Embed Size (px)
DESCRIPTION
SGB PERFORMANCE 1129
Citation preview
WEEK 1129 SGBweekly.com 1
JULY 18, 2011
NEWS & INFORMATION FOR THE RUNNING & TRIATHLON MARKET
PSST!PSR
IS NOW SGB PERFORMANCE
Minimal in volume,
but BIG on function!
NEW PROFORM Ultra-Thin Inserts
by
Designed to offerLightweight, Contoured, Flexible Supportfor minimalist and natural running shoes.
Call 1-800-877-3626 or email [email protected]
To Order a FREE Sample Today!PROMO CODE: PFMSGBMY11Expiration date: July 31, 2011
Spenco®
Love Your Feet ™
®R
egis
tere
d a
nd
™Tr
adem
ark
of
Sp
enco
Med
ical
Co
rpo
rati
on
. ©20
11 S
MC
. All
Rig
hts
Res
erve
d
Proform Fits: Designed to FIT, where other insoles can't. The deep heel cup and contoured shape, along with our multi-density materials, help provide the RIGHT amount of support and cushioning. Spenco® PolySorb® Proform makes any shoe FEEL like it was made for your customers.
WEEK 1129 SGBweekly.com 3
Copyright 2011 SportsOneSource, LLC. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed by writers & contributors to SGB PERFORMANCE are not necessarily those of the editors or publishers. SGB PERFORMANCE is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Articles appearing in SGB PERFORMANCE may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express permission of the publisher. SGB PERFORMANCE is published monthly 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
2 VIBRAM Sues Fila USA For Patent Infringement
ACADEMY SPORTS Seeks $840M Loan For KKR Buyout
FEATURES 6 IN LIKE A LION: Spring 2012 Running Apparel By Mackenzie Lobby
10 RUN FOR THE HILLS – Advanced Wrist Tops Are Fast Becoming The New Essential Training Tool For All Athlete Levels By Kyle J. Conrad
DEPARTMENTS 14 I AM... PERFORMANCE Shawn O’Shea, Director of Apparel for Zoot Sports
page 8
NEWS & INFORMATION FOR THE RUNNING & TRIATHLON MARKET
JULY 18, 2011
Pho
to c
ourt
esy
of B
rook
s
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 EditorsMackenzie Lobby
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
SportsOneSource Publications
SGB
TEAM Business
Sportsman’s Business
The B.O.S.S. Report
Sports Executive Weekly
SGB Update
Footwear Business Update
Outdoor Business Update
Sportsman’s Business Update
Team Business Update
SGB Weekly
Team Business Weekly
Sportsman’s Business Weekly
Footwear Business Weekly
Outdoor Business Weekly
Group PublisherBill Garrels
SportsOneSource, LLC2151 Hawkins Street • Suite 200 • Charlotte • NC • 28203
t. 704-987-3450 • f. 704-987-3455www.SportsOneSource.com
Cover photography courtesy of Asics
4 SGB PERFORMANCE l JULY 18, 2011
NEWS
ACADEMY SPORTS SEEKS $840M LOAN FOR KKR BUYOUT
Academy Sports + Outdoors, Inc., which is being acquired by the buyout firm KKR & Co., is seeking an $840 million term loan to back the deal, according to a report by Bloomberg.
The first-lien debt won't contain financial maintenance covenants, said the person with knowledge of the deal to Bloomberg.
The deal reportedly includes a $650 million asset-based revolving line of credit that is being arranged by JPMorgan Chase & Co. The term loan was graded B by rating company Standard & Poor's.
VIBRAM SUES FILA USA FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT
Vibram SpA and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Vibram USA, Inc., filed a lawsuit against Fila USA alleging Fila’s “Skele-toes” footwear infringes on U.S. patents that cover Vibram’s FiveFingers.
Fila USA, Inc. announced that the company will vigorously defend itself against the complaint filed on July 6, 2011 by Vibram S.p.A. and Vibram USA, Inc. in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts alleging that Fila USA, Inc.’s Skele-toes line of footwear infringes three patents.
According to the lawsuit, the patents involved cover footwear having individually articulable pockets for each toe, as embodied in Vibram’s successful FiveFingers branded footwear, which is credited with pioneering minimalist footwear and the barefoot running trend.
