Core Viewpoint - HOKA, a rising brand in the outdoor running market, is experiencing a slowdown in growth despite a strong past performance, with net sales growth of 11.1% reaching $634.1 million as of September 30, indicating a decline from previous quarters where growth exceeded 20% [1][2] Financial Performance - HOKA's revenue increased from $150 million in 2018 to $1.81 billion in 2024, achieving a six-year CAGR of 51% and increasing its share of parent company Deckers Brands' revenue from 8% to 42% [2] - The brand's sales growth was only 10% year-over-year for the quarter ending March 31, with previous quarters showing growth rates of 29.7%, 34.7%, and 23.7% [2][3] - Deckers Brands forecasts a low double-digit growth of 10%-15% for HOKA's sales in the current fiscal year due to cautious consumer attitudes and pressures from tariffs and rising product prices in the U.S. market [4][5] Market Dynamics - The competitive landscape is shifting, with HOKA facing pressure from brands like ANTA, which maintained a growth rate of 37.2% in the first half of the year, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region [3] - Changes in market environment and channel structures, including increased collaboration between major brands like Nike and top retailers, have impacted HOKA's wholesale channel performance [4] Brand Strategy and Future Directions - HOKA's growth model is transitioning, emphasizing brand establishment and channel efficiency as key factors for future success [6] - The brand is focusing on expanding its apparel line and increasing direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales, with plans to enhance its presence in the Asia-Pacific market [7][10] - HOKA has established a significant first-mover advantage in the Chinese trail running market, with a market share among the top three brands in terms of footwear worn in events [9] Retail Expansion - HOKA is actively expanding its retail presence in China, with a focus on flagship stores in major cities like Shanghai and Beijing, and has opened the largest brand experience center globally [11][12] - The brand's strategy includes collaborating with local retailers to penetrate second-tier markets, reflecting a broader trend of outdoor brands increasing their presence in high-end shopping centers [13][14] Consumer Trends - The Chinese outdoor sports market is characterized by a bifurcation in consumer preferences towards "high cost-performance" and "high quality" products, with sports brands becoming important lifestyle and value expression tools for the middle class [15][16] - The market is shifting from outdoor trail running to urban road running, increasing competition among mid-to-high-end running shoe brands [18][19]