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Sports DEC10 COVER:SGBUK Cover 08/12/2010 12:39 Page 1


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Showcase: Rugby


As the Rugby season really gets into its stride, we take a look at some of the latest clothing and equipment to hit the pitches.


Adidas


'Torpedo Respect' Adidas’ Torpedo Respect Heineken Cup rugby ball is 100 per cent hand stitched and manufactured from natural rubber. The interior is composed of a mixture of latex and butyl, said to offer exceptional quality and durability both in handling as well as kicking. In addition, through positioning the valve in the seam and not in the middle of a panel, there is an enhanced sweet spot area for kicking. RRP £50


Precision Training All-in-one Sub Suit


Designed for keeping subs warm and ready to play, the suit is made from a shower- proof nylon with quilted lining and full- length zip down to the ankles. Available in both junior and senior sizes, it’s available in black and navy. Sizes XXS-XXL. RRP £29.99 www.precisiontraining.uk.com


Puma


PowerCat 1.10 Union Ball Developed in conjunction with Mark Tainton – kicking coach to the IRFU – this ball incorporates Puma’s weight balance system designed to improve flight stability and increase kicking distance. Said to provide exceptional dynamics when kicking, whilst maintaining a soft touch for good grip and easy handling and passing, the PowerCat ball has a multi layer polymer-based construction with kicking sweet spots illustrated on the ball casing to improve kicking accuracy. A four-layer polymer/rubber laminate outer shell is said to give good shape retention and minimise water uptake whatever the conditions. RRP £40


18 www.sgb-sports.com


Nike England kits


www.adidas.com


Nike has launched next season’s England rugby home and change kits. The classic all- white bodied home shirt is subtly trimmed with grey thorns on the side panels and shoulders, while the change kit is high-lustre anthracite trimmed with an intertwined thorn design on the waist panels and shoulders. Both shirts boast Nike’s tight fitting technology and ergonomically designed jerseys and underarm sleeve panels are designed to give players complete freedom of movement, comfort and optimised fit. RRP Shirt £90 Replica jersey £50 www.nikestore.com/rugby


Puma King Finale


The King Finale is designed for players wanting a classic look with modern technology and materials. Designed for rugby and soccer, it is manufactured in premium leather upper. Features include a rounder toe-box and traditional fold-over tongue secured by a hook-and- loop fastener, designed to give a cleaner kicking area and improve pressure distribution on ball impact, Puma claims. Puma Aptolast allows the upper to mould to the player’s foot, and there is an anatomically shaped sockliner with memory foam insert for comfort and fit. RRP £100 www.prodirectsoccer.com


On the touchline


Precision Training Ultimate Windbreaker


Suitable for cold weather training, the Ultimate Windbreaker is a 100 per cent PU-coated soft-feel polyester shell with water-resistant taped seams and a mesh lining. New features include a ribbed round neck collar, elasticated cuffs and open hem waistband with toggled cord. Lightweight, for greater freedom of movement,


Precision Training say this windbreaker is ideal for all types of rugby training. Available in sizes XXS-XXL. RRP £29.99 www.precisiontraining.uk.com


Asics - Lethal Tigreor


Finished in a vivid yellow and black colourway, Asics claim this boot provides maximum support and protection from lower limb injuries in today’s pacey game. Complete with rounded studs, the boot features a 10mm heel gradient, said to offer the best biomechanical position for running whilst reducing load on the achilles tendons, calf muscles, hamstring and back. Other technical features include the use of Solyte – a cushioning material said to give a lightweight midsole with good bounce-back and durability. RRP £90


Showcase: Rugby


www.asics.co.uk


Asics


Lethal Testimonial Constructed in Kangaroo and synthetic leather upper, design features include Solyte midsole material for cushioning and durability, moulded outsole configuration for play on harder ground, 10mm heel gradient to help reduce strain on lower limbs and a combination lasting, which the company says improves stability and flexibility due to board lasting in the heel and slip lasting in the forefoot. RRP £80


Opro Platinum


Opro say the Platinum brings together the best attributes of the OPROshield Gold range with two significant new features – multiple protection zones and guaranteed inter jaw thickness. There are four protection zones, OPROfins for fit and retention, frontal zones for external impact, concussion zones for blows through the lower jaw and a skeletal framework bringing them all together. Inter jaw thickness is guaranteed due to the OPROhandle, said to allow ease of fitting and prevents the wearer from biting through or over thinning the fitting surface of the mouthguard. RRP £24.00


Mizuno Wave


www.opro.com


Samurai 3 Precision crafted for shape retention, fit and comfort, the Wave Samurai 3 has a structured Pebax sole plate said to give optimum flexion and help with injury prevention. A compact wave plate in the heel gives additional cushioning and stability while the stud configuration gives the player the option for either six or seven detachable studs intended to give extra traction on soft ground. With a fold-over tongue and removable sock liner with VS-1 cushioning in the heel, this model comes in black, white or lime and weighs 330g. RRP £75


