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Clothing is Almost Here

December 8, 2008 by  
Filed under Blog, D33 News

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After MANY requests for t-shirts, sweatshirts, and such we have finally pulled the trigger. I know, I know, I can hear you now… FINALLY!

Our first clothing order was placed this morning and we will have t-shirts, hoodies, and zip hoodies available by Christmas… hopefully.

Here’s what I want you to do though.

If you have any recommendations as far as what we should carry clothing wise please comment. If you would like some of this stuff for Christmas, tell us what you might like and what size you are. So we can make sure it’s in.

We’re thinking $18 for a t-shirt and maybe $45 for a hoodie. What do you think?

I don’t have any pictures yet but as soon as I do I will put them up. To give you an idea of what we are doing here is a list of what will be coming first:
(all will have a center chest logo similar to one of those over there —->)

  • black unisex t-shirts (normal t-shirt)
  • black slim fit mens t-shirts (super soft and cool)
  • black sheer ladies cut t-shirts (long body)
  • black heavy weight hoodie
  • black mens zip up hoodie
  • black ladies zip up hoodie (slim cut)

Yes, I know, everything is black, but that’s what the clothing manufacturer said sells the best and so that’s where we will start. What other colors would you like to see?

Thanks for being a part of our growing company. I look forward to reading all of your comments… assuming thy’re positive. :-) Happy Holiday’s

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Comments

62 Comments on "Clothing is Almost Here"

  1. Dave Stevens on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:08 am 

    I would recommend you keep the designs simple … big gaudy graphics can really ruin a t-shirt or hoodie in my opinion. Or at least offer some of them with simple, small, classic graphics!

    Just my 2 cents.

  2. David on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:10 am 

    Well I wouldn’t buy any apparel from you as I get a substantial discount on “name brand” stuff from my wife who works in the industry.

    Personally, I think $25 for a T is ridiculous, especially if it is logo-wear. $10-$15 maybe. Throw one in with each board purchase = brilliant.

    $45 for a hoody is a bit more reasonable, but if someone can get a Volcom, Oakley, O’Neil, etc. hoody for the same price at a local retailer, why would they buy yours? Differentiation is the key, sometimes that has to be a better price, sometimes that means you need to have a better product at the same or higher price. The name brand stuff is graphically enhanced, yours is still just logo-wear.

  3. shawna on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:13 am 

    its awesome ur gonna get clothing im excited i wear a size large and i like the hoodie idea!!!

  4. smedly yates on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:14 am 

    i love the idea of a black hoodie and black zipup hoodie. my wife would love a pink and brown ladies fit hoodie with long sleeves (it’s hard for her to find ladies stuff with long enough arms!

  5. fin on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:21 am 

    $25 for a t-shirt is way too much. You should consider $15 or $20 max (unless it is some kind of special material). Key word is Recession…

  6. Marc Cyr on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:42 am 

    Hey guys, sounds like a good plan. Black is a great color to start with, but eventually you should definitely add brown to the mix. White also would go over well, as would blue and red. But, at the beginning black sounds like a good idea.

    $45 for hoodies is a great price point. Compared to other companies, that is on average probably around $5-11 less. The t-shirts, however, are at a price point $5-10 more than other companies. I think you could get away with $18-20, maybe even $23. Then again, it all depends on your cost point, which you guys know best. However, if the graphics are as awesome as the style of graphic on the Facebook page, you might be able to get away with the $25 price point. If it is just a logo, however, it might be difficult to get people on board with it. Time will tell though.

    Also, if the printers are setting your cost higher than you think it should be, some companies to look into for printing are Monster Merch and Merch Direct. They handle mostly merchandise for musicians, but they can handle pretty much anything. A band I was in during college used them to handle our merch needs and the cost ended up pretty low considering how detailed and how many colors the graphic had.

    Just some thoughts. Overall, I’m totally stoked to hear you guys will be putting out some awesome clothing. It will definitely be rad.

    -Marc

  7. Marc Cyr on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:44 am 

    Quick correction – in the second paragraph, saying, “it might be difficult to get people on board with it,” is referring to the price point, not merch with just a logo. The logo you have is awesome and would definitely make for cool clothing that would sell well.

