FOOTWEAR
3 Retail Issues to Watch ............................................................................................................... 6
A look at key issues facing independent footwear retailers in the second half of 2024.
DESIGN
Modern Performance .................................................................................................................14
Comfort and fashion are driving the future of activewear.
Future Outlook ............................................................................................................................20
5 factors driving the next era of outdoor product innovation.
SPORT REPORT: PICKLEBALL
Thwack! Pop! Cha-Ching! .........................................................................................................24
Pickleball's (mostly) joyful noise continues to attract participants, vendors and retailers.
The Social Sport ...........................................................................................................................32
Pickleball is a social phenomenon attracting brands eager to connect with consumers.
Skechers Q&A ..............................................................................................................................34
Greg Smith, Skechers VP of Product Development and Merchandising, talks pickleball.
Stars of the Court ........................................................................................................................36
Brands tell us how they are designing footwear for the court's hottest sport.
Trend Insight ................................................................................................................................46
In our latest consumer survey, pickleball players tell us the score.
TEAM
Batters Up… And Up ..................................................................................................................52
Baseball and softball are the key spring sports with many challenges and opportunities.
Hot Products.................................................................................................................................58
Our team sports editors pick out some of the season's coolest new products.
On the Cover: Tyson McGuffin wears Skechers Viper Court Pro Elite pickleball shoes. Photo courtesy of Skechers.
Editorial Director
Cara Griffin
Art Director
Francis Klaess
Contributors
Suzanne Blecher
Michael Jacobsen
Judy Leand
Mike May
Bob McGee
Emily Walzer
Publisher
Jeff Nott
jnott@formula4media.com
516-305-4711
Digital
Erica DeSimone
edesimone@formula4media.com
Subscriptions
www.store.formula4media.com
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