Outdoor Unfiltered

Dick's Sporting Goods just posted a quarter where the core business grew almost 5% and the stock still dropped 30.7%. Today on the show Eoin Comerford breaks down what actually broke: the Foot Locker acquisition, CEO Ed Stack's warning about promotional pricing bleeding across the market, CFO Navdeep Gupta's more cautious guidance, and what analyst Peter McGoldrick and Stifel's back-to-school survey revealed about a market with no newness. Eoin also draws on his own experience running Moosejaw through the Dick's and Public Lands integration, and unpacks why Nike's concentration at Foot Locker cuts both ways.Then Lloyd Vogel, CEO of Garage Grown Gear, flips the mic and interviews Eoin on the state of the outdoor industry - covering winners like Amer Sports (Arc'teryx, Salomon), On, and Birkenstock, specialty retailers from Gear Head Outfitters to Half Moon Outfitters, GOA's read on independent retail health, and the case for used gear as a discovery tool. Eoin and Lloyd also dig into why marketing, not funding, is what actually breaks emerging brands, the mismatched expectations behind private equity roll-ups, what Eoin would do with $500,000 and a new brand idea today, the affordability problem behind sustainability claims, and why he thinks inclusion and diversity is the single biggest lever the outdoor industry isn't pulling.Show Notes0:00 Episode preview: Dick's Sporting Goods results, Foot Locker's drag on the business, and a role-reversal interview with Lloyd Vogel of Garage Grown Gear.0:41 Dick's Sporting Goods grew its core business almost 5% but the stock fell 30.7%, and Eoin explains why the forecast, not the P&L, is what broke.4:41 Ed Stack's comments on promotional pricing bleeding across the market, and what Stifel's back-to-school survey found in 110 stores.5:54 Why this matters beyond sneakers: promotional spillover, brand-retailer leverage, and where outdoor still sits on the healthy side of the ledger.7:04 Was the Foot Locker acquisition a mistake? Eoin walks through the four strategic rationales behind the deal and where each one is being tested.10:01 What Eoin is watching next: the Q3 print and whether promotional spillover jumps beyond lifestyle footwear.10:56 A message from sponsor ISPO on its relaunch in Amsterdam this November.12:14 Lloyd Vogel, CEO of Garage Grown Gear, seizes the podcast to interview Eoin live from Outdoor Retailer.13:28 A vibe check on the outdoor industry: surprisingly resilient despite tariffs, oversupply, and a K-shaped economy.19:10 What a healthy specialty retailer looks like, and why leaning into hyperlocal is the way to compete with the big box players.21:32 The affordability challenge, over-engineered products, and why used gear and the circular economy are an underused discovery tool.26:29 A message from sponsor Crux Retail on building custom retail fixtures for outdoor and active brands.28:01 The real problem facing emerging brands: marketing, not funding, and why most founders never assign anyone to own it.34:26 Why brands should stop thinking of wholesale as giving up margin and start thinking of it as sharing margin in a partnership.38:01 What has gone well and gone wrong with private equity-backed consolidation in the outdoor industry.41:38 What Eoin would do differently with $500,000 and a new brand idea today.46:16 The most important thing happening in the outdoor industry that nobody is talking about: the affordability of sustainability.49:58 If Eoin could fix one thing in the industry overnight, it would be inclusion and diversity, and why he sees it as a business imperative.55:21 Closing thoughts and how to reach the show.Connect With UsWe would love to hear your thoughts on the show, inside intel, guest ideas, sponsorship inquiries or whatever's on your mind.DM Eoin Comerford on LinkedInEmail: [email protected] - Unites the sporting and outdoor goods industry, inspiring global movement, protecting the places we play, and providing a single, streamlined platform for the brands, athletes, buyers, and innovators who shape the future of sport. www.ispo.comCrux Retail - Creating bold retail displays for bold brands. www.crux-retail.comOutdoor Unfiltered is a production of Rockfight LLC.

