Record-Breaking Monsoon News... Men's Rain Boots Also 'In Full Bloom'
Gmarket and 11st Rain Boot Sales Surge
Various Monsoon Product Promotions Active
As this summer's rainfall is predicted to be higher than average, there has been an increase in demand for functional footwear such as rain boots. This year, not only women's products but also men's products that combine practicality and design are gaining popularity.
According to Gmarket on the 31st, sales of functional footwear rain boots from the 1st to the 30th of this month increased by 383% compared to the same period last year. Compared to 2021, this is an 83% increase. During the same period, the transaction amount for rain boots on 11st jumped 226% year-on-year, and sales of rain boots on the fashion platform W Concept surged more than 20 times compared to the previous year.
The surge in rain boot sales is attributed to the expected higher-than-average rainfall. With a longer rainy season anticipated than usual, more people are purchasing shoes before the rainy season officially begins in June. According to the Korea Meteorological Administration, this year's rainy season is expected to start as early as mid-June, and there is a 40% probability that July's rainfall will exceed the average. Factors such as the high sea surface temperature of the Philippine Sea and reduced snow cover in West Asia are influencing this, leading to a forecast of more rainy days than usual.
In response to this climate news, not only women's but also men's products that emphasize both functionality and design are gaining popularity. Analyzing its own sales data for May, W Concept found that this year, men's rain boot sales surged significantly, driving up overall sales in the rain boot category. Preferred shapes and colors have also become more diverse than before. Women tend to prefer lighter, short-length boots in bright colors such as yellow, green, and pink, moving away from the traditional navy and black monotone long boots. Men, on the other hand, show a strong preference for mid-length rain boots in black and gray colors.
The industry is also actively working to attract consumers. From June 5th to 18th, W Concept will hold a 'Long Rainy Season' event, offering special deals on representative brand products such as Hunter and Bensimon. A Gmarket official stated, "This year, a longer rainy season than usual is expected, and with forecasts of heavy rainfall, sales of rain boots have surged compared to last year," adding, "Various styles and brands, including Chelsea boots and mid boots, are evenly popular."
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