Sport Softgoods sales increased 1.0% in fiscal May over the year-ago month when measured in dollars, according to data compiled by research point-of-sale service, SportScanINFO. That increase came as a strong month for Sport Footwear sales more than offset weak Sport Apparel results. Sport Footwear sales grew in the mid-single-digits in dollars, but were relatively flat in units. Outdoor Footwear, Running Footwear and Boots all had a strong month as the weather remained unseasonably cool and wet for much of May. Skate shoes continued to provide a boost to the market, but were offset by the continued downward slide of Heelys in the overall Action Sports Footwear category.
Sport Apparel sales decreased in the mid-singles in both dollars and units for the month. Sales gains were seen in cold weather categories with Outerwear growing in the double-digits. However, in the more seasonal Shirts/Tops, sales of Short-Sleeve product were generally down, while Long-Sleeve was up, again a reflection of the cool, wet weather. Performance product continued to drive the market with both Compression and Non-Compression Performance Apparel sales growing in the mid-teens in dollars.