This week I break down Q2 earnings across the outdoor and active industry, including Yeti, On, Wolverine Worldwide (Merrell, Saucony), VF Corp (The North Face, Timberland, Vans), Birkenstock, Clarus Group (Black Diamond), and Decker's Hoka, plus a preview of Amer Sports' upcoming report on Arc'teryx and Salomon.I also cover Outdoor Retailer's new partnership with REI Co-op's Path Ahead Ventures ahead of Outdoor Retailer 2026.Lastly I sit down with Troy Sicotte, President of Mountain Hardwear, to talk through the brand's history from its 1993 founding, its sale to Columbia Sportswear Company, its decline through the 2010s, and the turnaround led by Joe Vernaccio and Troy himself, including the "Seek Wilder Paths" brand relaunch, its retail partnerships with dealers like Wes Allen, and where the brand is headed under Columbia through 2030.Show Notes0:00 – Episode preview: earnings roundup, Outdoor Retailer news, and interview with Troy Sicotte of Mountain Hardwear.0:43 – Methodology note on constant currency and tariff refund distortions in Q2 gross margins.2:08 – Yeti's Q2 results: net sales up 9%, SG&A growth outpacing sales, and slowing drinkware growth.5:10 – On's Q2 results: sales up 22%, stock down 20%, and the strategy behind throttling wholesale.7:14 – Wolverine Worldwide's Q2 results: Merrell and Saucony growth, inventory discipline, and a 10% stock jump.8:57 – VF Corp's Q2 results: The North Face growth, continued Vans declines, and debt reduction.10:51 – Birkenstock's Q2 results and a 33.7% adjusted EBITDA margin.12:11 – Clarus Group and Black Diamond's Q2 results and Neil Fiske's apparel turnaround.14:32 – Decker's Hoka results and crossing the billion-dollar revenue mark.15:11 – What the Q2 earnings season says about the outdoor industry overall.15:58 – Preview of Amer Sports' upcoming earnings and Arc'teryx and Salomon's growth trajectory. 16:24 – Sponsor message: ISPO's relaunch in Amsterdam this November.17:13 – Outdoor Retailer 2026 preview: REI Co-op's Path Ahead Ventures partnership and buyer attendance.19:21 – Sponsor message: Crux Retail's custom retail fixtures for outdoor brands.20:13 – Introducing guest Troy Sicotte, President of Mountain Hardwear.21:35 – The history of Mountain Hardwear from its 1993 founding through its sale to Columbia.25:37 – The leadership changes and product missteps behind Mountain Hardwear's decline in the 2010s.32:18 – The 2022 brand strategy work that led to "Seek Wilder Paths" and the 30th anniversary relaunch.35:14 – How Mountain Hardwear builds branded retail environments with partners like Wes Allen.39:27 – Troy's career path from Birkenstock tech rep to The North Face to Mountain Hardwear president.43:44 – What it's like operating Mountain Hardwear inside Columbia Sportswear Company under Tim Boyle.45:24 – Troy's outlook for Mountain Hardwear's growth through 2030 and industry overproduction concerns.49:52 – Closing thoughts and how to contact the show.SponsorsISPO unites the sporting and outdoor goods industry, inspiring global movement, protecting the places we play, and providing a single, streamlined platform for the brands, athletes, buyers, and innovators who shape the future of sport. www.ispo.comCrux Retail creates bold retail displays for bold brands. www.crux-retail.comConnect With UsWe would love to hear your thoughts on the show, inside intel, guest ideas, sponsorship inquiries, or whatever's on your mind. DM me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/eoincomerford/ or email [email protected].

Today on the show Eoin Comerford breaks down La Jolla Group's surprise decision to drop the O'Neill license after 33 years and what a sealed legal battle with Sisco Textiles might reveal about what actually happened. Then, a close read of Deckers' latest earnings report and what slowing HOKA growth really signals. Lastly, Snow Peak Brand and Marketing Director Mike Andersen joins the show to talk about the Japanese camping brand's cult following, its Long Beach Peninsula camp field, the award-winning Takibi restaurant inside Portland HQ, the acquisition of Epic Fly Rods through Swift Fly Fishing, the $330 million Bain Capital-led buyout, and how Snow Peak is building something most outdoor brands can't: genuine community.Timestamps(0:24) What's Really Behind the O'Neill Breakup(7:46) ISPO Amsterdam — Sponsor message(7:58) HOKA's Growth Deceleration (13:27) Guest Introduction: Mike Anderson, Snow Peak (14:01) Snow Peak's Origin Story (16:55) Snow Peak's US Camp Field on the Long Beach Peninsula (19:11) Takibi Restaurant Inside Snow Peak's Portland HQ (23:04) Swift Fly Fishing, Epic Fly Rods, and Snow Peak's Fly Fishing Strategy(26:22) Post-COVID Rebuild and the Shift to DTC (27:55) The Bain Capital Buyout and What It Means for US Growth (29:17) What Gets Mike Anderson Most Excited About Snow Peak's Future Our SponsorsISPO — Unites the sporting and outdoor goods industry - inspiring global movement, protecting the places we play and providing a single, streamlined platform for the brands, athletes, buyers and innovators who shape the future of sport. www.ispo.comCrux Retail — Creating bold retail displays for bold brands. www.crux-retail.comConnect With UsWe would love to hear your thoughts on the show, inside intel, guest ideas, sponsorship inquiries or whatever's on your mind.Email: [email protected]: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eoincomerford/If you find value in the show, please follow and leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts. It helps other people in the industry find us.Outdoor Unfiltered is a production of Rockfight LLC.

