Archive for February, 2012

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More than 80,000 Youth and Families Introduced to Winter Recreation in the Month of January

Wednesday, February 29th, 2012

By: Ali Kelley, Deputy Associate Director for Let’s Move Outside!
February 29, 2012

This January marked the fourth annual Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month (LSSM). The month-long effort aims to get children and adults of all experience levels on the slopes for an active start to the New Year.  LSSM began in 2009 with a few select programs and has since grown to include more than 300 ski resorts in 33 states.  Throughout the month of January, these resorts provided introductory ski and snowboard lessons to more than 80,000 children and adults across the country for free or at a reduced price. 

A highlight of this year’s LSSM was an event in the rugged mountains of North Carolina.  On January 28th, more than 150 young people from Knollwood Elementary and the Whitehead Boys & Girls Club in Atlanta, GA visited Cataloochee Ski and Snowboard Resort in North Carolina’s Scenic Maggie Valley. The Southern Snow Seekers Club sponsored the event, providing the students with exciting opportunities to get active outside and learn new skills. “Our trip showcased snow sports as a fun and enjoyable way to move and stay healthy, even if there’s a chill in the air,” commented Kimberly King, SSS President.

LSSM is very popular in the Rocky Mountains.  This January, the Colorado Ski Country USA First Class program celebrated its second year, giving more than 800 5th graders across the state the chance to try skiing or snowboarding for the first time. Participating resorts provided each student with three free lift tickets and one free lesson. According to one parent, the program has “really helped us bond – it’s become our “thing.” And in a time in your kid’s life when it’s only getting harder to “hang out,” this program really brought us together as a family.”

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Meyer: 90-year-old skier having a hill of a good time

Tuesday, February 28th, 2012

By: John Meyer
The Denver Post
February 28, 2012

WINTER PARK — Bob Brunson didn’t discover the joy of skiing until he was 49 years old, but he will tell you it has changed his life.

For the past 41 years.

A World War II fighter pilot who will turn 91 in June, Brunson has to take it easy, and he skis with an oxygen tank because of a lung problem that almost killed him a year ago. But he’s a proud member of Winter Park’s SkiMeisters club for senior citizens — and a popular one at that.

“The women love him,” said SkiMeister member P.J. Slovikoski, 68. “The SkiMeister women love Bob.”

What’s not to love? I wanted to hug him the whole time I was with him. And I want to be like him when I grow up.

Brunson first got hooked on skiing because it was “something physical to do,” but it soon meant much more to him, as it does for most of us who feel the joy it brings us deep in our souls.

Brunson first got hooked on skiing because it was “something physical to do,” but it soon meant much more to him, as it does for most of us who feel the joy it brings us deep in our souls.

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It’s In the Bag, Part II

Monday, February 27th, 2012

Merchandising Monday
By: Ali Levy
February 27, 2012

I noticed these bags made by a company called Burltex while attending the National Retail Federation’s “Big Show” last month in NYC.  We’re living in the age of bringing our reusable bags to the grocery stores as we try to reduce and reuse whenever possible, so why not make up a batch of these customized shoppers which are made from polypropylene, for your store. Sure, they may cost you a little bit more but in the long run you’ll be cutting down on paper and plastic waste, not to mention giving your store a healthy boost free exposure with reusable bags such as these.

For more information, you can visit their website, www.burltex.com  or email their U.S. office at:  eran@amraninc.com.

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SIA Releases First-ever Mid-Season Report

Friday, February 24th, 2012

February 24, 2012

Mid-Season Numbers, Emerging Trends Impacted by Snow Conditions

Washington, DC (February 22, 2012) — Earlier today, SnowSports Industries America (SIA) announced the release of its first-ever Mid-Season Snow Sports Market Intelligence Report.  The report covers a wide-range of activities in the snow sports marketplace while providing an in depth view of market conditions ranging from August-December 2011.

Few industries have access to current and comprehensive market data found in the Mid-Season Intelligence Report and particularly relevant for the snow sports market to consider while the season is in full swing. The SIA 2011/2012 Mid-Season Intelligence Report is available free to SIA members, as a member benefit, and available to non-members for $425.  Learn more here.

“The snow sports market is very sensitive to weather and this season’s conditions are clearly having an impact on the market. We decided to provide our members with a comprehensive report on sales and participation during the season this year to keep them up-to-speed during this critical time in the buy-sell cycle, said Kelly Davis, SIA’s Director of Research. “The Mid-Season Snow Sports Market Intelligence Report is a fantastic tool for anyone looking to measure the market, see emerging trends and make educated business decisions.”

