Reflectivity, Moisture Management Key Sales

Retailers say just as bike sales are driven by technology, so is cycling apparel.

"Technology drives our industry, and reflective fabrics and moisture management materials are the top technology in cycling apparel," says Adam Howes, product manager at Performance Inc., Chapel Hill, N.C. "We've featured (DuPont) CoolMax in our line for eight to 10 years, but it has really taken off the last two to three years. Consumers have come to expect it."

Included in Performance's line is the illumiNite reflective fabric from Reflective Technologies, Cambridge, Mass. The technology converts proprietary materials into miniature reflectors that, when imbedded into fabric by the millions, reflect oncoming light in a way that illuminates the full silhouette of a cyclist. Cyclists riding outdoors at night are fully reflected when wearing the illumiNite reflective garments.

Cannondale Corp., Bethel, Conn., features the (Enterprise Coatings) Vapex membrane in outerwear that is sandwiched between nylon/Lycra and fleece, and adds an extra windproof, waterproof and breathable layer. The Micro-C fabric is a microfiber polyester that's been added to Cannondale's line for a more comfortable fit.

With the growth of indoor cycling, a whole new audience also has been created. "There is no danger of crashing, you're not dealing with the weather, so durability isn't as necessary. You don't have to wear a heavy outdoor short," says Charity Emmons, fitness marketing manager for Schwinn Cycling and Fitness, Boulder, Colo. "Indoor has a little more flexibility to what you wear. It's more fitness and fashion-oriented." Indoor cycling fashions include shorter tops and short. Reflective patches or wind protection are not issues, according to Emmons.

For some retailers, including Academy Sports & Outdoors, Katy, Texas, and KenLin Inc., Wichita, Kan., a solid black cycling short by InSport is all they need to stock. Sold at a lower price-point than the more technical short, the $30 short accommodates the general cycling crowd, says Ray Staiger, general merchandise manager at KenLin.

?Pam Stone