PowerStick

YOLOtek

Humminbird HELIX 7 SI

Johnson Outdoors

YETI Hopper 20

YETI Coolers

C-135 YakAttack Edition

eddyline kayaks

Many of the best new product winners at the world’s two major fishing tackle trade shows, EFTTEX, this year held in Warsaw, Poland, and the American ICAST show, will Pure Fishing won four awards for their new reels: at EFTTEX they won the best new spinning and multiplier reel categories, and the best saltwater and fly reel categories at the ICAST show in the US. The company also won two other categories at EFTTEX, namely, the best hard lure and braided/multifilament line.

Brands locally distributed by Rapala VMC SA won the eyewear categories at both shows (Costa), the tackle bag category at EFTTEX, and the freshwater rod, freshwater reel and best braided/multifilament line categories at ICAST. Xplorer Flyfishing’s brands won the best new fly line category at EFTTEX and two rod categories at ICAST: best new saltwater and best fly rod.

Upstream Flyfishing brands won the fly rod and reel categories at EFTTEX, and the best fly fishing accessory and footwear at ICAST. Brands available from Sensational Angling won the best new freshwater rod and terminal tackle awards at ICAST. Other brands locally available are Daiwa (from The Kingfisher) that won the best soft lure and technical clothing categories winner at EFTTEX, the ICAST lifestyle clothing winner Under Armour, and the ICAST combo winner Lew’s (Thornveld Angling).

The 2016 EFTTEX Show will be held in Amsterdam at the RAI exhibition centre from 1618 June. The number of exhibitors who have rebooked for the show has increased by 5% and more than 85% of the exhibition space has already been taken. The large interest in the show is directly attributed to its venue and the success of EFTTEX 2015, which was one of the best in the last five years, according to visi-

tors and exhibitors and sold out more than six months prior to its opening.

The 2016 ICAST show will be held 13-15 July in Orlando, Florida. The 2015 show attracted 13 000 trade visitors. This year the 58th show was organised by the American Sportfishing Association. China Fish 2016, the 26th China International Fishing Tackle Trade Exhibition will be held in Beijing between February 18-20.

The 2015 China Fish attracted 51 international exhibitors from 17 countries to 26 700 m² exhibition space, where 3 111 visitors viewed the new products.

There will be another big international show targeting fishing brands next year — the IWA show for hunting, shooting sports, outdoor and security equipment has said that they will be expanding to include fishing tackle next year. The 2016 show will be held 4-7 March in Nuremburg.

2015 September :: Sports Trader

OutDoor show news

p72 :: Trade shows

Product innovations introduced at the OutDoor Show in Friedrichshafen often become trends across the world. These were some of the trends seen this year

T

he annual OutDoor Show in Friedrichshafen has an indicator of outdoor trends and innovations that could be trends for outdoor brands worldwide.

The products that win the prestigious OutDoor Industry awards are therefore of interest to all people active in the outdoor industry, whether the brands are locally available, or not.

The OutDoor Industry award is only given to companies with innovative, trend-setting, products and ideas. “The award winners provide an insight into which way the outdoor industry is developing,” said OutDoor project manager Dirk Heidrich.

This year companies entered 329 innovative outdoor products. An international jury panel of specialists and experts in their fields, as well as the Deutscher Designer Club that facilitated the process, selected 39 products to receive the OutDoor Industry Award. Of these, nine were awarded the Gold Award.

This prestigious award can only be won by outstanding products that the judges believe are setting new trends. The following are the 2015 OutDoor Industry Gold Award winners: • MSR’s Guardian Purifier is the first filter to mechanically remove bacteria from water.

The filter cleans itself while pumping, is compatible with standard drinking bottles, has a long lifespan and is user friendly. MSR is locally distributed by Outward Ventures.

• The adidas Terrex Agravic Down Jacket features an innovative and well thought-out down chamber construction, where the overlapping seams decrease the formation of cold bridges. The freedom of movement, fit and the collar solution also impressed the judges.

• Judges liked that the longer cut of the Kala Dress from Icebreaker, locally distributed by Adventure Inc, can be converted into a tunic or shirt. The fabric also caught their attention: their new Cool-Lite fabric consists of 56% merino wool, 42% Tencel and 2% Lycra.

• The Uneek 8MM outdoor sandal from Keen, imported by Cape Union Mart, has a unique look: it is made with a two Polyester cord construction, which moulds to the foot. It offers the wearer a comfortable fit and is ideal for travel, outdoor activity or everyday use.

• Vaude’s Power Sphaerio 3P tent features a complex geodetic techLeft: adidas Terrex Agravic Down Jacket.

