While conceding that looking back at 2019 can seem like ancient history in a world now dominated by the Covid-19 pandemic, the SFIA’s annual State of the Industry Report touted 3.9% overall growth last year, the strongest result in 17 years. Top brands captured most of the upside, however, especially those with strong direct-to-consumer sales, while smaller competitors struggled to keep up. And the athleisure trend became even more dominant, driving footwear and apparel sales, at the expense of performance categories. On the participation side, gains were strongest in fitness categories, with outdoor activities also polling well. Individual sports came ... Log in to view full article.