CLOVER SNOW PROTECTION F/W 2025/26 PREVIEW

Retail Buyers Guide: Snow Protection F/W 2025/26 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: clover
Interviewee: Joeri Van de Vliet – CEO/Design Lead

Which products sold best in the winter 2023/24 and why?
Our Back protectors and Crash pants continue to lead the charge. The back protectors, known for their lightweight design, super ventilation, and seamless integration with our RZ Labs impact technology, have been a customer favorite. Meanwhile, the crash pants, offering robust tailbone protection with the same innovative technology, secure their place as a go-to for riders looking for performance and comfort. Both products resonate well due to their simplicity, inclusivity across sizes and genders, and our commitment to delivering high-value, durable solutions.

Are you feeling the impact of climate challenges (unpredictable conditions, snow at higher altitudes, more expensive costs) on your product demand and development?
Yes, the climate challenges are undoubtedly influencing both the demand for our products and the approach we take in their development. With unpredictable conditions pushing snowboarding to higher altitudes, the need for reliable, performance-based protection has only increased. These conditions are inspiring us to create even more versatile products that can withstand diverse weather while remaining comfortable and lightweight. The rising costs are being factored into our strategy, but our focus remains on delivering accessible, high-quality protection to riders.

Which product do you expect to grow the most of your 2025/2026 collection?
Our new range of knee pads is where we see the most growth potential for 2025/26. Like our other products, these pads are developed with the same USP’s—lightweight, ventilated, and packed with RZ Labs impact technology. They’re designed to be as comfortable and discreet as our back protectors and crash pants.

What are the design and material highlights of your 2025/26 collection?
In 2025/26, we’re emphasizing sustainability alongside performance. Expect a continued focus on recycled materials, especially in our boardbags, which deliver the same durability and protection as our snow gear. The use of RZ Labs technology remains central, allowing for products that adapt to the body and stiffen upon impact, but we’re pushing this technology further with new, eco-conscious materials.

How are you implementing sustainability in your products and production processes?
Sustainability is becoming a core principle in both our product design and production. We use recycled fabrics wherever possible, and our products are designed to be durable, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Our washable features also contribute to longevity, as riders can maintain their gear for multiple seasons. In production, we’re constantly exploring greener processes, whether it’s through energy efficiency in our factories or reducing waste in material use.

What are your marketing stories for 2025/26?
For 2025/26, our story is about expansion and accessibility. We’ve grown our brand into 9 European territories, and with the addition of our boardbags and knee pads, we’re offering a comprehensive range of protection and gear. The simple, no-nonsense design remains at the heart of our collection, paired with sustainable practices and an inclusive approach that speaks to all riders. Our products are not just about safety; they’re about boosting confidence in every rider, from beginners to pros.

How are you supporting retailers to sell this category?
We’re continuing to simplify things for retailers. Our genderless collection streamlines the ordering process, and we offer strong carry-over items, meaning they don’t have to worry about outdated stock. We’ve also enhanced our B2B ordering system to make restocking as seamless as possible. Plus, with our expansion into new territories, retailers have more opportunities to reach a wider audience.

Key Products:

Back protector:
Lightweight, ventilated, and powered by RZ Labs technology, our back protector offers all-day comfort while providing superior protection. Featuring high-quality materials like YKK zippers and a grippy waistband, it’s the go-to solution for any rider looking for top-tier safety without sacrificing freedom of movement.

Clover_backprotector_front

Crash pants:
Tailbone protection is at the forefront of these high-performance crash pants. Built with lightweight and breathable materials, they feature our signature RZ Labs technology, ensuring riders are protected without feeling bulky. Washable, durable, and designed for all-day wear.

Clover_crashpants_back

Fear and Loading boardbag:
Designed with the same rugged durability and straightforward functionality as our protection gear, the Fear and Loading boardbag is perfect for adventurous riders. Featuring backpack strapsn reinforced padding, weather-resistant materials, and 140L(!) of space for gear, it’s built to handle the demands of travel. This boardbag offers solid protection, all while keeping things simple and lightweight—ideal for snow trips across Europe and beyond.

Clover – Boardbags – Fear and Loading – Length-2