sgb weekly 1130
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SGB WEEKLY 1130TRANSCRIPT
JULY 25, 2011
The Weekly Digital Magazine for the Sporting Goods Industry
www.spenco.com
Releva
nceA collection of casual footwear, insoles and accessories that are easy to merchandise and sell.A 45 year track record of products that keep people healthy and active. Great pricing. Terrific customer service.
Sound relevant to your business? Then it's time to take a second look at Spenco.
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WEEK 1130 | SGBweekly.com 3
Copyright 2011 SportsOneSource, LLC. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed by writers & contributors to SGB WEEKLY are not necessarily those of the editors or publishers. SGB WEEKLY is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Articles appearing in SGB WEEKLY may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express permission of the publisher. SGB WEEKLY is published weekly by SportsOneSource, LLC, 2151 Hawkins Street, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28203; 704.987.3450. Send address changes to SGB WEEKLY, 2151 HAWKINS STREET, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE, NC 28203; 704.987.3450.
NEWS 4 NFL Lock Out Comes To An End IN OTHER NFL NEWS... SEVENTY-FIVE FORMER NFL PLAYERS have reportedly filed a lawsuit against the league for concealing the risk of concussions for more than 90 years. 7 NBA #2 PICK Signs on with Under Armour MOVERS AND SHAKERS 8 BY THE NUMBERS 9 THE NORTH FACE, VANS Drive VF Corp.’s Second Quarter Results
FEATURES 10 A TALE OF TWO SEASONS 2011 Paddlesports Season Starts Slowly But Builds As Weather Improves. 14 NEW GEAR FOR 2012 Boats, Paddles, Accessories and More
DEPARTMENTS
22 JOB CLASSIFIEDS
The Weekly Digital Magazine for the Sporting Goods Industry
JULY 25, 2011
www.spenco.com
Releva
nce
A collection of casual footwear, insoles and accessories that are easy to merchandise and sell.A 45 year track record of products that keep people healthy and active. Great pricing. Terrific customer service.
Sound relevant to your business? Then it's time to take a second look at Spenco.
Pictured: The YUMI,New for spring. Featuring dynamicsupport in a stylish sandal. Availablein 3 colors, in both men’s and women’s styles.
Call 1-800-877-3626 or visit www.spencopromo.com to order a free sample today PROMO CODE: SGBYUMI Expires: Aug 31, 2011
10
Editor In ChiefJames Hartford (704.987.3450 x104)
Senior Business EditorThomas J. Ryan (917.375.4699)
Editor/AnalystKyle J. Conrad (704.987.3450 x111)
Contributing EditorEugene Buchanan
Creative DirectorTeresa Hartford
Graphic DesignerCamila Amortegui
Advertising Sales DirectorCasey Vandenoever (303.997.7302)
Advertising Sales Account ManagerKatie O’Donohue (704.987.3450 x110)
Circulation & [email protected]
TechnologyChief Information Officer, Mark Fine
VP Research & Development, Gerry AxelrodManager Database Operations, Cathy Badalamenti
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Group PublisherBill Garrels
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4 SGB WEEKLY JULY 25, 2011
NEWS
The NFL lockout came to and end early Monday morning after the NFL player’s reps agreed in principle to a new contract bargaining agreement. The lockout, which spanned 4 ½ months and threatened to cut into the NFL’s regular season, was the longest work stoppage in league history. The two sides worked through the weekend to come to terms on a new CBA that will ultimately run for the next ten years with no “opt-out clause.” The CBA was signed later Monday afternoon, making it official.
According to several reports, a tentative timeline would allow NFL clubs to start signing 2011 draft picks and rookie free agents on Tuesday. Conversations with veteran free agents could also start Tuesday, and their signings could begin Friday, setting the stage for what will undoubtedly be the most frenetic and chaotic free agency signing period in league history as training camp and free agency will start on the same day for some teams. Big names that could be on the move include Nnamdi Asumugha (Raiders), Steve Smith (Panthers), Santonio Holmes (Jets), Ray Edwards (Vikings), Plaxico Burress (unsigned), Nick Collins (Packers) and others.
Under the proposed schedule, training camps would open for 10 of the 32 teams on Wednesday, 10 more on Thursday, another 10 Friday, and the last two teams Sunday.
NFL LOCK OUT COMES TO AN END
IN OTHER NFL NEWS... Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rashard Mendenhall is suing the parent company of Champion for breach of contract for the brand's decision to drop his endorsement deal after his tweets about the death of Osama bin Laden and the September 11 terrorist attacks.
According to the Associated Press, Mendenhall's lawyers filed suit last week in U.S. District Court in North Carolina, seeking roughly $1 million in damages from Hanesbrands, Inc.
The complaint said Champion's decision to end its endorsement deal with Mendenhall in May, days after he questioned the public celebration of bin Laden's death, violates a contract extension the two parties signed in 2010, worth over $1 million. Mendenhall first signed the endorsement deal in 2008.
Shortly after bin Laden was killed by a team of Navy Seals, Mendenhall tweeted, in response to scenes of euphoria around the U.S., "What kind of person celebrates death? It's amazing how people can HATE a man they have never even heard speak. We've only heard one side..." He also tweeted on the Sept. 11 attacks: "We'll never know what really happened. I just have a hard time believing a plane could take a skyscraper down demolition style."
