I recently attended the Outdoor Retailer trade show in Salt Lake City, Utah and was very impressed by the innovation and new Autumn 2011/Winter 2012 product launches seen at the show. Technical advancements in high performance garments have come a long way, and it was one of the top stories at O.R.
Outdoor brands have always been researching new ways to keep athletes drier, warmer, and bulk-free. A prominent, new product set to revolutionize the outdoor apparel market is the Dry Q Elite by Mountain Hardwear. The essence of Dry Q Elite is to solve the problem of moisture retention and sweat build up when wearing weather proof fabrics such as Gore-Tex. The instantly breathable membrane allows the body to breathe and takes moisture away before it can build up.
Colombia Sportswear unveiled its new omni-heat jacket and gloves. This was one of the coolest inventions out in the market. The jacket and glove allows for “heat on demand” with the push of a button. It’s kind of like an electric blanket in apparel form, but with many more performance features.
Lastly, outdoor brands are taking the leap into a new colorful direction. Street and snowboard color trends are making their way onto winter and ski apparel, adding a heightened fashion element to the outdoor apparel sector.
For the full report on Outdoor Retailer trends and brand highlights, check back on www.wgsn.com next week.
Outdoor brands have always been researching new ways to keep athletes drier, warmer, and bulk-free. A prominent, new product set to revolutionize the outdoor apparel market is the Dry Q Elite by Mountain Hardwear. The essence of Dry Q Elite is to solve the problem of moisture retention and sweat build up when wearing weather proof fabrics such as Gore-Tex. The instantly breathable membrane allows the body to breathe and takes moisture away before it can build up.
Colombia Sportswear unveiled its new omni-heat jacket and gloves. This was one of the coolest inventions out in the market. The jacket and glove allows for “heat on demand” with the push of a button. It’s kind of like an electric blanket in apparel form, but with many more performance features.
Lastly, outdoor brands are taking the leap into a new colorful direction. Street and snowboard color trends are making their way onto winter and ski apparel, adding a heightened fashion element to the outdoor apparel sector.
For the full report on Outdoor Retailer trends and brand highlights, check back on www.wgsn.com next week.