  8. James Madden on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:48 am 

    25 and 45 dollars for a pretty boring one color design only on black? Honestly there are much better deals.

  9. SteveO (gswd) on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:53 am 

    I think that black is a great color, as most of my tees in the closet are black. However, they are tech themed (ie geeky). My surf shirts are earthy colors (rust/orange, tan, etc), white, grey or navy blue. I think that $25 is a bit high, as I usually buy my shirts at no more than a $20 base price, and often lower than that. However, I usually where 3x and 4x shirts so I get the $2-$4 surcharge for that.

    Also, you may want to check out listing a shirt at Desteenation, as they provide an outlet for small surf shops. I have purchased 3 shirts through them for 3 different locations in Hawaii. I also have shirts from Ron Jon and Salty Dog as well as Lost and HIC. So if you are going to be carrying some 3x and 4x shirts (guys/unisex – not slim), let me know, as I would love to add you to my collection.

  10. Debbie on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:56 am 

    I’m a big girl. I need XL shirts/hoodies. My husband needs a XXL.

  11. Donald Trump on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:57 am 

    I think $25 for a t-shirt in this economy is nuts, especially when we are advertising for your company by wearing your merchandise. You’d sell more and generate more visibility for your company with lower clothing prices.

    What do those t-shirts and hoodies cost you anyway?

  12. James on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 10:11 am 

    $25 for T-shirt onthe East coast is very high. Most T’s are around $18 and no shippping cost! I think you might not get your share of the East coast markey at $25.

  13. Courtney on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 10:21 am 

    Size: 2X or 2X Tall for me!

    Color: black was yesterday… white is back and red is great!

    Price: my local shops sell shirts for $18 – $22.

    -Courtney

  14. Darin Edwards on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 10:25 am 

    White long sleeve t, round neck, logo or 33 degrees surf writing on black all the way down the sleeve. The logo rocks..nice one

  15. John on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 10:32 am 

    $25 is a little steep for a t-shirt. I get a lot of great surfing shirts at Target for about $12.00. Besides, anyone who wears one is a walking billboard for your company.

  16. STEVE PHX. AZ. on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 11:17 am 

    Luc&Holly RIGHT ON BEEN WATING for A SHIRT FOR AWHILE BLACK DOES SEEM TO BE THE BIG DEAL,SEEMS ITS ALL Ty has in his closet….Ive fond that black makes me look thin when its dark!!!!! Looking forward to seeing the designs im sure itll look really good. STILL OTHER COLORS LIKE BLUE WOULD BE GOOD ALSO. The prices seem right, I know we just had a bunch made a short time ago myself it cost me about 16 a shirt. Anyway good luck,I think maybe a rash shirts would be great advertisment out in the water? Just a thought. GOTA go going to go dirt bike rideing.NO surf here ever……next best thing. well be out that way soon, PHX STEVE SHIRT XXL
    Looking forward to seeing you …

  17. WesB on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 12:33 pm 

    Hey guyz, I know I’m gonna need a couple unisex LG or XL and some MD may go as presents out here. Also the hoodies in zippered for women, probably 1 LG and Heavyweight pullover Men XL. And forgot to ask about hats??
    Thanks and Happiest of Holidays to you both. NBL4U both.

  18. Shane on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 1:43 pm 

    Pictures would help justifing the price. In todays world looks are the value, as it is determined by desire. Your logo is tight but how does it translate on a black shirt? could the logo perhaps be in different colours? Anyway, glad to know you have them out.

    2XL Shane.

  19. Jim Gonzalez on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 2:26 pm 

    The ts and hoodies are a good start. More colors are a must though. Red, blue and tan would do. Decals of your logo for windows of cars help. Like the other guy mentioned, rash gaurds and maybe boardshorts.
    That’s all for now, Jim G.

  20. Orlando Esguerra on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 2:28 pm 

    Glad to here your expading your product line and i agree with black for color.White letering makes it even better.Forest green would be another.I do think your price is a little high though ex special with the way the econmy is right now. Here is are local surf site,[Gulfster.com]who are selling clothing now to. Hope this helps you out. My shirt size is large. Orlando

  21. Luc on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 2:36 pm 

    OKAY… I hear you guys loud and clear. $25 = too much for the t-shirts. That’s why I asked though. Thanks everyone.