Snow sports consumer buying habits have been influenced by the lack of snow this season, however consumers continued to buy bringing December sales to $2.2 billion, 2% below last season’s record sales but above August – December Sales in the 2008/2009 and 2009/2010 seasons.

Sales between August and December were down 10% overall in units with pronounced decreases in accessories that consumers tend to buy on their way to the mountains including goggles, wax and gloves. Equipment and apparel traditionally purchased weeks/months prior to a mountain escape fared better with increased sales in major categories including alpine equipment, AT/Randonee equipment and insulated tops. Specialty shop inventories were up 16% overall, clearly showing the lag in sales. Additionally, specialty shop sell-through was down 10% overall through December as consumers waited for more snow to fall.

Trends to Watch in 2011/2012

  • Reverse and mixed camber ski sales are up an astounding 75% in units sold reaching 87,000 pairs sold, making up 23% of all alpine skis sold through December this season.
  • Insulated parka sales are up 4% in units sold as non-participants head to chain stores and online to buy snow sports apparel as casual wear. Internet sales of insulated parkas are up 18% in units and 14% dollars sold through December.
  • In-season AT/Randonee boot sales are up 12% in units and dollars, while skin sales are up 10% in units sold and 12% in dollars sold.
  • Rocker snowboard sales account for more than 70% of all in-season snowboard sales this season. Sales of rocker boards increased 13% in units and 11% in dollars sold through December.

The 2011 Mid-Season Report covers a variety of retail channels including snow sports specialty shops, chain stores and the Internet. The easy-to-follow analysis also features stand-alone chapters for alpine, snowboard, cross country, telemark, backcountry-AT/Randonee, snowshoe, equipment/apparel accessories and apparel categories.

If you have any questions, contact Kelly Davis, SIA’s Director of Research, KDavis@snowsports.org or 703.506.4224.

Posted in SIA Research, Skiing, Snowboarding, SnowSports Industries America | No Comments »

What We Can All Learn From Ski Patrollers

Thursday, February 23rd, 2012

By: Skiing Magazine
February 23, 2012

Each season, ski patrollers clock millions of hours on the hill. So we asked these mountain savants—hundreds nationwide—to share their insights on everything from meat-rub recipes to banking good karma. Here are 100 of their secrets.

It Ain’t Boring

1.It Ain’t Boring Had I known I would be an Aspen Mountain ski patroller for 30 years, I would’ve punched out my ski boots when my feet first began to hurt and held on to that Apple stock I bought in the ’80s. But as it stands, my feet are lumpy with bone spurs and my retirement plan is kaput. Still, it’s been worth every turn.

We patrollers are a ruddy bunch—from talented misfits to law-school dropouts—with duct-taped gloves and dirty uniforms. Our headquarters are ripe with banter and tradition, and the clannishness can be thicker than an inch-an-hour blizzard. We have more words for snow than Aussies have for vomit. (Our lexicon—“snirt” is snow and dirt—often sends French exchangers home with a near-useless English vocabulary.)

We’ve coolly outskied avalanche slabs with packs full of explosives and igniters tucked into our goggle straps (though since 9/11, stricter protocol has prevailed). We’ve brought people back from death (once setting off lift-line cheers at the announcement of a pulse). I’ve retrieved a hysterical man’s wig after his fall and replaced it on his head backward. I’ve rescued a woman with an exploded breast implant. I’ve broken up fistfights and skied with the King of Spain. We are rescuers, referees, and ambassadors. But above all, we are a modern, professional outfit. Today patrols provide care on the slopes equal to what EMT-Ps provide on city streets.

This profession can hijack your intentions—vocational, romantic, academic. Instead, you’ll learn how to save lives, find free food, and drink beer from a cowboy boot. The years will leave you with rich friendships, stories, and epic ski days—and a bone spur or two.  —Tim Cooney, Aspen Mountain, Colorado

2.Put Up or Shut Up. Let your skiing speak for itself.  —Lel Tone, Squaw Valley, California

3.Gun It All the time. And don’t spray about it later.  —Sam Howard, Alta, Utah

4 Ski More On your deathbed you’re not going to wish you’d spent more time at the office.  —Gordon Gebauer, Jay Peak, Vermont

 
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SIA Snow Sports Directory Now Available

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2012

By: SIA
February 22, 2012

The 2012 SIA Snow Sports Directory is now accessible in three different formats, making the industry always readily available at your fingertips.

