Q4 2025 Clarus Corp Earnings Call

March 5, 2026

Speaker #1: Good afternoon, everyone, and thank you for participating in today's conference call to discuss Clarus Corporation's financial results for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2025.

Operator: Good afternoon, everyone, thank you for participating in today's conference call to discuss Clarus Corporation's financial results for Q4 ended 31 December 2025. Joining us today are Clarus Corporation's Executive Chairman, Warren Kanders, CFO, Mike Yates, President of Black Diamond Equipment, Neil Fiske, and the company's External Director of Investor Relations, Matt Berkowitz. Following the remarks, we'll open the call for your questions. Before we go further, I would like to turn the call over to Mr. Berkowitz as he reads the company's Safe Harbor statement within the meaning of Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that provides important cautions regarding forward-looking statements. Matt, please go ahead.

Speaker #1: Joining us today are Clarus Corporation's Executive Chairman , Warren Kanders CFO , Mike Yates , president of Black Diamond Equipment . Neil Fiske , and the company's external director of investor relations , Matthew Berkowitz Following the remarks , we'll open the call for your questions .

Speaker #1: Before we go further, I would like to turn the call over to Mr. Berkowitz as he reads the company's safe harbor statement within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that provides important cautions regarding forward-looking statements.

Speaker #1: Matt , please go ahead

Speaker #2: Thank you . Before we begin , I'd like to remind everyone that during today's call , we'll be making several forward looking statements and we will make these statements under the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act .

Matt Berkowitz: Thank you. Before we begin, I'd like to remind everyone that during today's call, we'll be making several forward-looking statements, and we will make these statements under the Safe Harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act. These forward-looking statements reflect our best estimates and assumptions based on our understanding of information known to us today. These forward-looking statements are subject to potential risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results of operations or financial conditions of Clarus Corporation to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. More information on potential factors that could affect the company's operating and financial results is included from time to time in the company's public reports filed with the SEC. I'd like to remind everyone this call will be available for replay starting at 7:00 PM Eastern Time tonight.

Speaker #2: These forward looking statements reflect our best estimates and assumptions based on our of information known to us today . These forward looking statements are understanding subject to potential risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results of operations or financial conditions of Clarus Corporation to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward looking statements .

Speaker #2: More information on potential factors that could affect the company's operating and financial results is included . From time to time in the company's public reports filed with the SEC .

Speaker #2: I'd like to remind everyone that the call will be available for replay starting at 7 p.m. Eastern Time tonight. A webcast replay will also be available via the link provided in today's press release.

Matt Berkowitz: A webcast replay will also be available via the link provided in today's press release, as well as on the company's website at claruscorp.com. Now I'd like to turn the call over to Clarus Executive Chairman, Warren Kanders.

Speaker #2: As well as on the company's website at Clarus Com Now , I'd like to turn the call over to Clarus Executive Chairman Warren Kanders .

Speaker #3: Good afternoon, and thank you for joining the Clarus earnings call to review our results for the fourth quarter and full year. I am joined today by our Chief Financial Officer, Mike Yates, who will cover our Q4 results, including Adventure segment performance, as well as Neil Fiske, who will cover our Outdoor segment in 2025.

Warren Kanders: Good afternoon. Thank you for joining Clarus earnings call to review our results for Q4 and full year. I am joined today by our Chief Financial Officer, Mike Yates, who will cover our Q4 results, including Adventure segment performance, as well as Neil Fiske, who will discuss our Outdoor segment. In 2025, we remained focused on positioning Clarus for sustainable growth over the long term, prioritizing our most profitable products and styles in the Outdoor segment and executing incremental operational progress in the Adventure segment. Our financial results reflect a challenging market characterized by weaker consumer demand, tariff impact, supply chain disruptions, and broader macro headwinds. As you'll hear from Neil, during Q4, we experienced the most unfavorable seasonal conditions in 50 years in key ski destinations in the United States.

Speaker #3: We remain focused on positioning Clarus for sustainable growth over the long term . For top prioritizing our most profitable products and styles in the outdoor segment and executing incremental operational progress in the adventure segment Our financial results reflect a challenging market characterized by weaker consumer demand , tariff impact , supply chain disruptions , and broader macro headwinds As you will hear from Neil during the fourth quarter , we experienced the most unfavorable seasonal conditions in 50 years in key sectors and key key destinations in the United States Against this backdrop , we continue to advance our overall strategic plan to simplify our businesses to drive share gains as market conditions normalize across both segments .

Warren Kanders: Against this backdrop, we continue to advance our overall strategic plan to simplify our businesses to drive share gains as market conditions normalize. Across both segments, we implemented targeting cost outs and tariff countermeasures that will enhance profitability on an annualized basis and set the stage for long-term value creation. At Outdoor, we have fundamentally reshaped the business over the last two years, simplifying the portfolio, exiting low-margin categories, and rationalizing SKUs while upgrading leadership and reallocating investment toward higher growth areas. At the same time, we have meaningfully reduced our cost structure, modernized our systems and sourcing capabilities, and expanded product margins by more than 300 basis points before factoring in the impact of tariffs. Together, these actions have positioned the business to operate more efficiently and profitably moving forward.

Speaker #3: We implemented targeting cost outs and tariff countermeasures that will enhance profitability on an annualized basis and set the stage for long term value creation .

Speaker #3: But outdoor , we have fundamentally reshaped the business over the last two years . Simplifying the portfolio , exiting low margin categories , and rationalizing SKUs while upgrading leadership and reallocating investment toward higher growth areas .

Speaker #3: At the same time, we have meaningfully reduced our cost structure, modernized our systems and sourcing capabilities, and expanded product margins by more than 300 basis points before factoring in the impact of tariffs.

Speaker #3: Together , these actions have positioned the business to operate more efficiently and profitably , profitably moving forward I would also like to highlight the continued success of the Black Diamond apparel line , which saw sales growth of 10% in the fourth quarter .

Warren Kanders: I would also like to highlight the continued success of the Black Diamond apparel line, which saw sales growth of 10% in Q4 despite unusually adverse seasonal conditions in both the US West and Europe. We see very strong momentum in key businesses unit heading into 2026. Turning to Adventure, our results continued to be affected by market pressures. Q4 gross profit was impacted by several one-time and external factors that Mike will discuss in greater detail. While 2025 was a challenging year for the segment, we have taken corrective action to position the business for a stronger, more innovative future.

Speaker #3: Despite unusually adverse seasonal conditions in both the US West and Europe, we see very strong momentum in key businesses, unit heading into 2026.

Speaker #3: Turning to adventure . Our results continue to be affected by market pressures Q4 gross profit was impacted by several one time and external factors that Michael discussed in greater detail While 2020 was a challenging year for the segment , we have taken corrective action to position the business for a stronger , more innovative future Importantly , as we discussed last quarter , we identified that pricing in several of our markets , particularly Australia , had not kept pace with inflation or our cost base , contributing to market margin erosion .

Warren Kanders: Importantly, as we discussed last quarter, we identified that pricing in several of our markets, particularly Australia, had not kept pace with inflation or our cost base, contributing to market margin erosion, and we have moved forward with price increases across all brands and markets effective Q1 2026. We continue to believe that Adventure is only beginning to tap into significant growth opportunities around the world, and we have begun to see green shoots, particularly in Europe and Japan, where the steps we have taken to improve service levels and shorten lead times have helped to accelerate growth and drive new customer wins. Additionally, our commitment to fitting more vehicles led to a record number of new fitments delivered in 2025, strengthening our competitive positioning and supporting future revenue growth.

Speaker #3: And we have moved forward with price increases across all brands and markets . Effective Q1 2026 . We continue to believe that adventure is only beginning to tap into significant growth opportunities around the world , and we have begun to see green shoots , particularly in Europe and Japan , where the steps we have taken to improve service levels and shorten lead times have helped to accelerate growth and drive new customer wins Additionally , our commitment to fitting more vehicles led to a record number of new Fitments delivered in 2025 .

Speaker #3: Strengthening our competitive positioning and supporting future revenue growth . There is certainly more work to be done , but we have been pleased with the continued progress on our strategic initiatives at Adventure Overall , chorus is far better positioned to to navigate uncertainty and market weakness than we were a year ago , supported by a debt free balance sheet and a streamlined organizational structure .

Warren Kanders: There is certainly more work to be done, but we have been pleased with the continued progress on our strategic initiatives at Adventure. Overall, Clarus is far better positioned today to navigate uncertainty and market weakness than we were a year ago. Supported by a debt-free balance sheet and a streamlined organizational structure, we will continue to advance our multi-year growth plans while maintaining a disciplined approach to capital allocation and a clear focus on maximizing shareholder value. With that, thank you for being with us today, and I will turn the call over to Neil.