  22. Brian on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 2:39 pm 

    I think the prices are a bit steep espically for a start up. Since T’s can be a great avenue for advertising i would lower the price to increase exposure, and branch out into different products. Beanies, rashies and decals are a good idea. Once the brand has been throughly established then raise the price. I just recently had some first rate T shirts screen printed with two colors and i was able to sell them for $13 a pop and still make a justifiable profit. If you are interested i can let you know where i had them done.
    With that said, i want to wish you all the best and a merry Christmas, you guys are quality.
    Brian

  23. Patti on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 2:40 pm 

    Not to be a kill-joy, but $25 for a t-shirt is more than a bit expensive in this market. A year ago, I wouldn’t have thought twice about buying two or three at that price, now I’m looking at the stuff in my closet thinking there is nothing wrong with what I already own… I love surfing, and I love wearing stuff that has surf logos on it, but if you listen to the news on the economy and what retailers are facing this year, it might be prudent to not invest in inventory that you’ll be stuck with… People buying logo shirts for high prices was LAST YEAR’S WAVE… looks like you missed it.

  24. Rene on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 2:49 pm 

    How about some baseball caps, head wear (beanie)? Maybe $20 for a shirt and $40 for a hoodie. Caps and beanies $10?

  25. Matthew Lovato on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 2:53 pm 

    I would have to agree with most and say that $25 is steep. The Hoodie price should be around $40 max in my opinion. Lastly, Logo placement is everything. Hits on the hood, side seams, pockets etc… are all marketable trends.

  26. Rene on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 2:54 pm 

    How about baseball caps and beanies? T-shirts for $20 and hoodies for $40. Caps and beanies for $10?

  27. Jack on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 2:56 pm 

    I don’t think black will sell best to the surf crowd. I know I will hardly ever buy a black shirt. I much prefer lighter colors. It’s harder to see logos on black shirts. Check out most surf events, white and light colored shirts are the norm. Also I won’t be buying a T-shirt that sells for 25 dollars. Although I’ll buy em all day long at my local surf shops for 20. Every surf shop I go sells the majority of their tees for 20 and under. Apparently that 5 bucks makes a difference. Look at it this way…you can always RAISE prices down the road. But if the price is too high right off the bat, even if you lower the price you’ll never get the revenue you might have. Hell you sell surfboards at an incredible discount so you already know this.

  28. Michael White on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 3:01 pm 

    I am currently in the process of starting my own clothing company and these prices are not that bad. I like what you guys are doing, keep it up.

    Mike White

  29. Autumn Fry on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 3:07 pm 

    That sounds like fun just try to make your logo to big. I honestly hate feeling like a human billboard. But if it is done right everyone will love it. I always think it looks so cute when there is a design off to the side that way you get your bit of free advertising for yourself. make sure to do colors not that you need a lot but you need some. Just white or black is so boring. twenty-five seems a little on the high side but if they are of good quality and extra soft it’s right there with the competing brands. Oh and I know I’m way to wordy for guys plain old t’shirts are great. For girls try to do something a little less original. There are tones or just slight variations on t’shirts something with a bit more pizazz and they usually are only a bit of change more for bulk but that is just opinion. Or go with a plan tank top. I think it is great you trying to make your own brand best of luck to you.

    Peace love surf,
    Autumn

  30. Karen on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 4:41 pm 

    T-shirts should be priced no more than 18.00 and should be available in hot pink and lime green.
    Hoodies should be 25-27.50 to fly out the door instead of collecting dust.
    My family would buy 2 XL’s and 2 mediums or large on the hoodies…we like em roomy.
    The tshirts would be m and xl
    Hope they’re both ALL PRESHRUNK COTTON…no polyester in this house!
    Very cool idea to always throw a tshirt in with a minimum purchase of 200.00 or more…but I think they will sell as long as they’re priced right. 25. is too much for a t and 45 is too much for a hoodie…sorry.
    GOOD LUCK!!

