words // Brandon Richard
via Press Release
Spalding has announced that it is launching a new footwear division and looks to become a total solution for the basketball category spanning equipment (backboards, inflatables, accessories), footwear and apparel.
"Spalding has been an industry leader in innovation introducing such products as 'Infusion,' 'NEVERFLAT' and 'Spalding Rookie Gear' basketballs," said David Zumbach, Vice President Spalding Footwear. "We will now bring that same innovative spirit to on-court performance basketball footwear."
After joining Spalding as the Vice President of Spalding International in 2010, Zumbach will lead the new division. His experience in the footwear spans three decades and includes stints as the president of Johnston and Murphy, Dockers and leadership positions at Nautica, Reebok, Rockport and Nike.
Spalding's new basketball shoe lineup for 2014 will feature D30 Pulse Technology, which cushions and responds with every move. Product and performance testing have led to the development of the Point Forward, Spalding's next high end performance model. Priced at $120, the Point Forward will incorporate a new design element called "double wings," which was inspired by footwear designs by Spalding's archives. Expect a full lineup of Spalding team shoes to launch in Fall 2014 retailing between $80-$120.
Next year, Spalding will also announce their endorsement and marketing strategy for footwear. Miami Heat point guard Mario Chalmers will be among the pro athletes to endorse the lineup.
