Outdoor Insight

26 • Outdoor Insight • August 2021 outdoorinsightmag.com K I C K E R "At Washington Shoe, we are seeing consumers craving chunky rugged, significant textured soles and a floral focus for spring 2022. Consum- ers want a blend of fashion, function, comfort and affordability for their entire family. Unlike other years, we're seeing a shift towards a con- trast of soft and hard, both in design and in our patterns and colors." Stacy Cail, marketing and engagement director, Washington Shoe Co. "We see the most consumer demand in two areas: function and value. As one way to deliver value, we have focused on muted colors that can be mixed and matched with numerous outfits. Waterproofing and other performance features are also trending now as the outdoor market has become increas- ingly popular in the past year." Jordan Anderson, director of product development, Rocky Boots "In the safety footwear industry, athletic inspired constructions, materials, and styling are still trend- ing. The millennial demographic is demanding lightweight, breathable, comfortable footwear without sacrificing safety and durability require- ments. Essentially, these consumers want a boot that fits and feels like an athletic shoe, but performs like a work boot." Kasey LaCourse, senior footwear designer and developer, Georgia Boot "The key traits these customers have been demand- ing are more lightweight and comfort technologies. Comfort, function and durability outweigh fashion when it comes to work boots, although we do our best to make them as aesthetically pleasing as possible, such as creating shallower looking safety toes and a variety of patterns and colors." Mark Recchi, VP of research and develop- ment, Durango Boot "Durango has seen strong growth in our work category, especially the Maverick XP family that reflects both basic tried and true designs, as well as innovative looks and colorways. Our Rebel Work styles have also continued to increase each and every year. The patriotic have been among our best-selling work items." Jordan Gottke, national sales manager, Durango Boot "Consumers are looking for more casual and athletic options, particularly sneaker fashion or lifestyle casual styles. Fashion is becoming more important in the work footwear category, particu- larly as more women make up a greater share of safety and protective shoe wearers. Warehousing, light manufacturing, and logistics are becoming the next great revolution of America's workforce as people are ordering to their doorsteps, so we are seeing a lot more being added to our overall workforce market for safety shoes." Brent Jennings, VP of marketing, Warson Brands Georgia Boot/Georgia Boot OT The Georgia Boot OT collection features a polyurethane midsole and durable Carbo-Tec Rubber outsole joined to the upper through a direct attach construction. Thanks to a shock-absorbing AMP LT insole and Georgia waterproofing, these lightweight, multi-purpose work boots provide comfort for those extra-long workdays. Available Spring '22. MSRP $161. Durango Boot/Durango Maverick XP This premium work boot option is crafted with state- of-the-art technology that delivers all-day comfort and support. A five-density, three-layer comfort system allows for optimal performance for any task at hand. Durango has two versions of the Maverick XP style, one is a waterproof steel-toe boot that meets ASTM F2413 protective toe classification and electrical hazard standard and another that is soft toe. Available Spring '22. MSRP $186. Baffin/Women's Swift B-Tek Heat lightweight four-channel hollow fiber insulation provides high-loft breathability in a broad range of temperatures, making this a multi-season option. The B-Tek Scent Free antimicrobial next-to- foot lining keeps odors at bay. A lug sole outsole design offers added traction on packed snow and ice. Available now. $210. Baffin/Compass Collection Western The Western touts a removable fixed-fit multi-layer inner boot system with Thermawick high wicking next-to-foot lining material for enhanced breathability and improved thermal regulation. IceBite Grip provides greater slip resistance than conventional rubber. An inside zip and pull loop at the back make boot entry a breeze. Available Fall '21. MSRP $200. Wolverine/Raider DuraShocks Waterproof An update of the workhorse Raider boot with DuraShocks offers extra toughness with new reinforced details. Triple needle stitching, a molded toe cap and riveted heel bumper enhance protection in harsh environments. DuraShocks Flex absorbs shock with each step and provides maximum flexibility on all terrain thanks to individual compression pads throughout the outsole. Available Spring '22. MSRP $180. Thorogood/Midnight Series 8" Moc Safety Toe Part of the brand's American Heritage line, these USA- made black steel toe work boots offer added protection with the 8-inch shaft height, while the slip-resistant MAXWear Wedge outsole is slip and oil resistant. The boots have a durable Goodyear storm welt construction, removable shock absorption insert, composite shank, steel toe protection, and can easily be resoled when needed. Available now. BOOT BOOK HARD WORKERS

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