Eoin Comerford breaks down the Trump administration's proclamations that effectively erased Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments — including what the termination of the tribal co-management agreement with the Hopi, Navajo, Ute Indian, Ute Mountain, and Zuni tribes actually means for the industry — then clarifies the record on the Backcountry Garage accelerator program with responses from Backcountry executives. Plus, Kelly Davis, Director of Research for the Outdoor Industry Association, walks through the OIA's 2026 Outdoor Participation Trends Report: 60% of Americans are now participating in outdoor recreation, 30 million new participants since 2019 stuck around post-COVID, but frequency is declining and the 18-to-34 age group is the canary in the coal mine.TIMESTAMPS0:00 — Introduction: Bears Ears, Grand Staircase-Escalante, Backcountry Garage follow-up, and OIA research with Kelly Davis0:52 — The Trump administration signs proclamations cutting Bears Ears National Monument by 91% and Grand Staircase-Escalante by 90%, eliminating nearly 3 million acres of protected public land.4:19 — The proclamations disband the Bears Ears tribal co-management commission, ending a landmark cooperative stewardship framework built by the Hopi, Navajo, Ute Indian, Ute Mountain, and Zuni tribes.4:20 — Why this is a business issue: public lands are the engine of the outdoor industry, and polling shows 91% of western voters support keeping existing monument designations in place.4:21 — How sustained pressure works: the Conservation Alliance's CRA fight and the 2017 litigation precedent with Patagonia show that cumulative noise from the industry buys time and wins.6:03 — Call to action: four steps from The Conservation Alliance — make a public statement, sign the business sign-on letter by July 22nd, activate your audience via the Monuments for All petition, and donate to the Land and Water Defense Fund.9:03 — Backcountry Garage follow-up: clarifications from Backcountry executives on Amazon exclusivity, SKU-level online advertising terms, and margin expectations versus what brands were hearing in negotiations.12:54 — Introduction: Kelly Davis, Director of Research for the Outdoor Industry Association, and the methodology behind the OIA's annual Outdoor Participation Trends Report.13:50 — How the OIA participation study was built in 2007 alongside SIA, Sports & Fitness Industries Association, and other trade associations, and why 18,000 annual interviews across 117 activities gives it a sub-1% margin of error.17:38 — Top-line findings: 60% of Americans now participate in outdoor recreation — a higher participation rate than alcohol consumption — with 30 million new participants gained since 2019 who did not drop off post-COVID.18:50 — The frequency problem: average annual outings per participant have fallen from 87.4 in 2012 to 65.2 today, a long-term decline that correlates with the rise of social media and smartphones.22:06 — The age distribution breakdown: participation is declining among adults 25 to 54, most acutely in the 18-to-34 cohort, while youth (6-12) and seniors are both growing — and why a decline in young adults is a yellow flag for the industry's long-term health.31:55 — Affordability and the income picture: why hiking's 63.6 million participants and the low ongoing cost of camping make outdoor recreation well-positioned when the economy is tough, and where casual participants are actually buying their gear — Amazon, Walmart, and Costco.31:57 — Consumer spend data from the OIA's Consumer View report: casual participants average $1,200 in gear and apparel spend over six months, core participants average $3,800, and the casual segment is a far larger universe 39:14 — Core vs. casual strategy: why the OIA's message is not to abandon the core but to follow where the money and the growth actually are, and Kelly's favorite emerging segment — health and fitness.47:49 — The $1.3 trillion outdoor economy figure: a candid conversation on macroeconomic analysis, multiplier assumptions, and why it is a useful lobbying number even if economists and mathematicians eye it with suspicion.RESOURCES MENTIONEDThe Conservation Alliance business sign-on letter (deadline July 22nd): https://secure.everyaction.com/oN0jFF-4ekeckuiY9Unv2w2Monuments for All petition: https://www.monumentsforall.orgLand and Water Defense Fund: https://conservationalliance.com/land-water-defense-fund/OIA 2026 Outdoor Participation Trends Report: https://outdoorindustry.orgOUR SPONSORSENDVR — The network that connects brands, retailers, and frontline associates to power sell-through across your wholesale channel.www.endvr.ioCrux Retail — Creating bold retail displays for bold brands.www.crux-retail.comCONNECT WITH USWe would love to hear your thoughts on the show, inside intel, guest ideas, sponsorship inquiries or whatever's on your mind.DM Eoin Comerford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eoincomerford/Email: [email protected]