The comments led to a clarification by Mendenhall and a separate statement by Steelers team president Art Rooney distancing the organization from Mendenhall's remarks. Hanesbrands has not responded to the lawsuit.
SEVENTY-FIVE FORMER NFL PLAYERS have reportedly filed a lawsuit against the league for concealing the risk of concussions for more than 90 years.
The lawsuit, which was filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, also lists helmet manufacturer Riddell as a defendant. The plaintiffs include former Dolphins receiver Mark Duper, former Giants and Cardinals running back Ottis Anderson, and former Giants running back Rodney Hampton, among others.
The suit alleges that it was not until June of 2010 that the league acknowledged concussions can lead to dementia, memory loss, CTE and related symptoms. The league launched a campaign last year to inform and educate players about the risks of concussions and brain injuries, but the suit alleges actions were taken too late. All of the players involved in the suit are claiming they suffered injuries as a result of multiple concussions.
The suit reportedly asks for a jury trial and undisclosed damages. In an emailed statement, league spokesman Greg Aiello wrote: "We have not seen the complaint but would vigorously contest any claims of this kind."
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update
NBA #2 PICK WILLIAMS SIGNS ON WITH
UNDER ARMOUR
Former University of Arizona star and current Minnesota Timberwolf Derrick Williams has reportedly signed an endorsement deal with Under Armour.
Williams, an electrifying college player who led the Wildcats past top-seeded Duke to reach the Elite 8 in the 2011 NCAA tournament, was the number two overall pick in June's NBA draft.
Williams is the second NBA rookie inked to a contract with Under Armour, joining the Charlotte Bobcats' Kemba Walker, who announced his signing with UA earlier this month.
Williams' signing is the latest development in what has become an endorsement competition between Nike Basketball and Under Armour basketball to sign potential NBA future superstars.
Nike announced last week it had signed former Duke guard and Cleveland Cavaliers number one overall pick Kyrie Irving to a shoe deal.
The Tennis Industry Association has added David Malinowski, the tennis category manager for adidas, and Fred Stringfellow, the executive director of the American Sports Builders Association (ASBA), to its board of directors. Malinowski and Stringfellow join Dave Miley of the International Tennis Federation, who was named in April, as the newest members of the TIA board. Native Eyewear hired Ken Schappert and Bill Kendall to represent the brand in the state of Florida. Two new buyers have joined Worldwide Distributors, the independent buying group, as of July 2011. Steve Apple is responsible for fishing tackle, marine/RV, hardware and pet supplies and Ryan Wells is the new footwear buyer. Icebreaker founder Jeremy Moon has teamed up with other Kiwi business leaders to form Pure Advantage. The nonprofit organization, which launched on July 7, 2011, aims to protect and restore New Zealand's pure, environmentally responsible image, which, according to the Pure Advantage founders, is in rapid decline due to neglect and is affecting the bottom line for the country’s tourism and export sales. MusclePharm, a Denver-based nutritional supplement company, has signed Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick to a three-year, $1.55 million endorsement deal. The deal follows Vick's recent re-signing with Nike. MusclePharm said that Vick would have a "prominent and active role in MusclePharm, including an interactive social media role." Power Technology, Inc. appointed Kara Guire, formerly owner of Flipside USA, to head company operations and shift the company's sights for the third quarter in an effort to increase revenue and seize a tremendous opportunity within the multi-million dollar extreme sports market place. Guire studied engineering and physics at Rutgers and has over 10 years management experience as an entrepreneur running successful businesses including Flipside USA, an online retailer of Snakeboards (aka Pivotboards) and skate apparel as well as SnakeBoarder.com, an online magazine for the Snakeboarding community.
The North Face appointed Michael Millenacker as vice president of sales. Millenacker will be responsible for leading the sales strategy and execution of long term growth plans for The North Face Americas.
The Rockport Company said Mike Bradica has been hired to be the new general manager of Canada. Mike Sullivan is also returning to Rockport as the new vice president of sourcing and operations. Bradica will report directly to Rockport's Vice President of Americas, Nicolas Duran. As the newest member of the Rockport Canadian leadership team, Bradica will be responsible for ensuring the development, execution and success of Rockport's strategy to become one of the leading footwear brands in the Canadian market. He will also be a key player in driving and executing Rockport Canada's growth plan and business strategy through the development of key wholesale and retail points of distribution.
MOVERS AND SHAKERS
$24 million Consolidated revenues for GSI Commerce in the two weeks eBay has owned the company. EBay Inc. said costs tied to the $2.4 billion purchase of GSI Commerce, Inc., completed in June, cut into net income in the second quarter. But management indicated that integration is going according to plan and conversations with many of GSI’s clients are giving management more confidence on the merger’s opportunities. Companywide, eBay’s earnings declined 31 percent to $283.4 million, or 22 cents per share, as growth in its online marketplace and PayPal payment service was overshadowed by charges related to its GSI acquisition.
21.4% Sales growth for A.T. Cross’ Cross Optical Group , which includes the Costa and Native sunglass brands. Representatives said the majority of growth was generated by these two brands.
17.7%Second quarter sales growth of Cybex International, which recorded solid sales of its new treadmills to drive revenues but absorbed litigation charges of $1.3 million related to the Barnhard product liability judgment. The company’s net loss widened from $356,000, or 3 cents per diluted share, to $555,000, or 3 cents per diluted share.