Right: Polarmond’s all-inone sleep system.

Photos: Juergen Heppeler

Sports Trader :: 2015 September

nical design, which makes it very stable in winds. The tent makes use of new materials and has a great space-to-weight ratio.

• Polarmond’s all-in-one sleep system takes all the factors that affect someone sleeping outside, in all weather conditions, and adapts them to work together. The ultra-light integrated sleeping system consists of a liner, sleep mat- and shell, and one-person shelter.

• The Gift Your Gear system — where old outdoor clothing and equipment is donated to organisations, youth groups and charities working with youngsters in the outdoors — was selected for its potential to inspire future generations’ participation in outdoor activities and protecting the environment.

• The Naturetexx Plasma Wool technique from the Südwolle Group creates an environmentally-friendly wool that does not use any chemicals. The judges consider this an important development, especially since wool is so often used in outdoor clothing.

• Aarn Design’s Natural Balance Bodypack has a unique carry system, with a pack on the front and on the back of the wearer, which means that weight is distributed evenly while allowing the wearer freedom of movement.

Trends seen at OutDoor The annual OutDoor show is a platform to view upcoming outdoor trends for the next season.

Next year, colours will be inspired by nature.

So predicts Nora Kuehner, design consultant to the IDEAS Active Sports Design Network. Together with twelve colleagues, Kuehner put together a colour palette for 2016 based on clear, sporty tones that are inspired by nature.

Colours include navy blue, burgundy red and salmon pink, earthy brown and sandy beige. There are very few strong contrasting colours — instead colours are used in harmony with each other.

The materials are also natural: there is an increase in the use of wool and cotton, which are easier to colour.

The following year, the colours become stronger and more vibrant again, says Kuehner.

“2017 is going to be a bright, vibrant summer.”

“Through the interplay of light and shade, colours appear richer on new, more textured, outer surfaces than they did on previ- o u s smoother fabrics,” she explains.

In ladies’ ranges, look for berry tones, chalky colours (aqua, sand, vanilla), as well as chartreuse (a fresh yellow-green).

Nikwax’s Hydrophobic Down has passed the IDFB Hydrophic Shake Test from the International Down and Feather Testing Laboratory (IDFL) — it withstood over 1 000 minutes of shaking in water. This marks the first time that the brand’s PFC-free treated down has outperformed PFC-treated hydrophobic down.

“We’ve shown that it’s possible to make high performance waterproofing with a minimum environmental effect,” says owner Nick Brown, who has been floating sleeping bags across lakes.

Photo: Felix Kästle for Messe Friedrichshafen

For men, keep an eye out for classic blue and brown with khaki nuances.

While the fashion world has taken a liking to mimicking outdoor clothing styles, it’s the technical advantages that really make outdoor clothing so desired. Some of the latest developments globally include: • Economical ion treatments: Belgian company Europlasma has been investigating ion treatments and ways to make economically viable. They have found a way to ionize fabrics directly from the roll, which makes this process faster and more universal. The company boasts with six-second drying times after dip treatment.

• Intelligent bulk fibre: Thermore claims to have developed a new insulation that can think for itself. The intelligent bulk fibre adapts to different temperatures to provide the desired insulation for every activity, says Peter Muegge, sales director Germany.

Successful new format Even though the number of trade visitors to this year’s OutDoor Show in Friedrichshafen was slightly down from last year — 21 464 trade visitors compared to 21 912 in 2014 — the organisers, the European Outdoor Group and prominent exhibitors hailed the new Wednesday to Saturday format as a big success.

Visitor numbers were spread evenly over the first three days and international visitors, from 85 countries, increased.

This year 940 exhibitors from 41 countries participated. The show also featured an extensive support programme of more than 100 conferences, seminars and workshops.

The 2016 OutDoor Show will be held 1316 July in Friedrichshafen.

Trade show news

Trade shows :: IBC

Outdoor Retailer Winter Market

THE 2016 Outdoor Retailer Winter Market will take place 7-10 January in Salt Lake City, two weeks earlier than originally planned, to avoid competing with other events such as the Sundance Film Festival and the Martin Luther King Jr Holiday. The new slot also benefits retailers who might want to change orders before ordering deadlines and see new products as well as suppliers.

The All Mountain Demo will still take place the day before the show and future Outdoor Retailer Winter Market shows have also been scheduled in this earlier time frame (7-10 January for 2017 and 6-9 January for 2018), but it has not yet been confirmed whether the venue will remain the same.

Retail Congress Africa

ideas and networking.