Speaker #3: We will continue to advance our multi-year growth plans while maintaining a disciplined approach to capital allocation and a clear focus on maximizing shareholder value .

Speaker #3: With that , thank you for being with us today . And I will turn the call over to Neil

Speaker #4: Thanks, Warren. Turning to slide six, I will review the Outdoor segment's Q4 performance and our expectations heading into the remainder of 2026.

Neil Fiske: Thanks, Warren. Turning to slide 6, I will review the Outdoor segment's Q4 performance and our expectations heading into the remainder of 2026. Overall, Q4 came in somewhat softer than our expectations, due primarily to adverse seasonal conditions affecting our ski segment that Warren mentioned. That said, our more focused, simplified business showed growth and resilience in our core go-forward priority categories. The aggressive reshaping of Black Diamond over the last three years has allowed us to weather a year of tremendous disruption, tariff impact, supply challenges, and macro headwinds. It's worth putting that multi-year effort in perspective. Since 2023, we've dramatically simplified and narrowed our focus, exited low margin, underperforming categories, Pieps, bindings, JetForce, to name a few, rationalized styles and SKUs, reduced headcount versus the 2023 baseline by 38% in total and 30% excluding changes in manufacturing.

Speaker #4: Overall , Q4 came in somewhat softer than our expectations due primarily to adverse seasonal conditions ski segment . That Warren mentioned That said , our more focused , simplified business showed growth and resilience in our core .

Speaker #4: Go forward priority categories . The aggressive reshaping of Black Diamond over the last three years has allowed us to weather a year of tremendous disruption , tariff impact , supply challenges and macro headwinds It's worth putting that multi-year effort in perspective since 2023 , we've dramatically simplified and narrowed our focus , exited low margin , underperforming categories , peeps , bindings , jet force , to name a few Rationalized styles and SKUs .

Speaker #4: Reduced headcount versus the 20 2023 baseline by 38% in total and 30% excluding manufacturing . We've upgraded key leadership , key leadership positions , reallocated headcount and investment to support apparel growth We've stood up Black Diamond Asia sourcing and product development , launched a new E-comm platform , and supporting martech stack , launched a new Snop system to support better supply demand alignment , modernized our ERP and EU with a new North America and process .

Neil Fiske: We've upgraded key leadership positions, reallocated headcount and investment to support apparel growth. We've stood up Black Diamond Asia sourcing and product development, launched a new e-com platform and supporting MarTech stack, launched a new S&OP system to support better supply-demand alignment, modernized our ERP and EU with a new North America ERP in process. We've substantially improved the quality of inventory, concentrating our mix into high volume A styles while reducing markdown exposure and the level of discontinued merchandise. We've moved BD to a more full-priced, lower discount model, and we've engineered more than 300 basis points of improvement in product margin pre-tariff through line simplification, new product introductions, mix management, sourcing, and supply chain improvements. In short, we are leaner, more focused, more agile, and more competitive. The core of the business is strong.

Speaker #4: We've substantially improved the quality of inventory, concentrating our mix into high-volume styles while reducing markdown exposure and the level of discontinued merchandise.

Speaker #4: We've moved to a more full priced , lower discount model , and we've engineered more than 300 basis points of improvement in product margin , pre tariff through line simplification , new product introductions , mixed management , sourcing and supply chain improvements .

Speaker #4: In short , we are leaner , more focused , more agile and more competitive . The core of the business is strong thanks to the hard work of our teams over the last few years We've set the stage for sustainable , profitable growth and operating margin expansion in the years ahead Now let's turn to Q4 results As with my last update , I'll address tariffs and currency at the top of my remarks and include exclude the peeps brand , which we divested in Q3 And year over year comparisons First , tariffs in early May , we initiated the first phase of our tariff mitigation plan , which included raising prices , negotiating vendor concessions , air freighting products for necessary and accelerating our exit out of China by moving quickly and decisively .

Neil Fiske: Thanks to the hard work of our teams over the last few years, we've set the stage for sustainable, profitable growth and operating margin expansion in the years ahead. Now, let's turn to Q4 results. As with my last update, I'll address tariffs and currency at the top of my remarks and exclude the Pieps brand, which we divested in Q3 in year-over-year comparisons. First, tariffs. In early May, we initiated the first phase of our tariff mitigation plan, which included raising prices, negotiating vendor concessions, airfreighting products where necessary, and accelerating our exit out of China. By moving quickly and decisively, we were able to offset about half of the impact of tariffs in 2025. We estimate that the net unrecovered impact from tariffs and duties for the year was approximately $3.4 million to adjusted EBITDA.

Speaker #4: We were able to offset about half of the impact of tariffs in 2025 . We estimate that the net unrecovered impact from tariffs and duties for the year was approximately 3.4 million to adjusted EBITDA .

Speaker #4: As we roll forward into 2026, we've now offset nearly 75% of the tariff impact, as best we can estimate today, leaving a $2.8 million unrecovered gap in this coming fiscal year. Over time, we believe we can reduce that gap.

Neil Fiske: As we roll forward into 2026, we've now offset nearly 75% of the tariff impact as best we can estimate today, leaving a $2.8 million unrecovered gap in this coming fiscal year. Over time, we believe we can reduce that gap still further through pricing, sourcing, new product introductions, and value engineering. In the event that we are able to recover tariffs as a result of the recent Supreme Court decision, Black Diamond would receive approximately $6.5 million for the reciprocal IEEPA tariffs we paid in 2025. Note that the most punitive tariffs on our business, the 50% Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum, are not covered by the Supreme Court decision and remain in effect. Of course, the IEEPA tariffs have largely been replaced by new ones under a different claimed authority.

Speaker #4: Still further through pricing , sourcing , new product introductions and value engineering . In the event that we are able to recover tariffs as a result of this , the recent Supreme Court decision Black Diamond would receive approximately 6.5 million for the reciprocal I tariffs .

Speaker #4: We paid in 2025. Note that the most punitive tariffs on our business, the 50% Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum, are not covered by the Supreme Court decision and remain in effect.

Speaker #4: And of course , the Iipa tariffs have largely been replaced by new ones under a different claimed authority . Now let me address currency .

Neil Fiske: Now let me address currency. As noted last quarter, while we benefited from the translation of the higher euro to the US dollar, we incurred significant losses on FX contracts in 2025. These losses, which amounted to a $2.2 million EBITDA swing year-over-year, flowed through and suppressed product margins. We've now rolled off these contracts and expect a run rate pickup of $1.6 million in EBITDA in 2026 at the current exchange rate. Turning to operating results, revenue for the quarter was down 2.1% to prior year, down 2.9% in constant currency, excluding FX contracts.

Speaker #4: As noted last quarter, while we benefited from the translation of the higher euro to the dollar, we incurred significant losses on FX contracts in 2025.

Speaker #4: These losses , which amounted to a $2.2 million EBITDA , swing year over year , float through and suppress product margins We've now rolled off these contracts and expect a run rate pickup of 1.6 million in EBITDA in 2026 .

Speaker #4: At the current exchange rate . Turning to operating results , revenue for the quarter was down 2.1% to prior year , down 2.9% in constant currency , excluding FX contracts .

Speaker #4: The largest drag on the top line was our ski business unit , which was down 30% to prior period due to a combination of our rotation out of low margin categories like bindings , beacons and airbags and the most unfavorable seasonal conditions in 50 years in ski and key ski destinations in the US Moreover , while our ski apparel line started strong through October and November , the growth trend tapered .

Neil Fiske: The largest drag on the top line was our ski business unit, which was down 30% to prior period due to a combination of our rotation out of low margin categories like bindings, beacons, and airbags, and the most unfavorable seasonal conditions in 50 years in key ski destinations in the US. While our ski apparel line started strong through October and November, the growth trend tapered in December with the unusually poor conditions in both the US West and Europe. Still, apparel for the quarter was up 10% compared to Q4 2024, and we continue to see very strong momentum in that business into 2026. Meanwhile, our mountain and climb business units were both up for the quarter 0.4% and 4.3% respectively.

Speaker #4: In December with the unusually poor conditions in both the US West and Europe Still , apparel for the quarter was up 10% compared to Q4 2020 .

Speaker #4: Four , and we continue to see very strong momentum in that business into 2026 . Meanwhile , our Mountain Incline business units were both up for the quarter , 0.4% and 4.3% , respectively .

Speaker #4: Taken together , these three categories of apparel mountain and climb grew 3.7% in Q4 , accounting for 86% of our sales in the quarter .

Neil Fiske: Taken together, these three categories of apparel, mountain, and climb grew 3.7% in Q4, accounting for 86% of our sales in the quarter and 90% for the full year. This is where our simplification strategy is paying off, and we expect this strategy to drive profitable growth at BD in the future. By channel and region, North America wholesale, excluding FX contracts, was down 10.4% due to planned exits in the ski category and somewhat softer replenishment orders in December. North America digital D2C was down 0.8% compared to Q4 of last year, which was a significant improvement in the run rate from previous quarters. Europe wholesale, excluding FX contracts, was up 12.1% in US dollars and 3.2% on a constant currency basis.