Today on the show Eoin Comerford breaks down the outdoor industry's paid loyalty arms race — from Dick's Sporting Goods' new Scorecard Plus tier to Backcountry's Summit Club Plus and REI's co-op membership — and explains what it means for independent specialty retailers. Then, why is Amer Sports, the parent company of Arc'teryx, Salomon, and Wilson, still rated "junk" by Moody's despite seven billion in sales and 60% gross margins? Eoin unpacks the fashion risk, operational scale concerns, and Anta ownership issues keeping the rating below investment grade. Finally, Rumpl founder and chairman Wiley Robinson and GM Josh Simpson join from the Switchback New Orleans show floor to discuss navigating tariffs, abandoning promotional discounting, launching the Rapsack sleeping bag line, sleep system accessories, and the brand-new Game Time Puffy — a sideline stadium cushion that converts into a full puffy blanket.Timestamps[0:00] — Introduction to the episode: paid loyalty programs, Amer Sports' credit rating, and a live interview with the Rumpl team at Switchback New Orleans.[0:52] — How Dick's Sporting Goods' Scorecard Plus, Backcountry's Summit Club Plus, and REI's co-op membership are competing for the outdoor consumer's wallet — and what independent specialty retailers should do about it.[5:27] — Sponsor: ENDVR — The network that connects brands, retailers, and frontline associates to power sell-through across your wholesale channel. www.endvr.io[6:38] — Why Amer Sports, parent of Arc'teryx, Salomon, and Wilson, remains rated speculative grade by Moody's despite $7B+ in sales, 30% growth, and 60% gross margins — and what it means for the industry.[10:50] — Sponsor: Crux Retail — Creating bold retail displays for bold brands. www.crux-retail.com[11:40] — Outdoor Unfiltered ranks as the most popular outdoor industry podcast on Apple Podcasts in the Wilderness category.[13:00] — Wiley Robinson and Josh Simpson of Rumpl join live from the Switchback New Orleans show floor.[13:55] — How the founder/GM leadership transition between Wiley Robinson and Josh Simpson has played out 18 months in.[15:37] — How Rumpl navigated tariffs, held price on 95% of its line, and protected margins while many peers struggled.[17:45] — How Rumpl cut MAP breaks from six per year to one and reduced off-price transactions by 50% to rebuild a full-price business.[19:40] — Why Rumpl launched the Rapsack sleeping bag after 12 years focused exclusively on blankets, and how REI's early commitment validated the category.[21:00] — How Rumpl is expanding the Rapsack into a full sleep system with new temperature ratings, sizes, and sleep liners.[25:15] — Introducing the Game Time Puffy — a $99.95 stadium seat cushion and puffy blanket in one, already sold into Dick's Sporting Goods.[27:47] — Closing thoughts, how to follow the pod, and how to reach out.GuestsWiley Robinson — Co-Founder & Chairman, RumplJosh Simpson — General Manager, RumplRumpl — www.rumpl.comSponsorsENDVR — The network that connects brands, retailers, and frontline associates to power sell-through across your wholesale channel.www.endvr.ioCrux Retail — Creating bold retail displays for bold brands.www.crux-retail.comConnect With UsWe would love to hear your thoughts on the show, inside intel, guest ideas, sponsorship inquiries, or whatever's on your mind.DM Eoin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eoincomerford/Email the show: [email protected] Outdoor Unfiltered brings value to your week, please follow the pod and leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts. It helps other outdoor industry professionals find us — and makes sure you never miss an episode.

What is the purpose of an outdoor trade show beyond sales?Live from the floor of Switchback in New Orleans, Eoin Comerford sits down with thru-hiking expert Shawnté Salabert (Gear Abby) to break down the hits, the misses, and the future of the outdoor tradeshow.In this episode of Outdoor Unfiltered, Eoin and Shawnté dive deep into reactions of the exhibit hall. From the highly anticipated US Participation Report presented by Kelly Davis to navigating the timing clash with regional shows like GOA, they examine what it takes to build a true national show. Plus, the duo doesn’t hold back on their unfiltered booth reviews, praising the stunning blonde-wood aesthetics of Snow Peak, Fjällräven, and Teva, while calling out the underwhelming setups from other brands.Tune in for an inside look at the latest gear innovations shaking up the market, including Dometic’s interchangeable tumbler system, GRAYL’s Carry Project pack line, Butt Napkins’ upcoming submarine bidet wand, Date Fix’s intense food culture mission, Rumpl’s clever cape clips, and the mouth-watering backpacking meals from Lux Fly. Whether you are a specialty retail buyer, a major outdoor brand, or a gear junkie, this episode is your ultimate backstage pass to the business and culture of the great outdoors.Then later in the show, Eoin sits down with Switchback Event Director Sean Smith to share his impressions and break some news about a time change for next year.Connect With UsWe would love to hear your thoughts on the show, inside intel, guest ideas, sponsorship inquiries or whatever's on your mind!Connect with Eoin Comerford: LinkedIn ProfileOur SponsorsSupport the brands that make this show possible:ENDVR – The network that connects brands, retailers, and frontline associates to power sell-through across your wholesale channel. Visit www.endvr.io.Crux Retail – Creating bold retail displays for bold brands. Visit www.crux-retail.com.