1.9% Second quarter sales growth for LaCrosse Footwear, which saw sales improve to $27.1 million as strength in the company’s Outdoor offset declines in the Work market, which were fueled by military contract order declines and the shuttering of the company’s workwear unit. The company recorded a net loss of $185,000, or 3 cents per share, in Q2, compared to net income of $101,000, or 2 cents per share, in Q2 2010.
9% Second quarter sales growth for Accell Group, NV, one of Europe's largest makers and seller of bicycles. Sales were up to €373 million ($480 mm) compared with €342.4 million in the first half of 2010. Net profit rose by 13 percent to €27.3 million ($38 mm) from €24.1 million in the same period last year. The sales increase was due to both organic growth and acquisitions. Total turnover from the bicycle business rose by 10 percent and the sales of bicycle parts and accessories was up 14 percent. The bicycle season began early in many countries but slowed down in June due to reduced consumer spending.
$188 million Amount raised by Skullcandy, Inc.’s IPO before underwriting expenses, with about half the proceeds going to the company and the other half to selling shareholders. The maker of headphones and other audio accessories tuned to the action sports market offered 4.16 million shares, raising $83 million before underwriting costs. Proceeds are expected to be used to repay debt.
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While gearing up for its mega-acquisition of Timberland, VF Corp. is only seeing its own business continue to gain momentum this year. Second quarter earnings rose 17 percent as double-digit sales growth in all segments helped offset rising input costs pressure on margins. The strong results prompted management to raise revenue and EPS for the second time this year.
On a conference call with analysts, VF Corp. Chairman, President and CEO Eric Wiseman, said increasing levels of investment spending for its key brands, particularly The North Face and Vans, are paying off.
“This marks VF's third consecutive quarter of double-digit top line growth in an economic environment marked by rampant product cost inflation, weak consumer spending, and fiscal uncertainty around the world,” said Wiseman.
Earnings reached $129.4 million, or $1.17 a share, easily topping Wall Street’s consensus estimate of $1.02 per share.
The star again was the company’s Outdoor & Action Sports coalition, where revenues increased 23 percent to $717.9 million, with Americas revenues rising 14 percent and International revenues up 42 percent (29 percent on a constant-currency basis). Nearly all Outdoor & Action Sports brands achieved double-digit growth in the quarter, with the two largest brands - The North Face and Vans - achieving global revenue growth of 21 percent and 22 percent, respectively. Sales jumped 37 percent for Kipling and 46 percent for Napapijri.
Total direct-to-consumer revenues for the Outdoor & Action Sports coalition rose 22 percent in the quarter, with a 34 percent increase in TNF direct revenues and a 19 percent increase in Vans direct revenues.
Operating income for the Outdoor & Action Sports Coalition rose 9.7 percent to $89.5 million, reflecting a higher percentage of advertising expense to revenues versus the 2010 period, and investments to support the coalition's seasonally higher second half business.
Touching on brand performance, Steve Rendle, group president of the Outdoor & Action Sports coalition, said The North Face saw
“very positive results” across its outdoor, performance, action sports and youth segments.
“We're seeing particular strength in outerwear, running, training and yoga apparel, as well as specialty mountain biking apparel,” said Rendle. “And our e-commerce business continues on a roll with revenues up a remarkable 54 percent. With fall bookings up 16 percent, we're looking for another spectacular year of growth for The North Face brand in North America.”
Vans is outpacing its 2010 growth rate, fueled by increases across retail, e-commerce and wholesale. E-commerce for Vans was up over 30 percent in the quarter and the brand is on course to open several stores in the New York City metro area. Lucy revenues were up 10 percent, supported by e-commerce growth of more 30 percent. Other brands in the Outdoor & Action Sports coalition are Reef, Jansport, Eastpak and Eagle Creek.
Looking ahead, full-year estimates for the company were raised for the second time this year, to $7.50 a share, on revenue growth of 12 percent to 13 percent. VF’s April forecast was $7.25 a share on 10 percent revenue growth.
Wiseman noted that revenue and earnings guidance does not include any accretion anticipated with its acquisition of Timberland, which is expected to close in the third quarter. When the deal was announced in June, VF indicated that Timberland could add $700 million in revenues and 25 cents to earnings-per- share this year.
Regarding margin pressures, CFO Bob Shearer noted that cotton prices have come down dramatically with current crops down to just over $1.00 from $3.00 levels earlier this year. But he indicated it’s too soon to predict the impact on 2012. Wiseman also noted that VF’s price increases taken to-date have shown little impact on its unit volumes although he admitted the company is still uncertain how consumers will respond to even higher prices in H2.
TNF, VANS DRIVE VF CORP.’S SECOND QUARTER RESULTS
10 SGB WEEKLY JULY 25, 2011
2011 Paddlesports Season Starts Slowly But Builds As Weather Improves.
A TALE OF TWO SEASONSBy Eugene Buchanan
howing the resiliency of a paddler tackling a difficult line in whitewater, paddlesports’ sales have persevered this year
despite a long, cold spring, epic floods and a recession that refuses to relinquish its hold on the economy. But the latter has also helped sales keep their head above water.
“People are staying closer to home for their vacations and buying products like boats to get outdoors with the family,” said Sue Rechner, CEO of Confluence, whose boat brands include Perception, Dagger, Wave Sport, Wilderness Systems and Mad River Canoe. “The economy is helping people explore their backyard, and paddling is perfect for that.”