Speaker #4: And 90% for the full year This is where our simplification strategy is paying off , and we expect this strategy to drive profitable growth at BD in the future .

Speaker #4: By channel and region, North America wholesale, excluding FX contracts, was down 10.4% due to planned exits in the ski category and somewhat softer replenishment orders.

Speaker #4: In December . North America digital DTC was down 0.8% compared to the fourth quarter of last year , which was a significant improvement in the run rate from previous quarters Europe Wholesale , excluding FX contracts , was up 12.1% in US dollars and 3.2% on a constant currency basis Europe Digital DTC , which is a relatively small part of the region's revenue at 7.3% of total sales , was down 29.9% , or 36% , in constant currency .

Neil Fiske: Europe digital D2C, which is a relatively small part of the region's revenue at 7.3% of total sales, was down 29.9% or 36% in constant currency. Our international distributor channel was up 19.3% for the quarter. In 2024, we realigned our deliveries to better suit the needs of our international market. That means our year-over-year results are now comparable in timing. I'd also like to highlight results of our design for the deep winter catalog, which far exceeded our expectations and validated an important new part of our marketing mix. We had taken a break from marketing via the catalog, and this past winter success gives us confidence, and we expect to continue with the catalog marketing program going forward.

Speaker #4: Our international distributor channel was up 19.3% for the quarter in in 2024 , we realigned our deliveries to better suit the needs of our international market That means our year over year results are now comparable in timing I'd also like to highlight results of our design for the deep winter catalog , which far exceeded our expectations and validated an important new part of our marketing mix We had taken a break from marketing via the catalog .

Speaker #4: This and this past winter's success gives us confidence, and we expect to continue with the catalog marketing program going forward. Turning to gross margin, Q4 gross margin rate declined 280 basis points versus the prior period due to the impact of unrecovered tariffs and FX contracts, as well as write-downs.

Neil Fiske: Turning to gross margin, Q4 gross margin rate declined 280 basis points versus prior period due to the impact of unrecovered tariffs and FX contracts, as well as write-downs for exiting inventory. Breaking that down, tariffs had a 390 basis point impact in the quarter, while FX contracts accounted for another 240 basis points of drag and inventory exits, cost 80 basis points. Stripping out these non-comp factors, our comparable underlying gross margin showed a 450 basis point improvement, reflecting the progress we've made in simplifying the line and focusing on higher margin styles and categories. This helped reduce the impact of what would have otherwise been a 730 basis point decline in margin. Operating expenses, excluding restructuring and legal costs from both periods, were essentially flat year-over-year.

Speaker #4: For exiting inventory, breaking that down: tariffs had a 390 basis point impact in the quarter, while FX contracts accounted for another 240 basis points of drag, and inventory exits cost 80 basis points. Stripping out these non-comp factors, our comparables are comparable.

Speaker #4: Underlying gross margin showed a 450 basis point improvement , reflecting the progress we've made in simplifying the line and focusing on higher margin styles and categories This helped reduce the impact of what would have otherwise been a 730 basis point decline in margin , operating expenses , excluding restructuring and legal costs from both periods , were essentially flat year over year .

Speaker #4: Adjusted EBITDA came in at $2 million for the quarter, down $2.1 million compared to the prior period, with unrecovered tariffs and loss on FX contracts amounting to a $2.4 million drag on earnings versus the prior year period. Adjustments to EBITDA reflect the latest phase of our restructuring efforts, which have been designed to help offset the higher costs of tariffs and trade in this environment.

Neil Fiske: Adjusted EBITDA came in at $2 million for the quarter, down $2.1 million to prior period, with unrecovered tariffs and loss on FX contracts amounting to a $2.4 million drag on earnings versus the prior-year period. Adjustments to EBITDA reflect the latest phase of our restructuring efforts, which have been designed to help offset the higher cost of tariffs and trade in this environment. These actions occurred in Q4 and January 2026 and include continued streamlining of our organization and overall headcount, completing the exits of Pete, JetForce, and finding businesses, exiting our 3PL in Canada, initiating a project to restructure our logistics and fulfillment operations in Europe, closing additional Black Diamond stores, and slimming down our athlete roster. For Q4, these actions resulted in approximately $0.9 million of restructuring charges.

Speaker #4: These actions occurred in Q4 and January of 2026 and include continued streamlining of our organization and overall headcount, completing the exits of Peep Force, and finding businesses exiting our three PL in Canada.

Speaker #4: Initiating a project to restructure our logistics and fulfillment operations in Europe. Closing additional Black Diamond stores and slimming down our athlete roster for Q4.

Speaker #4: These actions resulted in approximately 0.9 million of restructuring charges . We also expect to incur another 1.5 million in 2 point in 2026 , which will be reflected in our Q1 results We do not anticipate any further restructuring at this point yet remain mindful of the dynamic and changing macro environment Finally , inventory ended the year at 64.9 million on the surface , that looks like a significant increase versus last year's ending position .

Neil Fiske: We also expect to incur another $1.5 million in 2026, which will be reflected in our Q1 results. We do not anticipate any further restructuring at this point, yet remain mindful of the dynamic and changing macro environment. Finally, inventory ended the year at $64.9 million. On the surface, that looks like a significant increase versus last year's ending position, excluding Pieps, at $53.5 million. However, the biggest factor in the increase was a change of inventory recognition from delivered at place or DAP to recognition at FOB shipment this year, meaning our in-transit inventory on the books appear much larger this year than last. This is $7.9 million of the difference to prior year and is strictly a matter of timing.

Speaker #4: Excluding peeps of 53.5 million . However , the biggest factor in the increase was a change of inventory recognition from delivered at place or DAP to recognition at FOP .

Speaker #4: FOB shipment this year , meaning our In-transit inventory on the books appear much larger this year than last This 7.9 million . This is 7.9 million of the difference to prior year , and is strictly a matter of timing The two other factors raising this year's number are tariffs and currency , which together inflate the value of inventory approximately 5 million .

Neil Fiske: The two other factors raising this year's number are tariffs and currency, which together inflate the value of inventory approximately $5 million. We've made great progress in improving the quality and composition of the inventory over the last few years and enter 2026 in good shape. In closing, I will again thank our teams around the world for their incredible perseverance, creativity, and drive in the face of this turbulent, often chaotic, and unpredictable global environment. With that, I'll turn it over to our CFO, Mike Yates.

Speaker #4: We've made great progress in improving the quality and composition of the inventory over the last few years , and enter 2026 in good shape In closing , I will again thank our teams around the world for their incredible perseverance , creativity and drive in the face of this turbulent , often chaotic and unpredictable global environment With that , I'll turn it over to our CFO , Mike Yates

Speaker #5: Thank you , Neal , and good afternoon , everyone . On today's call , I'll provide some brief comments on the adventure segment , and then we'll conclude with a summary of our Q4 financial results , followed by the Q&A session Let's take a closer look at adventure Q4 revenue declined 2.1 million year over year , or 10.4% , driven primarily by reduced demand from two OEM customers compared to the prior year quarter Also contributing were weaknesses in the US bike market and customer transitions in our home markets of Australia and New Zealand .

Mike Yates: Thank you, Neil, and good afternoon, everyone. On today's call, I'll provide some brief comments on the Adventure segment, and then we'll conclude with a summary of our Q4 financial results, followed by the Q&A session. Let's take a closer look at Adventure. Q4 revenue declined $2.1 million year-over-year, or 10.4%, driven primarily by reduced demand from two OEM customers compared to the prior year quarter. Also contributing were weaknesses in the US bike market and customer transitions in our home markets of Australia and New Zealand. Offsetting this pressure, our European expansion continues to gain traction. The new 3PL warehouse we opened in the Netherlands has improved service levels and shortened lead times, enabling accelerated growth and new customer wins in Sweden, Norway, the UK, Spain, and Eastern Europe.

Speaker #5: Offsetting this pressure . Our European expansion continues to gain traction . The new three PL warehouse we opened in the Netherlands has improved service levels and shortened lead times , enabling accelerated growth and new customer wins .

Speaker #5: In Sweden , Norway , the UK , Spain and Eastern Europe We also expanded our international distribution footprint , adding a new partner in Japan and multiple partners serving key off road markets in Africa and our home markets of Australia and New Zealand .

Mike Yates: We also expanded our international distribution footprint, adding a new partner in Japan and multiple partners serving key off-road markets in Africa. In our home markets of Australia and New Zealand, we secured a chain-wide placement of Rhino-Rack product with a large retail customer across all 300 locations in Australia and New Zealand. This partnership is expected to become a top five customer in 2026. In North America, strengthened relationships with rack specialty retailers and upgraded point-of-sale displays have driven new placements for Rhino-Rack and RockyMounts, filling product and price gaps not addressed by competitors.

