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Sports – February 2010
There is an intoxicating string of sporting events set to unfold before a few billion people turn to the football World Cup in June – such as rugby’s Six Nations, Vancouver’s Winter Olympics, golf’s US Masters, not to mention the conclusion to football’s own club season – but in the trade, the most significant gathering of the ‘beautiful game’ is looming large already.
Cash injection for UK Gear
High performance shoe company UK Gear is planning to expand its operation throughout the UK and into the United States, having secured £1.25 million investment from venture capital firm Catapult. As part of the new set-up for the Warwickshire-based firm, Mike Tomkins has been appointed chairman.
Clear vision from Aqua Sphere
Aqua Sphere has launched a pair of swimming eyewear items specifically for women, the Kayenne Lady goggles and Vista Lady mask. Both models are available for pre-order immediately, for retail delivery by the end of February.
New fit from Yonex
Yonex has launched a new range of tennis rackets for 2010, the S-FIT series. The company says the new rackets make it particularly simple for players to “customise the playability” of each racket thanks to a new Select Fit System, with a view to finding the optimum levels of speed and comfort for each individual.
“Super, Smashing, Great”
The immortal catchphrase of Bullseye presenter Jim Bowen – “Super, Smashing, Great” – and a raft of other timeless Bullseye classics from Bowen and co-presenter Tony Green, can now be downloaded onto the Apple iPhone and iPod Touch in a new Bullseye Sound Board app.
HJ Sock warms Fogle’s feet
HJ Sock Group has collaborated with adventurer and TV personality Ben Fogle to produce a new range of Fogle technical socks. HJ Sock says the range is a progression from its successful ProTreck line, and the new collection has six styles, each with an RRP of £14.50, including items for men, women and children. Anton Jenkins, sales and marketing director at HJ Sock, said: “Ben’s experience of the great outdoors has led us to create a highly commercial, compact range of technical socks.”
Puma partners Burnley
No sooner had Puma announced its two-year team kit and merchandise deal with Championship high flyers Newcastle United, than the famous brand had followed-up with the announcement that it will be supplying Premiership side Burnley for four seasons, starting with the 2010/11 season.
JD Sports feels the force
Multiple retailer JD Sports has launched a Star Wars collection of trainers and clothing from adidas Originals. JD Sports says the project is “a collaboration of galactic proportions”. The range went on sale on January 18, and features Storm Trooper tee shirts, Darth Vader track tops, and Darth Vader trainers in Black with Orange detail, with images of Vader on the tongue, heel and sole. Surprisingly, these Star Wars Superstar trainers come in adult sizes as well and children’s and nursery sizes.
Tiger’s stock continues to fall
In a survey to discover who were seen to be UK sport’s best and worst role models in 2009, a seemingly invincible David Beckham topped the list of good guys (although he features on both lists), while Tiger Woods rose to the top of the list of bad guys … or should that be ‘sunk’?
The survey was commissioned by SkillsActive, the government Sector Skills Council for Active Leisure and Learning, to support a new diploma in Sport and Active Leisure being launched this year.
ON THE WING
BOA steers towards Bimson
Jennie Bimson, senior account director at PR firm Macesport, has been selected to join an Athlete Engagement Review by the BOA. Bimson, who played hockey for Great Britain at the Beijing Olympics, will be part of the steering group with a brief to improve links between athletes and the BOA ahead of London 2012.
Mizuno increases firepower
Mizuno has set out its stall for the 2010 FIFA World Cup with the introduction of its new Wave Ignitus football boot.
The Wave Ignitus is made from what Mizuno promises to be the highest-grade kangaroo leather, and thanks to the brand’s Dynamotion Fit Engineering, Mizuno claims its latest creation to be the best-fitting power boot on the market.
Head’s first dive
Why is Head jumping into the swimming pool?
The Head Group [includes] the brand Mares - a leading player in the sub-aquatic category. Our strategy was to use the expertise of Mares designers to move laterally into an associated aquatic area, leading naturally into swimming. Out of this challenge grew Head Liquidskin Swimwear. The technical expertise of Mares married to a global brand in Head – a label renowned for innovation and design – it is a powerful combination!
Shock Absorber
Shock Absorber’s range of performance swimwear features integrated, cup-sized, sports bra support, which is intended to offer performance and good fit both in and out of the pool. The Tankini, Bikini and Swimsuit are made from chlorine-resistant, quick-drying fabric, in Black and Ocean Spray. All items can all be purchased separately to allow mix and match, and cup sizes range from 30-38, B-G.
