Product categories and market segments within the sporting goods industry are quite distinct. Variances in product mixes were extensive. Product offerings of industry participants within the sporting goods industry were extensive in some segments, while moderate or limited to nonexistent in others. These variances among leading competitors lead to significant variances in the intensity of competition from market to market. Overall though, most segments with substantial sales volumes caused intense competition which normally revolved around product selection, span of new product development, price, performance, reliability, brand recognition and strength along with marketing and promotion could convince retailors to stock, effectively merchandise,