Gilbert - Kryten V1 www.prodirectrugby.com


Designed for the serious rugby player looking for a high-performance shoe, Gilbert says the Kryten V1 is its lightest performance speed boot, combining style, performance and quality. Technical features include a new microfibre soft touch PU upper, intended to reduce weight whilst maximising comfort, together with an aerodynamic last and off centre lacing, which Gilbert claims gives a second skin feel and increase strike area for precision kicking. A preformed 4mm footbed, rigid midfoot construction with full length PU lasting for flexibility and support and thermoplastic moulded heel for improved fit complete the design features. RRP: £59.99


Shock Doctor www.asics.co.uk


Power Comp Short Constructed in a supportive four- way stretch material, this Power Comp short wicks moisture away from the skin. The sleek fitting design incorporates flatlock seams and a wraparound X-FIT cup retention system with BioFlex Cup whilst a fully vented cup pocket allows for maximum airflow. BioFlex Cup included. RRP £39.99


KooGa EVX


www.mizuno.co.uk


boot With the Rugby World Cup taking place in New Zealand next year, KooGa has produced a Maori print version of its best selling EVX boot. Constructed from a high performance breathable Evaporex fabric upper, the boot features a Maori- inspired print to the outsole and the heel counter. Technical features include a new venom outsole with Y and Z arm shock dispersal technology and high-tensile stitching for enhanced sole adhesion said to enhance fit, contour and stability and internal Iso Grip+ technology insole for grip and feel. RRP £50


Mizuno www.hy-pro.co.uk


Timaru Mizuno says the Timaru’s classic design is synonymous with rugby and is the choice of boot for many professionals. Weighing 345g, the boot is constructed in soft, durable full grain leather, reinforced in the upper design for optimum fit and comfort during play. Other details include a light and flexible Pebax outsole and reinforced midfoot said to give powerful traction, and detachable studs for stability and grip on soft ground. Available in black, yellow or white. RRP £55


Canterbury Rugby World Cup Supporter range


www.kooga-rugby.com


Inside this month: STAG Review | ISPO Preview | Rugby Showcase |Marathon Showcase


www.gilbertrugby.com


Official sportswear supplier for the Rugby World Cup 2011, Canterbury has introduced a new supporter range designed exclusively in New Zealand. Available from May next year, Canterbury says this distinctive World Cup collection incorporates traditional jersey designs with artistic New Zealand markings to capture the true essence of rugby, focusing on comfort and quality. Known for innovative designs, Canterbury’s new collection includes men’s, women’s and kids’ clothing. Individual items vary from the adults Captain’s T-shirt in black and green, to the Harlequin rugby jersey in white, blue and green. RRP Harlequin rugby jersey £34.99 www.canterbury.com


www.sgb-sports.com 19


www.mizuno.co.uk


olf_NEW_template 07/12/2010 09:36 Page 12


STAG Review


but is now looking to relaunch to “make sure people know we are still here”. Knight said: “We are looking to take the brand


forward now. This will see us keep a focus on our core athletics range but also move into new areas and markets. “For instance, we are the official UK licensee


for the FABA fitness range.” Racket sport brand Head also admitted to


getting lost in the mix, although not through any fault of its own, but rather due to tennis succumbing to a summer of higher-profile sporting events, such as the World Cup. Nonetheless, a spokesperson said: “It has been a steady show, and we’re helped by having four players from eight using our equipment at the ATP World Tour Finals.” The STAG buying show wasn’t all about work


though. There was the obligatory drinks reception in the evening of the first day, and there were also some jollities to be had during the show itself. Selsport managing director Roberto Forzoni got


visitors involved with magic tricks on its stand, dart brand Winmau got some matches going using its new Blade 4 board and ball manufacturer Molten had a golden, stitch-free football, complete with decorative wooden stand, available as a competition prize. The stitch-free range of footballs, as used at


the last World Cup, was one of the things Molten’s stand prioritised as it looked to grab the attention of visitors. The brand also spoke of its forthcoming sponsorship deal covering balls supplied for the 2012 London Olympics Games, which it will soon start promoting through on-ball


logos. Archery brand Petron handed out toy sets to


highlight its range of value-added products available through its Petron Fun line. In addition, a target board allowed visitors to


try archery at the show, although only with toy darts. This acted as a means for Petron to engage retailers who may otherwise be put off archery as a product line to stock, according to Petron’s Sam Meadows. Meadows said: “As a specialist brand, the


STAG buying show is a good point of contact for us with retailers, who may be unsure if selling archery equipment is right for them. “We have three lines, Pro, Leisure and Fun,


depending on how serious the retailer wants to take archery. This show has been a good opportunity to meet new people and talk to them to get them thinking about archery.” STAG buying show first-timer Exel Poles was


another exhibitor on a mission to educate retailers to its products, which are designed for Nordic walking. A spokesperson said Nordic walking has only


recently become a recognised sport, but is picking up support fast. “This means we need to educate retailers,” the Exel Poles representative said.