“It’s really been a tale of two seasons,” explained James Hartford, chief market analyst for the The SportsOneSource Group, which manages the SportScanInfo and OIA VantagePoint retail point-of-sale data reporting platforms. “The first quarter, through April, saw boat sales basically flat in the specialty channel, but sales have
S been up in strong double-digits in the second quarter through June and into July.” Hartford attributes the shift to the weather, which really did not start to cooperate much until mid-May to mid-June, depending on the region.
Hartford noted that boat sales in the full-line sporting goods channel are up in the mid-single-digits for the year-to-date period, while sales in the Internet channel are up more than 20 percent through mid-July, according to retail point-of-sale data compiled by SportScanInfo for OIA VantagePoint. “The trends in the Internet channel are in direct contrast to the specialty channel trend,” he notes. “When the specialty channel was struggling in the first quarter the Internet was growing. When sales started to pick up at specialty, the Internet growth trend slowed.”
Mother Nature didn’t do paddlesports any favors this year. “Our biggest concern remains our dependence on weather,” said Pat Trepp, marketing manager for Bending Branches
WEEK 1130 | SGBweekly.com 11
paddles. “This year’s long, cool spring proved once again that Mother Nature is in charge.”
Hartford also cautioned that this year’s numbers are up against a very strong paddlesports season last spring, when sales jumped in strong double-digits through May before giving way to more moderate growth during summer. “The pent-up demand and the loosening of purse strings really fueled the boat business in the early part of the season last year,” said Hartford. “Many retailers reported that high-end purchases suddenly stopped going into the summer season last year, but the category still posted pretty solid growth thanks to the early surge.”
The trend is roughly opposite this year, with a sluggish start giving way to strong growth.
Whitewater and touring boats have been harder hit this year than the recreational and sporting categories, particularly on the SUP side, suggested Hartford. He noted that recreational boat sales are up
more than 25 percent for the year-to-date period through mid-July, with strong growth coming out of the full-line sporting goods channel and mid-single-digit gains in the specialty channels after a slow start. “Both the tandem and high-end markets are doing well for us,” said Confluence’s Rechner. “People are doing their research and spending more money on their first boats.”
The OIA VantagePoint data reveals that the average selling price of a recreational boats fell nearly 19 percent in the year-to-date period through mid-July. Hartford suggested that much of this is due in part to consumers moving down a channel when purchasing a boat, but also due to an influx of new consumers entering the market as recreational spending moves away from “the big vacation” and toward more day trips and “staycations.” Those same consumers are also looking for more value in their boat purchases.
“The OIA VantagePoint data indicates that recreational boat prices in the independent outdoor specialty channels are up approximately
12 SGB WEEKLY JULY 25, 2011
9 percent for the year-to-date period through mid-July, said Hartford. “Conversely, the average selling price paid for rec boats in the outdoor chain retail channel were off approximately 3 percent, down 15 percent in the full-line sporting goods channel and down approximately 25 percent in the Internet channel.”
To address this, Johnson Paddlesports, which includes Old Town, Necky and Ocean Kayak, is focusing on value without compromising performance. “It’s not simply about price points,” said Marketing Director Sara Knies. “Our focus is building quality boats that give the consumer an enjoyable experience without breaking the bank.” An example is Necky’s new Vector series, the company’s first penetration into the sit-on-top (SOT) field in more than a decade, as well as two new rec kayak models from Old Town.
Johnson’s offerings echo a trend of products becoming more user-friendly and versatile. There are also more amenities coming to the kayak fishing sector, a renewed emphasis on price-point and weight reduction, and rekindled interest in high-end hardgoods, with consumers not afraid to invest.
The data also indicates a shift to better product on the specialty side of the business as consumers increasingly look at these purchases as an “investment” rather than just buying a boat. “We saw this trend developing last year where specialty sales started to move to the higher-end, said Hartford. “Consumers are expecting their dollars to go further. In the mid-tier channels like chain sporting goods and the Internet, this translates to lower prices, but at specialty, we see it translating to the purchase of higher-end product that is expected to last long. This consumer may be leap-frogging over an entry-level purchase and going right to the long-term purchase.”
“Sales definitely shifted to higher-end products this year,” said Darren Bush, whose retailer, Rutabaga, hosts the annual Canoecopia consumer show in March. Bush points to robust sales of composite sea kayaks and paddles and even Kevlar canoes fueling this trend. “It doesn’t seem to be a year for beginner-oriented products,” he said. “It seems that if people are going to get involved in paddling, they want to do it right.”
Paddle-maker Werner agreed. “We easily up-sold people to our premium and performance core products this year,” said Marketing Director Jim Miller. “This shows consumer confidence and a greater commitment to dollars for paddling.”
Manufacturers are also better utilizing social media to troll for design ideas. “We polled kayakers through Facebook this spring to design what paddlers are asking for,” said Legacy Paddlesports Marketing Director Woody Callaway. “The response helped our design team focus on what was important. Social media works. Your response comes direct from the consumer base.” Callaway added that such social integration also means the company no longer has to wait for the OR Summer Market to debut new product.
As a result, Legacy is refocusing its brands and “getting back to our roots,” said Callaway. It’s re-branding Native’s Inuit and Marvel series as Liquidlogic, returning Native to its sportsman’s roots and keeping Liquidlogic’s emphasis on cutting-edge models in rec/
touring categories. “This will help give us a more unified marketing approach,” he added.