Head
Head’s new Tiger LSR+ goggles are made from bi-silicone, with a view to providing optimum comfort and performance. Benefiting from technology developed by sub-aqua sister brand Mares, Head promises that the softer silicone gives an excellent seal to the face, while the more rigid silicone is intended to add resistance to the goggle structure. The Tiger LSR+ is also fitted with head’s ergonomic RAS buckle system, which is simply adjusted by squeezing opposite buttons on the buckle.
Zoggs
The Cairns Speedback swimsuit comes in Black or Bold Blue vibrant print, and Zoggs says the item is perfect for the swimmer looking for something a little more exciting than a single-colour suit. This medium-leg suit is available in sizes 8-16 and is made from ‘chlorine proof’ Ultex fabric, which is designed to last more than 1,200 pool hours.
Aquafeel Swimsuits
The Aquafeel range of performance swimwear for juniors and adults has been developed with the help of German swimming champion, Nicole Hetzer. Designed primarily for competition and training, the range will also appeal to fitness swimmers and triathletes. The design emphasis is on freedom of movement and perfect fit. Aquafeel promises that DOW XLA fabric ensures costumes are durable and resistant to chlorine, even after exposure to UV light and suntan lotions.
Aqua Sphere Ursula
Aqua Sphere says its strong Italian style combines with tangible performance attributes to offer a superb choice to all fitness swimmers. Women's styles, such as Ursula from the Aqua Infinity range, are designed to deliver high chlorine resistance, excellent shape retention and quick-drying, soft-touch breathability.
Arena Maddiz
Arena says its Waternity fabric provides maximum resistance against chlorine and sunlight degradation, and has good shape and colour retention after continuous wear, while maintaining its soft feel. Waternity also dries faster than conventional materials for comfort in and out of water. Arena’s ladies’ one piece, Maddix, is medium cut and has a drop back for greater freedom of movement. It comes in Black/Silver and Pix Blue/White.
Jakabel
Jakabel is a specialist in kids UVP50+ protection, and the brand says its range blocks out 97.5% of harmful UV sunrays. The nylon-Lycra fabric is also designed to be chlorine safe so colours remain bright. Girls’ swimsuits are made for comfort and come in simple pink or navy. Boys’ trunks are either swim shorts or the longer jammer style. Both boys and girls swimsuits have matching tops, shorts and skorts for poolside.
2XU
2XU Swimsuits launch this summer with a distinctive collection of what it describes as ‘high impact yet tasteful’ ladies suits. With agility and poise in mind, the swimsuits have been engineered to be in harmony with the physiology of the female form, resulting in fine lines, contours and silhouettes. Colours include fish-scale silvers and optic whites.
Speedo Paulista
Speedo's Paulista ladies swimsuit is part of the Aquagym collection, which features maximum fit and support for aqua-fitness. The Paulista is made from ‘Endurance+’ fabric, which promises durability in chlorinated water, and the swimsuit is fitted with power mesh side panels, inner bust support, adjustable straps and non-transparency in White.
Aqua Sphere
Aqua Sphere’s new Mindanao two-piece is from the brand’s Aqua Fit range, and the company promises it gives swimmers soft touch elasticity, great fit and breathability. Aqua Sphere also offers a broad selection of swimming briefs and shorts for men, and a kids' range for ages 4-10.
Zoggs Arys Shorts
The men’s ‘bike length’ Arys Shorts are part of Zoggs’ Soft’n Tough Durafeel shorts range. The Durafeel fabric is made from what Zoggs describes as ‘ultra soft polyester microfibre’, and the Arys shorts are decorated with an eye-catching streamer design. Available in sizes S-XXL with a leg length of 19”, the Arys shorts are designed for wear in the pool or on the beach.
Head Energy Fin
The Energy training Fin from the new Head range of swimwear is made from high-grade polypropylene. The Head design team developed the mould for the fin in-house, and it comes with a closed foot pocket, with a view to providing a secure and comfortable fit. The fin is intended to aid the development of a powerful kick, and Head promises that swimmers will improve technique and swimming strength by using the Energy Fin regularly.
Arena Brizz
The men’s Brizz Jammer from Arena has a 45cm side seam and inside brief. Made from Arena’s Waternity fabric – which is 53% polyester and 47% PBT – the Brizz is also available as a brief. Chlorine resistant and durable, Brizz comes in Black/Metallic Grey or Navy/Metallic Grey and in sizes 70-110.
