THE 2024 FOUR WAYS TO SUSTAINABILITY The Fix is Here Targeting Retail Organized Crime SUMMER PRODUCT SHOWCASE Volume 18 Issue 2 | SPRING/SUMMER 2023 www.insideoutdoor.com
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InsideOutdoor | SPRING/SUMMER 2023 4 6 Editor’s Letter 8 Data Points 10 Retail Losses Bi-partisan Support Looks to Combat Organized Retail Crime 14 M ixed Signals Imports Remain Below 2022; Retail Sales Bounce Back 16 How to ‘Fix’ an Underperforming Category 18 F our Ways for Outdoor Brands to Encourage Sustainability 20 2 024 Summer Product Showcase 20 Gear 29 Apparel 39 Footwear 42 Accessories 50 Ad Index CONTENTS SPRING/SUMMER 2023 INSIDEOUTDOOR MAGAZINE www.insideoutdoor.com Volume 16 Issue 5 | 2021 Directory OUTDOOR RETAIL 2021 VENDOR DIRECTORY A to Z Volume 19 Issue 1 | SPRING 2022 www.insideoutdoor.com SO MUCH SUMMER SUPPLY CHAIN SHIFTS WOOL PIONEERS Monetize Your Wi-Fi Campers Disperse S/S ’23 NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE 20 8 10 16
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InsideOutdoor | SPRING/SUMMER 2023 6 I ADMIT, I’M CONFUSED Job numbers are great. Inflation has settled, but some economists believe it is still too high. What is the magic number for inflation? Two percent? Four percent? Economic prognosticators and TV financial pundits have been painting a bleak portrait of the state of the economy since the pandemic struck in 2020. Yet, the evidence is the job market remains strong and consumers continue to buy. Imports are down, but buyers are buying. The ports are having labor disputes, but buyers are finding ways to make the purchases they want. Even when ports are open, the supply chain has found more than a few loose links, and yet, consumers still count out the cash or swipe that card for everything from footwear to big-ticket items. Are we heading for a recession? Are we in one? Or is it time to regroup and redefine how the economy functions in what appears to be a new era? More “clouds” cast shadows over the economy earlier this month when Macy’s, Costco and other big chains reported shoppers are pulling back at their stores and changing what they buy. Immediately the punditry said this could be a “red flag.” Well, maybe not. Maybe spenders are cutting back for the same reason they do every year as vacation season sets in. Maybe they realize they need to save a little money for the fall return to school or the end of year holidays? The “free” money made available to help thwart repercussions of the pandemic largely has disappeared. We’ve used it. We’ve spent it. We’ve gotten all those little extras we could. Maybe, just maybe, we are disciplining ourselves again in the way we lay out our nickels and dimes, our dollars and our credit cards. Maybe, just maybe, our economy is stronger than we know, because all we hear is doom and gloom. So, when I hear Macy’s has cut its annual profit and sales forecast because customer demand slowed in March, I shrug it off. I have heard it before. It seems Macy’s has been fighting to stay relevant for years. Everyone knows Macy’s sales slow in the spring and summer and the large retailer makes up for everything in the fall and winter. When I hear that consumers are buying less expensive cuts of meat, I think nothing of it. We are now in that time of year when temperatures are higher, and people eat lighter. Comfort food season is over. We reserve those meals for colder weather. Maybe I’m naïve, and I’m certainly no economist, but when I see how low the unemployment rate is and hear how many jobs are added each month, when I see that retail continues to do better than financial experts predict, then I refuse to wallow in the more than a year-long prediction of economic hard times are going to crush the economy. I encourage retailers to stare down the predictions of a doomed economy. Prove the prognosticators wrong. Keep the economy purring along, because when it does, it helps you and your business to succeed. From the Editor Bruce Christian Editor-in-Chief bruce@bekabusinessmedia.com Brady Hicks Editor brady@bekabusinessmedia.com Martin Vilaboy Consulting Editor martin@bekabusinessmedia.com Contributing Writers Ritchie Sayner Lucas Tyson Percy Zamora Art Director percy@bekabusinessmedia.com Rob Schubel Digital Manager rob@bekabusinessmedia.com Jen Vilaboy Ad Production Director jen@bekabusinessmedia.com Berge Kaprelian Group Publisher berge@bekabusinessmedia.com Anthony Graffeo Publisher anthony@bekabusinessmedia.com Michael Burns National Account Executive michael@bekabusinessmedia.com Beka Business Media Berge Kaprelian President and CEO Jim Bankes Business Accounting Corporate Headquarters 10115 E Bell Road, Suite 107 - #517 Scottsdale, Arizona 85260 Voice: 480.503.0770 Email: berge@bekabusinessmedia.com © 2023 Beka Business Media, All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in any form or medium without express written permission of Beka Business Media, is prohibited. Inside Outdoor and the Inside Outdoor logo are trademarks of Beka Business Media
DATA POINTS NUMBERS WORTH NOTING A global Consumer Goods & Services research and business-consulting firm, Maximize Market Research, published a market intelligence report on the Climbing Gears Market. Over the forecast period, Maximize Market research expects the market to grow from $1.40 billion in 2022 to $2.38 billion in 2029 at a compound annual growth rate of 7.9 percent. The Climbing Gears Market report provides a detailed segmentation based on type, end-use, distribution channel, and application, along with their sub-segments. The data were collected from primary and secondary research methods, and the data were analyzed through SWOT analysis, PESTLE analysis and PORTER’s five force model. The Climbing Gears Market is fueled by the rising interest in adventure sports. Private companies offer attractive services and deals in this field, contributing to its growth. According to the report, this market expected to grow because of increased safety features and the emergence of technically advanced, lightweight alloy gears. To get a sample of the report, go to this site https://www.maximizemarketresearch.com/request-sample/186965 A report on the beverage cooler market. The popularity of chilled beverages, including soft drinks, energy drinks, alcoholic beverages, and bottled water, is driving the