Still, manufacturers are continuing to tighten belts and inventory levels. “We’re working harder than we ever have to achieve our goals, but our bottom line has never been better,” said Eric Jackson, president of Jackson Kayak, which is introducing two new whitewater and rec offerings at OR Summer Market. “Emerging markets like fishing seem to be the easiest to grow in.”
The good news for consumers is that many of these savings are being reinvested in design and innovation. A case in point: Confluence’s emphasis on weight reduction and multi-purpose craft. “Reducing weight is very important for us,” said Confluence’s Rechner, adding that the trend can be seen in several of its new models to be shown at OR Summer Market. She added that the company is also re-embracing the whitewater category. “We’re planning a significant investment in our whitewater offerings over the next 24 months,” she said. “It’s a gateway for youth to get into the sport and we feel it’s an obligation right now.”
Another sector gaining traction is inflatable SUPs, with enhanced drop-stitch technology enhancing rigidity. NRS recently debuted a new line of inflatable SUPs, as did Adventure Technology. “Our sales are up 35 percent so far this year,” said Todd Bradley, president of C4 Waterman, which has made inroads inland with its inflatable SUP line by sponsoring the annual Teva Mountain Games.
Kayak manufacturers are also dabbling in the SUP waters. Perhaps no one has embraced the category with the vigor of Corran Addison, president of Imagine Surf. “We’re specifically targeting the paddlesports market with our plastic line of SUPs,” said the former kayak manufacturer. “The kayak market understands plastic and its benefits far better than SUP and surf shops do.”
While it’s not introducing a new board this year, Callaway says year-to-date sales of Liquidlogic and Native’s (angler version) Versa Board - a half sit-on-top/half SUP - rank it fifth model-wise in the entire company. “The category seems a bit slow to enter the mainland market, but the Versa Board is doing very well sales-wise,” he said. “But so much product is now coming from China that going full bore into it just isn’t for us right now.”
Johnson is equally bullish and cautious. Ocean Kayak’s second SUP, the Nalu 12.5, launched last year. “The category continues to be strong and we’re committed to supporting this segment of our business,” said Knies. “We’ve seen positive traction in the category.” Confluence, meanwhile, remains unconvinced. “We like to stick to our core competitiveness,” said Rechner. We’re methodical about how we build our business and product lines and it’s a little too nascent for us. But we’re keeping our eye on it.” ■
EMERGING TRENDSFrom a growth perspective, the stand-up paddleboard (SUP) category is leaving others in its wake.
“The SOT and SUP worlds will converge on each other,” maintains Corran Addison, president of Imagine Surf. “Within a few years all rec SUPs will be a sit-on-top/stand-up hybrid, and the sit-on-top market as we know it will completely disappear.”
The bottom line is that the SUP category is no longer a novelty causing smirks among retailers. “It’s the fastest-growing segment of paddlesports,” said Werner’s Miller. “Our growth in the category has been through the roof.”
This growth is readily illustrated at OR Summer Market. “We’ve seen a steady swell in exhibitors and retailers buying into the show,” said Kenji Haroutunian, vice president and show director for Nielsen Expositions’ Outdoor Group. “The sport seems to be in full blossom and here to stay.”
At least OR Summer Market exhibitors now anchor their product line with SUP product, joining Surftech, which first began exhibiting in 2005. “When we first exhibited we only had two models and didn’t get the best return,” said Surftech promotion manager Duke Brouwer. “Now it’s the biggest bang for our buck of any show we go to.”
The category’s growth has also lured such action sports brands like O’Neill, Body Glove, Reef, Quiksilver and Billabong to exhibit at the show, said Haroutunian. “It’s responsible for luring some of these other surf culture/lifestyle brands to exhibit,” he said. “All of this is great for the outdoor industry.”
Putting its money where its mouth is regarding re-in-vesting in whitewater, Confluence debuts the Project X from WaveSport ($1,049), with new volume distri-bution and a revamped outfitting system. The com-pany is also planning to unveil a new creekboat and playboat from Dagger.
Liquidlogic is releasing the Freeride 57 and 67 ($1,099), river-running/play boats to replace its pop-ular CR series, as well as a new creekboat called the Stomper 80 and 90 ($1,099). Also look for a new seat system for its Remix series, with a hinging backband for easy stern access.
Jackson Kayak unleashes the three-size Rock Star series ($1,049 / $1,199), as well as a uber-light, 20-pound version in carbon fiber ($2,800) which, with a foam core, reduces the boat’s weight by nearly 10 pounds for easier initiation and higher-amplitude freestyle moves. Also look for a new kayak called the Front Runner, a river runner billed as a cross between the Fun and the Hero.
Celebrating 40 years, Pyranha debuts the Loki, its newest river/playboat borrowing the hull shapes of the Molan and Varun with more speed and slice for tradi-tional playboat moves; and the Shiva, a new creeker with a soft edge, progressive rocker, peaked deck for easy resurfacing and width toward the stern for speed and stability.
Boats, Paddles, Accessories and More
NEW GEARFOR 2012
Liquidlogic Freeride 57 and 67
WaveSport Project X
Liquidlogic Stomper
Pyranha Loki
WHITEWATER
Tandem boats, higher-end price points, versatility – that and more sums up the paddlesports line-up heading into 2012, as manufacturers invest production savings into research and design. At the end of the day, consumers are benefiting with
better product and value. The following is a wrap-up of what you will find at the OR Summer Show this year.