The complaint alleges Fila USA, Inc.’s “Skele-toes” footwear is
infringing several U.S. Patents held by Vibram. The FiveFingers Patents cover a variety of footwear designs comprising individual toe pockets.
“Before Vibram FiveFingers were introduced, there was no minimalist footwear constructed with individual toe pockets that encouraged natural, barefoot movement, while at the same time providing enhanced grip and protection. Vibram pioneered the minimalist footwear category,” said Tony Post, Vibram USA’s President. “Vibram launched the concept in 2005, and public reception has grown tremendously since, now the entire footwear industry has responded by entering the minimalist category. In fact, Vibram has even partnered with Merrell and New Balance to create minimal/barefoot-like sole platforms that are complementary to our Vibram FiveFingers.”
Post added, “Vibram innovated the technology and earned the patents. With our success, copyists and counterfeiters have come out of the woodwork. We will continue to take aggressive action against all who infringe our intellectual property. These infringements are not only damaging to Vibram, they also hurt our retail partners and the public trust. Vibram will work diligently to bring such action to a stop.”
In response, Fila issued a statement denying the charges. The statement read, “Fila has reviewed the allegations in Vibram’s complaint and has determined that they are without merit. Prior to developing and releasing this line of footwear in February 2011, Fila determined that the Skele-Toes shoes did not infringe on any existing patents including those owned by Vibram. Though Vibram is generally credited with launching the minimalist trend in the footwear industry, Fila Skele-Toes joins a long history of shoes with articulated toes and represents a more accessible approach to this rapidly expanding minimalist footwear category.”
Photo courtesy of Vibram FiveFingers
RUN
eccousa.com
To experience the SS12 ECCO Collection visit us at WSA, Outdoor Retailer, Atlanta Shoe Show and FFANY. eccousa.com - 800.886.3226
NATURAL MOTION GOES OFFROAD.
SS12 BIOM TRAIL
930_SS12_Trail_print_mech.indd 1 7/8/11 10:24 AM
6 SGB PERFORMANCE l JULY 18, 2011
IN LIKE A LIONSPRING 2012 RUNNING APPARELBy Mackenzie Lobby
Photo courtesy of Brooks
Poised to be one of the most notable seasons in years, the performance and style-driven fabrics and designs to be introduced for running in Spring 2012 offer something new for everyone, from elites to weekend warriors. These cutting edge designs will drive the market forward by giving runners the chance to be more comfortable and fashionable, while maintaining the utmost in performance.
A number of trends are certain to take the market by storm. With the growing popularity of trail running, manufacturers have responded with hybrid road and trail running apparel and also trail-specific apparel. Along with that are bolder designs and some of the lightest weight fabrics on the market. Spring 2012 is a harbinger of what is to come in running as more traditional trends in running apparel are left behind in favor of a new look and feel. OFF-ROAD STYLE Spring 2012 will bring an influx of trail running and hybrid running apparel to the market. “Trail running is continuing to grow for us,” said Guy Perry, owner of Salt Lake Running Company. “Our outdoor scene sets us up nicely and people are starting to look for the next thing beyond the marathon.”
While companies like Brooks continue to focus on providing apparel that can work for both the road and the trail, they have plans to possibly offer trail-specific apparel. This signals a new branch of the market that is slowly breaking off from mainstream running.
Outdoor-centric companies like Mountain Hardwear and Patagonia have found their way into the running market almost exclusively via the trail running consumer. Erin Brosterhous of Mountain Hardwear explained, saying, “we market to the trail running community, but more and more we market to the broader running community as trail running and hybrid running trends increase.”
Patagonia built its Spring 2012 line to specifically market to trail runners by consulting with their Global Ambassadors in the field and testing fabrics in the lab. “Being rooted in that customer base, they customer embrace our ethos and product” explained Tyler LaMotte, business unit director for trail running at Patagonia. “Given that Patagonia and trail running have a synergy, it seemed like a no-brainer to dial in our focus.”
The main differences between more traditional running apparel styles and trail running offerings concern seaming, fabrics and special pockets. “We have a lot of athletes running the Western States 100,” explained Lamotte. “This
means the apparel needs to accommodate them at the beginning, middle, and end of the race in many different conditions.”