Speaker #5: We secured a chain-wide placement of Rhino-Rack product with a large retail customer across all 300 locations in Australia and New Zealand. This partnership is expected to become a top five customer in 2026.

Speaker #5: In North America , strengthened relationships with Rack specialty retailers and upgraded point of sale displays have driven new placements for Rhino-rack and Rocky mounts .

Speaker #5: Filling product and price gaps not addressed by competitors . While we continue to set ourselves up to grow the right way Fourth quarter gross profit in addition to being pressured by lower sales volume , was impacted by several one time and external factors , including a significant inventory reserve write down , adjustment of $3.4 million relating to excess and old inventory , including some old packaging for in-house assembled goods We also incurred higher customer rebates in the fourth quarter and higher impacts from US tariffs .

Mike Yates: While we continue to set ourselves up to grow the right way, Q4 gross profit, in addition to being pressured by lower sales volume, was impacted by several one-time and external factors, including a significant inventory reserve write-down adjustment of $3.4 million relating to excess and old inventory, including some old packaging for in-house assembled goods. We also incurred higher customer rebates in Q4 and higher impacts from US tariffs. Corrective actions are underway. Specifically, the group has implemented price increases on fast-turning RockyMounts SKUs in November, is renegotiating unfavorable customer contracts in our home markets of Australia and New Zealand, and has now executed price increases across all brands and markets effective Q1 of 2026. These important actions position the business to restore margin performance moving forward.

Speaker #5: Corrective actions are underway , specifically , the group has implemented price increases on fast turning rocky mounts , SKUs in November is renegotiating unfavorable customer contracts in our home markets of Australia and New Zealand , and has now executed price increases across all brands and markets .

Speaker #5: Effective Q1 of 2026, these important actions position the business to restore margin performance moving forward operationally. We are streamlining our footprint to reduce costs and overhead and improve scalability at Adventure in the fourth quarter.

Mike Yates: Operationally, we are streamlining our footprint to reduce costs and overhead and improve scalability at Adventure. In Q4, we closed the high-cost Wellington, New Zealand facility and transitioned to a 3PL in Auckland that is closer to customers and will better support growth. We also closed Brendale in Queensland on 1 March 2026, consolidating the former Maxtrax operations into our Eastern Creek headquarters. This means we've combined Maxtrax and Rhino-Rack businesses under one roof. Product development remains a core focus. Our investment in vehicle fitments delivered a record year in 2025, with more new vehicle fits completed than in any of the prior 10 years. This strengthens our competitive position and supports future revenue growth. Beyond fits, we expect multiple new innovations and product platforms will be launching in the next 18 months.

Speaker #5: We closed the high cost Wellington , New Zealand facility in transitioned to a three PL in Auckland that is closer to customers and will better support growth We also closed Brendale in Queensland on March 1st of 2026 , consolidating the former Maxtrax operations into our eastern Creek headquarters What this means is we've combined Maxtrax and Rhino-rack businesses under one roof .

Speaker #5: Product development remains a core focus Our investment in vehicle fitments delivered a record year in 2025 , with more new vehicle fits completed than in any of the prior ten years .

Speaker #5: This strengthens our competitive position and supports future revenue growth beyond FITS. We expect multiple new innovations and product platforms will be launching in the next 18 months.

Speaker #5: With that , now , let me turn to the consolidated results in detailed review of the segment . Financial Review . I'm on slide eight .

Mike Yates: With that, now let me turn to the consolidated results and detailed review of the segment financial review. I'm on slide 8. Q4 sales were $65.4 million compared to $71.4 million in Q4 of the prior year. The 8% decrease in total sales was due to softness in the North American wholesale market at Outdoor, lower global D2C revenues and lower Pieps revenues due to its disposal in July 2025, and significantly reduced global demand from two OEM customers in a challenging wholesale market in Australia and Rhino-Rack in the Adventure segment. The decrease in Adventure segment was partially offset by increased contributions from the acquisition of RockyMounts. The consolidated gross margin rate in Q4 was 27.7% compared to 33.4% in Q4 2024.

Speaker #5: Fourth quarter sales were 65.4 million compared to 71.4 million in the fourth quarter of the prior year The 8% decrease in total sales was due to softness in the North American wholesale market and outdoor global lower global DTC revenues and lower Peeps revenues due to its disposal .

Speaker #5: In July of 2025 and significantly reduced global demand from two OEM customers and a challenging wholesale market in Australia . In rhino-rack . In the adventure segment .

Speaker #5: The decrease in the Adventure segment was partially offset by increased contributions from the acquisition of Rocky Mounts. The consolidated gross margin rate in the fourth quarter was 27.7%, compared to 33.4% in Q4 of 2024.

Speaker #5: Gross margin was impacted by higher inventory reserves at both segments , 3.4 million and a half a million . Respectively . At Adventure and Outdoor .

Mike Yates: Gross margin was impacted by higher inventory reserves at both segments, $3.4 million and a half a million respectively at Adventure and Outdoor. The half a million Outdoor addressed slow-moving obsolete inventory. The $3.4 million, as I mentioned, also dealt with slow-moving and old obsolete inventory at Adventure. Tariffs impacted gross margin at both segments. Lower volumes at the Outdoor segment due to the sale of Pieps, along with unfavorable foreign currency impact at the Outdoor segment were a drag on margins. These decreases were partially offset by favorable product mix and lower PFAS inventory reserves at the Outdoor segment compared to 2024. Consolidated adjusted gross margin reflecting PFAS related and other inventory reserves and inventory fair value adjustments as a result of purchase accounting was 33.6% for the quarter compared to 38% in the year-ago quarter.

Speaker #5: The half a million outdoor address slow moving , obsolete inventory . The 3.4 million , as I mentioned , also dealt with slow moving in old , obsolete inventory at adventure .

Speaker #5: Tariffs impacted gross margin at both segments . Lower volumes at the outdoor segment . Due to the sale of peeps , along with unfavorable foreign currency impact at the outdoor segment , were a drag on margins .

Speaker #5: These decreases were partially offset by favorable product mix and lower FAS inventory reserves at outdoor segment compared to 2024 . Consolidated adjusted gross margin , reflecting FAS related and other inventory reserves and inventory fair value adjustments , a result of purchase accounting was 33.6% for the quarter compared to 38% in the year ago quarter .

Speaker #5: I want to note that actual gross margin includes significant headwinds from tariffs and FX , and inventory reserves in the quarter . This is a key point to make sure everyone understands as they look at our financials here for the quarter Outdoors , actual gross margins For Q4 2025 was 32.2% , 32.3% , compared to 35.2% in Q4 of 2020 .

Mike Yates: I want to note that actual gross margin includes significant headwinds from tariffs in FX and inventory reserves in the quarter. That's a key point to make sure everyone understands as they look at our financials here for the quarter. Outdoor's actual gross margins for Q4 2025 was 32.3% compared to 35.2% in Q4 2024. The significant efforts at Outdoor under Neil's leadership to improve our gross margins are being realized, as he outlined earlier. These improvements were completely wiped out in Q4 2025 due to tariffs and FX, which were approximately a 630 basis point headwind in the current quarter compared to last year. Adventure's actual gross margins for Q4 2025 were 16.0% compared to 28.9% in Q4 2024.

Speaker #5: The significant efforts at Outdoor under Neil's leadership to improve our gross margins are being realized as he outlined earlier. But these improvements were completely wiped out in Q4 2025 due to tariffs and FX, which were approximately a 630 basis point headwind in the current quarter compared to last year.

Speaker #5: Adventures' actual gross margins for Q4 2025 were 16.0%, compared to 28.9% in Q4 2020. For actual Q4 2025, gross margins include the $3.4 million of inventory reserves I mentioned earlier.

Mike Yates: Actual Q4 2025 gross margins include the $3.4 million of inventory reserves I mentioned earlier. Excluding this inventory reserve, our gross margin at Adventure for Q4 2025 would have been 34.5%. With this inventory reserve, we believe we've taken a significant step in improving the quality of our inventory at Adventure. Q4 consolidated selling, general, and administrative expenses were $25.5 million compared to $27.8 million or down 8% versus the same year-ago quarter. The decrease was primarily due to lower employee-related costs, lower costs from Pieps due to the divestiture, and other expense reduction initiatives to manage costs across the segments and at corporate. Adjusted EBITDA in Q4 was $1.2 million or an adjusted EBITDA margin of 1.8%.

Speaker #5: Excluding this inventory reserve . Our gross margin at adventure for Q4 2025 would have been 34.5 . With this inventory reserve , we believe we've taken significant step in improving the quality of our inventory adventure .