In this episode, we take you inside the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance (GOA) Connect show and the newly expanded, high-energy Grassroots Discovery Marketplace. We examine the shifts in retail distribution, including the wave of D2C darlings breaking into wholesale brick-and-mortar specialty shops. We discuss Huckberry’s full-circle evolution with their private labels Flint and Tinder and Proof, alongside top D2C and international players like Poncho Outdoors, Half Days, Melin, Baja Llama, Solbari, Parkit Chairs.Get the inside track on the most innovative product designs shaking up the market: the mule-style shoes from Moondeck, the premium $275 Parkit folding camp chair, and Poncho Outdoors’ hyper-focused men's shirts. Plus, discover how Suunto is mounting a retail comeback, why Gear Envie's patented Hikas Gaiters are reinventing the puffy leg warmer, and how Furnagami is taking outdoor camp furniture engineering to rugged new heights.Finally, sit down on the show floor for exclusive, unfiltered interviews with Jeff Anderlite, founder of the "fight against boring" apparel brand Baja Llama, and Damien Huang, former CEO of Cotopaxi and Eddie Bauer, as he introduces his premium down outerwear brand, Maveral. We also catch up with John Peretti of Coastal Range Equipment to check out their ultra-lightweight, 9.2-ounce 1.2-liter integrated camping stove backpacker system, and close things out with a look at the innovative waterless coffee from Dry Brew.Timestamps:00:00 — Introduction to Outdoor Unfiltered and Eoin Comerford.00:35 — What is the GOA Connect Show and the Grassroots Discovery Marketplace? Why the new 5-hour format is a game-changer for independent specialty retailers and emerging brands.01:50 — The D2C Darlings Moving to Wholesale: How Huckberry (Flint and Tinder, Proof), Poncho Outdoors, Half Days, Melin, and Parkit are changing strategies.02:30 — European Brands & Dual Exhibitors: A look at Berghaus, Suunto, Vivo Barefoot, Peak Design, and Save the Duck.03:10 — Product Highlights: Moondeck shoes, the high-end Parkit camp chair, and Poncho Outdoors' focused brand philosophy.04:05 — The Suunto Comeback: Can they challenge Garmin's electronics dominance with better margins and distribution discipline?04:40 — Innovation Spotlights: Gear Envy’s Hikas Gaiters (the puffy leg warmer) and Furnagami’s ultra-rugged camp furniture.05:15 — Mid-roll Break: A message from our sponsor, ENDVR.06:20 — Interview 1: Jeff Anderlite, Founder of Baja Llama. Fighting against boring apparel, sourcing Peruvian cotton, and utilizing sustainable "Llama Seal" coconut husk fabrics.11:15 — Interview 2: Damien Huang, Founder of Maveral. The former CEO of Cotopaxi and Eddie Bauer discusses escaping the "sea of sameness," engineering "Thin Down" fabric without quilting cold-spots, and building for long-term repairability.21:30 — Mid-roll Break: A message from our sponsor, Crux Retail.22:45 — Interview 3: John Peretti of Coastal Range Equipment. A look at their 2023 Moose Jaw Outdoor Accelerator roots and their ultra-lightweight 9.2 oz integrated backpacker camping stove.26:15 — Interview 4: Checking in with Dry Brew to discuss the future of convenient outdoor trail coffee.Our Sponsors:Support the brands that make this show possible!ENDVR — The network that connects brands, retailers, and frontline associates to power sell-through across your wholesale channel. Visit www.endvr.io to launch your live campaign in 5 minutes.Crux Retail — Creating bold retail displays for bold brands. Maximize your store footprint and turn visitors into buyers. Book your discovery call at www.crux-retail.com.Connect With Us:We would love to hear your thoughts on the show, inside intel, guest ideas, sponsorship inquiries or whatever's on your mind.Host: Eoin ComerfordLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eoincomerford/Email: [email protected]: Proud partner of The Rock Fight Podcast network

Dive beyond the PR spin with Outdoor Unfiltered, your insider look into the outdoor industry's biggest shifts. In this episode, host Eoin Comerford breaks down why KMD Brands -- the parent company of global surf icon Rip Curl, retail giant Kathmandu, and hiking footwear favorite Oboz -- has launched a major strategic review. Next, we call out the non-stop promotional spam from recreation.gov, peeling back the curtain on its operator, Booz Allen Hamilton, and how their contract impacts public lands' funding. On a brighter note, we highlight Mountain High Outfitters and their impressive 31-store expansion, showing why the "Big Os" specialty retail model is thriving. Finally, Mike Seaman and Tracy Bebbington of Racoon Media Group join the show to discuss their massive €3 million investment to revitalize and completely revamp the iconic ISPO show as it moves to Amsterdam this November.Timestamps:[00:22] – KMD Brands Strategic Review: What does the future hold for Kathmandu, Rip Curl, and Oboz under their New Zealand-based parent company?[04:45] – The Recreation.gov Spam Machine: Why a private contract with Booz Allen Hamilton is driving massive revenue away from our underfunded National Parks.[07:11] – Specialty Retail Success: How Mountain High Outfitters is bucking the trend with its 31st store expansion.[09:05] – Interview with Racoon Media Group: Mike Seaman and Tracy Bebbington lay out their €3 million plan to relocate, revamp, and revitalize the iconic ISPO show in Amsterdam.Connect With Us:We would love to hear your thoughts on the show, inside intel, guest ideas, sponsorship inquiries, or whatever's on your mind.Email: [email protected]: Connect with Eoin Comerford on LinkedInOur Sponsors:We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors who make this show possible. Please support them by checking out their services:ENDVR: The network that connects brands, retailers, and frontline associates to power sell-through across your wholesale channel.Crux Retail: Creating bold retail displays for bold brands.

