Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/1333897
"Versatility in footwear continues to be extremely important to consumers. More shoes for the outdoors are being purchased than ever before, as consumers continue to spend significant time there. Footwear that combines functionality and style is integral to be able to wear for multiple activities. We also continue to see sales of soft toe boots grow, as consumers can wear them for their work needs, but also doing projects around the house and casual wear." Lauren Poole, Brand Marketing Director, Wolverine "One of the more important trends impacting the outdoor boot category is the shift in lifestyle and people's desire for experiences over things. While the pandemic is driving people outside in the near term, what I believe to have staying power is the want to engage in more opportunities for experiences. The result is that function is winning out over fashion more than we've seen in a long time." Mark Hubner, VP of Brand, Baffin "One of the biggest evolutions we see relates to growing consumer expectations on how brands address corporate social responsibility and sustainability. We view this as the single most important evolution taking place in outdoor footwear right now. Today's consumer wants to understand what brands stand for, and how they are addressing these issues, and having robust programs in place to address these important issues is now considered required practice. Specific to product, versatility and hybrid design continues to be a strong trend, but increasingly sustainability features such as recycled content, biodegradability, or plant-based materials sourcing is becoming more and more important in these products." Mark Mathews, VP of Sales, SCARPA North America "New performance technologies. There has been little meaningful technical innovation in outdoor footwear in many years — and we're excited about disrupting the category with a visible technology that has a measurable positive benefit for our fans — making their days on the trail easier and happier." Erik Burbank, VP Keen Effect, Keen "We're definitely seeing an extension of the casual WFH (work from home) trend in 2020, which means comfortable, easy on product that's also versatile for outdoor performance. Outdoor inspired and protective against the elements, yet still feels like your perfect comfy sneaker or slipper when you put it on." Megan Vinton, Director of Product, Bogs "I would have to say as we spent more time outdoors in autumn/winter 2020 and will continue to again in 2021, the Brand execs weigh in on the key outdoor and work boot trends to watch for in 2021. WHAT'S TRENDING IN 2021 footwearinsight.com January/February 2021 ~ Footwear Insight • 21 Contact your rep or email us at: info@obozfootwear.com to learn more. New for Spring '21 the Sypes features the Bloom™ Algae O FIT Insole™, ACT Midsole and recycled materials throughout. The Sypes delivers exceptional support, fit and performance wherever your trail leads.