Jeannette Dumbrell, apparel buyer for Potomac River Running, Inc. in Falls Church, VA, said she has seen this first hand. “There are super light jackets for the trail coming, which are designed to protect against changes in temperature or weather that can occur for extended periods of time or when you encounter changes in elevation that can drop or climb in temperature.”
Since chaffing becomes a greater issue with longer distances and changing weather conditions, special attention tends to be paid to seams in trail running apparel. “You want to have the garment fit well, but not so much that it causes chafing,” said Sarah Clark, Patagonia’s product line manager for trail running. “Running 100 miles in hot conditions makes seaming an important issue.”
Gore Running Wear, fully launching their new products in Spring 2012, directs different running apparel collections to different types of runners, including off-road harriers. Their X-Running offerings were tested on trail runners to make sure water belts and backpacks did not interact with seams so as to cause chafing. Strategically placed pockets work with that system to provide comfort and function.
Smartwool will also be jumping into the trail running market in Spring 2012, specifically marketing their strategically placed flatlocked seams. “This will reduce chafing while also being pack compatible,” explained Mavis Fitzgerald of Smartwool.
Special fabrics continue to be selling points for the trail running lines. “Trail-specific apparel tends to have a tighter weave protecting it against snagging
GORE RUNNING WEAR JUMPS INTO THE MARKET Lying in wait since 1997, Gore Running Wear will fully enter the running apparel market in Spring 2012, with a limited line release set for Fall 2011. Already in the European running market, the company is no stranger to the needs of harriers. From their elite-focused performance line, to the ambitious runner who trains off road, to the fitness runner, Gore seeks to offer something for everyone.
“We design products based on a specific runner with a focus on offering ‘head-to-toe’ and ‘skin-to-shell’ product offerings,” said Kevin King of Gore Running Wear.
The company touts entire “Outfit Systems.” “We offer a range of outfits based on weather conditions, running distances and overall performance needs using a combination of Gore-Tex, Windstopper fabric and Gore selected fabrics,” explained King. “Our products are designed and constructed so that when worn together, they function as a system from a fit, function, and design perspective.”
Gore’s longstanding heritage providing quality fabrics and products will likely gain a quick following in the running market. Always with the end user in mind, Gore Running Wear is seeking to fill a void for runners of every level.
Photo courtesy of Brooks
on branches,” said Dumbrell. The weave oftentimes also functions as sun protection, in addition to various chemical treatments.
“When you’re running and exposed to the elements and are in the sun for hours on end, it can beat you down,” explained LaMotte. The Patagonia trail running line will offer anywhere between 15 to 30 UPF protection, while Mountain Hardwear offers comparable features. A BOLDER LOOK Along with a growing number of hybrid and trail running-specific apparel has come an overall trend toward bigger and bolder designs. Gone are the days of basic color schemes and styles. In its place are throwback and new-age fashions that are more reminiscent of the alpine skiing lines of yesteryear. Attracting the younger running consumer, this move is sure to revitalize the running apparel market. “Design and fashion have become more popular in our industry,” said Perry. “That has been a major change for us.”
Saucony’s Run LX Collection for Spring 2012, blends style and performance as it sports a more youthful design. With ruching and special detailing, Saucony is following the trend of providing runners with multiple pieces that can be mixed and matched. Brooks is set to introduce related options with its women’s D’lite collection, featuring feather-light tops that can be layered or worn alone.
Gore Running Wear will offer similar systems of coordinated pieces. “We don’t focus on a single product, but whole systems,” explained Kevin King of Gore Running Wear. In taking a holistic view, they look at both fit and function, but also fashion, when putting these lines together.
In addition to entire coordinated collections are eye-catching designs. “Patterns and graphics are very popular,” said Dumbrell. Heather Cvitkovic, Moving Comfort senior product line manager agrees. As they work to offer garments with a “younger attitude,” they are trending toward bright colors, stripes, and shine, featuring silver and gold accents.
“For Spring 2012, you will see more attention to fashion and style detailing in our designs, while continuing to deliver the great performance and fabrics our customer has come to expect of our brand,” said Cvitkovic.