Dive deep into the real numbers behind the outdoor industry with host Eoin Comerford in Episode 12 of Outdoor Unfiltered. In this episode, we unpack REI’s fiscal 2025 financial reports, breaking down what flat revenues, rising gross margins, and a declining active membership base mean for the future of the cooperative. Then, we look beyond the PR spin of recent Q1 earnings reports from top brands, including Yeti's wholesale surge, Wolverine Worldwide's lifestyle expansion with Saucony, Under Armour's ongoing retail challenges, and Compass Diversified's technical insights from Boa and Primaloft. Finally, we analyze the latest NSGA (National Sporting Goods Association) sports participation numbers, revealing massive growth in hiking, kayaking, and alpine skiing. In our expert guest segment, we are joined by industry leaders Lindsay Hubley and Sunny Stroeer from Emerald X to discuss the upcoming revamp of the Outdoor Retailer show in Minneapolis, its shifting calendar to August, and the game-changing Wild Reach creator platform powered by Popfly.Show NotesEpisode SummaryIn this episode of Outdoor Unfiltered, host Eoin Comerford goes line-by-line through the reality of REI’s 2025 financial performance, separates the signal from the noise in recent outdoor brand earnings reports, and highlights which outdoor sports are actually growing according to the NSGA. Plus, Lindsay Hubley and Sunny Stroeer join the show to detail how the upcoming Outdoor Retailer show in Minneapolis is adapting to meet the needs of modern specialty retailers, brands, and content creators.Timestamps00:00 – Welcome to Outdoor Unfiltered & REI 2025 Financial Overview00:54 – Breaking Down REI's Revenue, Store Expansion, and the 53rd Week02:08 – Gross Margins, Inventory Gluts, and Promotional Discipline03:00 – Operating Losses, Payroll Structural Problems, and Layoffs04:02 – Membership Metrics: Voting Eligible vs. Total Members04:36 – Cash, Investments, and Operating Cash Flow Reality05:25 – Sponsor Break: ENDVR06:33 – Quick Hits: Yeti Q1 Earnings Analysis07:11 – Quick Hits: Wolverine Worldwide & Saucony Growth07:44 – Quick Hits: Under Armour's Retail Challenges08:24 – Quick Hits: Compass Diversified, Boa, and Primaloft Performance08:52 – Sponsor Break: Crux Retail09:47 – The Unfiltered Upside: NSGA Sports Participation Report (Hiking, Kayaking, Skiing, and Camping)11:24 – Interview: Lindsay Hubley & Sunny Stror on the New Outdoor Retailer Show13:00 – Understanding the Outdoor Retailer Leadership Village & Advisory Family14:48 – Moving Outdoor Retailer to Minneapolis and Changing the Dates to August17:15 – Shifting the Show Floor: Capping Maximum Booth Sizes18:29 – Brand Diversity and Headliners at Outdoor Retailer 202619:33 – Special Sections, Backcountry Partnerships, and Stewardship Pavilions21:00 – Introducing Wild Reach: The Popfly Creator Partnership Platform24:34 – How to Apply for the Hosted Buyer and Scholarship Programs25:34 – What to Expect for Industry Day and the Retailer Playbook Labs27:44 – Industry Day Keynotes and Happy Hour Events28:54 – Defining Success for the Revamped Outdoor Retailer ShowConnect With UsWe would love to hear your thoughts on the show, inside intel, guest ideas, sponsorship inquiries, or whatever's on your mind.Host: Connect with Eoin Comerford on LinkedInEmail: [email protected] SponsorsENDVR: The network that connects brands, retailers, and frontline associates to power sell-through across your wholesale channel. Learn more at www.endvr.ioCrux Retail: Designing and engineering custom, customer-centric retail store fixtures and bold retail displays for bold brands. Learn more at www.crux-retail.com

This episode of Outdoor Unfiltered dives into the data behind retail relationships and the future of industry gatherings. Host Eoin Comerford reveals the latest Partnership Scores for 32 major outdoor brands—including Patagonia, Hoka, Black Diamond, and Keen—measuring how effectively they support local retailers versus their own D2C channels. We also explore a unique opportunity to own Mountain Laurel Designs (MLD), as founder Ron Bell offers a "management to ownership" track for the iconic ultralight brand.The headliner features Sean Smith, Event Director for Switchback, who discusses the show's strategic move to New Orleans in June 2026. Sean breaks down the growth of the show, the importance of the specialty outdoor retailer, and the robust educational programming featuring Outdoor Industry Association (OIA). We also get an inside look at specialized floor sections like Pathfinders, in partnership with Garage Grown