COTOPAXI GREAT OUTDOORS S/S 2025 PREVIEW

Retail Buyers Guide: Great Outdoors S/S 2025 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: Cotopaxi
Interviewee: Jürgen Henssen – Sales Manager

What is the status of the Men’s Outdoor Apparel Market after summer 2023?
After summer 2023, the market for outdoor clothing for men shows some interesting trends and developments. Here are some important aspects:
Sustainability: Awareness of sustainable products has increased. Many brands are focusing on environmentally friendly materials and production methods. Recycled fabrics and sustainable sourcing practices are increasingly in demand.
Technological innovations: The integration of technology into outdoor clothing remains a trend. Functional materials that are breathable, water-repellent and quick drying continue to be appreciated. Intelligent textiles that can regulate temperature, for example, are also gaining in importance.
Versatility: Men are increasingly looking for versatile clothing that is suitable for both outdoor activities and everyday wear. Multifunctional garments that can be easily adapted to different weather conditions are in demand.
Style and design: The fashion aspect is becoming increasingly important. Outdoor clothing is becoming increasingly style-conscious, and many brands offer appealing designs that can also be worn in urban environments.
Online sales: The trend towards online shopping, which has been boosted by the pandemic, continues. Many brands are investing in their online presence and offering an enhanced shopping experience, including virtual try-ons and detailed product information.
Market growth: The outdoor clothing market has seen stable growth overall, particularly in segments such as hiking, climbing and cycling. The demand for outdoor leisure activities remains high.
Health and wellness: The focus on health and wellness is also having an impact on the outdoor market. Activities such as hiking, cycling and camping are popular, leading to increased demand for appropriate clothing.
Overall, the market for outdoor clothing for men shows a positive development after summer 2023, with a clear focus on sustainability, functionality and style.

How did war, economy, global warming, overall inflation affect your SS23 sell in plans (delays/ range cancellations/ carry over/stock)?
Current global challenges such as war, economic uncertainties, global warming and inflation are having a significant impact on sales plans for the new season. Here are some of the key issues affecting these factors:
Supply chain issues: war and geopolitical tensions have often led to disruptions in supply chains. Delays in production and transportation of goods are common, resulting in products not being available in time for the sales period.
Cancellations of product ranges: Due to uncertainty in the procurement of raw materials and supplies, many companies have decided to streamline their product ranges. Products that are difficult to procure or costly may be removed from the range.
Transfers: Some companies may be forced to carry over products from one season to the next to minimize the impact of delays and uncertainty. This may also mean that new collections are introduced later than planned.
Inventory management: Inflation has led to higher production costs, which has an impact on pricing. Companies may need to manage their inventory more carefully to avoid overstocking and associated costs. This may also lead to more cautious purchasing.
Fluctuations in demand: Economic conditions and inflation can affect consumer buying behavior. In uncertain times, customers tend to spend less, which can negatively impact sales forecasts.
Sustainability and environmental awareness: Global warming has caused many companies to rethink their strategies and prioritize more sustainable practices and products. This can bring both opportunities and challenges, particularly in terms of sourcing and production.
Overall, these factors require a flexible and adaptable strategy to respond to rapidly changing conditions and meet sales targets for SS25.

What are the major trends in the Mens Outdoor Apparel segment in spring/summer 2025?
Several important trends are expected in the men’s outdoor clothing segment in spring/summer 2025. Here are a few examples:
Sustainability and eco-friendly materials – the demand for sustainable products will continue to rise. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on recycled materials, biodegradable fabrics and environmentally friendly production processes.
Multifunctionality – garments that fulfill several functions continue to be popular. This includes, for example, jackets that are both waterproof and windproof, as well as pants that can easily be converted into shorts.
Technological innovations – Smart clothing and wearable technology are increasingly being integrated. Features such as temperature regulation, moisture management and integrated GPS trackers could play a greater role.
Materials / Lightweight, breathable fabrics – In terms of comfort and functionality, lightweight, breathable and quick-drying materials that are well suited to different weather conditions are in demand.
Colors and prints – Bright colors and eye-catching patterns could be trending in 2025. In addition to classic earth tones, vibrant colors and graphic prints that stand out from traditional outdoor clothing will be in demand.
The urban outdoor style – The trend towards urban outdoor clothing that is suitable for both outdoor activities and everyday city life will continue. This includes stylish but functional jackets, backpacks and shoes.
Layering systems – Multi-layered clothing systems that can be adapted according to weather conditions remain popular. This enables a high degree of flexibility and adaptability.
These trends reflect the changing needs and preferences of consumers who are looking for both functionality and style in their outdoor clothing.