New Balance follows suit with the NBx Prism collection to be unveiled in Spring 2012. Unique colors and aggressive design lines offer style and visibility. “Our design team took inspiration from other categories of apparel such as the fashion runways, biking and a variety of other sports to create functional, innovative, yet beautiful running apparel,” explained Claire Shearman Joyce, product manager for New Balance apparel.
While many of these bold colors and designs are found in the latest running tops, many companies like Moving Comfort and 2XU are also featuring it in shorts. By creating wider waistbands, more real estate exists to feature bright colors and patterns that turn a solid-colored short into something more stylish. These details usually coincide with corresponding tops in order to complete the look. LESS IS MORE As the minimalist trend in running footwear has quickly taken hold of the market, apparel is now close behind. While lighter weight materials have always been preferred, the back-to-basics philosophy has encouraged manufacturers to strip off unnecessary features and go in search of fabrics that feature fewer ounces.
“Running apparel tends to be lightweight already,” explained Dumbrell. “However, some brands are now producing even lighter fabrics and Spring 2012 will see a trend toward the lighter side.”
“Lightweight is certainly an overall trend we are seeing out in the market from footwear to apparel,” said New Balance’s Joyce. “Runners don’t want to feel weighed down by their running apparel, so lightweight, highly breathable, fast drying fabrics with a soft hand are what runners are demanding.”
New Balance has, in turn, announced its new NB Minimus apparel collection to be introduced in Spring 2012. Mountain Hardwear is set to release the Ghost Whisperer Anorak, a water resistant rain shelter that weighs just 2 ounces. Even Gore Running Wear will be introducing Gore-Tex and Windstopper Active Shell laminates that are under 300 grams. Additionally, Brooks will introduce the D’lite tank and t-shirt collection, which is so lightweight it is translucent.
“The initial goal with the D’lite tank was to find a mesh that was extremely lightweight and quick drying for hot, humid climates where runners overheat quickly,” explained
Photo courtesy of New Balance
Tiffany Herman of Brooks. “Many women don’t feel comfortable running in just a sports bra, so this is a lightweight option to throw on without adding weight.”
Smartwool, known for its Merino wool, will be introducing bi-component fabrics and new construction to lighten up their garments. “The trend of lighter and faster products continues our product development team’s drive for innovations and new lighter, better performing fabrics,” said Fitzgerald.
Patagonia also uses the term “minimalist” in describing its Spring 2012 trail running line. Lightweight recycled polyester fabric coupled with Air Flow mesh for breathability is featured in much of this collection. “We really focused on the function based on what the athlete needs, and a lot of times that meant taking away,” said LaMotte. “We see other brands sometime over-embellishing products, while Patagonia’s philosophy is to focus on the core need of the end user and that means keeping it minimal and functional.”
Whether it is the influence of trail running or the minimalist boom, Spring 2012 signals a shift in running apparel. An exciting time in the running industry, manufacturers, retailers, and runners are ready and willing to take risks in selecting everything from design, color, and fabrics. In the end, this innovation drives better product, which is good for the manufacturer, the runner, and everyone in between. ■
BRAS ARE BECOMING A BOOMING BUSINESS As the running community has grown, so have the options for running bras. With more women demanding comfort and support, companies have made a push to give them what they want. This has meant more high-tech biomechanical testing and rigorous fabric engineering which, in turn, is eliciting better products.
Moving Comfort continues to the lead the way, as they offer bras in nearly every size possible. Coming in 2012 is their new Jubralee bra, which has been tested in the lab and the field. “This bra has been thoroughly tested in our new Biomechanics lab from first prototype to production to ensure it’s engineered for the highest support,” said Heather Cvitkovic, Moving Comfort’s senior product line manager. “The fabric is soft and performance-minded, plus we’ve added strategically placed mesh inserts in contrasting colors that pop.”
Companies like Brooks, Sugoi and 2XU have also started offering more than just the traditional running bra style. Brooks’ Epiphany Bra II, Glycerin Print Bra, and Infiniti Bra all offer unique straps that are both functional and stylish. Sugoi is adhering to the trend of thinner, strategically placed straps and innovative necklines. 2XU touts its fully adjustable, high impact bra that is designed to work for various shapes, sizes, and activities.