Speaker #5: Fourth quarter consolidated selling , general and administrative expenses were 25.5 million , compared to 27.8 million , or down 8% versus the same year ago quarter .

Speaker #5: The decrease was primarily due to lower employee related costs , lower costs from peeps due to the divestiture and other expense reduction initiatives to manage costs across the segments and at corporate adjusted EBITDA .

Speaker #5: In the fourth quarter was 1.2 million , or an adjusted EBITDA margin of 1.8% . Our adjusted EBITDA is adjusted for restructuring charges , transaction costs , stock compensation expense , contingent consideration benefits and other inventory reserves Additionally , as noted in prior quarters beginning in the first quarter of 2024 , we adjusted legal costs associated with the section 16 B litigation and the consumer Product Safety Commission .

Mike Yates: Our adjusted EBITDA is adjusted for restructuring charges, transaction costs, stock compensation expense, contingent consideration benefits, and other inventory reserves. Additionally, as noted in prior quarters, beginning in Q1 2024, we adjusted legal costs associated with the Section 16(b) litigation and the Consumer Product Safety Commission DOJ investigation known as the CPSC and DOJ matter. These legal costs were $1.2 million in Q4 2025 and $4.7 million in total for the full year 2025. The Q4 adjusted EBITDA by segment was $300,000 at Adventure and $2 million at Outdoor. Adjusted corporate costs were $1.2 million in Q4. Let me shift over to liquidity and the balance sheet.

Speaker #5: DOJ is known as the CPSC and DOJ matter. These legal costs were $1.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2025 and $4.7 million in total for the full year 2025.

Speaker #5: The fourth quarter adjusted EBITDA by segment was $300,000 at adventure and 2 million at outdoor . Adjusted corporate costs were 1.2 million in the fourth quarter .

Speaker #5: Let me shift over to liquidity in balance sheet free cash flow , defined as net cash provided by operating activities . Less capital expenditures for the fourth quarter of 2025 was $11.6 million , compared to 14.4 million for the three months ended December 31st , 2020 .

Mike Yates: Free cash flow, defined as net cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures for Q4 2025 was $11.6 million, compared to $14.4 million for the 3 months ended 31 December 2024. This strong cash flow generation was expected and is consistent with our historical practice. The decrease versus the prior year is due to the timing of the inventory receipts at Outdoor that Neil walked us through. Total debt at 31 December 2025 was 0. At 31 December 2025, cash and cash equivalents were $36.7 million, compared to $45.4 million at 31 December 2024. The $36.7 million balance is consistent with the expectations I shared last quarter that our consolidated cash balance would be in the range of $35 to 40 million by the end of the year.

Speaker #5: For this strong cash flow , generation was expected and is consistent with our historical practice , the decrease versus the prior year is due to the timing of the inventory receipts at outdoor that Neil walked us through .

Speaker #5: Total debt at December 31st , 2025 was zero at December 31st , 2025 . Cash and cash equivalents were 36.7 million , compared to 45.4 million at December 31st , 2020 .

Speaker #5: For the $36.7 million, balance is consistent with the expectations I shared last quarter that our consolidated cash balance would be in the range of $35 to $40 million by the end of the year.

Mike Yates: Let me move on to our outlook. I'm on slide nine. In 2026, we expect full year sales to range between $255 million and 265 million, and adjusted EBITDA to be in the range of $9 million to 11 million or an adjusted EBITDA margin of 3.8% at the midpoint of the revenue and adjusted EBITDA. We have tried to take a reasonable approach to guidance, and we have a decent understanding of our revenue. The key for us this year will be improving gross margins. We have our SG&A costs under control, but to achieve our guided adjusted EBITDA, we need to hit our gross margin targets.

Speaker #5: Let me move on to our outlook . I'm on slide nine . In 20 . In 2026 , we expect full year sales to range between 255 and 265 million , and adjusted EBITDA to be in range of 9 million to 11 million , or an adjusted EBITDA margin of 3.8% at the midpoint of the revenue and adjusted EBITDA , we have tried to take a reasonable approach to guidance and we have a decent understanding of our revenue .

Speaker #5: The key for us this year will be improving gross margins . We have our costs under control , but to achieve our guided adjusted EBITDA , we need to hit our gross margin targets .

Speaker #5: We are initiating our 2026 segment guidance as follows: Adventure, $80 million for the full year, and Outdoor, $180 million of sales for the full year 2026.

Mike Yates: We are initiating our 2026 segment guidance as follows: Adventure, $80 million for the full year, and Outdoor, $180 million of sales for the full year 2026. This total of $260 million is the midpoint of the consolidated sales guide range I gave above. Adjusted corporate costs should be around $8 million or $2 million per quarter. We expect capital expenditures to range between $6 to 7 million for the full year, and free cash flow to range between $3 to 4 million for the full year 2026. First quarter sales are expected to be between $60 to 62 million. I want to reiterate, our outlook does not include any expense for the ongoing litigation specifically relating to Section 16(b) matters, the CPSC matter, or the DOJ investigation. With that, let me give an update on legal.

Speaker #5: This total of $260 million is the midpoint of the consolidated sales guide range. I gave above, adjusted corporate costs should be around $8 million, or $2 million per quarter.

Speaker #5: We expect capital expenditures to range between 6 and 7 million for the full year , and free cash flow to range between 3 and 4 million for the full year 2026 .

Speaker #5: First quarter sales are expected to be between 60 and 62 million , and I want to reiterate , our outlook does not include any expense for the ongoing litigation .

Speaker #5: Specifically relating to Section 16 matters, the CPSC matter, or the DOI investigation. With that, let me give an update on legal.

Speaker #5: I'd like to provide an update on the outstanding Section 16(b) securities litigation matters that the company is pursuing, as well as an update on the open matter with the CPSC and DOJ.

Mike Yates: I'd like to provide an update on the outstanding Section 16(b) securities litigation matters that the company is pursuing, as well as an update on the open matter with the CPSC and DOJ. We continue to proceed in our lawsuit against HAP Trading, LLC and Mr. Harsh A. Padia for disgorgement of short swing profits under the securities laws. In early 2025, the district court granted summary judgment in favor of the defendants. We filed a timely appeal, and an oral argument was held on 12 February 2026 before the Second Circuit Court of Appeals in New York City. The court has invited the SEC to file an amicus brief within 60 days or by 17 April 2026.

Speaker #5: We continue to proceed in our lawsuit against Hap trading , LLC and Mr. Harsch Padilla for disgorgement of short swing profits under the securities laws in early 2025 , the District court granted summary judgment in favor of the defendants .

Speaker #5: We filed a timely appeal and an oral argument was held on February 12th of 2026 , before the Second Circuit Court of Appeals in New York City .

Speaker #5: The court has invited the SEC to file an amicus brief within 60 days or by April 17th , 2026 , by March 10th of 2026 , the SEC is to advise the court if it does not intend to submit a brief , and if it does , the parties have 21 days to respond to it .

Mike Yates: By 10 March 2026, the SEC is to advise the court if it does not intend to submit a brief, and if it does, the parties have 21 days to respond to it. We also filed a lawsuit against Caption Management, its related entities, and controlling persons. On 24 February 2026, we entered into a settlement agreement with Caption to resolve the company's claims. On 2 March 2026, Caption paid the company an undisclosed sum in exchange for, among other things, mutual releases and dismissal of the claims with prejudice. With respect to the open matters with the CPSC and DOJ, in late 2024, the company was notified by the CPSC that the unresolved matters involving fines against Black Diamond have been referred to the Department of Justice.

Speaker #5: We also filed a lawsuit against Caption Management and its related entities , and controlling persons on February 24th , 2026 . We entered into a settlement agreement with caption to resolve the company's claims , and on March 2nd , 2026 , caption paid the company an undisclosed sum in exchange for , among other things , mutual releases and dismissal of the claims .

Speaker #5: With prejudice. With respect to the open matters with the CPSC and DOJ in late 2024, the company was notified by the CPSC that the unresolved matters involving fines against Black Diamond had been referred to the Department of Justice.

Speaker #5: To date , the DOJ has not pursued a civil lawsuit regarding this matter . However , in early 2025 , the DOJ served the company and Black Diamond with grand jury subpoenas in connection with a criminal investigation with requesting categories of documents related to black diamonds , avalanche beacons .

Mike Yates: To date, the DOJ has not pursued a civil lawsuit regarding this matter. However, in early 2025, the DOJ served the company and Black Diamond with grand jury subpoenas in connection with a criminal investigation, requesting categories of documents related to Black Diamond's avalanche beacons. We have cooperated with the DOJ in responding to its discovery request and have produced substantially all of the documents requested. The DOJ has sent letters to John Walbrecht, Black Diamond's former President, and Rick Vance, Black Diamond's former Director of Quality, advising them that they are targets in its investigation. The DOJ has also served subpoenas for grand jury testimony on a current and a former employee of Black Diamond.