Speedo Alexandro
The men’s Alexandro Aquashort from Speedo’s Beach Sport range is made from ‘Endurance+’ fabric – 50% polyester, 50% polybutylene – and it is designed for training and frequent use. Featuring a prominent Speedo logo, the Alexandro is fitted with a drawstring waist and it is available in sizes 28-42.
Aquafeel Pool shoes
The Aquafeel pool shoe is part of a broad range of swimming accessories from the German brand. The dual-colour shoes have a ‘bactericide’ in the composition to combat and protect from verrucas. Anatomically designed for comfort and fitted with slip-retardant soles, the Pool shoes are lightweight and will float.
SGB Sports Retail Survey
In our final instalment of analysis from the SGB Sports Retail Survey we look at how retailers rate the varied point-of-sale materials provided by manufacturers and suppliers.
We asked retailers to rate the effectiveness of six different types of in-store marketing materials provided by suppliers.
Lotto ‘Zheros’ in on World Cup
It was prior to the 2006 World Cup that Lotto Sport Italia became the first brand to launch a football boot without laces, the Zhero Gravity – a boot so sleek it seemed such a shame to get it muddy – and four years on, the Italian company is maintaining its dedication to innovation, by launching its next generation, the Zhero Gravity Ultra.
Sealskinz
Claimed to be the world’s first fully waterproof football sock, the Sealskinz Football sock combines an outer waterpoof and breathable layer with an inner layer for comfort. Designed to keep feet warm, dry and comfortable, the socks are suitable for all ages and standards, from children to professionals, coaches, referees and linesmen. The range includes sizes S-L and five colourways: Black, White, Red, Royal Blue and Navy Blue.
Columbia Ski Sock
Latest in the Columbia collection is a mid-weight ski sock featuring cushioning for shock absorption, over calf protection and grip supports to aid comfort and fit. Made from a mix of Merino wool/polyamide nylon/polypropylene/acrylic and Lycra Elastane, the sock also features a moisture management system for extra comfort and warmth on the mountains.
1,000 Mile Fusion
Blending double layering with padding, the Fusion Sock aims to combine performance with comfort. Design features include protection for the toes, cushion impact points on soles and heels and a padded strip to protect the Achilles and help prevent injury. According to 1,000 Mile, the double layering system also eliminates friction and aids moisture management to help reduce blisters.
TEKO Ultralight Minicrew
Women now have more choices in the eco-friendly tekoPOLY collection with the launch of the Ultralight Minicrew range, aimed at summer sports. In a wide choice of colours, the socks feature a recycled patterned cuff. Manufactured in a soft and light fibre which the company says does not absorb moisture and dries quickly, technical features include a narrower heel pocket and tapered toe box for a snugger fit and reduced risk of blisters.
HJ Sock Group ProTrek
A men’s only option, the technical heavyweight HJ814 sock is constructed in wood/Meraklon and features a number of technical details including arch support, lace guard, high density cushioning and a double comfort top. Other options from the ProTrek range include the Softop non-elastic model, designed for those with circulation problems, using an innovative knitting technology to allow it to stay up.
X-Socks
Designed to help prevent shin splints, cramps and sore calf muscles over long distances, this range of socks promises gentle compression around the calf muscles to help increase blood supply and energy levels. Anatomically shaped, the socks also feature Air Conditioning Channels and Traverse Airflow Channel technology, X-Cross Bandage ankle support, instep, toe and heel protectors, and Achilles tendon protectors.
Wigwam
Designed for winter running and biking, the Trail Trax Pro incorporates a number of technical features for optimum insulation and comfort. A patented moisture control system is designed to help keep feet dry and blister free, while Wigwam says the Merino wool content will help keep feet insulated and warm. Other features include Wool Dri-release with Freshguard to keep odours at bay, cushion sole and seamless toe closures.
Hilly Clothing
Catering for the needs of every runner, two new collections, Monoskin and Twinskin, are intended to combine style with technology in a wide range of designs, lengths and materials. The Twinskin features double layer technology to help reduce friction and the risk of blisters, alongside antimicrobial properties and anti-wicking to help keep feet dry, while the Monoskin is single layer, incorporating designs from ultra-lite to padded.