demand for beverage coolers. Consumers prefer their beverages to be chilled, especially during hot weather or social gatherings. The beverage cooler market is experiencing growth because of the increasing number of retail stores globally. As most beverage purchases occur in retail stores, the demand for beverage coolers has surged. In 2021, the global retail industry witnessed an increase to 1.6 million retail outlets worldwide. As retail stores cater to the diverse needs of consumers, they require an adequate supply of beverage coolers to meet the rising demand for chilled beverages. As a result, retail stores need to offer a wide selection of cold beverages to meet consumer expectations. To get a sample of the report, go here https://www.maximizemarketresearch. com/request-sample/187631 The Dyrt, an app for camping information and booking, found that 23.8 percent of campers say they worked remotely while camping in 2022. That statistic is part of the 2023 Camping Report — but it was identical to the work-from-campsite stat from the prior year. "With return-to-the-office efforts across the country, one might have expected the work-from-campsite rate to decrease, but it stayed level," said Kevin Long, CEO of The Dyrt. "Work from campsite is here to stay. You can't put the toothpaste back in the tube, and you can't put a productive working camper back in the cubicle." Of the thousands of respondents who took part in the survey, 13.4 percent are categorized as avid campers, meaning they took more than 10 camping trips in 2022. That group was twice as likely to have worked from a campsite last year than other campers. The Merchants Payments Coalition site an agreement in Canada to lower credit card “swipe” fees shows the fees could be reduced in the United States as well. “If Visa and Mastercard can afford to reduce their swipe fees in Canada, there’s no reason they can’t do the same here,” MPC Executive Committee member and National Association of Convenience Stores General Counsel Doug Kantor said. “U.S. merchants and their customers pay twice as much as Canadians and seven times as much as Europeans. It doesn’t make sense that the country that invented the credit card and is home to the two largest card networks on the planet has the highest swipe fees in the industrialized world. It’s time for Congress to act and at least bring competition to U.S. swipe fees.” The Canadian Department of Finance announced a deal with Visa and Mastercard that lowers the average fee to process most in-store credit card transactions to an average 0.95 percent from the current 1.4 percent average. The move is expected to save Canadian merchants $1 billion over five years and “make credit card transactions fairer for small businesses,” the government. By comparison, swipe fees for Visa and Mastercard credit cards average 2.24 percent in the United States and can be as high as 4 percent. U.S. credit and debit card swipe fees have more than doubled over the past decade and soared 17 percent last year alone to a record $160.7 billion. Climbing Gears Market Expected to Reach $2.38b by 2029 Beverage Cooler Market to Increase, Study Says A Quarter of Campers Work from Campsite U.S. Merchants Look for Lower Swipe Fees 8 InsideOutdoor | SPRING/SUMMER 2023
InsideOutdoor | SPRING/SUMMER 2023 10 Organized retail crime (ORC) is a perpetual and burgeoning problem for the U.S. retail industry, and evidence suggests it is growing in scope and complexity, according to a report released by the National Retail Federation. The report, Organized Retail Crime: An Assessment of a Persistent and Growing Threat, was conducted in partnership with K2 Integrity, a global risk advisory firm. And in a June statement, the NRF said 55 percent of consumers believe retail crimes such as shoplifting and looting stores have increased in their community since the onset of the pandemic. That number is slightly higher – 57 percent –. for consumers living in the suburbs. Other key survey findings include: Nearly two-thirds (64 percent) of consumers are concerned about gang-led shoplifting in their community. This goes up to 75 percent among consumers who live in urban communities. • Three-quarters (75 percent) of consumers have personally shopped in stores where products were kept in locked cabinets to avoid theft. • 79 percent of consumers believe retail theft impacts the price of goods that they buy. • Half (51 percent) say law enforcement and the courts are too lenient on those who steal from stores. Loss in billions “Organized retail crime has been a major concern for the retail industry for decades, endangering store employees and customers, disrupting store operations and inflicting billions in financial loss for retailers and the communities they serve,” said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay. “These concerns have grown in recent years, as criminal groups have become more brazen and violent in their tactics and are using new channels to resell stolen goods. “NRF and its members have been forcefully advocating for the ‘Combating Organized Retail Crime (ORC) Act’ in Congress because it’s time for decisive action, not just platitudes and endless debate,” Shay added. While waiting for the ORC legislation, which the NRF is spearheading, some relief was promised in December, when the INFORM Consumer Act was passed. It takes effect this month and will require online marketplaces to verify the identities of high-volume third-party sellers. According to Loss Prevention Magazine, the INFORM Consumers Act, was enacted to ensure the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and states Attorneys General enforce the law as a top priority for retailers. “Seeing the INFORM Act become law was a tremendous accomplishment, but our work battling organized retail crime is far from over,” said Michael Hanson, Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) Bi-partisan Support Looks to Combat Organized Retail Crime By Bruce christian Retail Losses
