This is just a quick post on my thoughts of the first day of Outdoor Retailer. First- I have to say it was so cool to meet Apa Sherpa the Super Sherpa! He is one of the nicest, most humble men you will meet. This Spring he is headed back to Mt Everest for his 20th summit. He is a rock star!
There are three themes for Fall 2010 outdoor gear lines that I saw today:
1. Layering
Everyone from Smartwool to Mountain Hardwear will be offering an entire line from base layers to outerwear, with each piece meant to complement and enhance the performance of the next. Within each layer, companies are using multiple knits of differing weights. So you may find a wool base layer with polyester strips running under the pits and down the sides for better heat management.
Smartwool's Layering System
2. Work Gloves
Work gloves seems to be a growth category for much of the glove vendors.
Marmot's Exum Work Glove
3. Heritage
Many companies are bringing back updated versions of products they sold years ago.
Pack's from Jansport's Heritage Collection
Those are some quick thoughts from Day 1 of the show. More tomorrow!