By Eugene Buchanan
14 SGB WEEKLY JULY 25, 2011
The rec boat market is showing no sign of slowing down as more consumers vacation in their backyards. Wilderness Systems pulls up the curtains on its new Ride 115 ($849), the first under 12-foot rec/angling kayak you can stand in, thanks to enhanced stabil-ity and widened footwells. Sister company Percep-tion enters 2012 with the new Prodigy 13.5 ($799), a 1.5-person companion kayak with a stadium-style half seat for canine, child or gear; and the 14.5-foot Prodigy II ($1,045), a tandem that’s convertible to paddle solo, thanks to a new on-the-fly adjustable Zone DLX seat and an adjustable stern footbrace system.
Old Town Canoe has two new price-point rec kayaks, the 9- and 11-foot Heron ($349/$449), complementing its Camden 106 and 120 (10’6”/12’6”, $799/$899), which features smooth planing hulls, adjustable Active Comfort Sys-tem seats, dual-fit thigh braces, and storage solutions like the dashboard day hatch, rod and cup holder, and rubberized storage system with Hinged Click Seal stern hatch.
Emotion Kayaks makes price-point a priority with its new 11-foot Comet 110 ($399), a user-friendly, sit-inside, with an extended waterline for tracking and speed, and an easy-adjusting seat and storage space for gear. It also comes with a stern flotation bag and three-year hull warranty.
Delta Kayaks jumps into the rec market with its new thermoformed Delta 10, a 37-pound kayak with a modified catamaran hull for speed, agility and sta-bility without the excessive beam of other rec offer-ings. It comes with rear dry storage, a front under deck storage pod, and “sea view” window in the cock-pit floor for observing wildlife below.
Wilderness Systems Ride 115
Emotion Kayaks Comet 110
Perception Prodigy II 14.5’
Perception Prodigy 13.5’
Old Town Canoe Camden 106
RECREATIONAL
WEEK 1130 | SGBweekly.com 15
the Double Vision Roto, a rotomolded tandem measuring 16’8” and 28" wide, with the company’s Revolution Seat System, Dimension Adjustable Seat Back and rudder. On the expedition side comes the updated 21-foot, 85 pound Unity, a tandem with oversized center storage hatch and larger front hatch. It’s offered only in a fiberglass and core lay-up for a marriage of du-rability and light weight. Finally comes the 15’11”, 55 pound Squall GTS, a sleek rotomolded kayak drawing on the success of the Solstice family with
While the touring category has slowed down, innovation still runs high. Wil-derness Systems is releasing the 14-foot, composite Tsunami 140 PRO ($1,999) in the high-end category for those placing a premium on weight and performance.
Current Designs unveils its new 12-foot, composite-hybrid Vision 120SP for smaller paddlers. Weighing just 32 pounds with a 23-inch girth, the easy car-topper carries two bulkheads and hatch covers, a keyhole cockpit and light weight fixed seating. Also new is
Current Double Vision Roto
Pyranha/P&H Designs Aries 150
Wilderness Systems Tsunami 140 PRO
Current Squall GTS
Pyranha/P&H Designs Delphin 150
TOURING
a new hull design, keyhole cockpit, de-creased windage deck and under-deck rudder haul lines.
As part of its five new models for 2012, Pyranha/P&H Designs showcases its new polyethylene Delphin 150, an ocean play-boat geared toward smaller paddlers look-ing for rough water play and light touring; the Aries 150, a composite version of Del-phin with increased precision and speed; and the Venture Islay 14, a small tourer designed for inland exploration with a long waterline for speed and tracking and asymmetric shape for maneuverability.
16 SGB WEEKLY JULY 25, 2011
Necky Kayaks re-enters the sit-on-top sector for the first time in a decade with its Vector 13 ($899), a 13-foot, 59 pound tourer promising performance and speed, thanks to a sleek 29" beam. It also debuts the Vector 14 ($1,099/$1,299), an intermediate/advanced performance sit-on-top.
From Ocean Kayak comes the new Tetra series ($749/$849), 10- and 12-foot sit-on-tops serving as cross-over boats from rec paddling to fishing. The company also sets a hook in the fish kayak market with the 15’5”, 77 pound Trident Ultra 4.7 ($1,599), which comes with a new Multi-functional Reversible Center Hatch Cover, fishfinder trans-ducer fitting and elongated bow for slicing away the miles.
Native gets back to its sportman's roots with the price-point-friendly Ultimate ($1,049) and the reintroduction of the Propel pedal drive system in two sizes of the Ultimate ($2,199/$2,129) and Mariner ($1,899/$1,839).
Liquidlogic continues to ride sales of its 10’ Coupe ($799) and 13’ Deuce Coupe ($999), hybrid-designed, crossover sit-on-tops, combining a soft-edged whitewater
hull with a deploy-on-demand, spring-loaded skeg for tracking. Both come with the new Deluxe Wedge Seat and Tag Along Wheel for transport.
Jackson Kayak targets the rec and fishing markets with its 14’4” Orca, an ocean-going version of the Coosa with a 23" wide standing platform. It’s also unveiling a new 13’10” tandem fishing boat that can be paddled solo, with Hi-Lo seating in the bow and stern and a live bait well.
Emotion ups its sit-on-top presence with the new Sparky for kids and Spitfire 9.
Wilderness Systems strengthens its kayak fishing presence with its new 14-foot Commander 140 Angler ($1,349), built for larger paddlers and longer trips with a pontoon-style hull for casting stability and SlideTrax accessory system for easy adjustments.