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InsideOutdoor | SPRING/SUMMER 2023 12 senior executive vice president of public affairs. “Establishing a federal task force that pulls together all the respective agencies that have jurisdiction over organized retail crime is necessary to enhance collaboration and transparency in the fight against sophisticated crime rings. Is ORC the answer? RILA also supports the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act. That measure would bring federal law enforcement, including the Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigations, and United States Postal Service, together to help disrupt and prosecute criminal rings targeting retail stores. Co-sponsored by Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), this bipartisan bill would target the rise in flash mob robberies and intricate retail theft schemes. The Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2023 establishes a coordinated multi-agency response and creates new tools to tackle evolving trends in organized retail theft. “Stores throughout American communities have not been spared from a national crime wave,” Grassley said when the bill was introduced earlier this year. “These organized theft rings have been developing new tactics to pilfer goods, causing economic harm to American businesses and putting consumers at risk while funding transnational criminal organizations throughout the world. “These criminals are exploiting the internet and online marketplaces to stay one step ahead of the law, and it’s time the law catches up,” he continued. “This bill improves our federal response to organized retail crime and establishes new tools to recover goods and illicit proceeds and deter future attacks on American retailers.” According to the Senate, retail crime costs retailers $720,000 for every $1 billion in sales – up 50 percent since 2015. Criminals shift focus As law enforcement focuses on the rise in drug trafficking and other offenses, criminal organizations have turned to retail crime to generate illicit profits, using internet-based tools to organize flash mobs, sell stolen goods and move money. The Combating Organized Retail Crime Act creates a unified government and industry collaboration to address the trend. The bill establishes a Center to Combat Organized Retail Crime at Homeland Security Investigations that combines expertise from state and local law enforcement agencies as well as retail industry representatives. It also creates new tools to assist in federal investigation and prosecution of organized retail crime and help recover lost goods and proceeds. While the bill was introduced in the Senate, the House also has taken it up. “The disturbing explosion of organized retail crime across the country these past couple of years has seriously harmed businesses – large and small – putting communities at risk,” said Rep. Ken Buck (R Colo.), who is one of the co-sponsors in the House. “I’m confident that the bipartisan Combating Organized Retail Crime Act will help our law enforcement officials stop future crimes, recover stolen goods and property, and punish those responsible. There is still much we don’t know about the depths of these criminal organizations; this bill would help us get to the bottom of it,” Buck said. Report findings The NRF’s comprehensive report provides a detailed assessment of U.S.-based ORC groups, their tactics and techniques for theft and resale and their linkages with other types of organized crime. The report also identifies critical gaps in the current understanding of ORC. Key findings in the report include: • ORC groups target everyday consumer goods — which offer a favorable balance between ease of theft, monetary value and ease of resale. Only 11 percent of the ORC groups examined in the report targeted luxury goods. • The median ORC fencing operation handled about $250,000 in stolen merchandise prior to being apprehended by law enforcement. • ORC fencing operations rely on online marketplaces as one resale channel. About 45 percent of ORC groups for which fencing information was available used online marketplaces for resale operations. • ORC fences that conduct online resale operations appear to be shifting away from third-party online sellers and toward peer-to-peer websites that facilitate direct engagement among buyers and sellers. • ORC groups rely on advance planning to ensure the success of their theft operations. • Significant deficiencies exist in the availability of consistent and consolidated data regarding ORC across national, state and local authorities, as well as the retail industry. Bottom lines at stake “Organized retail crime is growing as a real threat to the safety, operations and bottom line of retailers across the nation and now forms a part of the criminal and illicit financing landscape,” said Juan Zarate, global co-managing partner and chief strategy officer at K2 Integrity. “The ORC industry will grow more dangerous, complex and profitable, and its illicit proceeds will fuel more organized criminal networks and operations in the United States, globally and virtually, if more concerted action is not taken to disrupt these trends,” Zarate added. “Organized retail crime is tormenting communities large and small across the country,” Hanson added. “Key to curtailing the proliferation of ORC is increasing collaboration, information sharing, and transparency among stakeholders. “The Combating Organized Retail Crime Act would do just that,” Hanson said, “By establishing a federal center to help track and prosecute criminals, we can help curb what has become a $69 billion problem for American businesses, a major safety concern for communities, and in many cases, a marker of larger criminal activity at play such as human trafficking, gun smuggling, narcotics and terrorism.” Hanson continued, “Leading retailers are thrilled there is bipartisan momentum for this legislation.” m
