Although the brands showing at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market in Salt Lake City cater to different consumers, there were several common themes for spring ’18 on display. Well before these new looks for the season arrive, here are five trends Footwear News came across during the twice-annual showcase.
Get Ready to Hike
Trail running shoes have been the go-to style for the market’s leading labels to attract new, younger consumers. But light hikers are becoming more prevalent and executed in ways that are sure to attract millennials. Hi-Tec is one brand delivering eye-catching hiking styles for the season, led by its Wildfire model for men and women, which boasts both lifestyle appeal and performance characteristics.
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Conscious of the Environment
Catering to the performance needs of outdoor enthusiasts isn’t enough to appease consumers spending their hard-earned dollars. Brands must also prove to shoppers that it is also important to deliver environmentally friendly products. Running staple Altra is doing so by adding its Bloom Foam insoles, which are made from algae, to its casual offerings, and Timberland is continuing to work with Thread to use material sourced from recycled plastic bottles retrieved in Haiti in several boot uppers.
Comfort Isn’t Spared
Many of the outdoor-specific styles were executed with exceptional comfort in mind. The comfort push is highlighted by Khombu‘s upcoming yoga-inspired collection and Timberland’s FlyRoam Collection boasting Aerocore midsole.
Athletic Continues to Inspire
The outdoor market is continuing to take cues from athletic counterparts by making performance shoes lighter and faster. Merrell is leading the way with ultralightweight hikers for the season, including its low and mid Chameleon 7 models for men and women.
Prices Are Dropping
Not every brand has low-priced selections, but many are catering to people buying on a budget. Khombu will deliver its Yoga Core Comfort Collection for women, all featuring $59.99 price points, and Hi-Tec’s Wildfire for men and women will come in at $90.
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