Ronix S/S 22 Wakeboard Hardgoods Preview
Retail Buyers Guide: Wakeboard Hardgoods S/S 22 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: Ronix
Interviewee: Nick Jobe, VP International Sales
What are the most important learnings from 2021 that you will be taking into 2022? What changes can we expect for 2022?
That Covid has driven families to spend more time together through outdoor activities, it has reminded a lot of people that time is precious and spending more of it with those you love is important. In order to help this happen we are trying to remedy supply chain issues by the minute. It seems as we close a door on one supply issue, it opens an issue on another supply chain. We have worked timeless hours on solving these problems. We appreciate the compassion and patience consumers have had through these unprecedented times and we are thankful for all of our customers that have remained brand loyal.
What are the main trends coming up in 2022 in the wakeboard hardware market for boots/boards/bindings.
The main trend with boots is to make more durable products, that are performance based for the consumer. Cable riders are harder on products than boat riders, and we are focused on making the most durable highest performing cable boots. The trends of boards is bigger is better. People are looking for bigger sweet spots, and softer landings. We are committed to R&D on making sure we use the most technological advanced materials to maintain durability while not sacrificing the feel a board has on the rails or on the water.
Where do you expect the biggest growth in 2022?
The largest trend that we are seeing is wake foil. The trend of flying in silence across the water is an timeless experience, and allows the rider some time for themselves.
Anything new happening in terms of innovations in construction and design for 2022 for boots/boards/bindings?
As I mentioned above the new technology is all about durability and performance. We have partnered with Carbitex to make sure we have that. There is no other company that dominates that field, and we are proud to partner with them. Another proud partnership is with Red Bull. They have chosen to partner with us on a brand new Ronix Red Bull Massi Piffaretti RXT boot.
What are some key strategies to support retailers and what would you like to see more of in 2022 in terms of retailer/distributor/brand relationship?
Key strategies are getting our products on the water. We are working on getting our riders in front of people at cable parks all over Europe, and making sure people can ride our products. Our global distributors are the backbone of this strategy. In addition, countless hours of zoom calls to help keep dealers up to speed on new products. We have definitely been targeting our distributors on an individual basis to make sure to take care of their individual needs.
Sustainability has been a vital trend the last few years, how will this be carried on into 2022? Any new innovations, initiatives, changes in materials, etc.?
We have chosen to use bio resins inside some of our products, and are testing it daily on different products. We are learning that these plant based resins are even better then some of the traditional resins. We find this very important, and are working on expanding this further in our range. Paulownia wood is also used throughout our park board range. This wood is warp-resistant, and is the fastest growing renewable hardwood tree in the world. We have also been using Limestone based neoprene rather then petroleum based. Using sustainable resources is becoming the foundation of our products.
Best Sellers
The new Red Bull RXT boot
The most technologically advanced wakeboard binding in the industry. Between our partnership with Redbull, Intuition, and Carbitex we can offer an industry leading power packed boot to offer a combination of lightweight and comfort, without sacrificing performance. Don’t forget to heatmold these boots for the ultimate comfort, and removing all dead space between you and board.
The all new Supreme BOA
We are proud to be partnered with BOA, and this has been long time in the making. Having a binding that has such convenient in out access, and support is a hard task, but with BOA, it is made possible. Jake Pelot and Tyler Higham are proud to have this innovation on their feet.
The all new Atmos board
We brought in the Peacocks to be the most innovative hard charging riders in the industry. They have succeeded in pushing the limits. We needed to build them a board with durability and flex. Spine flex has made this possible. Running a ridged center with vertical stringers, and horizontal wood on the outside makes the board ridged on and off the kickers, while the horizonal wood allows for contouring on the rails. Great feel, combined with durability.