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InsideOutdoor | SPRING/SUMMER 2023 14 Import cargo volume at the nation’s major container ports began showing signs earlier this year that it is climbing back from a nearly three-year low in February. Still, it is expected to remain below last year’s levels heading into this fall, according to the Global Port Tracker report released in May by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates. “Consumers are still spending, and retail sales are expected to increase this year, but we’re not seeing the explosive demand we saw the past two years,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said in an NRF release distributed last month. “Congestion at the ports has largely gone away as import levels have fallen, but other supply chain challenges remain, ranging from trucker shortages to getting empty containers back to terminals,” Gold explained. He added the NRF is pleased by reports of progress related to the West Coast port labor negotiations but will continue to monitor the situation until a new agreement is ratified by both parties.” In April, after nearly a year of negotiations, the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and port management’s Pacific Maritime Association reached a tentative agreement on what the union said were “key issues,” and that comment offered hope that an end may be near. The union in its April statement said talks will continue until a full agreement has been reached. Among the issues are terms for maintenance of 22,000 ILWU workers’ health care plans and a dispute between two unions on jurisdictional issues at the Port of Seattle over assignment of work. Amid the negotiations, port container volumes have dropped at all of the West Coast facilities. The declines are believed to be the result of the international and U.S. economies finding their equilibrium after three year of the COVID-19 pandemic and not the labor disputes. “With economic uncertainty continuing, the impact on trade is clear,” Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett said, noting high inflation, Federal Reserve interest rate hikes and recent bank failures. “Year-over-year import volumes have been on the decline at most ports since late last year and declining exports out of China highlight the slowdown in demand for consumer goods,”Hacket explained. “Our forecast now projects a larger decline in imports in the first half of this year than we forecast last month. Our view is that imports will remain below recent levels until inflation rates and inventory surpluses are reduced.” U.S. ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 1.62 million twentyfoot equivalent units (TEU) – one 20-foot container or its equivalent – in March. That was up 5 percent from February – which saw the lowest levels since May 2020 – but down 30.6 percent year over year. Global Port Tracker projected April at 1.73 million TEU, down 23.4 percent year over year. May was forecast at 1.83 million TEU, down 23.5 percent from last year’s 2.4 million TEU, the all-time record for the number of containers imported during a single month. June is forecast at 1.9 million TEU, down 15.9 percent; July at 2.01 million TEU, down 7.9 percent; August at 2.04 million TEU, down 9.9 percent, and September at 1.96 million TEU, down 3.4 percent. It’s important to note the large yearover-year declines are skewed by unusually high volumes in 2022. The first half of 2023 – previously forecast at 10.8 million TEU – is now forecast at 10.4 million TEU, down 22.8 percent from the first half of 2022. Global Port Tracker has not yet forecast the full year, but the third quarter is expected to total 6 million TEU, down 7.2 percent from the same time last year, and the first nine months of the year would total 16.5 million TEU, down 17.8 percent year over year. Imports for all of 2022 totaled 25.5 million TEU, down 1.2 percent from the annual record of 25.8 million TEU set in 2021. In the meantime, NRF said that despite the imports slow down and the continued negative economic news, retail sales continues to surprise. Retail sales bounced back in April, showing month-over-month and yearover-year growth. “Retail sales rebounded in April, reflecting consumer resilience in the face of elevated economic uncertainty,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Moderating price levels, continued labor market strength and wage gains have increased consumers’ ability to spend. However, they remain cautious and concerned about the current economic environment. Retailers continue to provide competitive pricing and convenience to help cost-sensitive consumers stretch their budgets.” NRF’s Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz added, “Consumers remained engaged in April, Shoppers are being selective and price-sensitive, but we continue to expect that spending will see modest gains through the course of the year.Year-over-year growth slowed, which was partly because of upward revisions to last year’s data but also an early indication that credit conditions are tightening and excess savings are shrinking.” NRF’s calculation of retail sales – which excludes automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants to focus on core retail – showed April was up 0.6 percent from March and up 2 percent unadjusted year over year. m Mixed Signals Imports Remain Below 2022; Retail Sales Bounce Back By Bruce Christian
16 InsideOutdoor | SPRING/SUMMER 2023 Questions to ask: • Has anything changed in the months since sales began slumping? This could pertain to placement in the store, vendors, or even staffing to name a few. • What are the top sellers in the classification currently? • What are the slow sellers, how are they being identified, and what corrective action has been taken? • How fresh and saleable is the current inventory? • How many vendors are you currently buying from? • Is the selection too broad? • Are the price points right for the intended customer? • Is there any duplication/overlap of products, styles, colors, sizes, etc. • Are any of the products carried in this class available online (most likely) and if so, are you price competitive. • Is the assortment plan correct for the classification? • If a significant portion of the sales in the category are sold online, how does your current shipping policy compare to others? • Are you suddenly competing with your vendor and if so, has this resulted in a loss in sales? • Are your sales associates properly trained? • If you are over-stocked compared to your merchandise plan, what can you eliminate? • How much of the product in the class is old? Over three months? six months? one year? If you determine there are multiple different items contained in the slumping category, a deep dive into the subclasses will be needed to isolate the problem. You might find that there are very fast turning items in a poorly performing class that are being overshadowed by the poor performance of the rest of the category. Once you have discovered the problem, it’s time to create and execute a strategy. Create and execute a strategy • Have someone on the staff