  31. Jason Scott on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 6:14 pm 

    I am down for the cause and would spend the money for a cool logo tee or hoodie to help support a company like degree33. I agree with the majority of the bloggers on here in saying the prices may be a little steep for today’s “Economic Downfall” in the fact that local retailers have recognized this and are offering Quicksilver, Billabong, Rip Curl, Hurley, etc. T’s 2-for-$20. I wear XL, so the sizing really isn’t a factor. I have spent $120 on Famous Stars & Straps hoodies that are super comfy and withstand the elements of the desert as well as the surf, so I think quality material is the key to setting the prices! I will anxiously await the new swag! Good Luck!

  32. Miles on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 6:28 pm 

    Hey guys,

    The board’s great, though I haven’t gone out too much because I’m training for my ice climbing trip later this month. If you ever need designs for any of your gear, I’d be happy to provide some, as design is what I do.

    A lot of guys I know are size medium. As for what to put on the shirts, I would keep it simple. It might be cool to incorporate some of the surfboard designs into the shirts and hoodies. Screen printing and the “worn” look are obviously big these days; maybe you could find some historical prints of early surfers and create a line of screen prints based on these. Check out barkingirons.com for inspirations (look at the tee shirts). Black is always a good bet but I would definitely expand into other colors eventually to represent the California vibe rather than the New York vibe.

    Best,
    Miles

  33. Kimberly on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 6:47 pm 

    Wow! This is very exciting! I’m not so sure about $25 for a tee but $45 for a hoodie is very reasonable! I can’t wait to see the finished product! I thought Shorts or beanies with your logo would be cool to wear. I’m so Stoked about your new clothes line. :)

  34. Phil on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 7:21 pm 

    I’ve tried it in the past myself. It’s a tough sell. Google t-shirts and look at the prices and selections. There are tons of products selling at high quality and much cheaper because it’s tough for a new vendor to get the volume to get the prices the established sellers are working with.

    You’ll tie up alot of $$$ in inventory that has a high probability of just sitting there. Look at the shops that are going out of business. There is alot of inventory, already paid for, that just sits there.

    Put your money into “turns”. You have been hitting a good niche market so far…don’t get too carried away.

  35. Alex on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 7:54 pm 

    I would also recoment keeping the designs somewhat simple, but not boring, of course. You know, just tasteful.

    The hoodies sound pretty good, especially for those late season days with wind and salt spray. Deinately a good choice, and the price is reasonable too. Absolutely a good start, hopefully we will see more in the future?

  36. Matt on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 8:00 pm 

    Cool idea,
    + more marketing for you guys…
    - need the t-shirts to be under 20….
    On your next email deal, throw in a free t-shirt with a sufboard purchase..just a thought..
    Most surfer’s are about large’s….so stock up on that size….
    Cheers
    Matt

  37. steve on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 8:07 pm 

    loose warm clothing that dry quick and keeps u warm after a cool to cold or rain day surfing like out here between HALF MOON BAY UP TO OCEAN BEACH NEAR THE CLIFF HOUSE. aT GOOD PRICE AND NICE GRAPHICS.

  38. Dereick B Groff on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:14 pm 

    I THINK THAT IS A GOOD IDEA BUT T-SHIRTS ARE USALLY ABOUT 12-15 DOLLARS AND THE HOODIES ARE ABOUT 25 TO 30 DOLLARS I THINK YOU SHOULD RECHECK THE PRICE AND MAYBE LOWER IT AND COLORS ARE REALLY IMPORTANT WELL HOPE YOU GUYS DO IT I AM AN X-LARGE WELL GOOD LUCK WITH IT AND HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS

  39. Ben on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:37 pm 

    I would make them fitted T-shirts if that is possible!!!

  40. Bridger on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 9:59 pm 

    Sounds sweet to me. 18 is a good price point. Then a new board to go with it so I get 10% off, 16.20. now that is a good deal! I am pumped.