The Directory has been produced annually for over 50 years and is the most widely used industry resource for retailers, media, suppliers, resorts and industry groups. This resourceful book is the only place where you can access the most important industry contacts, brand listings and personnel.

There are three ways to use the Directory:

Online Directory
The Online Directory is a live link to the member database and is always up to date with current contact listings. Click here to view the SIA Online Directory.

Interactive PDF
Download the interactive PDF version for easy access to the industry 24/7. Search within the PDF and save directly to your desktop for endless contacts. The PDF also includes the Addendum; a list of changes and editions made to the directory, through January 29, 2012.

Hard Copy
The hard copy version of the PDF is broken down into sections based on brands, products and personnel making researching and cross-referencing a breeze.

Forgot to pick up an SIA Snow Sports Directory at the Show? No worries.
To request a hard copy of the Directory email Directory2012@snowsports.org

To make changes to your Directory listing please contact SIA’s Membership Department at PGrenke@snowsports.org or 703.506.4222

 

 

Thanks to PrimaLoft for being a contributing sponsor of the 2012 SIA Directory.

 

 

Posted in SIA Snow Show, Skiing, Snowboarding, SnowSports Industries America | No Comments »

The 2012 SIA Snow Show is a Wrap

Tuesday, February 21st, 2012

By: Shayboarder
February 21, 2012

For four days in late January, the snow sports community flocked to Denver for the annual SIA Snow Show to view the latest gear for 2013. Retailers spent their days in appointments booking orders as the press and media captured the products and parties, and the industry took over the Mile High City to reunite, rejuvenate and revive winter sports. For the first time since SIA moved to Denver, people finally stopped talking about missing Vegas.

Despite a less than stellar season for snowfall around the US, over 20,000 attendees made the Snow Show to welcome the next generation of products. In case you didn’t make the SIA Snow Show, here’s a glimpse into the snowboard products and trends coming out for 2013.

Possibilities for everyone Flat, Rocker, Reverse Camber, Hybrid, Camber, new designs are the rage. Riders have an assortment of choices to handle whatever riding they want but now they can choose from new designs out on the market for 2013. Camber isn’t dead either, Lib Tech introduced C3, a new banana technology with three cambers. Venture Snowboards out of Colorado introduced their new Euphoria model built for deep powder days and floating the snow wave. Rome Snowboards take a classic Hosoi shape to the snow for skate influence style and freestyle fun with the Hammerhead snowboard. For their third year, Jones Snowboards introduces three boards to the women’s line and offers a Carbon Series freeride and splitboard the line.

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Tales Of An Office Romance

Monday, February 20th, 2012

By: Ryan Dionne
Skiing Business
February 20, 2012

From long tradeshow days and late-night meetings to ripping pow and designing next year’s gear, one thing is clear: We’re all in this industry because we love it.

So in the spirit of Valentine’s Day, Skiing Business caught up with a variety of people from across the ski industry, and asked one question:

Why do you love working in the ski industry?

“They say if you love what you do, you never work a day in your life. That rings true for a lot of us, it’s not really work, it’s hanging out with some great people and talking about something we all have a passion for.” — Jim Blue, Scandinavian Ski and Snowboard Shop

“I love working in the ski industry because I spend more time on the mountain than I do in the office!” — Caitlin Martz, Canyons resort

“Incredible people, stunning places, inspirational feats, endless potential. Coolest (pun intended) industry out there, hands down.” — Laura Schaffer, Mountain Hardwear

whyloveindustryquote01

“I know most people will say the perks of shredding fresh powder or getting first tracks, which are all fine and dandy, but what I love most about the ski industry is the people. It’s hard to consider this ‘work’ when you get to make new friends while doing business and represent products you are passionate about and believe it. That and playing GNAR with my buddies on a work trip.” — Seth Beiden, CamelBak

 

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The 27th annual Legendary Mt. Baker Banked Slalom

Friday, February 17th, 2012

By: Dave Wray, SIA’s Western Sales & Marketing Manager @DWraySIA
February 17, 2012

There’s something about the turn that makes snowboarding so damn fun.  And face it, most of what you do on a board involves turning.  Add some frozen, banked, skate park like walls, some of the best pro snowboarders in the world, some legends, some everyday shredders like me, a slew of groms, some gourmet/homemade food and a splash of Northwest soul and there you have it, the Legendary Mt. Baker Banked Slalom.  It’s the same thing only better and it’s been going on for the last 27 years.  I’m guessing it could be the longest running snowboard event out there, but that’s not the point.