or marketing department study the web for influencers in the area to find out what is trending in the category. This should most likely be done by age group, 30-40, 40-50, over 50, etc. • Assign a designated staff member to oversee the category and become the resident expert. This individual will oversee presentation as well as advising the buyer on fast sellers that need reordering as well as slow sellers that need stock balancing and/or markdowns. • Create a marketing campaign to include email blasts and social media content, e.g., Instagram reels. • If appropriate, conduct vendor sponsored clinics to educate sales associated and customers regarding features, advantages, and benefits. • Consider sales contests for a limited time. • Reach out to vendors for input, assistance, display ideas, advertising money, promotional merchandise, and even samples for sales associates if applicable. Once a strategy is created and agreed upon, it needs to be implemented. Review your results weekly and tweak your strategy as needed to improve results. By following the steps outlined above of identifying the problem, determining the cause and implementing and monitoring a strategy, the chances of improvement are greatly improved. As a service to outdoor industry retailers, I am available to discuss any unique situations not covered in this article. My contact information is listed below. m Ritchie@arsotb.com or 816-7288740. You also can contact me at www. advancedretailstrategies.com Ok, so you dodged a few bullets in the past couple of years. Covid lockdowns are in the rear-view mirror, supply chain issues for the most part are yesterday’s news and staffing issues are at least better. Things are going reasonably well as measured by sales increases against last year with customers shopping once again. Back to business as usual, right? Time to relax? Fuhgeddaboudit! You’ll have plenty of time to take life easy when you sell or retire. P.T Barnum once said, “comfort is the enemy of progress.” If you are too comfortable you might be tempted to stop aiming for improvement, and that could be dangerous. I would suggest stepping out of your comfort zone and challenging the status quo. Reviewing your retail operation, store by store, department by department, class by class and vendor by vendor is a wonderful starting point. If you are like many retailers, you have most likely encountered a classification or category that at one time or another was underperforming. In this article, I will point out some things to look for that might help you identify and hopefully correct that issue. First off, the warning signs of a troubled category must be recognized. Secondly the cause of the problem needs to be determined. Finally, a strategy needs to be developed and executed properly to fix the underperforming category. Signs that a class might be in trouble. Here are a few indicators that should set off some red flags. Things to look for are as follows: • Sales that are trailing last year for several consecutive months for no apparent reason. • A decrease in maintained markup. • No significant receipts of new merchandise in the past few months. • Excessive markdowns. • Stock-to-sales ratios begin exceeding plan causing inventory turnover to slow. If one or any combination of the above is happening the next step is to begin by asking questions. How to ‘Fix’ an Underperforming Category By Ritchie Sayner
“…Having a plan of how much to buy in each category, when to have it delivered, and when to mark it down is essential for most retailers. Ritchie Sayner has the expertise to help any retailer be as profitable as possible with every buy.” “Ritchie has delivered an exceptional resource to guide retailers to the next level. A must read for any retailer whether new in the business or a well-seasoned pro. Retail Revelations will become your constant companion.” “Ritchie’s helpful insights come from real experience working in retail and helping so many retailers achieve their financial goals. Retail Revelations is a mustread, practical guide packed with recommendations to help you make more money and improve your retail operation.” RETAIL REVELATIONS STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVING SALES, MARGINS, AND TURNOVER “If you don’t find at least one good idea from reading this book, I’ll buy it back!” —Ritchie Sayner AVAILABLE ON 2ND EDITION UPDATED WITH 50% MORE CONTENT Ritchie Sayner presents Since 1980, Ritchie Sayner has consulted with a hundreds of independent retailers on inventory control issues. He is the owner of Advanced Retail Strategies, LLC and an affiliate of Management One. Contact ritchie@arsotb.com or visit online at www.advancedretailstrategies.com. 2nd Edition available in Kindle and Paperback
18 InsideOutdoor | SPRING 2023 The outdoor industry and environmentalism are intrinsically linked. After all, the sports and activities to which the industry caters originated in natural surroundings. As the climate goes, the industry goes. Unprecedented weather pattern changes fueling concerns, such as early snowmelt in the Adirondacks, have already impacted tourism. Consequently, the survival and health of the natural ecosystem are critical for providing the most enjoyable experiences for participants. Consider the difference between going on a trail run versus running on a treadmill, for instance. You might get a similar level of exercise results on the treadmill. However, the artificial experience pales in comparison to the level of satisfaction and physiological benefits of running outside. By prioritizing and protecting our natural world, the outdoor industry can ensure future generations will be able to enjoy that world. At the same time, the industry can ensure that it keeps growing as customers invest in gear, apparel, and accessories. And the outdoor industry is huge, making up 2.2 percent of the gross domestic product in the United States, according to the Outdoor Industry Association. Americans spend $887 billion annually on outdoor recreation, a staggering amount that would be difficult — if not impossible — to replace if it were lost. Though they’re only one part of the outdoor industry, outdoor brands have the capacity to make an enormous impact when it comes to reducing environmentally disruptive activities. Brands are uniquely positioned to educate and interact with