  41. Randy Montoya on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 10:55 pm 

    “I” think that is great but “I’ would have to agree with some of the “other’s” price but also “I’ have always belived in sales if you are honest & give good service most people will pay what you are asking “I” would like to see long sleeves.Note;prices T-shirts $15 to $20.00 / long sleeves $15 to $22.00 / hoodies $25 to 45.00 / beanies $10 to $15.00 / stickers $1 to $10.00 all items should have your logo “I” ould be proud to where them. :) thanks & have a great day

  42. Diana on Tue, 9th Dec 2008 11:22 pm 

    Congradualtions Luc, Holly You both have been working hard nooo doubt… But Dannnng Guys “What took you so long”?
    lol, Hee Hee J/K

    Ok Luc U did say speak your mind rt.??? Tell me are the bennies just one size??? I have long hair and need more room for hair wrapping in a bun and it still cover the ears, Oh and the logo’s Pretty classie I like them both but I would much rather see the 1st one go on beenies with the t-shirts having the #2 logo rt in the middle of the sleeves… The hoodies back side would look good with the #2 on the front and or on the left shoulder be different and original how and where you use the logos, peolpe expect to see them on the back or front they don’t want to be a walking bill bord but if it’s different they wont mind…
    Get wild but not too crazy… Stick with clothes that addapt to the life style not the other way around… Deffenitly get some good quality Towels and the #2 logo will sale good…
    You have desighned a great couple of logos…

    45$ for a hoodie, Very Doo~able. !

    well more later Good luck!
    Dia Tellez

  43. Gary on Wed, 10th Dec 2008 4:00 am 

    Luc and Holly,

    We picked up my son’s new 5’8″ Quad Fish last weekend from you and my son’s friends were all over at our house on Sunday to check out his new “Stick”. Monday he was carving the waves! He really likes the performance.

    I personally like black t-shirts. $16-18 is max price for a t-shirt. I have quite a few surf t-shirts and you can buy them for about $12-16 dollars. It depends on the graphics, number of colors and really the quantity you buy. I am sure many shirt printers are hurting for business so they probably would like some business and would print them for a very reasonable price.

    Good luck!

    Gary J. Klein
    Moondoggies Surf Club

  44. West of Brooklyn on Wed, 10th Dec 2008 4:25 am 

    Luc,

    I don’t know what the big deal is for a $25 T-shirt, they charge $14 for a Martini in the city and a freakin slice of pizza is $2.75. For the prices of your boards don’t you be giving any free t-shirts. Here’s a New York City marketing trick, price the t-shirts at $25 and put them ON SALE for $18… I suggest all of you have 3 martini’s then shop at Luc’s!

  45. Dave on Wed, 10th Dec 2008 5:17 am 

    Definitely Cali prices. Simple logos are good. I prefer a logo on the sleeve of a hoodie. T need to be of a heavy cotton. It seems the lightweight wear to fast. Other than that, Rock on Brotherman. Have a great New Year you two!

  46. Duane N on Wed, 10th Dec 2008 8:06 am 

    When was the last time you saw a surfer wearing black on the beach? ??? Ifyou want people towear your shirts where it counts, get lighter colors.

  47. Rebekah on Wed, 10th Dec 2008 8:25 am 

    Hey there Holly n Luc! whats up! i absolutley love the board i got from you guys…i see you guys have your new logo! sweet. 18 bucks for a shirt is reasonable…i think white in some of the clothing would be nice and brown too..What about childrens clothes? Since its winter time what about some cool beenies..<— is that how you spell it!!! haha. anyhow cant wait to see the new stuff you guys come out with…ciao~!

  48. Dennis on Wed, 10th Dec 2008 9:13 am 

    I like the idea of 15$ and giving away a shirt or hoodie with a board purchase. The whole idea is to get your name out there. Red would also be a good color,anything noticeable. Keep things simple and easily recognizable. I am a graphic designer and have learned to keep it simple and highly recognizable.

  49. Luc on Wed, 10th Dec 2008 10:05 am 

    West of Brooklyn, I like your style man. Grab a martini, Cheers to you…

  50. Jim on Wed, 10th Dec 2008 4:08 pm 

    $25 is too much for a short sleeve t-shirt, $18 and then more for the long sleeve. White, browns and blues work well for surf t-shirts…

    Good luck from the East Coast!

