Winter and an economic downturn may not be the best equation for success for companies specializing in outdoor recreation. Yet, both in their own way have helped some see an increase in sales.
"Outdoor recreation in Chattanooga is doing well, despite everything with a recession," Chattanooga Adventure Guide owner Chuck Lee said in comparison to other Southern communities. "The industry has been holding up, and to not have it go backwards is a good thing."
Local retail businesses have done particularly well in the current environment, they say.
Staffers at Rock/Creek Down Under said the high water table in the creeks this winter has helped boost sales of base layers, worn under a fleece to retain warmth.
"This is the third year in a row that we've seen closer to average rainfall," said Curt Lamberth, manager at Rock/Creek Down Under.
He said said more rainfall has led to a bump in sales and "drums up" a lot of business for flatwater kayaking as many people come in the day before it rains to grab gear.
At Fast Break Athletics, which specializes in running gear, the slump in the economy has proven to be beneficial in some ways.
Andrew Dorn, senior sales associate at Fast Break, said he's seen customers cancel their health or gym memberships as they take a path to a new pursuit. Customers are opting to invest in shoes and hit outdoor trails instead of hitting the treadmill.
He said that for some customers the price of a shoe, on average between $90-$140, is often the cost of membership for a month.
And that change is creating an increase in demand that in some cases is outweighing supply.
"Some of the more popular styles we had in years past, we can't even get until May, which is a bummer but it's a testament to how well the industry is doing," he said.
Ryan Johnson, manager at Hibbett Sports, said that running shoes and free weights are selling particularly well.
While some companies are seeing an increase in sales, some welcome a lull in business and have opted to close for the season.
"That's how a lot of people like it. They work eight months out of the year and are off for four," Mr. Lee said, adding that many who close during the winter use the time to catch up on administrative work.
Regardless of the economy or weather and even with a drop in outdoor recreation, business and recreation never completely cease during the winter, others suggest.
"Just like people need food, water, oxygen to live, a lot of outdoor enthusiasts rank it up there with vital things they need to survive," Mr. Lee said.