Delta Kayaks debuts the 49 pound Catfish 12.5, whose modified tunnel hull offers stability in a streamlined 27-inch wide beam and a Sea View viewing window, two storage hatches, front bulkhead and generous deck rigging. The rear cargo bay accommodates scuba tanks, fishing boxes and/or bait tanks, while the deck design lets you lock a paddle be-hind the seat for standing casts.
Necky Kayaks Vector 13
Ocean Kayak Tetra 10’
Ocean Kayak Tetra 12’
Wilderness Systems Commander 140 Angler
SIT-ON-TOP
Surftech enters its sixth year at the show with seven new SUPs in its Laird Hamilton line for the race, touring and rec categories, as well as its new “bombproof ” 10’6” B1 ($1,375), with a new patent-pending, thermo-formed construction process employing a polymer shell with woven material.
First-time exhibitor Rogue showcases 37 models, including the women-specific Diva ($1,599). “It’s a great way to get in front of the overall outdoor industry,” said Rogue’s Erin Douglas of attending the OR Show.
Hawaii’s C4 Waterman, whose sales have grown 35 percent over last year, is debuting 12 boards, including a new line of inflatable iSUPs, highlighted by the 10', river-running Rapid Rider and 12’6” River Runner ($1,250/$1,350). Both employ revamped drop-stitch technology for added rigidity and rockered hulls for river use.
Imagine Surf, spearheaded by long-time kayak designer Corran Addison, turns heads with the 11' Speeder ($799)in plastic, and the Peanut, Push, Search, Garrett and Salazar in epoxy. It’s also un-veiling the 49 pound, 11' Wizard ($749), complete with hatches for storage, a flip-up seat-back, heel rests, rod holders and deck bungees.
Emotion gets into the game with the Traverse ($399), an entry-level, price-point SUP for lakes and small surf. It comes with a high nose rocker, a water-shedding profile and rounded sidewalls, textured, deep-foot recess areas for stability and traction, storage hatch and re-movable fin.
NRS enters 2012 with two additions to its inflatable SUP line, com-plementing last year’s Earl. Measuring 36" wide and 11’4” long, the Big Baron ($1,195) is for larger paddlers seeking stability, while the Boss ($1,295), carrying the same dimensions, is a fishing SUP with bungee for storage and two Scotty bases for accessory attachments. Both are made from PVC-coated drop stitch and come with Leafield C7 valves, carry bag, pump, pressure gauge and dual-position fins. The company also embraces SUP-inspired apparel with its new Radiant 3.0 Wetsuit ($200), a full-length, rear-zipper wetsuit with FlashDry™ interior lin-ing, stretchy PowerSpan™ exterior, and 3-mm Terraprene™.
NRS Big Baron
Hobie Dura
Rogue Diva
Emotion Traverse
SUP
C4 Waterman 12’ 6” River Runner
18 SGB WEEKLY JULY 25, 2011
NRS Big Baron
Hobie Dura
From Mad River comes the 13' Serenade ($1,499/$1,719), a high-end solo hybrid canoe with kayak outfitting and pad-dle. “It’s the renewal of a category with a lot of potential,” said Confluence CEO Sue Rechner.
Old Town gets its feet wet again in the expedition category with the 17.5' Koru ($2,229), a fiberglass canoe with wood accents, built for making miles in style.
Wenonah unveils a new Whitewater Solo canoe and a new small decked canoe.
Adventure Technology Quest Carbon Straight
Werner Bent Shaft SUP Paddle
Bending Branches Black Pearl
Nova Craft Trapper
Old Town 17.5’ Koru
CANOES
PADDLES
A dventure Technology unveils its new Quest Carbon Straight kayak paddle ($245) as a companion to its bent-shaft Quest, with a soft dihedral blade and high fiber-to-resin ratio for durability.
Parting from its traditional wooden wares, Bending Branches introduces the Black Pearl ($230), an all-carbon touring paddle for canoeists. Weighing 14 ounces with an 11-degree bent shaft and traditional large surface touring blade shape, it’s the lightest adult paddle in the company’s line.
On the SUP front, Werner introduces its new Bent Shaft SUP Paddle ($375), which comes with either Fuse or Nitro blades.
Planning to be in full production for all 2012 models in August, newcomer Core Paddles is riding the success of its popular Batto Bent whitewater paddle ($299), featuring its proprietary one-piece Easton 7000 series alloy shaft, mated-to-hollow-core, thermoplastic blades.
Nova Craft has three new canoe models for 2012, the Trapper ($1300/Royalex), Teddy ($1300/RX) and Mus-koka ($1249/Fiberglass), and also adds a lightweight composite, Aramid Lite, to many of its models for reduced weight and increased structural strength. The Trapper and Teddy are original Chestnut Canoe Company designs dat-ing back to the mid-1900s, both 12-foot long solo canoes available in Royalex Lite or composite. The Muskoka mea-sures 15'10" and is designed for light recreational use.