No hype, no fuss and no joke it’s the real deal of snowboarding and being a part of it is the highlight of my season…every season.  Gumby (Bob Gundram, C3) said it best “you can try to duplicate this event, but you certainly can’t replicate it.”  He and a several other industry dudes somehow figured out how great this event is and that the only way to get in on the action and ride the course is to sponsor the event.

The roll call of industry heads goes like this: Gags (Mike Gagliardi, Never Summer), Johan (Johan Malkoski, C3), Gumby (C3), Blue Montgomery (C3), George Kleckner (C3), Maxx Von Marbod (POW Gloves), Eric Carlson (Smith Optics), Corey Smith (Smith, Mtn Approach), John Kaiser (Mtn Approach), Pete Saari (Mervin), Krush Kulesza (Mervin) Andrew Marriner (Billabong), Bobby Meeks (Nike), Scott Downing (NW rep), Dustin Anderson (NW rep), Dave Graves (Rockies rep), Eric Warble (CO rep), Amy Eichner (Salomon Bonfire Snowboarding) 2nd place women’s pro- masters, Bob Klein (Octagon Olympic and Action Sports), Benjamin Pellegrino (Milosport, Orem Utah), George Bean (US Outdoor), Karma Vella (Poler), Patrick McCarthy (686). 

The fast and icy conditions of the course on Sunday took its toll on many including myself.  Usually somewhere between the 3rd and 5th turn people got bucked off the course and spit out of the turn simply because the G-forces couldn’t be managed properly.  Those that did harness that energy while continuing to generate more speed did it the right way.  And those that did that all the way down the course each and every turn the fastest got a roll of duct tape and huge respect from the entire community that was there.

The course is only part of the action.  The real deal takes place in many different and unexpected forms and places.  The Mt. Baker crew puts their entire heart and soul into this event and it really shows.  They cook over 450 lbs. of salmon, the racer tent at the top is stocked with gourmet soups, paella, chocolate and cheese fondue along with hot cider, cocoa and coffee.  They’ve got a DJ up there spinning tunes, One Ball Jay holds down the waxing scene and all this creates a one-of-a-kind vibe like no other snowboarding event out there. 

This year they threw in a new twist with the addition of a free-from quarter pipe hand plant contest of sorts.  This all went down at the new Ravens Hut Lodge along with the traditional salmon bake and beer garden.  It’s events like this that make me feel so damn lucky to have a career in the snow industry as a professional and a rider.

Here are some random links on the event as well.  Some might have some inappropriate language so beware.

http://the-tackledbox.blogspot.com/

http://snowboarding.transworld.net/1000171287/featuresobf/the-2012-legendary-mount-baker-banked-slalom/?show=gallery

http://espn.go.com/action/snowboarding/story/_/id/7569372/27th-legendary-mt-baker-banked-slalom

http://www.shayboarder.com/2012/02/mt-baker-legendary-banked-slalom-finals-21212.html

http://www.yobeat.com/2012/02/13/2012-legendary-banked-slalom-video/

 

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Snowboard Dollar Sales Down 5% Through December

Thursday, February 16th, 2012

By: Mike Lewis
TransWorld Business
February 16, 2012

We were pleasantly surprised by the general mood at the 2012 SIA Snow Show. Despite a rough winter (read “brown, sunny, and better suited for skating, surfing, and mountain biking”) brands and retailers were keeping their glasses half full, and not just with beer. Early season sales has been decent, the inventory pipeline was well lubricated at the end of last season, and the overall consensus on the floor about the snow was “it will come.”

SIA released its December sales data for the snowsports industry as a whole at the beginning of the show, but it was largely devoid of snowboard specific stats so we followed up with SIA Director of Research Kelly Davis, as we do each month during the season, to dig into the snow stats.

August-December 2011 Snowboard Top Line Data (Includes all channels and carryover)

  • Snowboard equipment sales down 10% in units and 5% in dollars to $197M
  • Board sales are down 7% in units, 4.5% in dollars
  • Boots are down 11% in units, and 6% in dollars
  • Bindings are down 11% in units, and 6% in dollars

While these figures are from from rosy, the numbers are better than they could have been with as little snow as has been gracing the slopes this season, thanks to those early season sales. The real worry will come if the forecast continues to look like spring for much of the nation.

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