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Comment - OUTDOOR
It's been a long time since we've seen a December as cold as this in the UK, and it feels like, finally, we've got a 'proper' winter coming in. You know, the kind where no-one goes out of doors and we all wonder what life must have been like before central heating. Or before massive fuel bills, depending on your age.
Cold weather brings with it a new set of challenges and customers, potentially, and in the outdoor industry we need to stay on top of changing trends. For example, one of the biggest stories in the sports world of the last couple of years has been base layers, and you won't find a respectable sports retailer in the country who's not selling Under Armour, Odlo, Canterbury, Skins or Prostar, to name just a few brands. Base layers should be a staple for outdoor retailers too, as their usefulness in everyday life can't be overstated; an extra thin, light, wicking and warming layer on the hills could be a real bonus, so if you're not stocking them, I'd recommend looking around at a few as a potential new source of income. Many of the same manufacturers make hats and gloves too, which are aimed at the running market but which could equally well serve mountain bikers and walkers.
Buff, a brand we at SGB are huge fans of, are another brand outdoor stores should look at. Innovative neckwear or headgear, they come in different ranges which include varieties for cold weather - check out www.buff.es for more information. The skiing crowd are growing to love Buff, runners are discovering their benefits, and as an everyday item, they're near-indispensable.
Enough of my rambling. I'm off to lean on a radiator with the cat.
Jon Bruford,
Editor SGB - Sports and Outdoor
01584 877177
