Sales by core outdoor retailers were up 9% in dollars for the first six months of the year, according to a report released last week by the Outdoor Industry Association. The report confirms retail point-of-sale data reported here two weeks ago. That data, compiled by SportScanINFO, showed the positive trend set through May slowed in June and July as sales of camping/backpacking/hiking equipment flat lined. SSI data also showed a double-digit improvement in sales of bicycles and bicycle-related equipment helped push sales up in the mid-single-digits in the sporting goods, sport specialty, Internet and discount/mass channels for the month.


The OIA said strong growth in tent and camping gear sales confirm the theory that many Americans are shifting away from long trips  toward shorter “staycations.”


OIA data show total outdoor product sales from all three channels (Specialty, Chain and Internet) reached $389 million in June, up 2% in units and 5% in dollars over June 2007. Equipment, equipment accessories and apparel each gained sales for the month, while weak sandal sales dragged down the entire footwear category.