First Impressions count
With over 10 years in the retail environment I have spent many an hour prior to a vital meeting making sure the Windsor knot in my tie was straight and my hair was gelled at just the right 45° angle. You learn early in your career as a sales professional that most decisions are made within the first 10 minutes of a meeting, so first impressions really do count!
The countdown begins
Q. The Printwear & Promotion Show is celebrating 21 great years in 2010. Tell us a little bit about how the show has evolved over the years and what's new for 2010?
A. I have been involved with the Printwear & Promotion exhibition since 1993 and although the basics of the event remain unchanged in being an event to bring all that’s best to the garment decoration market, fabric and machine technology, in particular, continue to bring the major changes to the visitor.
Outdoors – February 2010
It’s been a tough couple of years for most companies, with banks completely screwing us all, in part at least thanks to Big Bad Gordy’s rules and regulations put in place during his tenure as Chancellor of the Exchequer. The tough times are far from over, too, for most of us.
Busy days for HI-TEC
HI-TEC has appointed a new Lifestyle Sales Manager, John Broughton. John has a wealth of experience in the Outdoor footwear market having previously worked for Hi-Tec in numerous positions including Outdoor Product Manager. He rejoins the brand after having been involved with the development of branded and private label lifestyle footwear for some of the UK’s major high street retailers.
Burton McCall launches new DofE web site
A new look website (www.rfar.co.uk) recently launched by Burton McCall showcases the lightweight, functional and easy to use kit, officially recommended by the Duke Of Edinburgh’s Award.
Simpson becomes Accapi ambassador
Richard Simpson, world renowned sports climber, is set to join Accapi as an ambassador for ‘Nexus Energy’ products. Richard is known as one of the world’s strongest sport climbers with exceptional ascents of well known and, in most cases, unrepeated iconic routes.
2010 will see Richard focusing on climbing with specific goals in speed alpinism and several targets to break.
Terra Nova, Grifone partner to launch 2010 winter line
Terra Nova Equipment are partnering with Grifone, a leading Spanish technical clothing brand, to launch a new clothing line for Autumn 2010 into the UK market.
Matt Moore, Head Of Sales at Terra Nova Equipment, explained: “In Grifone we have a brand that has high performance quality product and a heritage very similar to Terra Nova. We have been working hard with Grifone to offer a competitive range of products for mountain and active users. This is a great opportunity to continue the growth we have seen in 2009 into 2010 and beyond.”
Fjällräven celebrates 50 years with UK launch
Not only is Fjällräven celebrating 50 years of activity in 2010, the Swedish apparel and accessories brand is also set to become a serious player in the UK outdoor market.
Rosker Ltd, one of the UK’s leading distributors of specialist outdoor equipment, has welcomed Fjällräven into its portfolio of high quality outdoor brands.
Weird Fish starts 2010 with ambition
Following a major relocation and expansion, quality clothing brand Weird Fish kick started the new decade with major business development and investment plans to secure the company’s ongoing growth.
On the first day of trading this year, Weird Fish opened its doors in Cheltenham to new 42,000 sq ft custom fit warehouse and offices, showrooms and design studios, almost doubling in capacity.
New direction, great results for Lowe Alpine
Recent glowing reviews of Lowe Alpine’s new Triplepoint Dynamic garments are prompting speculation about the brand reclaiming its strong market position in apparel. Central to this is last January’s announcement that David Udberg was taking over as director of the clothing development team in Italy, in addition to his existing role directing the backpack team based in Kendal.
Montane steps in to help ‘naked’ mountain rescue
Montane’s ambitious task: raise £50K for Mountain Rescue through the sale of a special edition range of Montane clothing. With 66.6% of monies raised through the sale of each garment being donated to Mountain Rescue, Montane’s latest project is more than a token gesture.
Sir Ranulph takes on Keswick
The World’s Greatest Living Explorer, Sir Ranulph Fiennes, is set to top the speaker list at Keswick Mountain Festival (19-23 May 2010). A year to the day after he conquered Everest (21 May), he will take to the stage at the Theatre by The Lake and talk about his amazing life.
Other adventurers who have agreed to take part include Andy Cave, Andy Kirkpatrick and Cumbria’s own Leo Houlding.
brasher breaks records – again!
Sunderland-based outdoor performance footwear manufacturer brasher has announced record sales for the second consecutive year.
Sales for 2009 are up 8% vs 2008, with growth driven by fabric boots such as Lithium GTX and brasher’s multi activity and lifestyle ranges.