their customers, not to mention build communities eager to support sustainability and other green initiatives. How brands can introduce consumers to sustainable recreation Some outdoor industry brands have already taken up the torch to help promote sustainability in outdoor recreation and reduce careless human interaction with the environment. If you’re a leader of a company that’s passionate about environmentalism in general and sustainable tourism in outdoor recreation, try these strategies to make your positive mark on the planet and its wide-ranging habitats of flora and fauna: Reduce consumption by consolidating functionality – Many outdoor products offer performance features that don’t necessarily require more raw materials. For example, waterproof hiking jackets keep customers dry. However, most hikers want to be warm, too. Normally, this warmth is achieved through an insulating layer that requires more sourcing, more impact on the supply chain, and potentially more harm to the environment. The innovative workaround for this would be to line a waterproof jacket with a product woven with infrared fibers, thereby increasing local circulation and improving thermoregulation without the need for full-blown insulation. That type of all-inclusive product is a win for all stakeholders — even the Earth. Teach mindfulness of protected habitats – Many people, particularly those new to engaging in outdoor activities, might not realize they play a huge role in keeping habitats healthier. By Lucas Tyson Four Ways for Outdoor Brands to Encourage Sustainability
19 InsideOutdoor | SPRING/SUMMER 2023 Brands can talk about topics such as special rules of conservation in the environments their customers frequently enjoy. Take Fort Tilden Gateway National Recreation Area, for example. The beach is beautiful but needs human consideration to stay that way. The dunes there are home to several enhanced species of birds. As a result, joggers and walkers should restrict their movements to approved areas of the beach, thereby minimizing potentially harmful impacts on native species. Similarly, brands can educate their audiences on ecotourism: traveling with conservation and respectful exploration in mind. Lately, there’s been a lot of talk about how social media has fueled tourism habits that are disruptive to the environment. Brands can encourage being respectful travelers rather than tourists by supporting companies that support ecotourism. Encourage gear repairs, recycling, and upcycling – Overproduction and overconsumption are two leading ways the outdoor industry negatively impacts the environments it depends upon. Our society’s tendency toward consumerism and emphasis on novelty leads customers to prematurely discard items. Customers will put things in the trash even when products only have minor damage. This clogs the landfills and is an unsustainable practice. To prevent this behavior and possibly open new revenue streams, brands could look for ways to offer repair services. The services would extend the usable life of the products sold, in addition to sending an educational message to consumers. Offering a recycling program is another way for brands to ensure proper disposal of their merchandise. Companies might even want to engineer upcycled products from recycled materials, offering interesting entry points for buyers while discouraging the “throwaway” mentality. One company getting this right is Patagonia through its Worn Wear program, where consumers can sell or buy gently used Patagonia garments. However, the company didn’t stop there; it also takes scraps and gives them second lives. Sell high-quality gear. – Outdoor activities can be rough on gear. Lowquality products break down easily and must be replaced often. On the other hand, high-quality products tend to be durable, making them an excellent investment. However, consumers might not understand the wisdom of buying the best gear they can afford. Brands can help showcase the expected useful product lifetimes on their product pages. Companies might even want to talk about how long each piece of gear should last based on historical usage averages and proper care. Most consumers who love the outdoors want to preserve the places they visit. They just don’t always know how. Brands can serve as the link they need to simultaneously protect themselves during outside activities and protect the natural environment. Lucas Tyson is a Senior Business Developer for Hologenix, a materials science company dedicated to developing products that amplify human potential and improve health and wellness. CELLIANT, its flagship technology, is an infrared ingredient brand that enhances textile-based products with health and wellness benefits across performance, recovery and sleep. m Concierge-Level Fulfillment Services Why switch to Verde? 1. Reliable: You can trust us 2. Priority: Your success is our success 3. Real People: Talk to us all day, everyday 4. Accurate: We do it right the first time 5. Tech: Integrations, EDI, we have it all Email us for the Outdoor Retailer Move-In Special: sales@verdefulfillmentusa.com Locations Nationwide: Los Angeles, CA Indianapolis, IN Memphis, TN Boise, ID Ocala, FL Rochester, NY www.verdefulfillmentusa.com
InsideOutdoor | SPRING/SUMMER 2023 20 Product Showcase SPRING/SUMMER ’24 NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE Decathalon The Quechua NH500 Escape Roll Top Pack offers utility for those hitting the trails, heading into the office and everything in between. It features a useful full-length side zipper that allows the bag to open widely exposing nearly a dozen internal pockets and a 17” laptop sleeve. Two foam shoulder straps supplement an ergonomic five-panel foam back and a waist and sternum strap help distribute your load. The roll top offers some flexibility in overall space and adds a sleek style whether on the trail, traveling, at school or the office. MSRP: $69.99 Helinox Helinox introduces Chair Zero L. Starting with the proven design of the original Chair Zero, the Helinox team set out to keep the weight extremely low while offering a wider and slightly more rigid frame made to accommodate a broader range of outdoor enthusiasts. To accomplish this, the engineers increased the diameter of the brand’s signature 7000 series aluminum alloy for greater rigidity, ensuring the Chair Zero L