Precision Training used the STAG buying show to launch its new range of Schmeichology goalkeeping gloves. The range has been designed in


collaboration with professional goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, son of the legendary Peter, who has been wearing them this season already. Speaking to SGB Sports at the STAG


buying show, Schmeichel said: “Precision Training worked with me to develop what I wanted in a glove, and the result has been brilliant. “I’m wearing them now so they have to be comfortable. The results are delightful.”


p4,5 news:SGBGolf_NEW_template 07/12/2010 11:58 Page 4 12 News On the wing


For more on these stories, see www.sgb- sports.com


Precision Training debuted its latest goalkeeping line, Schmeichology, at last month’s STAG buying show. The range has been designed in collaboration with Leeds United shot-stopper Kasper Schmeichel, who was in attendance on the first day of the two- day show to help Precision Training launch the gloves to the trade (see show review, p10).


Heart rate training technology specialist Polar has introduced a white variant of its FT40 training computer for active women as an ‘elegant choice for the style-conscious who want the best for both their fitness and looks’.


The FA has given its full approval to the new National Football Centre, St George’s Park, in Burton-on-Trent. Building work is to start in January next year, with completion due in the summer of 2012. FA board member and chairman of the National Football Centre Board, David Sheepshanks said the centre will be “an inspirational hub for everyone involved in football from the grassroots to the elite”.


Sports equipment retailers need to take advantage of EPoS systems to benefit from the early stages of the economic recovery, according to e-commerce systems specialist Cybertill.


A third Sport Traider store has opened its doors in Luton with the aim of encouraging local people back into sports through recycling old and unwanted equipment. The Active Luton Sports Traider store will take unwanted sports kit, such as out-grown trainers and boots, lost property and old equipment, clean and wash it, and then resell it an affordable price to the community.


Scottish rugby league player Ricky Munday has begun his quest to become the first person to reach the summit of the three highest peaks in Australasia in a single expedition.


4


SSC sees sport on the up T


forward, in particular that consumers are valuing physical activity more highly than they have done during previous recessions in the 1980s and 1990s, when there were notable drops in consumer expenditure on physical activity. This has been driven by a greater importance being placed on


health and well-being by the government in recent years, as well as greater recognition of the sports industry as a viable career path. For instance, Studd noted that coaching and instructing had been one of the biggest growth


professions in the first 18 months of the recession. SkillsActive’s role is to ensure there is enough competent and qualified staff to support future


growth in active sport participation, a development that will grow the market sports retailers can target. Studd said: “It is a challenging environment in which to be positive, but the indications are that


the sports industry is weathering the storm. “There are many positives in both the consumer environment, and from government and the


public sector, which are giving a push to the industry.” However, Studd said there may have to be new business models found for some publically-


funded sports initiatives as cuts are made to stabilise the UK economy, which may include greater involvement from private enterprise to fund local projects and activities. Studd added that major sporting events, such as the Olympic Games in 2012 and the 2014


Commonwealth Games, will highlight the role sport can take in driving investment in other areas, such as regeneration and infrastructure. “Big events raise the profile of the sector and show the impact sport can have,” he said.


Hi-Tecmoves headquarters from UK to Holland


H


i-Tec is relocating its global headquarters from Southend-on-Sea to Amsterdam as it readies itself for growth in the coming years. Product development, design, marketing and finance functions will


move from the UK to the Netherlands, although Hi-Tec UK will continue to run from Southend-on-Sea. Hi-Tec USA has recently relocated its headquarters from


Modesto, California to Portland, Oregon. Hi-Tec general manager Ed van Wezel, son of company


founder Frank, who is heading up the move, described Amsterdam as a “creative environment” that will benefit the group’s brands as they move forward. The group consists of a global outdoor and sports business under the Hi-Tec brand, and a


uniform business under the name Magnum. The move will take place in January and coincides with a new brand philosophy, ‘Inspired by life’,


being introduced. Ed van Wezel said: “Hi-Tec is primed for growth and Amsterdam is the hub for some of the best


talent in our industry and is also an extremely creative environment for the entire team to benefit from. We are extremely proud of our British roots though, and will continue to run and invest in our successful UK subsidiary from Southend-on-Sea.” There have been a number of appointments announced alongside the move, including that of


Martin Binnendijk, formally European chief executive, who will be the group’s new chief finance officer (CFO). And former CFO Bob Kaiser has been announced with immediate effect as the chief executive of


Magnum USA in Modesto, California, while Ian Cameron, previously UK sales director, will serve as Hi-Tec UK managing director from January.


www.sgb-sports.com www.sgb-sports.com


he sports industry continues to weather the economic storm with participation and consumer expenditure holding up, according to


Stephen Studd, chief executive of SkillsActive, the sector skills council for sport and active leisure. Studd said there are positive signs for the sports industry going


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