Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/1334617
Winter 2021 • Outdoor Insight • 25 outdoorinsightmag.com categories. The customer is looking for expertise, someone who can provide specific answers and personal service." Prasad Reddy, CEO, Twisted X "With the advancement of mills being able to produce sustainable or recycled fabrics and materials at lower cost than previous years, suppliers have been more aggres- sive with those offerings. Since they will be at a comparable price to non-recycled materials, I think brands will follow suit organically. Smart fabrics are continuing to trend, with technology that can cool or warm your foot based on the atmosphere inside the shoe, in addition to offering anti-microbial aspects." Jordan Anderson, Product Development Director, Rocky Boots "We see the continuation of multi-functional, multi- occasion wearable products combined with comfort and value. Specifically, in the outdoor industry, we are seeing more and more customers exploring the great outdoors – some technical, true hikers and explorers; but mainly families and weekend warriors spending more time outside due to the pandemic, for exercise, safe social distanced socializing and simply to mentally recharge or decompress during this difficult year." Brandy McCarty, CMO / SVP Global Brand Strategy, The Eastman Group "The work and outdoor categories are converging to feature the best innovations from both product segments. Consumers are purchasing multi-purpose boots that can be utilized in several of their daily tasks, including safety requirements for the job and all-purpose use for lifestyle needs. Traditional work boot silhouettes now feature many prominent details from outdoor, including aggressive tread designs, high-performance midsoles and footbed technologies to ensure all day comfort." Matt Tucker, VP and Brand General Manager, Georgia Boot "Athletic inspired. Work brands are realizing there is a large portion of consumers that have never worn a boot and look at them as being heavy and uncomfortable. Hytest is focused on incorporating materials and technologies from the athletic brands to bring performance, comfort and lighter weight styles to traditional work boots without sacrificing durability." Matt Gould, Product Development Manager, Hytest "We continually ask consumers who purchase our footwear what their number one requirement is for safety footwear. Across all categories, boots included, is the weight of the shoe. We are also seeing a continuing trend toward lightweight boots that are great for the outdoors and all-weather environments, but fit more like a casual lightweight hiker." Brent Jennings, VP of Marketing, Warson Brands l 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.