SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH (August 11, 2002) -- Outdoor Retailer Summer Market, the world's largest outdoor specialty industry trade show (August 8-11) held in Salt Lake City, provided attendees with a glimpse of the future with a variety of high tech gear, gadgets, outerwear and apparel to enjoy the outdoors.

Summer Market 2002 represented exhibitors and brands from all over the world with a total attendance of 16,848 including 848 exhibiting companies and 2,900 retail stores represented by 5,281 buyers. The 2002 numbers were down slightly compared to last year's Summer Market which reached 18,792 with 948 exhibiting companies and 3,284 retail stores represented by 6,261 buyers.

"Summer Market's attendance numbers show the strength and enthusiasm of the outdoor specialty industry, especially during a softer economic time. This is my first experience in this role and I'm awed by the passion and spirit of the people on both sides of the aisle. The years of friendship, history and commitment to the outdoor industry and its health is impressive and 100% sincere," said Peter Devin OR's Trade Show Director.

"This has been one of our better shows, our reps booked each day to its fullest and we saw all the dealers we needed to see -- it was a very productive show for us," said Mike Pereyo, co-owner of oobe which specializes in outdoor sportswear.

"Best show we've ever had - the attitude of the retailers was better than anticipated, considering the current economic condition," said Jim Clark, President and COO of Watermark.

"The show has been very solid for Black Diamond. Despite it being a somewhat flat year for retailers they're in control of their business, they know what products are hot and they like industry leaders -- which plays to our benefit," said Peter Metcalf, CEO and President of Black Diamond.

Summer Market 2002 kicked off with the Open Air Demo held at Little Dell Lake. Other special events included the Opening Night Industry Party, Outdoor Industry Leadership Awards, "Seeding the Future" benefit breakfast and a full slate of seminars, parties and events

One major trend seen throughout the show was the influx of technical clothing providing a wide range of features to consumers. Clothing manufactures have developed garments that can address any challenge that might occur during an outdoor experience including built-in bug repellant, ultra-lightweight fabrics, moisture management, anti-microbial properties and sun block protection.

"With the spread of the West Nile Virus, the timing was perfect for Ex Officio to launch our new 'Bug-Away' shirt at Summer Market. The Bug-Away line blocks mosquito attacks with a non-toxic, hypoallergenic, insect repellent treatment. We've also seen a great demand for our garments with built-in sun protection - this has been a great show for us," Janine Robertson spokesperson for Ex Officio.

And for those consumers who are getting weighed down by their outdoor gear, the outdoor industry has developed a wide-range of ultra-lightweight products utilizing a variety of new technical fabrics and materials.

"We believe in the concept of developing lightweight products for fast packing, trail running, lightweight hiking mountaineering and multi-sport enthusiasts. At this show we've had well over 100 appointments and just about every appointment has committed to buy our lightweight hard goods and softgoods - which is virtually unheard of," said Demetri Coupouanas, President of GoLite.

Another category that continues to grow each season is the "soft shell" apparel segment. This category of mid-weight and outerwear garments remains a relatively new concept for the American consumer and a constant topic of discussion at the show. The "soft shell" definition varies slightly from manufacturer to manufacturer but common characteristics include breathability, water-resistance and a stretchy feel -- ideal for varying weather conditions and aerobic activities.

"Soft shell technology offers manufacturers and retailers more opportunities to match the needs of consumers," said Bob Holding, VP of Marketing for Arc'teryx. "Because fabrics described as ‘soft shell' encompass so many different characteristics, product designers can create very versatile pieces."

The Outdoor Retailer Summer and Winter Market are the world's largest outdoor specialty industry trade shows. Outdoor Retailer produces two annual show guides, on-site show dailies and an internet based expo-newsletter. More Information regarding Outdoor Retailer's international expos and trade news is available on the internet at www.outdoorretailer.com. For additional information regarding Outdoor Retailer, please contact Lori Crabtree at Stanwood & Partners Public Relations by phone 307-733-1514 or email at lcrabtree@wyoming.com.

— Posted by Ari Cheren, MountainZone.com Gear Editor