Similarly, Asics will be offering color updates on its ARD Adjust Bra, which remains one of the more innovative bras on the market. With thin, crossover straps that adjust, this bra is leading the way in providing more customizable options to runners of every shape and size. In the meantime, researchers and manufacturers continue to work diligently to engineer the best bras for a growing community of runners.
Photo courtesy of Asics
Sugoi Chloe Bra provides full coverage and an additional level of support for high- impact activity. MSRP $50
Mountain Hardware Way2Cool Tank wicks and cools using lightweight 100% polyester fabric in the body and 100% nylon panels. MSRP $52
Photo courtesy of Kalyx
RUNFOR THE HILLSOnce limited to elite athletes and high-income shoppers, advanced wrist top units have become an essential and accessible training tool for all level of athletes.
By Kyle J. Conrad
Jenny Fletcher and Josh Cox
Photo courtesy of Garmin
WEEK 1129 SGBweekly.com 11
Just a few short years ago, a wrist top component boasting heart-rate monitoring capabilities, pace tracking, altitude and calories burned and represented the pinnacle of technological advancement for serious runners and outdoors enthusiasts. Primarily used by elite competitors and athletes, the introductory price points for these items often effectively priced them out of the market for everyday runners and weekend warriors. Now, however, many semi-serious runners, cyclists, hikers and otherwise are turning to wrist top computers to log their training sessions, track progress and monitor their bodies’ reaction to exercise.
Maturing technology, along with a more competitive marketplace, has dropped price points significantly, allowing for more athletes to utilize the benefits of wrist tops to help maximize their workouts. Because of market saturation, a product that may have been priced at $500-plus a couple of years ago now goes for half that price or less. Wrist top units featuring heart rate monitoring capabilities and related technologies are commonplace now, which has forced brands to invest more funds into their R&D departments and introduce better products at more competitive prices to keep pace.
The “hot technology” for wrist top components continues to be GPS, and while major brands like Polar, Suunto and Garmin have firmly entrenched themselves as market leaders in that category, smaller, more “specialized” brands have jumped on board further diluting the market and driving prices down even further. Meanwhile, for the athlete looking for the newest and most advanced unit, there are plenty of exciting new products to satisfy the training needs of even the most demanding consumer.
Timex, which will follow up last year’s GPS-enabled Ironman Global Trainer BodyLink System with its October 2011 launch of its Ironman Run Trainer GPS watch, has done a commendable job of effectively straddling the value-feature line. The Run Trainer, which features GPS capabilities and heart rate and hydration monitors, among other features, also allows users to sync their computers to provide downloadable data via the Training Peaks training log program. Priced at a reasonable $275, The Run Trainer is Timex’s latest venture in efforts to keep pace with a rapidly developing market.
“There’s a natural tendency for prices to come down as technology matures,” said VP of marketing Herbie Calves. “As it does, you’re also getting a broadening of technology as it appeals to a wider audience. With that comes more price sensitivity as well as less demand for certain features.”
David Grayson, national sales manager for Suunto USA, agreed, adding that while the market has pushed itself down to the $200 mark for speed and distance products, many brands are sacrificing necessary tools to reach that price level while still offering GPS functionality. “This gives customers a perceived performance increase for the price points, while (benefits like) ease-of-use, style and training features have been neglected,” Grayson said.
The key, added Calves, is providing the right value for the amount of features that are offered. At the $275 price-point, Calves said
Timex’s Run Trainer has the ability to appeal to both first-time users and experienced wrist top component users, an important compromise considering how many consumers are using wrist top components for the first time. “The GPS market is catering to as large of a market as a traditional sports watch would,” said Calves. “People like GPS capabilities because it tells you exactly how far and how fast you’ve gone.” Heart-rate monitoring capabilities, he added, are in high demand for experienced trainers - athletes who know what their target heart rate is and how long they should exercise at that intensity.
At Suunto, Grayson noted that while there absolutely is demand for GPS capabilities, most serious runners are more focused on accurate speed and distance data. Likewise, Suunto’s new Quest, which hits stores this fall, will offer the added benefit of cadence monitoring, allowing runners to track their steps per minute. “With the minimalist running movement gaining momentum, the Quest offers this cadence tool to help runners increase the frequency of foot strikes that will minimize injury and reduce fatigue,” he said.