Take us through your brand line in detail for s/s 2025
Cotopaxi – the next Level – INSPIRING THE ADVENTURE Adventure occurs in many different ways, each with it’s own timing and unique outcomes. Consumers go on adventures for challenges, to create community and connection, and to experience moments of solitude, resilience, and self-discovery. We recognize that the concept of venturing outdoors varies for every individual. As a brand, our goal is to empower our consumers to embrace curiosity. Whether it’s a brief hike to a breathtaking waterfall with a detour for bouldering, an 8-10 mile trek to conquer the summit of Looking Glas Rock Trail, or to train for your goal of hiking a part of the monumental Appalachian Trail thru-hike, we aim celebrate and support each person’s individual aspirations and experiences. We inspire consumers to achieve that next level. Cotopaxi design is inspired by the feeling and aesthetic of timeless outdoor. The visual language is rooted in classic silhouettes with a fun twist and updating the features while maintaining a nostalgic feel. We are approachable and fun, we are rooted in traditional outdoor but bring our colorful spin, and we utilize functional technology without being overtly complicated. We re-imagine the classic styles while enhancing the performance. Our legacy products success is drawn from the bold color blocking and the joy of an 80’s childhood. Building off of that aesthetic, we design identifiable classic silhouettes that have a modern take on familiar design lines and feel, but up-level the function. The evolution includes interior interest, elevating traditional design lines, “plis one” detail, and focus on identifiable outdoor trims for pops and fun. S25 Design Language – Aesthetic
-Timeless silhouettes nod to nostalgia with a modern twist
-Re-Imagined classics with modern performance
-Town to Trail versatility blend lifestyle and outdoor pursuits
-Seamlines that allow for mild to wild color blocking
-Focus on materials that speak to comfort, durability and versatility
-Effortlessly layered styles

S25 Design Language – Features
-Thoughtful placement of zippers and are distraction free
-Pockets are always design with purpose and function
-Rich materials with depth lend to a more premium look
-Emphasis on packability, moisture/temp management and durability

What efforts are you implementing towards sustainability?
In 2014, we set out to build an outdoor gear company that would serve as a force for good. Today, drawing on best practices from the outdoor industry and sustainable development sector, we build innovative adventure travel gear that empowers people to see the world and make it better. Every year, we dedicate 1% of our revenue to the Cotopaxi Foundation. Launched in 2019, the Foundation awards grants to nonprofits with proven track records of alleviating poverty through health, education, and livelihood, with a focus in Latin America. When it comes to products, we’re constantly striving to minimize our footprint and explore new sustainably minded materials. Our DelDia Collection is crafted from leftover deadstock fabric, which helps keep good fabric out of the landfill. We only use responsibly sourced down. And we make most of our fleece, activewear, and other apparel from recycled materials. To meet the highest standards of supply chain transparency, we share our factories publicly and conduct ongoing due diligence and collaborative initiatives to ensure workers are treated fairly. We also award grants to our major factories to support worker-led programs like organic gardens, university scholarships, and employee carpooling. As part of our Net Zero commitment, we’ve also set ambitious carbon footprint reduction goals. By 2030, we are committed to reducing absolute scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 42% below 2022 levels. And by 2045, we will reduce our absolute scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions by 90% below 2022 levels. To fully hold ourselves accountable, we are a certified B Corporation, which means every aspect of our company’s operations is measured to ensure we have a net positive contribution to society. As a B Corp, we extend our mission-first approach across areas like employee experience, community, and governance. We look forward to doing more good together. See the world. Make it better. Lasting gear, lasting impact. Our Gear for Good ® promise is to make durable gear as sustainably and ethically as possible. lt’s also our commitment to donate at least 1% of our revenue to help communities experiencing poverty
OUR PURPOSE
WE MOVE PEOPLE TO DO GOOD
B Corp Certified
We are part of the B Corp community, a group of companies focused on using business as a force for social, environmental, and economic good. More at cotopaxi.com/bcorp
1% for the Planet® Member
We’re proud to be a member of 1% for the Planet, a global collective of companies and individuals committed to donating 1% of sales to causes that support a healthier planet for all.
Guaranteed For Good™
Our gear should last a lifetime of adventures. lf there’s a problem with a customer’s gear, we’ll happily repair it, replace it, or offer trade-in rewards.