Gear, and the vital role of nonprofits like the Conservation Alliance and Leave No Trace.Show Notes:0:00 – Introduction Host Eoin Comerford previews today’s topics: updated partnership scores, a chance to own Mountain Laurel Designs, and a deep dive into the Switchback trade show with Sean Smith.0:45 – The Partnership Score Explained Eoin breaks down his 100-point scoring system that tracks how outdoor brands balance D2C sales with retail partner support.2:40 – Winners and Movers: Patagonia, Hoka, and More A look at the massive 27-point industry improvement in partnership scores, highlighting big moves from Black Diamond, Keen, and the return of local dealer links on Patagonia’s site.4:45 – Top Tier Brands Shoutouts to the brands consistently scoring 90–100 points: Brooks, Nemo, Oboz, and Rab.5:40 – Own Mountain Laurel Designs (MLD) Ron Bell is looking for a successor for his 25-year-old ultralight brand. Eoin explains the "no money down" management-to-ownership track.8:18 – Interview: Sean Smith on Switchback Sean Smith discusses his transition to Switchback and the show’s mission to serve as the heart of the specialty outdoor retail industry.10:30 – Why New Orleans in June? Addressing the "swampy" elephant in the room: why the June timing in NOLA serves the buying calendar of the outdoor industry.13:10 – Growth and Capacity Switchback is expanding, targeting 230 brands and over 40,000 square feet of booth space, featuring industry giants like Arc'teryx, Fjallraven, and Cotopaxi.15:00 – The 20x20 Booth Cap Why Switchback limits booth size to "save brands from themselves" and keep the focus on products rather than massive displays.17:35 – Supporting Emerging Brands: Pathfinders Details on the Pathfinders section for emerging and women-owned brands like Halfdays and Soul Sisters, curated with Garage Grown Gear.20:10 – The Role of Nonprofits and SOBA The importance of the State Outdoor Business Alliance Network (SOBAN) and why nonprofits are the "401k of the outdoor industry."23:25 – Education and Networking A preview of Education Day (Tuesday) and the Trailheads Theater, featuring 47 speakers covering everything from risk management to participation research.26:50 – How to Attend Sean provides details on the retail scholarship program and how to register for the June 2026 event.Our SponsorsENDVR: The network that connects brands, retailers, and frontline associates to power sell-through across your wholesale channel. www.endvr.ioCrux Retail: Creating bold retail displays for bold brands. www.crux-retail.comConnect With UsWe would love to hear your thoughts on the show, inside intel, guest ideas, sponsorship inquiries or whatever’s on your mind.Eoin Comerford: LinkedIn ProfileEmail: [email protected] Unfiltered is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Join host Eoin Comerford on Outdoor Unfiltered for an inside look at the business of the outdoors. In this episode, we tackle the viral news of Allbirds pivoting toward AI infrastructure and GPU-as-a-service, and what that really means for the brand. We also dive into Backcountry.com’s launch of Backcountry Garage, a new outdoor brand incubator and fund that kicked off with the acquisition of Salt Lake City-based CoalaTree.Later, we review the innovative Universal Collection from The North Face, featuring adaptive camping gear like the Universal One Sleeping Bag, the Wawona 3 Tent, the Universal Daypack, and Traction Mules. Finally, Eoin sits down with Eric Haberman, President and Founder of Mountain High Sales & Marketing, to discuss the evolving role of the outdoor sales rep and the critical relationship between brands and retailers.00:00 – Introduction00:54 – Allbirds’ surprising pivot to AI computing infrastructure and GPU-as-a-service.08:31 – Backcountry.com launches Backcountry Garage and acquires CoalaTree.10:50 – A look at past outdoor incubators: Moosejaw Outdoor Accelerator and REI’s Path Ahead Ventures.16:03 – The North Face Universal Collection: A deep dive into adaptive design for the Wawona 3 Tent, Universal One Sleeping Bag, and more.21:50 – Interview with Eric Haberman, President of Mountain High Sales & Marketing, on the modern role of the sales rep.27:10 – The importance of trust and the "balancing act" between brands and retailers.33:20 – Advice for emerging brands on navigating the wholesale landscape and working with reps.Connect With UsWe would love to hear your thoughts on the show, inside intel, guest ideas, sponsorship inquiries or whatever's on your mind:Email: [email protected]: Eoin Comerford