One key issue making its way around the market has been whether GPS applications for smart phones will cut into sales of wrist top GPS components. At Timex, Calves said that while it’s difficult to judge because both categories are growing so rapidly, there are separate silos for each product. “The difference is that athletes need that monitor on their wrist,” said Calves. “For a runner, it’s a big inconvenience to have
Photo courtesy of Gaiam
12 SGB PERFORMANCE l JULY 18, 2011
Make The Sale As always, the key to selling a highly-technical product is by promoting functional education about the features of the product and how the component can ultimately benefit the end-user. “It is imperative that we continue to tell the story that listening to your body - how your exercise affects your heart - is far more important than any speed or pace parameters that one might focus on,” said David Grayson, national sales manager for Suunto USA . “Boosting your performance is a direct result of training in the optimal zones, building the appropriate variety into your workouts, and preventing over-training.” Beginning in September, Grayson said Suunto plans to add technical field support in several key markets around the country to provide hands-on employee training for Suunto instruments.
At Timex, VP of Marketing Herbie Calves said providing samples and discounts to store employees and other key influencers has been a productive tool.
to take your phone out and look at it (while running.)” Grayson agreed, noting that it’s imperative that Suunto continues to differentiate itself from Smartphone apps through design elements, convenience, and features. “This is a huge battle (for the market),” said Grayson. “App sales are definitely impacting our business but we’ve found that while they may be cool and visually appealing, the novelty quickly wears off because the avid runner needs a dedicated unit for training.”
The other major difference is battery life of smart phones, added Calves. A fully charged Smartphone may run a GPS app for two hours before expiring - even less if the phone is running a music player. That may suffice for some casual athletes, but it’s a major inconvenience for most people. Interestingly, Calves pointed out that GPS apps on smart phones may have actually supplemented sales of wrist top GPS units by building awareness of the benefits of using GPS while training. “Smart phones are making people aware of how fun it is to have that type of data,” he added. “The overall appeal of that data is on the rise and it helps everyone in the wrist top computer segment.”
At Highgear, optimism is high as the company’s first GPS-enabled watch closes on its Spring 2012 launch date. Highgear, which focuses on the outdoor lifestyle market (hiking, climbing, camping), announced its entry into the GPS market last year. Staying true to Highgear form, the new GPS unit will be conservatively-priced but well-equipped. CEO Mike Hosey said the wrist top market can be very tricky for first-time entrants. “From an outdoor perspective, some key retailers in the industry are struggling with the category in general - whether that is sensor-based technology of GPS (technology),” Hosey said. “There is some softness in the market right now because sensor-based products are being cannibalized by GPS units and GPS units are being cannibalized by over-distribution.” Hosey said there is still a substantial number of potential first-time users that have not been appropriately engaged by brands and retailers - a faction of the market he calls “the grey space.” “We think the future of the market is a hybrid product of both sensor-based technology and GPS-enabled technology,” said
Hosey. “The consumer doesn’t change - it’s simply a matter of what the consumer is doing and how he or she is using the tools offered.”
Hosey also mentioned industry concerns regarding Smartphone cannibalization. “There is no doubt that smart phones are cutting into sales,” he admitted. “Smart phones are superior from a display perspective, but from a sensor standpoint, there’s still a place for wrist tops.” Hosey pointed out that while casual gym goers may be content to carry a Smartphone on the treadmill for their training needs, most serious trainers are minimalists and prefer a compact and lightweight wrist top component instead of a bulky Smartphone.
While Highgear tends to focus on implementing simplified technology without sacrificing features, Hosey said most of the technological advancement in the industry continues to be driven by larger brands. He cited the “more is better” thought process of a select group of technology-minded elite athletes that demand the latest and greatest training tools. Conversely, Hosey noted that Highgear has taken a practical stance on the matter, choosing to simplify technology while remaining committed to exceptional quality.
Regardless of the approach, the GPS market is still in its infancy and represents endless opportunity. “There are a lot of new users and technology has been able to turn the page to the point where GPS has become affordable and recognizable as a tool for recreational equipment,” said Hosey. “More retailers are carrying it and the category has reached a new segment of consumer. New channels and distributors are embracing the category and that’s something that needs to be driven home.” Moreover, Hosey said the Baby Boomer generation has exhibited a high demand for wrist top components as they age and become more conscious of potential health concerns.
