Cold‑Weather Retail Plays Heating Up for Winter Spending

With the winter season looming, retail investors are turning their eyes to the cold-weather gear sector — and four names are standing out. According to research from MarketBeat, apparel companies that thrive in chilly conditions could see a boost as consumers ramp up spending. Key players include Deckers Outdoor Corporation (DECK), Canada Goose Holdings Inc. (GOOS), Columbia Sportswear Company (COLM) and V.F. Corporation (VFC). These companies face headwinds such as tariffs and narrow margins, but the sales outlook is improving: the National Retail Federation projects November–December retail sales will climb 3.7% to 4.2% above last year, hitting over $1 trillion. Here’s a snapshot of each: Deckers Outdoor (DECK): Owner of UGG and HOKA, its stock is down sharply in 2025 but analysts see a sharp upside: a consensus price target of around $118 (versus current ~$82) and expected earnings growth north of 12% over the next 12 months. Tariff exposure (~$150 million in fiscal 2026) remains a concern. Canada Goose (GOOS): A luxury outerwear brand riding a recovery (+32% in 2025 so far). Management flagged elevated costs and weaker demand, but forecasts call for ~19% earnings growth in the next year with forward P/E around 17×. Columbia Sportswear (COLM): Mainstream outerwear that’s suffered a ~35% drop in stock value this year. Tariff impact is estimated at $35–40 million in the current year. Offers a ~2.2% dividend yield and a modest upside: consensus target ~$60.50 versus current ~$53.69. V.F. Corporation (VFC): Parent of brands like The North Face and Timberland. Although down over 25% year‑to‑date, analysts forecast an ~48% earnings jump over the next 12 months and a target price of ~$16.19 (current ~$14.94). Plans to sell its Dickies brand (~$600 million) and use proceeds to reduce debt. Take‑away: While macro pressures such as tariffs and consumer tightening linger, the cold season could give apparel names tied to winter gear an earnings tailwind. Investors might view these four companies as thematic plays on seasonal spending, but they should also weigh the risks. #winterstocks #apparelinvesting #consumertrends #coldweathergear #SlimScan #GrowthStocks #CANSLIM