Speaker #5: We have cooperated with the DOJ in responding to its discovery request and have produced substantially all of the documents requested , the DOJ has sent letters to John Walbrook , Black Diamonds , former president , and Rick Vance , black diamonds , former director of Quality , advising them that they are targets in its investigation and DOJ has also served subpoenas for grand jury testimony on a current and a former employee of Black Diamond In conclusion , we see Clarus today as a far better position to .

Mike Yates: In conclusion, we see Clarus today as a far better position to drive sustainable, profitable growth supported by simplified and narrowed business focus as well as a strong balance sheet with zero debt. We look forward to taking the next steps in our transformation in 2026 and delivering significant long-term value for Clarus shareholders. At this point, operator, we're ready to take questions.

Speaker #5: Drive sustainable , profitable growth supported by simplified and narrowed business focus , as well as a strong balance sheet with zero debt . We look forward to taking the next steps in our transformation in 2026 and delivering significant long term value for Clarus shareholders at this point .

Speaker #5: Operator . We're ready to take questions .

Speaker #1: Thank you . At this time , we'll conduct a question and answer session . As a reminder to ask a question , you will need to press star one on your telephone and wait for your name to be announced .

Operator: Thank you. At this time, we'll conduct a question and answer session. As a reminder, to ask a question, you'll need to press star one one on your telephone and wait for your name to be announced. To withdraw your question, please press star one one again. Please stand by while we compile the Q&A roster. Our first question comes from the line of Matt Koranda of ROTH Capital. Your line is now open.

Speaker #1: To withdraw your question , please press star one one again . Please stand by while we compile the Q&A roster And our first question comes from the line of Matt Koranda of Roth Capital .

Speaker #1: Your line is now open.

Matt Koranda: Hey, guys. Just wanted to hear a little bit more about the pricing actions that you guys took, I guess at the end of the year and then in January. Maybe just between breaking them out between Outdoor and Adventure, could you just talk about sort of the magnitude of pricing that was taken and how that impacts the outlook for growth for 26 between the two segments?

Speaker #3: Hey guys , just wanted to hear a little bit more about the to hear a little bit more about the pricing actions that you guys took .

Speaker #3: I guess at the end of the year . And then in January . So maybe just between breaking them out , between outdoor and adventure , could you just talk about sort of the magnitude of pricing that was taken and how that impacts the the outlook for growth for 26 between the two segments ?

Speaker #5: Certainly, Neil, you want to talk about BD, and I'll cover Adventure.

Mike Yates: Certainly. Neil, you wanna talk about BD and I'll cover Adventure?

Speaker #6: Yep , sure .

Neil Fiske: Yeah, sure. Hi, Matt. Thanks for the question. Maybe give you a sense of magnitude on the pricing actions we've taken at Black Diamond, really with the goal, of course, of offsetting the impact of tariffs. If you look at the gross impact of tariffs on the Black Diamond business, it would be about $11 to 12 million a year impact on margin and earnings. With pricing and with some sourcing work that we've done, we're able to offset all but $2.8 million of that. You know, something around 75, 80%. You know, I think you can assume that there's about $7 to 8 million of pricing that we've taken in the Black Diamond business in order to offset tariffs.

Speaker #4: Hi , Matt . Thanks for the question . So maybe give you a sense of magnitude on the pricing actions we've taken at Black Prime .

Speaker #4: And really with the goal , of course , of offsetting the impact of tariffs . If you look at the gross impact of tariffs on the Black diamond business It would be about 11 million , 11 to $12 million a year .

Speaker #4: Impact on margin and earnings—with pricing and with some sourcing work that we've done, we're able to offset all but $2.8 million of that.

Speaker #4: So something around 75 , 80% . And so , you know , I think you can you can assume that there's about 7 million , 7 to 8 million of pricing that we've taken in the Black diamond business in order to offset tariffs .

Speaker #4: Obviously, that's not the whole amount. It's not like we didn't get all the way back to $11 million. But we pushed it as far as we thought.

Neil Fiske: Obviously, that's not the whole amount. It's not, we didn't get all the way back to $11 million, but we pushed it as far as we thought we could push it relative to what competitors were doing, and what we thought the consumer would accept in this environment. Then over time, our goal is to continue with smaller price adjustments, product line reengineering, remixing to close that remaining $2.8 million gap. About a $7 to 8 million overall price increase.

Speaker #4: We could push it . Relative to what competitors were doing and and what we thought the consumer would , would accept in this environment .

Speaker #4: And then over time , our goal is to continue with smaller price adjustments , product line re-engineering , remixing to close that , that remaining $2.8 million gap .

Speaker #4: But about a about a 7 to $8 million overall price increase

Matt Koranda: Okay, that's helpful. Before Mike answers the Adventure, I guess, Neil, just clarify, the $7 to 8 million, was that taken in 2 tranches? You mentioned some May actions from 25. I just wanna make sure I understand the impact of 26 and how that feeds into sort of the growth outlook for, especially for Outdoor.

Speaker #3: Okay . That's helpful . Before Mike answers the adventure , I guess Neil , just clarify the 7 to 8 million . Was that taken in two tranches ?

Speaker #3: You mentioned some actions from 25 . I just want to make sure I understand the impact of 26 and how how that feeds into sort of the , the , the growth outlook for especially for outdoor

Speaker #4: Yeah . Thanks Good clarifying question . That's the result of both sets of actions . We've now taken the initial price ups . We took in May .

Neil Fiske: Yeah. Thanks. Yeah, good clarifying question. That's the result of both sets of actions we've now taken, the initial price ups we took in May and then the ones we took at the beginning of 2026. It's both of those.

Speaker #4: And then the ones we took at the beginning of 2026—both of those.

Speaker #3: Okay . Should we think half and half in terms of impact or any , any breakout ? I guess between those two actions that were taken

Matt Koranda: Okay. Should we think half and half in terms of impact or any breakout, I guess, between those two actions that were taken?

Speaker #4: I don't think I have an accurate estimate offhand of the split. Yeah, we'd have to get back.

Neil Fiske: I don't think I have an accurate estimate offhand of the split. Yeah.

Matt Koranda: Okay.

Neil Fiske: We'd have to get back to you on that.

Speaker #3: To you . We can take it offline . Yeah , yeah . Okay . That's fair . And then , Mike , go ahead on adventure .

Matt Koranda: We can take it offline. Yeah. Yep.

Neil Fiske: Yeah.

Matt Koranda: Okay. That's fair. Mike, go ahead on Adventure. Thanks, Neil.

Speaker #3: Thanks , Neil .

Mike Yates: Yeah. So Matt, at Adventure, we took price specifically at RockyMounts back in November per my prepared remarks. You know, that's a nice bump, probably around 5% price increase there. Here in Q1 across the Rhino-Rack business, we took price up as well, pretty much on the primary, you know, Pioneer, the platform racks, our primary categories that we sell. All in, I think we would expect to get about $2 to 3 million of price this year.

Speaker #5: Yeah . So so Matt , adventure . We took price specifically at Rocky Mounts back in November for my prepared remarks . You know that's a nice bump .

Speaker #5: Probably around 5% price increase . There . And then here in the first quarter across the Rhino rack business , we took price up as well .

Speaker #5: Pretty much on the primary . You know , pioneer the the the platform racks are primary categories that we sell all in . I think we would expect to get about 2 to 3 million of price this year

Speaker #3: Got it. Okay. All right. Very clear that we are.

Matt Koranda: Got it. Okay. All right. Very clear. That helps.

Mike Yates: We are fighting volume. You know, the market's challenging as we've talked about and as some of our competitors have reported.

Speaker #5: We are fighting volume. You know the market's challenging, as we talked about and as some of our competitors have reported.

Mike Yates: We are fighting volume. You know, the market's challenging as we've talked about and as some of our competitors have reported.

Speaker #3: Yeah okay . Understood . And it seems like embedded in the expectation for 26 especially as it pertains to adventure is a pickup in growth and unit volume as the year moves on , I guess just maybe what are the components that you're assuming there that they give you confidence in that return to growth ?

Matt Koranda: Yeah. Okay. Understood. It seems like embedded in the expectation for 26, especially as it pertains to Adventure, is a pickup in growth and unit volume as the year moves on. I guess just maybe what are the components that you're assuming there that they give you confidence in that return to growth?

Speaker #5: Yep . No . So it it's volume . It's price . And then there's an FX tailwind as well . It's really it's you know it's it some of that volume should you know recover in any Australian in the home market .

