KATIN BOARDSHORTS S/S 2025 PREVIEW

Retail Buyers Guide: Boardshorts 2023 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: Katin
Interviewee: Pierre, Europe Manager

How is the 2024 boardshort market?
The demand on boardshort has a bit decrease this year due to the highest price range and the 2nd effect of post covid where people are careful on what they buy. Today’s consumers don’t want to spend a lot of money on boardshorts because they’re not necessarily looking for durability and quality. They’re looking for practicality that can be changed quickly as their desires evolve. The boardshort market is therefore driven by low-cost products.

How did you split your offering SS25 between carry overs and fresh pieces?
For SS25, our offering is strategically split to maintain a balance between proven bestsellers and fresh, innovative pieces. Approximately 1/3 of our collection consists of carry-overs, which are tried-and-tested favorites that customers continue to demand. These include classic styles and popular designs that have a loyal following. The remaining 2/3 is dedicated to fresh pieces, featuring new designs. This approach ensures we cater to both returning customers and attract new ones with exciting new offerings.

Are prices hindering the sell-out of boardshorts in a stressed out environment or are the customers willing to pay for quality? (surfers vs casual beach enthusiasts)
In the current market, price sensitivity varies between different customer segments. Casual beach enthusiasts are more price-conscious and may hesitate to purchase higher-priced boardshorts, especially in a stressed economic environment. However, dedicated surfers and serious water sports enthusiasts are generally willing to invest in quality. They prioritize performance, durability, and technical features over price, understanding that premium products enhance their experience and longevity. Our strategy involves offering a range of price points to cater to both segments, ensuring accessibility while maintaining the high standards Katin is known for.

What are the main design trends of SS25 for (surfing) boardshorts? (cuts, lengths, special features, closing systems…)
There is a trend towards slightly longer boardshorts, providing better protection and coverage. The 18 inch outseam remains popular, offering a balance between mobility and coverage. With launched on the season SS24 our range “Out There Gear” (OTG) that is made for life under the sun. We’ve added a few special features such as welded zipped pockets, durable micro ripstop tech stretch fabric and a performance fly closure and silicone dipped drawcords.

Same question for walkshorts/beachshorts.
For walkshorts and beachshorts in SS25, the trend revolves around shorter lengths for a more relaxed and casual look. Our best sellers are the famous Cord Local with its light corduroy and the Isaiah Local with its blend of cotton and linen. They are popular for their versatility and style, it’s an absolute must-have !

How did you translate these trends in terms of colours/prints?The walkshorts are in a range of light and solid colors which reflect the natural elements of the beach and surf environment. On the other side, boardshorts prints are inspired from abstract and geometric patterns to tropical and floral motifs. There is also a trend towards vintage-inspired prints and subtle, minimalist designs for those who prefer a more understated look.

Which key fabrics/materials did you introduce for next summer?
As we’ve already mentioned, our OTG boardshort range is composed of 92% Nylon and 8% Spandex Micro Ripstop in 4-way Stretch to ensure technicality and comfort. As for walkshorts, our new Ward Short is made from 100% cotton waffle corduroy for vintage style and good looks.

Key Products:

ISAIAH (Light Gray) :
These cotton and linen blend shorts are a must-have from the tout brand. They’re light for summer, but still classy.

CORD LOCAL (Desert Sage) :
These sorduroy shorts are the brand’s best-seller across Europe. In fact, this material is much sought-after by all consumers. It’s popular not only because it’s so pleasant to the touch, but also because the shorts are so light for summer.

OTG CAIRNS SURF TRUNK :
These shorts from the OTG capsule we’ve been talking about are not only a pretty design, they’re also technical boardshorts that keep you comfortable throughout your surf sessions.