Mike CurielGoodtimes SkateboardsSan Antonio, Texas
The skate scene in Texas is alive and well. Mike Curiel runs Goodtimes, a three door chain of stores known for its commitment to hardgoods and skate shoes. Read what he has to say about the footwear market for 2010 right here.
How have your footwear sales been in 2009 versus 2008?
Footwear sales are down for us about sixteen percent.
How has the number of styles you stock on your shoe wall changed over the past twelve months?
We have cut down the number of shoes on the wall by about 20 to 25 styles.
What brands does your store carry, and of those brands, which are the best sellers this year?
We carry etnies, éS, Emerica, Nike SB, Lakai, DVS, Vans, C1RCA, Adio, Osiris, Vox, DC, Fallen, Cons, and adidas. Our best sell-through per brand has been Circa, Lakai, Vans, Emerica, and Nike SB, in that order. etnies came on strong at the end of 2009.
What’s the number one trend you’ve seen emerge over the past season?
The number one trend is the price at which people are shopping for—what is on sale. No matter what brand, style, cupsole, vulc, or color, it is all about price.
Are vulcanized shoes selling well in your store?
Vulcanized are doing really well right now and have been for about two years. I think the trend will last until kids realize board feel isn’t as important as being able to walk when you’re older! Cupsole, on the other hand, is almost nonexistent in our shop for 2009 and almost no presence prebooked for 2010.
What do you expect to retail well in 2010?
It’s hard to tell what’s going to happen for next year, shoe sales are so low it doesn’t leave me with much confidence in one brand more than any other. A lot of the shoes even look alike.
Are you planning to bring in any new brands next season?
The only brand I see new in the store next year is maybe a small run from Habitat. They have simple silhouettes and decent prices.
