Recession hardly nicks makers of expensive outdoor gear; a tent with ‘air beams’

By Paul Foy, AP
Sunday, August 8, 2010

What recession? US outdoor gear makers ‘buoyant’

SALT LAKE CITY — Thousands of outdoor gear manufacturers are feeling giddy after holding their biggest trade show ever in Salt Lake City.

When the economy tanked last year, it drove retail sales of camping and hiking gear down by only 2 percent.

Now, the Outdoor Industry Association says sales are rebounding at a rate of 6 percent.

Some of the companies are calling themselves recession-resistant. Apparel maker Patagonia says it’s having its best year ever. Also reporting strong growth are The North Face, which specializes in mountaineering gear, and Cascade Designs, a diversified manufacturer of camping gear.

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