  51. manny mejia on Wed, 10th Dec 2008 9:01 pm 

    sounds great guys,prices seem reasonable.you might consider blue or the fashionable white for other colors.ignore brand snobs and just put out a good product.good luck

  52. Marcus on Thu, 11th Dec 2008 1:23 am 

    How about long sleeve Tees? My wife and I love them for the cool yet not too cold evenings.

  53. Kenneth on Thu, 11th Dec 2008 6:37 am 

    Coool!! I’m glad you’re selling T’s and hoodies. The prices seem a little steep for what amounts to free advertising and name recognition for you! $15-$20 for the shirts and $30-$35 for hoodies seem easier to handel especially in these tough economic times. The key for you is to get your name and logo out in the public eye so those who have been unfortunate enough not to find you yet will be able connect with you. Thus allowing you to sell more product! Some ideas for future product developement hats (ballcaps, boonie hats and visors) are always good, board shorts and jams would be cool too! You gotta sell rash guards too (or maybe as a freebie with board purchase). I wear an X-large and love black! Orange and red would be cool too! One more request; Please move the ocean closer to Las Vegas!! LOL Thanx again!

  54. Sarah on Thu, 11th Dec 2008 8:49 am 

    Hey! im living on the West Coast of Ireland, different international surf shop tees are really popular, so any chance you’d deliver? Colour wise grey!

  55. Dave on Thu, 11th Dec 2008 8:45 pm 

    I like simple graphics on my clothes…And being 6’3″ i like xxl and xxxl, Thanks for taking the time to ask.

  56. Steve on Fri, 12th Dec 2008 7:43 am 

    I’ve been in retail for quite a few years, as a business owner and as an executive for an international department store group. I’m mostly retired and now mentor small business owners and start-ups. What I’m about to say comes from years of business experience–accompanied by bumps and bruises as well as some tremendous successes.

    What you’re doing right is soliciting opinions from your client base. They know exactly what they will buy and what they will spend. While you might hope to expand your market and sell to others hovering out there, those buyers are unknowns who have other lures and interests. Your established market is a very limited group of buyers who identify with their sport and are already your sales targets. Listen to them. I’ve read opinion after opinion saying basically the same thing: $25 is too high for a tshirt. After skimming through a few dozen of those, you responded to some guy in New York City (who favorably compared the cost of overpriced martinis to tshirts) and complimented him on his ‘style’. Come on… do you really want honest feedback, or are you hoping that a few people tell you what you want to hear???

    The economy is tough now, and getting worse. I’m sure you’re expanding your products to include apparel to capture additional sales and put your name out there on human billboards. It’s a very, very competitive market. Companies like Ron Jon’s have been at it for decades–they have some advantages that new guys don’t: name recognition, the ability to buy bulk–therefore more wiggle room in their prices, and followers who are surfers and wanna-be surfers (who want to literally wear their identity on their backs–comes back to the name recognition). You can be a purist and market to the real surfing crowd, but just like any other niche market, there simply aren’t enough of them to keep you afloat. I’ve been to Ron Jon’s and have seen the folks who are 50 to 100 pounds overweight trying to find rash guards and other surfing gear (and sadly, they comprise much of the apparel sales)… they aren’t real surfers, but will pay to have a recognizable name on their shirt. Your name or logo won’t impress them or their non-surfing friends. (Not an insult… in fact, consider that to be a complement… but it will limit your sales.)

    The last thing you want to do is get stuck with inventory. Do the math… and do it conservatively. If you buy 500 tshirts for $7,500 and hope to sell all of them at $25/each… but only sell 200 at full price (which is optimistic, especially in this market)… you haven’t yet covered your expenses (and those are the expenses of wholesale purchase… not including marketing, loss, etc.). Now, you’re faced with unloading odd sizes for $18/shirt (a price most of your customers are saying is reasonable)… say you unload another 150 shirts for $18/shirt…you’re still in the hole… yes, you should have some shirts in your inventory, but realistically, some were given away, some were damaged, some returned (and not resellable), and some ‘walked’ on their own. At this point (and probably long before) you aren’t able to match the potential buyers with the shirts you have left (sizes, colors, etc.). You’ll see those remaining shirts every day when you walk into your store and you’ll finally get to the point that you put them on sale for $8/each and hope you don’t have to look at them again. Do that math and figure out if your time and trouble are worth the potential profit of $1,000 to $2,000 for all that time and effort… IF you end up with a profit and not dusty inventory.

