Nan Fang Du Shi Bao·2025-11-03 02:09Core Viewpoint - The once-popular "ugly shoes" are facing significant challenges, with UGG's direct-to-consumer sales declining sharply, while HOKA continues to show strong growth [2][5]. Group 1: Deckers Brands Financial Performance - Deckers Brands reported a revenue increase of 9.1% to $1.431 billion for Q2 of FY2026, with HOKA's revenue growing by 11.1% to $630 million and UGG's revenue increasing by 10.1% to $760 million [5]. - The direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales for UGG fell by 10%, while wholesale business grew by 17%, indicating a shift in consumer purchasing behavior [5][7]. - Deckers' total sales contributions from UGG and HOKA are 51% and 45%, respectively, with HOKA nearly matching UGG's scale [7]. Group 2: Market Challenges for UGG and Crocs - UGG's DTC sales decline is attributed to normalized inventory levels in wholesale channels, weakened consumer sentiment, and a preference for multi-brand retail shopping [5]. - Crocs reported a revenue decline of 6.2% to $996.3 million for Q3, with a net profit drop of 27% to $145.8 million, and a net loss of $186.4 million for the first nine months of the year [9][11]. - Crocs' core brand revenue decreased by 2.5% to $836.2 million, while the HEYDUDE brand saw a 21.6% drop to $160.1 million [11]. Group 3: Strategic Responses and Market Trends - Crocs plans to slow growth to maintain long-term brand health, including reducing digital promotions and wholesale inventory [11]. - The market for "ugly shoes" is losing traction, with emerging categories like clogs and creek shoes gaining popularity, while traditional sports brands are expected to benefit from upcoming major sporting events [12]. - HOKA's strategy of being versatile across different settings is seen as more sustainable compared to the marketing-driven approach of UGG and Crocs [12].