What marketing stories and themes are you telling in your line for SS2025?
How will you be helping retailers to sell your brands?
S25 Marketing Strategy

DIVERSIFY CATEGORY REVENUE
By strategically supporting emerging programs (models like Coraje, Yermo, Impermeo) alongside key programs (Allpa, Del Dia, Capa,etc.)

ESTABLISH OURSELVES AS A TECHNICAL PLAYER
Through use case specificity in authentically Cotopaxi ways (style forward, technically competent, approachable)
H1 2025 Marketing Calendar

-Feb.
Hero Campaign – Travel Bags
Secondary Campaign – Insulation
Product Focus –
1.Allpa Duffles + Rollers
2.Insulation: Fuego + Capa / Fleece Abrazo, Amado, Envo

-Mar.
Hero Campaign – Outdoor Active: Rain + Wind
Secondary Campaign – Travel Bags
Product Focus –
1.Rain: Impermeo, Cielo
2.Fleece/Softshell: Yermo
3.Insulation: Capa. Hybrid Capa

-Apr.
Hero Campaign – Travel Apparel + Buttons sub-story
Secondary Campaign – Travel Bags
Product Focus –
1.Travel Apparel: Cambio, Trevida
2.Pants: Coraje, Ambato
3.DelDia Packing Cubes
4.Viaje Weekender
5.CadaDia Packs

-May
Hero Campaign – Outdoor Active: Hot Weather Hike + Buttons sub-story
Secondary Campaign – Travel Bags
Product Focus –
1.Hike Apparel: Cambio, Trevida
2.Hike Packs: Arenal, Eiqui, Lagos
3.Wind Jackes: Vuelta
4.Shorts: Persisto, Coraje
5.Tee’s

-Jun
Hero Campaign – Outdoor Active: Sun + Water
Secondary Campaign – Outdoor Hot Weather Hike
Product Focus –
1.Sun: Shorts Brinco, Tolima dress
2.Accessories: Sun Hats
3.Cada Dia: HipBags – Sling Bags
4.Allpa: Gear Hauler

Jul.
Hero Campaign – Back to School
Secondary Campaign – Outdoor Active: Sun + Water
Product Focus –
1.Back to School: Chiquillo, Mente, Tasra, Torre
2.Logo / Graphic wear
In addition to the campaigns/activities mentioned above, which are played centrally on the social media channels, there are of course also customer-specific campaigns at the respective point of sale. One example is the campaign from last year, which we organized at ENGELHORN SPORTS in Mannheim.

Key Products:

Impermeo 3L Hooded Shell Jacket:
S25 New Style Fully seam sealed for complete protection / waterproof Aquaguard centerfront opening
2-way stretch designed for movement
Secure zip Pockets
Bonded Chest Pocket
Zips for ventilation
Adjustable cuffs
Stay Put Hood with Halo Bungee
Bonded Hem with Drop Tail for clean look
Fabric – 100% Post Consumer Recycled
10K/10K WPR, 125GSM

IMPERMEO JACKET S25480M1227_CargoBluegrass

Yermo Hooded Jacket:
S25 New Style
2-way stretch designed for movement
Soft brushed interior for Comfort
Stay Put Hood with Brim and Binding
Woven Overlay at chest which creates 2 Tone Effect
Double Bonded Chest Pockets with flattering on seam construction
XL Hand Pockets
Partial Knit Cuff with Thumbhole
Full Length Front Zipper Guard
Fabric – Stretch Softshell with Woven Chest Overlay

YERMO S25479M1225_Bluegrass_P_1

Persisto Tech Short:
S25 New Style
2- zipped Hand Pockets
Internal Drawcord at Waist
Fast Drying weather resistance
Back Yoke for Fit
Side Vent at Hem
Silicone Llama Heatseal
Bi Stretch
Fabric – 92% Recycled Poly, 8% Elastane, 135GSM

PERSISTO S25475M1243_Lemongrass_P_1