Mike Yates: Yep. No. It's volume, it's price, there's an FX tailwind as well. It's really. It's, you know, it's. Some of that volume should, you know, recover in the Australian home market, also through some of the expansion I talk about, right? We have some growth in Europe elsewhere, specifically when you think about the bike business here in North America and some of the other things I mentioned in Japan and so forth. That's where it comes from is a combination of all three of those things.

Speaker #5: But also through some of the expansion . I talk about . Right . We have some growth in Europe and and you know elsewhere specifically when you think about the bike business here in North America and some of the other things I mentioned in Japan and , and so forth .

Speaker #5: So that's , that's where that's where it comes from . Is a combination of all , all three of those things .

Speaker #3: Okay, got it. And then maybe just any commentary from you guys on how we plan to use the balance sheet this year.

Matt Koranda: Okay. Got it. Maybe just any commentary from you guys on how we plan to use the balance sheet this year. Obviously, you're in a much better position from a cash perspective. No debt. Access to capital, I assume is solid. Are you bindings anything in the funnel in terms of M&A that's interesting? It's just a really dynamic time in the markets, I guess. Maybe there's more stuff shaking loose, but I'd love to hear your perspective on maybe what Warren's on.

Speaker #3: Obviously you're in a much better position from a cash perspective . No debt access to capital . I assume is solid . Are you finding anything in the funnel in terms of M&A ?

Speaker #3: That's interesting . It's just a really dynamic time in the markets . I guess . And maybe there's more stuff shaking loose . But I'd love to hear your perspective on maybe Warren's on or .

Speaker #3: Yeah , I think I'm on . Yeah , that's a that's a good question . You know for for right now I think a really focused internally on our , on our two respective businesses and making sure they're , you know , well positioned for the future .

Warren Kanders: Yeah, I think, no, I, that's a good question. You know, for right now, I think we're really focused internally on our two respective businesses and making sure they're, you know, well positioned, you know, for the future, and that we can, you know, we can grow those businesses. I think we're just gonna, you know, sit on our cash for at least the first half of the year.

Speaker #3: And that we can , you know , we can grow those businesses . So I think we're we're just going to we're just going to sit on our cash for , for at least the first half of the year .

Matt Koranda: Okay. Seems fair. I appreciate it, guys. Thanks.

Speaker #3: Okay. Seems fair. I appreciate you guys. Thanks.

Speaker #5: Thanks , Ben .

Mike Yates: Thanks, Matt.

Operator: Thank you. One moment for our next question. Our next question comes on line of Anna Clifton of B. Riley Securities. Your line is now open.

Speaker #1: Thank you. One moment for our next question. Our next question comes from the line of Anna, question of BYU Securities. Your line is now open.

Anna Clifton: Hey, good afternoon. Thanks for taking my question. I'd like to start on the category breakdown within Black Diamond. You know, you used to disclose the breakdown between Mountain, Climb, Ski, and the K's. It's been a while. I think by the prepared remarks, it implied that Ski was roughly 10% of the business. Was that accurate? Is that the right number going forward to expect, or should we expect some compression as we fully lap the exit of bindings, et cetera?

Speaker #7: Hi . Good afternoon . Thanks for taking my questions . I would like to start on the category breakdown within Black Diamond . You know , you used to disclose the breakdown between mountain climb ski in the caves .

Speaker #7: It's been a while. I think by the prepared remarks, it was implied that ski was roughly 10% of the business. Was that accurate?

Speaker #7: And is that the right number going forward to expect, or should we expect some compression as we fully lap the exit of Findings, etc.

Speaker #5: Well , I think what we talked about here and Neil can follow up , but we talked about 86% of our revenue coming from apparel climb and mountain .

Mike Yates: Well, I think what we talked about here, Neil can follow up, we talked about 86% of our revenue coming from Apparel, Climb, and Mountain, right. That's a direct result of our simplification strategy, leaning into our best products, our most profitable products and that are core to our business. Ski is, you know, we're not disclosing those categories. In the 10-K, we just filed it, we're really focused on those three categories going forward, that's where the growth's gonna come from, that's what we're focused on, Anna.

Speaker #5: Right. And that's a direct result of our simplification strategy. Leaning, leaning into our best products that are our most profitable products and that are core to our business.

Speaker #5: So I skis is , you know , we're not disclosing those categories . We're in the 10-K . We just filed it , but we're really focused on those three categories going forward .

Speaker #5: And that's , that's that's where the growth is going to come from . And that's that's what we're focused on . Anna .

Speaker #4: Got it .

Anna Clifton: Got it.

Neil Fiske: Yeah.

Speaker #7: I guess .

Anna Clifton: I guess-

Speaker #5: Go ahead. Go ahead.

Mike Yates: Go ahead. Go ahead, Neil.

Neil Fiske: Yeah. I could add just a little bit of this. Appreciating, Mike, you don't wanna break out specifically the-

Speaker #4: Yeah . Could I could add just a little bit of this appreciating like you don't want to break out specifically the categories themselves yet but but mountain climbing apparel for the year were 90% of our sales ski .

Mike Yates: Yeah

Mike Yates: Yeah.

Neil Fiske: the categories themselves yet. Basically, Mountain, Climb, and Apparel for the year were 90% of our sales. Ski is less than 10% because we also have a little footwear segment in there that we don't normally talk about. It's primarily focused on rock shoes. Ski is less than 10%. And we expect that to drop by a couple more percentage points on the mix as we complete the rotation out of Pieps and JetForce and bindings. I think if you think about the go-forward business, Mountain, Climb, and Apparel, it'll get pretty close to 93%, 94%, 95% of the business going forward. If that's helpful.

Neil Fiske: The categories themselves yet. Basically, Mountain, Climb, and Apparel for the year were 90% of our sales. Ski is less than 10% because we also have a little footwear segment in there that we don't normally talk about. It's primarily focused on rock shoes. Ski is less than 10%. And we expect that to drop by a couple more percentage points on the mix as we complete the rotation out of Pieps and JetForce and bindings. I think if you think about the go-forward business, Mountain, Climb, and Apparel, it'll get pretty close to 93%, 94%, 95% of the business going forward. If that's helpful.

Speaker #4: Ski is less is less than 10% because we also have a little footwear segment in there that we don't normally talk about . It's primarily focused on road shoes , so skis , skis , less than 10% .

Speaker #4: And we expect that to drop by a couple more percentage points on the mix, as we've completed the rotation out of PIEPS and JetForce and bindings.

Speaker #4: So I think if you think about the go forward business , mountain climb and apparel , it'll get pretty close to 93 , 94 , 95% of the business going forward That's helpful .

Anna Clifton: Got it. Thanks. Yeah, that's really helpful. Then, shifting to broader market expectations. Understand you've talked about that it continues to be a challenging environment, just wondering, you know, general tone you're hearing from retailers and expectations for sell-in versus sell-through. Should we expect those to be more aligned or are there still pockets of destocking that you expect in this year? Thanks.

Speaker #7: Got it . Yeah , that's really helpful . And then shifting to broader market expectations , understand you've talked about that . It's continues to be a challenging environment .

Speaker #7: But just wondering, general tone you're hearing from retailers and expectations for sell-in versus sell-through. Should we expect those to be more aligned, or are there still pockets of destocking that you expect from this year?

Speaker #7: Thanks

Neil Fiske: Do you want me to take that, Mike?

Mike Yates: Yeah, go ahead, Neil. You know, to talk about-

Speaker #4: Do you want me to take that one?

Speaker #5: Yeah. Go ahead, Neil, talk.

Neil Fiske: Yeah, I can certainly speak to Outdoor on that, and Mike can comment on Adventure. I would say it is really hard to read. I don't think there's a clear trend or a clear pattern that's yet emerged. The only constant is change, as they say. I think we're just in that environment. As a result, I would say retailers are being cautious, and maybe keeping their powder dry in terms of where they spend their money, deferring open-to-buy decisions into the latest possible moment, trying to keep a little bit more of their open-to-buy in the at once versus the preseason category.

Speaker #6: About

Speaker #4: I can certainly speak to Outdoor on that, and Mike can comment on Adventure. I would say it's really hard to read.

Speaker #4: I don't think there's a clear trend or clear pattern that that's yet emerged . And and the only constant is change , as they say .

Speaker #4: And so I think we're just in that environment as a result , I would say retailers are being cautious and and maybe keeping their powder dry in terms of where they spend their money deferring open to buy decisions into the latest possible moment , trying to keep a little bit more of their open to buy in the at once versus the preseason category And and I think particularly with the the winner that we had this year and the mountain West In that particular segment , the retailers are think will probably be a little bit more conservative next year .

Neil Fiske: I think particularly with the winter that we had this year in the Mountain West, in that particular segment, the retailers, I think, will probably be a little bit more conservative next year. For the most part, we're pretty happy with our order book for 2026 and how it's holding up, and very happy with the strength of our wholesale relationships from the big accounts like REI and MEC, to a very much revitalized and rebuilt specialty business for us. I think our wholesale relationships are the strongest they've been in more than 5 years, and I think that'll keep us in good stead this year.