is featherlight and super packable while also increasing the weight capacity by more than 20 percent. Helinox Chair Zero L Specifications: Height 25 in / 67 cm4 in / 10 cm Width 21 in / 54 cm4.5 in / 11 cm Depth 20 in / 51 cm Weight 1 lbs. 6 oz. / 640 g Capacity 320 lb / 145 kg Warranty 5 years MSRP: $159.99 TSL Outdoor Connect Carbon 5 Trekking Poles The Connect Carbon 5 poles are the light, compact, and adjustable trekking poles you’ve been looking for. Made with five carbon sections it’s perfect for hikers and travelers. It also features options for a cross grip which is more comfortable on steep terrain or a light grip for a lighter option. They’re equipped with the TSL magnetic Strap Concept making it easy to remove the straps easily. MSRP $169.95 Leki’s Makalu Cork Lite Trekking Pole The Makalu Cork Lite makes your next outdoor adventure the best yet. The Makalu Cork Lite comes with the newly developed Aergon Air grip, made with genuine cork. Cork absorbs moisture from sweaty or wet hands, decreases vibration, and best conforms to the shape of your palms. Special hollow core technology combines lightweight construction with a supportive grip for unparalleled ergonomic comfort for your hands. The back of the Aergon Air grip is rubberized providing maximum grip when going downhill. The built-in positive angle supports your wrist for optimal guidance and placement of the pole. The Makalu Cork Lite provides the ultimate tool for comfortable and secure outings. With its slim tube diameter, the Makalu Cork Lite has a weight of only 254 g (9 oz) and is infinitely adjustable from 110 cm to 130 cm using the durable and time-tested Speed Lock plus lever system. This collapsible and durable 3-section pole is crafted from HTS 6.5 aluminum providing exceptional durability and dependability no matter where your next adventure takes you. $149.95 GEAR
InsideOutdoor | SPRING/SUMMER 2023 21 Kokopelli’s Platte Kokopelli, known for its ultra-packable pack rafts and durable outdoor goods, has created the Platte, an adventure-ready kayak for anyone looking to get out outside and into the water. The Platte is a two-piece design that is lightweight enough to pack down for easy transport at only 24 pounds when fully equipped. The Platte makes life on the water feel sweeter while allowing you to get where you need to be thanks to its supportive molded EVA foam, multi-point adjustable seat, and bow and stern splash-\ MSRP: $899.00 Rab’s Muon 40 The new Muon 40 backpack is for fast-moving hikers covering long distances with a lighter kit. This robust, streamlined 40L pack features easy access and roll-top entry. It has a tough ultralight Spectra Ripstop fabric and a close-fitting TRI-FLEX carry system for allday comfort. MSRP: $ 240.00 recteq’s Grills The Road Warrior 340 Designed for camping, tailgating and traveling, the redesigned Road Warrior 340 is a new portable wood pellet grill that can go wherever the road leads, thanks to the collapse-and-go construction. Portable Collapse-and-Go Construction – Strategically redesigned, collapsible legs ensure the grill can be sized down, moved, and stored with ease. Reduced weight and heavy-duty caster-wheeled design make carrying and transport simple, and the smaller size means it can slide into almost any space. Ultimate Versatility – Unlock total cooking flexibility with the Road Warrior’s temperature range of 200°F to 700°F. The rock-solid PID control, the gold standard in temperature control, means you can achieve incredible flavor and perfect consistency in every single cook. 100% Stainless Steel Durability: Always built like a tank, the Road Warrior is set up to weather storms with heavy-duty stainless steel components, a waterproof design to reduce water intrusion, and high-quality workmanship from top to bottom. $599 Rab’s Mythic Ultra 120 Modular Sleeping Bag The new Mythic Ultra 120 is an ultralight sleeping bag with a TILT lining and 900FP down in the upper only, to achieve excellent warmth for weight. Designed to be used with one of Rab’s sleeping pads to form the ultimate lightweight sleep system. Ideal for thru hiking, or other mountain adventures. MSRP: $465.00
InsideOutdoor | SPRING/SUMMER 2023 22 Product Showcase Patio Legend 410 Measuring 40 inches x 24 inches, the Patio Legend 410 offers compact performance with this wood pellet grill scaled down into a streamlined, smaller footprint. Space-Saving Design – An extra wide entry to load larger cuts of meat, a wide-stance leg design for increased stability, and a generous 14-pound hopper means you don’t have to compromise on anything with the Patio Legend. Convenient Wi-Fi Connectivity – Wi-Fi Connectivity makes cooking with the Patio Legend as easy as a screen swipe. recteq’s dual band controller gives you reliable connectivity and the ability to turn the grill on, off, and adjust the temperature up and down from anywhere using the highly rated recteq app. Classic recteq Features – This smaller grill packs a huge punch and is durable enough to last for the long haul. With the ability to hit any desired temp between 200°F to 700°F, the Patio Legend provides all the head needed for best meals you’ve ever tasted. $699 EXPED Summit Hike 25 Lightweight, durable and versatile day hiker has a ventilated mesh back, stretch side pockets and generous zipper opening. The Summit Hike 25 is the ideal companion for hiking, day trips and everyday life, but it doesn’t mind adventures in rocks and mountains either. Thanks to the small, packed size and low weight, the Summit Hike is well suited as a backup daypack in your luggage. Made with recycled 600 D fabric, PU coated, PFC-free. $99.95 BOTE BOTE Hangout Water Hammock (available in two sizes: 7 and 10) The Hangout Water Hammock from BOTE is a game-changing inflatable water hammock that lets you relax in comfort on the water. With its design and comfortable materials, the hammock allows you to relax and float on the water while soaking up the sun. Perfect for use at the beach, lake or pool, the hammock is easy to set up and use, making it a must-have for any water lover. Able Carry Daybreaker 2 A 25L ultralight activity backpack made with durable fabrics, and updated for easy access, convenient storage and comfortable support for any adventure. Specs: Cordura Ripstop Nylon / X-Pac (X42) Stretch Divider: fits up to 40x28x6cm 25L capacity Cordura Ripstop Nylon: 660 grams / 1.4lbs X-Pac X42: 718 grams / 1.58lbs H50 x W26 x D19 cm / 19.7” x 10.2” x 7.5” MSRP: $128-162