THE 2015 RETAIL CONGRESS AFRICA, which takes place 3-4 November at the Westin Hotel in Cape Town, will feature a number of new themes such as The investors’ perspective and Africa’s floating middle class.

New event features will include the Bespoke Retail Congress Africa Research Study, which will explore the future of retail in the context of the global and African agenda.

The congress’ workshop sessions will see experts lead tables to explore a case study that will allow better exchange of important

China Sourcing Fair

Asia Outdoor

ISPO Shanghai THE FIRST ISPO Shanghai that recently took place in China was a success with 354 exhibitors showcasing 473 brands.

The event, which attracted nearly 19 000 visitors, featured an extensive support program that included a multi-brand running concept store, training and fitness sessions, and a variety of forums.

The satisfaction expressed by industry members has led to the second edition of the event being scheduled to take place 7-9 July 2016 at the Shanghai New International Expo Center (SNIEC).

Eurobike A RECORD-BREAKING 1 350 exhibitors from 54 countries showed the latest innovations and trends in cycling on the more than 100 000m2 exhibition grounds of Eurobike 2015, which took place 26-29 August in Friedrichshafen, Germany.

The 46 000 trade visitors from 100 countries attending the event were able to take advantage of the supporting programs such as the Eurobike Award, Eurobike Demo Day (25 August), E-bike test course, etc.

THE CHINA SOURCING FAIR will now be known as the Global Sources Exhibition.

The decision to rename the show was influenced by the increased interest in exhibiting shown by manufacturers and distributors from other countries. The show has been taking place in South Africa for the past five years.

The 2015 Global Sources Exhibition South Africa will be held 12-14 November at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec.

Interbike PROBLEMS SUCH as suppliers selling and servicing consumers directly is a growing concern for the US bicycle industry, said Pat Hus, vicePresident of Interbike, during the lead up to the show, which takes place 16-18 September in Las Vegas, Nevada.

He urged industry members to not be passive and just ignore what is happening, but to register for Interbike and attend the show to be a part of the discussion that will affect their businesses. “Your business, your employees and your customers are expecting you to come up with the answers. The door has been flung open to a new paradigm and now every company in our industry is deciding what to do next,” said Hus.

THIS YEAR’S Asia Outdoor showed growth with an increase in visitors (19 002 compared to 17 298 last year) and exhibitors (617 compared to 613 in 2014).

The first COA Outdoor China Summit that took place during the show was also a success with more than 400 attendants and it will now take place annually — 90% of people that attended said they would attend next year’s summit as well.

The show, which features a number of supporting programs such as the Running Village, the Diving Village, the Outdoor Club Village, etc. will take place from 30 June-3 July 2016 in Nanjing, China.

ISPO BrandNew APPLICATIONS ARE open for ISPO BrandNew 2016 — the largest start-up competition in the sports business. The deadline for entries is 1 October.

Industry members may enter brands, which were founded in 2011 or later and have not previously exhibited at ISPO Munich, into seven categories.

The winners will receive a free booth at the ISPO BrandNew Village at ISPO Munich 2016. To apply or register, visit applicationbrandnew. ispo.com.

Advertisers index A1 Star 4 adidas 13 Adventure Inc 63 Apex Walker Brands 69 AquaLine 51 Asari 67 ASICS 30, 31 Awesome Tools 56 Because I Can Clothing OBC Black Diamond 60 Blackheath 41 Brand ID 39, 49, 65 Bronx men 25 Bushnell 57 Columbia 65 Conti 50

CorSport 48 Crown Footwear 1, 5, 22, 23 Cutlery Distributing Group 55 Daiwa 68 De Wet Sports 51, 61 Footwear Trading 26, 28 Gimtrac 45 Grendha OFC Gryphon 44 Hi-Tec 3 Intershu Distributors OFC, 29 Ipanema OFC Jack Parcels 7 Jeep 28 JFK Trading 4, 7 Jordan & Co. 25, 27 K&T Sports 44

Kakiebos Kangol Kevro Leatherman Levi’s Lite Optec Malik Medalist Medicus Shoes Merrell Mustad New Balance OBO SA Olympic International Opal Sports Orbit Sports Manufacturers Osprey

5 1 41 56 26 52 44 61 15 15 67 17 44 27 50 43 63

ProHunter Quantum Ram Mountaineering Red Mountain Reef Brazil Rock Spring Rocky Slazenger Speedo Stormforce The Kingfisher Ultimo Ultra Tec Umbro Victorinox W.E.T. Sports Zoggs

67 69 60 62 OBC 29 22, 23 39 49 43 68 57 52 9 55 67 48

2015 September :: Sports Trader

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