Regardless of the application, wrist top GPS-enabled units are still the “new wave” of must-haves for athletes, and whether they are utilized for jogging, trail running, hiking or marathon training, it’s a technology that has become accessible to all levels of athletes. ■
Josh Cox
Photo courtesy of Garmin
Photo courtesy of Moving Comfort
Geared toward the multi-sport endurance athlete, Polar’s RCX5 is a cutting-edge train-ing computer featuring a GPS sensor that measures speed, pace and distance while providing an online map view of the training session. It is compatible with Polar’s new WearLink + Hybrid transmittor, a monitor that provides heart rate data even under water. Available in four “bundles” - RCX5 Bike (MSRP $390); RCX Run (MSRP $420); RCX Multi ( MSRP $470); RCX Basic Set (MSRP $350)
Garmin’s GPS-enabled Forerunner 610 Sport Watch, is the first of the brand’s lauded Forerunner products to feature a touchscreen. The 610 combines basic features - pace, distance, time, heart rate - with state-of-the-art training applications including a feature that allows runners to “race” against their previous times or against other Garmin users. The watch also features a “Where To” option, allowing users to pinpoint and save up to 100 locations using bearing and distance. MSRP $350
The Oregon Scientific Gaiam Zone Trainer G, which initially hit stores in Fall 2010, is a moderately-priced wrist top that features a patented tap-on display allowing users to easily toggle between heart rate, calories burned and workout time. It also features “target zone alerts” to help users stay within their target heart rate zone. MSRP $110
Set to hit stores Spring 2012, the Highgear GPS Navigator is Highgear’s first foray into the GPS market. The Navigator tracks real-time training results with the continuous heart rate monitor and utilizes a 2.4 GHz digitally coded chest strap to avoid “cross talk.” The component’s GPS function records routes, marks waypoints and tracks speed, distance, and pace. Also featuring an altimeter and barometer, the GSP Naviga-tor monitors hill and altitude performance and includes a 24-hour weather forecasting graph to plan training runs accordingly. MSRP $250
GARMIN’S GPS-ENABLED FORERUNNER 610
THE OREGON SCIENTIFIC GAIAM ZONE TRAINER G
HIGHGEAR GPS NAVIGATOR
SUNNTO’S QUEST
TIMEX’S IRONMAN RUN TRAINER GPS
ST. MORITZMOMENTUM VS-1
ALTIMETER WATCH
NEW BALANCE N9 GPS TRAINER
Designed for daily training sessions, the New Balance N9 GPS Trainer features the capacity to track and store 200 locations by name, latitude/longitude, altitude and date. The GPS function on the N9 monitors distance, speed and pace while the 2.4 GHz digitally coded chest strap eliminates “crosstalk” so heart rate is monitored accurately and efficiently. All data can then be uploaded to your computer via a USB cable to help monitor development and maintain personal goals over time. Highgear is the official licensee for New Balance Sports Monitors. MSRP $250
Sunnto’s latest release, which will hit stores this fall, has been dubbed “the ideal outdoor training tool,” by company representatives. Among its numerous features, Sunnto’s Quest calculates cadence wirelessly, helping the runner avoid over-striding, which can lead to slower speeds, impact injuries and bad posture. It can also be purchased as part of the Sunnto Quest Pack, which includes a dual comfort heart rate belt, a foot pod and a movestick, to provide a highly accurate and responsive measurement of speed, distance and cadence. MSRP $275 (Quest); $379 (Quest Pack) The Momentum VS-1 Altimeter Watch by St. Moritz Watch Company has been on the shelves awhile, but remains popular with outdoor veterans. The VS-1 features include an altimeter, barometer, chronograph and temperature monitor encased in a solid steel frame. The VS-1, which the company calls a “multi-function outdoor watch that does it all,” also includes a digital compass and a user-change battery hatch. MSRP $235
Timex’s Ironman Run Trainer GPS Watch offers athletes an all-in-one GPS wrist device boasting real-time speed, pace and cadence. The training tool features ANT+ technologies compatible with heart rate and foot pod sensors, hydration and nutri-tion timers while syncing with the user’s computers to provide downloadable data. The product will be available October 2011. MSRP $225 to $275 (can be bundled with Foot Pod Accessory)
POLAR’S RCX5
14 SGB PERFORMANCE l JULY 18, 2011
I AM... PERFORMANCE
HOW DID YOU CATCH THE RUNNING BUG? Chasing a girl in college. She lived in the house next door and I always saw her running. I started running to catch her eye and we eventually started running together. We decided to train for the 1994 Chicago Marathon. That girl is now my wife and we recently finished the Boston Marathon together to celebrate our ten-year wedding anniversary.