InsideOutdoor | SPRING/SUMMER 2023 23 Able Carry Max Backpack Able Carry’s Max Backpack delivers a first-class travel experience with its practical organization, tough and water-resistant build, awesome comfort, and understated looks. The Max Backpack offers 30L of space, yet somehow seems to be able to carry even more, while feeling like a smaller pack on your back. A lot of this has to do with the minimalist aesthetics, keeping the bag understated, and avoiding unnecessary attention as you travel. Well-padded shoulder straps, a ventilated back panel, a handy magnetic sternum strap, and Able Carry’s Aframe support makes hauling your gear more enjoyable and encourages you to roam a little further than you might otherwise have. MSRP: $278 Mountainsmith’s Zerk 25L Building on the success of its Zerk 40 Backpack, Mountainsmith has co-designed with The Real Hiking Viking an ideal, 25L, lightweight, breathable thru-hiker, peak-bagging backpack. Zerk 25L Features: 1.5” Removable waist belt The large main compartment holds 25 liters of gear. Attached top lid closure with a zippered pocket for additional light gear, and snacks. Side compression straps for securing load throughout the entire pack. Side water bottle pockets, angled opening for easy access Reflective piping for low-light visibility Expansive front mesh pocket for hauling bulky gear. Front cord loops which can be configured with bungee cord EVA foam padded shoulder straps Front Panel bungee attachment system. MSRP: $199.95 Able CarryDaily Plus Take everyday further with Daily Plus – a 21L everyday backpack with high organization, and comfortable cushioning in a clean minimalist design. Specs: Laptop Sleeve: Fits most 16-inch devices Tablet Sleeve: Fits up to 11-inch iPad Stealth Bottle Pocket Made with X-Pac Fabric MSRP: $198 North St. Bags’s Vancouver Daypack is a sleek, lightweight backpack for everyday needs. The 13-liter pack’s main compartment has room for your work, commute or day-tripping essentials. It features a built-in laptop sleeve with an anti-gravity cushion seam at the bottom; a zippered stash pocket with a key ring for valuables; and velcro-in pocket compatibility. On the outside is a stealth water bottle pocket. The Vancouver is made from a single layer of recycled EcoPak sailcloth – a lightweight, ultra durable and waterproof fabric crafted from 100 percent recycled polyester. MSR Hubba Hubba Bikepack Tent Made for those who live to adventure on two wheels, the Hubba Hubba Bikepacking tent series builds on the success of the Hubba Hubba and takes it up a notch with cycle-specific touches. The super packable tent has been designed with thoughtful features that all cyclists will appreciate, such as a handlebar stuff sack, handlebar spacers, shorter segment poles to fit between drops or in small spaces, and interior and exterior clotheslines to easily dry sweaty or rain-drenched gear. It also features oversized storage pockets and offers exceptional livability with generous headroom, oversized vestibules, and a rectangular floorplan, making these tents best-in-class.
InsideOutdoor | SPRING/SUMMER 2023 24 Product Showcase MYSTERY RANCH Coulee Get ready for your next adventure with the versatile Coulee 30 pack from MYSTERY RANCH It’s the perfect companion for any journey, whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or the urban jungle. Crafted with high-quality recycled materials, the Coulee 30 pack is designed to withstand any challenge and keep your gear organized – and it’s comfortable and sleek and will match any fit. Choose from a range of fun colors to suit your personal style and mood. The external pockets paired with internal organization help keep your phone, glasses, and earbuds safe. And the little clip attached to the inside pocket? That’s for your keys - you’ll never lose them. The only thing that makes these packs better is the preconsumer, recycled material that is smooth to the touch, durable and backed with a lifetime guarantee. MYSTERY RANCH Bridger Whether you’re packing for a sunrise-to-sunset day hike or making a weekend getaway into the wilderness as a seasoned pro or a backpacking newbie, the new Bridger series has got you covered. Trust us. Built with top-of-the-line recycled materials, including MIPAN Regen Robic Nylon made from 100% preconsumer reclaimed waste, the Bridger 35 is built for the long-haul. It marries comfort with ultimate functionality with the innovative Endurance Yoke designed after the on-trail convenience of a running vest. Backed with a lifetime guarantee. Tenkara Yari Rod Tenkara Rod has updated it’s Yari rod. The Yari rod is great for fishing in the mountains streams, so if you’re traveling, backpacking, overlanding, or just planning your next trip to the mountains check it out. The Yari is Tenkara Rod Co’s first Japanese-made Tenkara rod. It teamed up with some of the best rod makers in Japan to create a 360cm, lightweight, soft-action Tenkara rod. Using all premium materials the Yari is a traditional style Tenkara rod.Meant for fishing light lines and light flies in mountain streams. Yari Rod $275 Yari Rod Kit $295 Danner & MYSTERY RANCH A versatile daypack ready to climb nearby mountains or tackle urban commutes, also inspired by the sunsets of Big Sky Country. MYSTERY RANCH’S signature 3-ZIP design makes for quick entry to the pack’s main pocket while the easy access lid pocket keeps essentials always within reach. Expandable exterior bottle pockets and hydration reservoir compatibility provide ample room for a full day’s adventure. Equipped with a removable waist belt and doublelayered bottom panel for hauling heavy loads. • Features a removable, Redirect waist belt system that secures in a natural, forward pull direction that requires less effort to tighten. • The patented Futura Yoke easily micro adjusts to the torso length allowing the proper amount of stand-off between the back and frame. • Featuring a classic 3-ZIP design for easy, rapid access to the interior. • Zippered lid pocket to organize essentials • Zippered pockets on waist belt • Water bottle pockets keep hydration handy • Hydration reservoir compatible • Double-layered bottom for long-haul durability • $229
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