KORS announces Retail Expedition Award winners
The Kendal Outdoor Retail Show (KORS) has announced the first winners of its KORS Retail Expedition Award, an annual award supporting outstanding expeditions involving outdoor retail staff.
HH appoints independent footwear consultant
Helly Hansen has announced the appointment of an independent consultant to strengthen and enhance its lifestyle footwear distribution in the UK.
Dave Snowdon currently runs his own brand management company in the UK and joins Helly Hansen with extensive experience of working within the footwear industry. Dave has been associated with brands such as K-Swiss, Ugg Australia and Rockport.
Timo Schmidt-Eisenhart promoted to VP/General Manager for North Face EMEA
The North Face has announced that Sales Director for the EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa) region, Timo Schmidt-Eisenhart, has recently been promoted to the position of VP/General Manager of The North Face EMEA.
Following the promotion of Patrik Frisk to President of VF Outdoor & Action Sports EMEA, Schmidt-Eisenhart assumed his new position in December 2009.
Polartec and Unifi announce partnership
Polartec and Unifi have announced a new partnership introducing performance fabrics made with REPREVE 100, which is made from 100 per cent post-consumer waste – clear plastic water bottles.
Vango goes Eco
Vango’s brand new for 2010 Eco range have been designed using recycled components where possible to ensure the same fantastic camping experience you expect from Vango, at half the cost to the environment.
The Green Leaf 200 SRP: £55.00 is an easy to pitch and pack two-person ‘pop up’ tent. The Protex 2000 recycled polyester body gives great protection from rain and boasts reflective webbing.
Timberland introduces Washington Summit
Outdoor Performance footwear range. This flagship model is a “mid” hiking boot suitable for all year round use and benefits from a highly durable construction including the use of premium full-grain, leather and a waterproof, breathable Gore-Tex membrane.
Walsh launches new trail running collection
Walsh footwear is launching a brand new Trail running collection for 2010. Comprising four models, the new range contains a selection of shoes and a boot to suit differing needs and preferences.
The Spirit Peak is the perfect choice for Trail Running and Hill Walking. Its Pyra Grip sole provides optimum grip and control over rough terrain ensuring your feet stay continually in place. The stylish design also features an ultra breathable upper creating the utmost comfort at all times.
New additions to Garmin’s Oregon family
Garmin’s new Oregon 450 and Oregon 450t touchscreen GPS devices boast next generation touchscreen technology, with a bright 3” colour display, which is perfect for use in all conditions. These rugged devices are also waterproof and glove-friendly.
The new Oregon units also include a barometric altimeter, paperless geocaching and wireless exchange of tracks, waypoints, routes and geocaches with other compatible devices.
Regatta’s AW 2010 collections
The new Autumn/Winter Regatta 2010 collection offers well-designed and affordable products – from top end technical jackets to weekend casual wear.
The clothing range is separated into 8 ranges: X-ert Performance, Adventure Tech, Outdoor Classics, Heritage, Boys, Girls, Little Adventurers and Accessories. Each designed with the outdoors in mind whether it’s hiking, about town or simply walking the dogs, there is something for all.
Vango’s new stoves for 2010
New for 2010 Vango has introduced a brand new range of stoves small enough to slip into any backpack and light enough not to weigh you down, with practicality and ease of use in mind.
The Compact Gas Stove (£12) is great value, easy to operate and measures just 46mm x 105mm. Featuring a fold-out pot support, it packs away into its own storage container and weights just 103g. To protect against wind it has baffles on the burner. Boiling time of only 4 minutes for 1 litre of water.
Bramwell pushes Gregory
Bramwell International presents the Active Trail range of performance packs from Gregory. Suitable for use during walking, hiking and running, this collection of backpacks has something to offer every outdoor enthusiast.
TEVA goes crazy in 2010
New for 2010 Teva reveals its most exciting collection of Spring/Summer footwear to date with the introduction of brand new styles that challenge perceptions of the traditional outdoor shoe as well as the return of old favourites with modern updates.
Fjällräven
With names like Primus and Hanwag in their stable among many others, Rosker is firmly established in the outdoor market. Now they’re taking on the UK distribution for Fjällräven, and hoping they can bring their magic touch to what is a really practical-looking line incorporating jackets, trousers, fleeces, backpacks and a lot more. Ralph explains to SGB what they will be focussing on for the first 12 months – and also on this spread, we present a range of Fjällräven’s ‘staples’ so you can get a good idea of what this trusted brand can add to your shop…