Is the classic outdoor gear shop model dead? In this episode of Outdoor Unfiltered, host Eoin Comerford explores why iconic retailers like Wilderness Exchange, Summit Hut, and Midwest Mountaineering are facing new challenges. We look at why expanding specialty chains like Gearhead Outfitters, Half-Moon Outfitters, and Mountain High Outfitters are shifting toward apparel and footwear over technical hard goods.Eoin is joined by industry legend Wes Allen, President of Sunlight Sports and former leader at REI, Chacos, and the Grassroots Outdoor Alliance (GOA). Together, they break down the critical delineation between the "Outdoor Economy" (activity-based) and the "Outside Economy" (lifestyle-based). They discuss why brands like Vuori, On, Patagonia, The North Face, Marmot, Hoka, and Merrell are navigating a complex landscape of technical authenticity versus mass-market appeal. We also dive into how OIA participation data can be misleading and how Amazon and ecommerce has impacted out the equipment business.Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: The closing of iconic shops like Wilderness Exchange and Midwest Mountaineering.01:30 – The shift from hard goods to apparel: Insights from Town to Trail Outfitters.03:15 – 5 factors killing the equipment-centric model.09:40 – Introducing Wes Allen: A life spent at REI, Chacos, and Sunlight Sports.12:15 – Defining the Outdoor Economy vs. the Outside Economy.15:00 – The "Lifestyle" giants: How The North Face and Patagonia paved the way.18:30 – The rise of Vuori and On: Why lifestyle brands are winning the floor space.22:15 – The Sustainability Gap: Why eco-friendly tech often loses at the register.25:40 – Debunking OIA data: The questionable $271 billion sales number.30:20 – The Big Agnes Down Jacket Lesson: Don’t build for the wrong channel.33:50 – Closing thoughts: Can REI find its way back to the core? Should it?Connect With Us:We would love to hear your thoughts on the show, inside intel, guest ideas, sponsorship inquiries or whatever's on your mind!Host: Eoin ComerfordLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eoincomerford/Email: [email protected] Unfiltered is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

In this episode of Outdoor Unfiltered, host and former CEO Eoin Comerford dissects the collapse of Eddie Bauer and the "vampire" licensing model that is hollowing out iconic brands.Eoin also takes a hard look at the slowdown of athleisure, exploring whether the category has reached peak saturation and what outdoor brands can learn from the rise of Vuori and Alo Yoga.Later in the show, Kent Ebersole, President of the Outdoor Industry Association, joins the podcast to discuss the reboot of OIA Rendezvous 2026, where industry leaders gathered to tackle shared challenges and rebuild collaboration across the outdoor community.Timestamps0:00 – 1:07 | Introduction Eoin introduces the episode's themes: Eddie Bauer's retail closure and the state of the athleisure market.1:08 – 4:40 | The Eddie Bauer "Vampire" Model A breakdown of Eddie Bauer’s third bankruptcy and how Authentic Brands Group’s licensing model sucks brands drink leaving debt-laden "husks."4:41 – 8:43 | Has Athleisure Peaked? Analysis of Lululemon and Athleta’s struggles versus the rise of Vuori and Alo Yoga. Eoin discusses why "technical stories" are failing while comfort and social-media-driven "cool factors" are winning.8:44 – 11:45 | The OIA Rendezvous 2026 Recap Kent Ebersole joins to discuss the reboot of the OIA Rendezvous in Denver and the importance of leadership coming together to solve shared industry challenges.11:46 – 14:32 | Key Takeaways from the Summit Discussion on the impact of AI (with insights from Microsoft), financial stress on P&Ls, and the core pillars of sustainability and participation.14:33 – 17:15 | The Soul of the Industry Highlights from Ryan Gellert (Patagonia) and Neil Fisk (Black Diamond) on innovation, stewardship, and the "energy in the room" when the industry collaborates.17:16 – 20:30 | What’s Next for OIA? Kent outlines the call to action, the upcoming April Town Hall, and why the Rendezvous will likely remain an intimate, leadership-focused annual event rather than a massive trade show.20:31 – End | Closing Remarks How to stay involved with the OIA and where to follow the podcast for future updates.Outdoor Unfiltered goes beyond the headlines to explain what’s happening in the outdoor industry and why it matters.Connect with Eoin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eoincomerford/Email the show: [email protected] Unfiltered is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.