"e only constant is change" is an old phrase that seems especially resonant
right now.
Every day since early March has seemed to bring with it developments that
upend any plans made that day. As we hit the dog days of summer, it's evident
that this is a summer unlike any before it, across almost all fronts. e COVID-
19 pandemic continues to cast a long shadow, with trade shows cancelled, sports
seasons in flux, and consumer behavior impacted.
Bob McGee writes about some of the wide-ranging implications of this summer
like no other for the back to school season and beyond — you can find his story
on page 10.
And we've been looking at the bright spots — maybe you have, too. e performance
running category has seen a resurgence, with more and more Americans looking
to the run as a critical element of their physical and mental health. Check out
some of the most innovative at-once and spring '21 styles on page 18. (And get some insight into what consumers
are thinking about staying active — and what they're buying in support — on page 30.)
All activities that give people a welcome dose of the outdoors have seen similar new infusions of interest. On page
24, we round up some of spring '21's most rugged and versatile adventure-ready styles.
But while we're looking ahead, summer is unfolding around us, sure to bring new challenges — but new opportunities,
too. We'd love to know how you're tackling the former — and we'd especially love to know which of the latter you're
pursuing as well. Drop us a line: We can't wait to hear what you're seeing.
Change Constant
TIME OUT | JENNIFER ERNST BEAUDRY
4 • Footwear Insight ~ July 2020 footwearinsight.com
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