    I really want you to succeed in business. You have a great product (surfboards) and your customers love them (read all those glowing comments about your boards). The clothing industry is fierce and there are more losers than winners… especially in today’s economy. No one is doing great right now trying to sell anything. Houses, cars, furniture, appliances… the market is stalled and very few buyers are out there spending like they did in previous years. It’s a huge tempation to try to make some cash on accessories when you see your surfboards (your bread and butter) sitting unsold. But, think really hard about what you’re faced with. Run the numbers and do it with a very sharp pencil… consider all those comments from your customers who say that $15 to $18… maybe $20 is reasonable for a tshirt. Also think about what they are saying about color… keeping your stock all one color simplifies things but doesn’t offer what many are requesting (lime green… pink… but, then again, when you have 50 XL shirts left in hot pink….). Also consider that all those folks who are said, “sign me up for 4 mediums, 2 larges and 3 XLs” haven’t given you their credit card number yet, and probably won’t…

    Stick with your intuition… listen to customers… be cautious–but don’t be adverse to some reasonable risks… do what you do best and what you know about… most of all, enjoy your business and have fun. Best of luck to both of you.

  57. Debi Gray on Sat, 13th Dec 2008 11:51 am 

    Although $18 is reasonable for a Tee or $45 for a hoodie that makes a statement, for one that is advertising your business for you it should probably be more reasonably priced. $15 for Tees, $25 for hoodies, maybe. I don’t know anything about the t-shirt business, I’m just a consumer and know what I would be willing to pay. I would love to see some women’s tanks in this mix though, in blacks, pinks, blues, greens. Especially since I live in Florida, I very rarely wear a Tee or Sweatshirt of any type, but I wear tanks everyday, even in winter under my zippered hoodie;-} Maybe at a cost of $12 – $15?

  58. Phil on Sun, 14th Dec 2008 5:43 pm 

    Listen to Steve. He gave you alot more detail than I did back on Dec. 9th but he is saying the same thing. It sounds like he’s been there, as have I. I’d hate to see you make the same mistakes that I did. I’m out of it now and am still giving away t-shirts, hoodies, and hats for gifts 3 years later… And there are still years of give aways left in the garage!

  59. Steve from East Bay on Mon, 15th Dec 2008 6:16 pm 

    Wow! Just finished reading STEVE (the other Steve)… he’s right about a number of things – but not everything.

    First, $25/shirt is too much! Competitition and current economic picture (I’m a wholesale rep on the Left Coast)says $18-20 is more palatable. $45 for a good quality hoodie will fly. Second, stocking only black will not increase sales, but will increase inventory liability – I’m not going to buy a black shirt just ‘cuz that’s all you’ve got…stick to basic colors – black, grey, white, navy or light blue, beige – if you’re worried about overhead. Third, shop logo’d t-shirts are cool! Much more so than Volcom/Billabong/etc “got it at JC Penny’s” shirts that are targeted for Back-to-School 12 yr-olds. Keep It Simple: left breast logo front; simple name and logo across the back. Make it easy-wearing, easily identifiable, and I’ll buy.
    Best of luck,
    and
    Mele Kalikimaka!
    Oh, and I’ll take an XL grey,Mahalo.

  60. Jack Bingham on Sun, 15th Feb 2009 10:34 am 

    OK Luc BLACK? what up with that? Maybe the skaters will buy that crap. As for me I never buy black, its either white, brown, or cream colors. You very seldom see we surfers in black. Jack

  61. Jonathan on Mon, 30th Nov 2009 6:37 pm 

    Hey

    So im getting started and i was looking for some help…i came across your website. So ill be needing to know, what do i need?!! I want to get good but at the same time just have fun!!! arizmendez582@yahoo.com (someday like slater)!

  62. Luc on Fri, 15th Jan 2010 2:18 pm 

    Let us know how we can help. surf@degree33.com