Speaker #4: But for the most part, we're pretty happy with our order book for 2026 and how it's holding up, and very happy with the strength of our wholesale relationships from the big accounts like Rec and Mech to a very much revitalized and rebuilt specialty business for us. I think our wholesale relationships are the strongest they've been in more than five years, and I think that'll keep us in good stead this year.

Anna Clifton: Great. Thanks.

Speaker #7: Great . Thanks

Operator: Thank you. We're moving for our next question. Our next question comes from the line of Laurent Vasilescu of BNP Paribas. Your line is now open.

Speaker #1: Thank you. One moment for our next question. Our next question comes from the line of Laurent Vasilescu of BNP Paribas. Your line is now open.

Leah Yang: Hi, this is Leah on for Laurent. Just following up on the overall trend, like, can you talk about the recent trends in the Outdoor Segment, particularly like what are you seeing in terms of consumer demand and also channel inventories?

Speaker #8: Hi . This is Leah on for just following up on the overall trend . Like , can you talk about the recent trends in the outdoor segment , particularly like what are you seeing in terms of consumer demand ?

Speaker #8: And also channel inventories

Neil Fiske: Do you want me to take that, Mike?

Speaker #4: So, can you want me to take that, Mic?

Mike Yates: Please.

Speaker #5: Please .

Neil Fiske: Well, sorry. Let me be clear on channel inventory. I think we're through the kind of heavy days of the destocking trend that came in the post-COVID correction. Now I'd say for retailers, it's more fine-tuning and ongoing rebalancing of their inventory in normal course. I don't see any kind of major overhang right now, at least from the Black Diamond business as we see it in retail. That gives us some good confidence for where we are in our inventory and where our retail partners are in their inventory in the year ahead. I would say trends in our business, apparel has the most momentum right now. It's up 10% in Q4. It was up 25% in Q3. We expect it to be up again double digits in 2026.

Speaker #4: Well , sorry . Let me be clear on the channel inventory . I think we're through the the kind of heavy days of the destocking trend that came in the post Covid correction .

Speaker #4: And now I'd say for retailers , it's more fine tuning and and ongoing rebalancing of their inventory in normal course . So I don't see any kind of major overhang right now , at least from from the Black diamond business as we see it in retail .

Speaker #4: And that gives us some good confidence for where we are in our inventory, and where our retail partners are in their inventory in the year ahead.

Speaker #4: And I would say trends in our business apparel have the most momentum right now. It's up 10% in Q4. It was up 25% in Q3.

Speaker #4: We expect it to be up again , double digits in 2026 . We have seen mountain , our big mountain category , which includes trekking poles , lighting , gloves and some some of our real power categories return to growth in 2026 .

Neil Fiske: We have seen Mountain, our big Mountain category, which includes trekking poles, lighting, gloves, and some of our real power categories, return to growth in 2026 and even a little bit in Q4. Interestingly, we're seeing a bit of a rebound in Climb right now. I'm not sure I'd call that a trend yet. What I would say is if you take those three big business units together, Mountain, Climb, and Apparel, they grew in Q4. We're seeing that they'll grow again in 2026.

Speaker #4: And and even a little bit in Q4 . And interestingly , we're seeing a bit of a rebound in climb right now . I'm not sure I'd I'd call that a trend yet , but what I would say is , if you take those three big business units together , mountain climb in apparel , they grew in the fourth quarter .

Speaker #4: We're seeing that they'll grow again in 2026.

Leah Yang: Awesome. Thank you. That's very helpful.

Speaker #8: Awesome. Thank you. That's very helpful.

Operator: Thank you. One moment for our next question. Our next question comes from the line of Alex Sturnieks of Lake Street Capital Markets. The line is now open.

Speaker #1: Thank you. One moment for our next question. Our next question comes from the line of Alex of Lake Street Capital Markets. Your line is now open.

Alex Sturnieks: Yeah. Hey guys, you got Alex on for Mark Smith today. Thanks for taking my questions. First one for me, you know, looking at the RockyMounts contribution in the quarter, you know, could you just talk about how that business is performing so far? You know, how meaningful you expect it to become within that Adventure segment over time?

Speaker #9: Yeah . Hey , guys . You got Alex on for Mark Smith today . Thanks for taking my questions . First one from me .

Speaker #9: You know, looking at the Rocky Mountains' contribution in the quarter, could you just talk about how that business is performing so far?

Speaker #9: You know how meaningful you expect it to become within that adventure segment over time?

Mike Yates: Well, it is meaningful. It's a excellent product. It's specifically here in the North American market. It did about $5 million, a little more than $5.5 million, I think, of revenue here in 2025. You know, we continue to expect that grow. I mentioned the point of sale. We've made some investment in point of sale marketing that's being specific to the RockyMounts business that's out at our bike shop distributors, the wholesalers that we work with. We're excited about that. I think it's a good business. It's a great product, and we expect that to, you know, be part of our growth story going forward.

Speaker #5: Well , it is meaningful . It's it's an excellent product . It it's a specifically here in the North American It did about 5 million , a little more than $5.5 million , I think of revenue here in 2025 .

Speaker #5: You know , we continue to expect that grow . And I mentioned the point of sale . We made an we've made some investment in point of sale marketing .

Speaker #5: That's been specific to the Rocky Mountain business . market . That's out at our bike shop . Distributors that in wholesalers that we work with .

Speaker #5: So we're excited about that . I think it's a it's a good business . It's a great product . And we expect that to , you know , be part of our growth story going forward

Alex Sturnieks: Okay, that's great. The last one for me. You know, you highlighted encouraging traction in Europe following the opening of the Netherlands warehouse. Could you expand on how meaningful Europe has become for the Adventure segment? How do you see that opportunity developing going forward?

Speaker #9: Okay . That's great . And then the last one for me , you know , you highlighted encouraging traction in Europe following the opening of the Netherlands warehouse .

Speaker #9: Could you expand on how meaningful Europe has become for the adventure segment, and then how you see that opportunity developing going forward?

Mike Yates: What the warehouse in the Netherlands is giving us the opportunity to do is to expand our footprint and serve some of our smaller customers, right? Our bigger customers in Europe who've been our legacy customers, they're still taking inventory from our business in Australia. You know, they're ordering a full container, right? It's shipping. The warehouse in the Netherlands is allowing us to, you know, fulfill orders that are smaller than a full shipping container. That's where you see, you know, growth in Spain, growth in, you know, the Nordic region, you know, growth throughout Europe, where we weren't penetrating at all in the past.

Speaker #5: So, what the warehouse in the Netherlands is giving us the opportunity to do is to expand our footprint and serve some of our smaller customers.

Speaker #5: Right ? Our bigger customers in Europe who are who have been our legacy customers , they would they they're still taking inventory from our business in Australia .

Speaker #5: You know , they're ordering a full container , right ? And it's shipping the warehouse in in Netherlands is allowing us to , you know , fulfill orders that are smaller than a full , full shipping container .

Speaker #5: And that's where you see , you growth in Spain , growth in , you know , the Nordic region , you know , growth throughout Europe where we weren't penetrating at all in the past .

Mike Yates: I'd say that's gonna be about $1 million this year of incremental revenue for the Adventure business.

Speaker #5: So, I'd say that's going to be about $1 million this year of incremental revenue for the adventure business.

Alex Sturnieks: All right. That's great. Thanks for taking my questions.

Mike Yates: Okay. Certainly.

Speaker #9: All right. That's great. Thanks for taking my questions.

Operator: Thank you. I'm showing no further questions at this time. I'll now turn it back to Mike Yates for closing remarks. Thank you for your participation in today's conference. This does conclude the program. You may now disconnect.

Speaker #6: Okay .

Speaker #5: Certainly .

Speaker #1: Thank you. I'm showing no further questions at this time. I'll now turn it back to Mike Yates for closing remarks. Thank you for your participation in today's conference.

Mike Yates: Oh, I'm sorry. I'm sorry it was muted. Thank you, everyone.

Speaker #1: This does conclude the program.

Operator: Oh.

Speaker #6: Sorry .

Speaker #5: I'm sorry, I was muted. Thank you, everyone.

Mike Yates: I wanna thank everyone for attending the call this afternoon and your continued support and interest in Clarus. We look forward to updating you on our results again next quarter. Thank you.

Speaker #6: Okay

Speaker #5: I want to thank everyone for attending the call this afternoon, and for your continued support and interest in Clarus. We look forward to updating you on our results.

Speaker #5: Again next quarter . Thank you .

Operator: Thank you for your participation.

Q4 2025 Clarus Corp Earnings Call

Request a DemoDemo

CLAR

Clarus

Earnings