WEEK 1130 | SGBweekly.com 19
20 SGB WEEKLY JULY 25, 2011
Bomber Gear, recently purchased by Confluence, hits the OR Summer Show with its new K-Bomb ($175) Spray Skirt, built with a heavy-duty rubber rand, decking and tunnel woven from aramid polymer/fiber and super-stretch neoprene; and its form-fitting, over-layer Bombination Shorts ($85), with gusseted crotch for mobility and comfort. It also showcases its waterproof/breathable Toray® 4-ply, seam-reducing Bomb Dry Top ($390), with Sub-Screen Technology™ for waterproofness; remolded cuffs with Velcro-less Volcanic Gasket Protector System™ to reduce pinch; Vault Water Lock Waist Band™ with grip neoprene, super stretch bungee, double tab velcro system, and emergency whistle stashed in the neck gasket.
On the footwear front, Five Ten showcases the Fast Eddy ($106) for anglers, paddlers and beach-combers with a breathable, quick-dry synthetic mesh upper, Stealth S1 soles for traction and a TPR protective toe cap. It has also revamped its popular Water Tennie ($110) and Canyoneer ($145), the latter selling through its first production run in record time.
Keen introduces the Turia Sandal ($100), a streamlined, lightweight adventure sandal with active heel locks, airmesh upper for breathability, and water traction rubber compound with razor siping for traction.
Kokatat enters 2012 with its new WoolCore baselayer collection, a Polartec® Power Dry® wool/recycled polyester blend with paddling-spe-cific construction; NeoCore shorts and tops, made from lightweight, 0.5mm neoprene with polyester lining; new Aries PFD, a low-profile, front-entry design with PVC-free, form-fitting GAIA® buoy-ant inserts; a Limited Edition Gore-Tex® Meridian Dry Suit with updated styling and color; the Por-tage, a 3mm neoprene bootie for creeking and sea kayaking with medium weight traction outsole and fiberboard insole, and one-hand adjustable hidden lace system; and a new Gore-Tex® Pacli-te® Anorak line of paddling jackets and pullovers with new colors, styling and features.
Working with a cadre of international slalom racers, Predator debuts a new Slalom Helmet ($70) and is working on a new river running hel-met to compete with the Sweet Rocker. “We’re not jumping on shell graphics,” maintains president Matt Kelly. “Solids with more subtle graphics will still be the choice of boaters and retailers.” ■
Bomber Gear Bomb Dry Top
Bomber Gear Bombination Shorts
Five Ten Water Tennie
Keen Turia SandalBomber Gear K-Bomb Spray Skirt
ACCESSORIES
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Product ManagerFranklin Sports Inc.The principal job responsibilities are to serve as liaison between our marketing agency and Newton Running, manage multiple marketing programs simultaneously, including retail, web, grassroots marketing, customer service, international, etc., systematize, maintain and manage all marketing assets (digital, print, POP, etc.), execute marking strategy developed by our marketing agency, manage all graphic design and outside marketing contractors.
Mid Atlantic Sales RepresentativeTYR Sport, Inc. The primary purpose of the Manager, Global Structure and Packaging is to work in close proximity with the suppliers on strategic initiatives of efficiency and identify the tactics from the supplier to the end consumer. You will also direct the Regional Packaging teams to deliver on these Global Strategies. The main purpose is to identify and implement Global Packaging Strategies that result in incremental efficiencies for Coleman.
Apparel Product Line Manager - TechnicalColumbia SportswearThe Footwear Sales Rep II is responsible for selling company products through retailers in their assigned territory. As a member of the sales team, you will manage all sales functions for assigned territories to ensure business grows according to sales projections. This includes account financial planning, assortment planning, developing and implementing sales plans, coordinating special product showings, and working closely with customer service to resolve order issues.
Senior Demand PlannerPUMA North AmericaThe primary duties of the Sr. Sales Analyst is assisting the Senior North American VP of Sales and USA Sales Director and Managers in reporting information flow; helping establish flow, frequency and standardization of data communicated to sales management, sales reps and pertinent in-house managers, enhance and maintain the audit processes for current inventory reporting, forecasting, Industry reporting, sales presentations and sales meeting materials.
Outside Sales Rep - All US / Canada regionsthinksportAs Marketing Manager, you will work with Chaco’s GM to refine the overall brand image and messaging for Chaco on a global basis. In addition, you will lead the development of a marketing strategy for the US wholesale business that targets return on investment within the outdoor and specialty footwear markets, work with internal and external resources to develop and manage Chaco’s social media strategies, programs and assets; and continuously measure the effectiveness of those strategies and programs.
SR Mechanical Engineer LacrosseEaston-Bell Sports The National Accounts Manager oversees the activities of five key account reps to maximize sales/contribution margins in focus channel of distribution. In addition, he or she manages the forecasting process for five key account reps, ensuring sales are maximized and communication about changes are provided to appropriate parties and develops relationships with key dealer personnel (DMMs, GMMs, etc.) to ensure that long-term brand and dealer strategy are central to long-term sustainable growth.
Independent Sales AgentUmbro USAAs a leading running company that designs and markets high-performance men’s and women’s running shoes, apparel and accessories in more than 40 countries worldwide, we are dedicated to inspiring people to run and be active by creating innovative gear that keeps them running longer, farther, faster and happier. If you are a footwear product developer and are interested in working for a highly driven, innovative, active, healthy and fun company then Brooks is for you.
MERRELL SALES REP I - RUNNING SPECIALITYWolverine World WideThe Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) is a champion of the SmartWool Mission, Vision, Core Values, business practices and policies. As a member of the SmartWool Leadership Team, the CFO is a major contributor to the overall development of the Company’s long-range business plan. This position will work with the SmartWool Leadership and Management Teams to deliver on monthly, quarterly and annual results.
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