PROUDEST ATHLETIC MOMENT? I was inspired by my co-workers at Pearl Izumi to complete an Ironman. I always wanted to try an Ironman after watching it on TV, but never felt like I had the time to train to finish a 140.6 mile race. Completing an Ironman made me feel like I was capable of anything. It is a feeling that never goes away.
WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN APPAREL DESIGN? I was working as a graphic designer for a dot.com education company during the Internet boom in the mid-90s and was looking for something more. I knew I loved design and wanted to combine it with my passion for running and apparel. My wife and I moved to Sydney, Australia where I received my Masters degree in Design Management from the University of New South Whales, College of Fine Arts.
HOW DID YOU START IN THE INDUSTRY? After returning to the U.S., we camped out in our car for more than two months traveling around the country interviewing for jobs in sports apparel. I eventually landed a position in the fabric testing department at Pearl Izumi.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT MAKING APPAREL FOR THE TRIAND RUNNING MARKET? I like solving problems for runners and triathletes. Zoot was the original triathlon company, started in 1983, and has a long history of understanding the sport and creating new product solutions. I love that I am carrying on a long tradition at Zoot to continue focusing on the triathlete. I
also love that the sport of triathlon is growing with all different types of new athletes. Triathlon is not just about the “Elite” athlete anymore. Runners are seeing triathlons as their next challenge. I am proud to create product that will improve the experience and performance of athletes from the newbie to the seasoned pro.
WHAT’S UNIQUE ABOUT THE RUNNING OR TRI INDUSTRY? It’s full of people who are passionate about what they do and are in it to make all athletes better (not just runners). It is a close network of individuals who love what they do and in turn give back to the sport.
WHAT DO YOU DO FOR FUN? I started surfing ten years ago when I lived in Australia and I am lucky enough to live a few blocks from the beach. Any spare time I have, when I am not running, biking or playing with my three daughters, I try to be out in the water catching waves.
WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING IF YOU WERE NOT DOING YOUR JOB? I would be designing something else. I love mid-century modern design and architecture. I try to incorporate my interest in mid-century modern with my apparel product-building philosophy that “less is more” (Mies van der Rohe) and “The details are not the details. They make the design.” (Charles Eames).
WHAT WOULD BE YOUR ADVICE TO SOMEONE LOOKING TO GET A JOB IN THE RUNNING INDUSTRY? No position is too low to get your foot in the door. I had five years of design experience and a Masters Degree and I accepted an entry-level position in fabric testing. I love being in the industry and demonstrated how passionate I was about succeeding. My career quickly grew from there. The best piece of advice was given to me by a close friend in the industry - “Always have a point of view and always trust your gut.” It has never let me down.
SHAWN O'SHEA DIRECTOR OF APPAREL
ZOOT SPORTS
Shawn and his wife crossing the finish line at the Boston Marathon
TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT:GRENDENE [email protected]
SANDALS THAT FIT THE WAY YOU LIVE
VISIT US AT:
OUTDOOR RETAILER SUMMER MARKET BOOTH #29177W 8/4-8/7
PLATFORM AT MAGICBOOTH #62908 8/22-8/24
11-3120.indd 1 7/14/11 4:00 PM
Whether it’s doing backside 360s at the skatepark or 10k
on a black diamond hiking trail, CORDURA® Denim fabric
provides the comfort and style people want from their
denim. With the exceptional durability they expect. Take
it to the edge. No, take it further. Visit cordura.com/denim
to learn more.
©2011 INVISTA. CORDURA® is a registered trademark of INVISTA for durable fabrics. Property of INVISTA. CORDURA.COM
S:9”
S:10.875”T:9”
T:10.875”B:9.25”
B:11.125”
