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On the Ice => The Pro Shop => Topic started by: JHarer on December 23, 2011, 12:50:59 PM

Title: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: JHarer on December 23, 2011, 12:50:59 PM
I just received an email saying Klingbeil, will no longer be making boots! According to the notice, all orders will need to be placed by 12/31/11.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: MadMac on December 23, 2011, 12:59:50 PM
NOOOOOOOOOO, please say it isn't so!!
I just got new boots last month. Was in the shop for over an hour talking with everyone. No one mentioned anything about this.
Oh I'm just so sad.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: CrossStroke on December 23, 2011, 01:12:14 PM
Just called them up to confirm - they said they will probably be taking orders till Jan 14th or so.
Waaaaah!
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Sk8tmum on December 23, 2011, 02:30:50 PM
Holy crap !!!! Do we know why? I'm not pleased ... Klings have been the best thing ever on my kids feet ...
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: sarahspins on December 23, 2011, 04:33:19 PM
Bummer!  Almost all of the adult skaters at my rink wear Klingbeils (I think due to a strong preference by our former local fitter) and I know this will be very sad news for them!
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Sk8tmum on December 23, 2011, 05:15:05 PM
Okay, I currently have 7 skaters and two coaches freaking over this being a possibility, and looking for absolute confirmation that it's true, and the degree of "ending", i.e. is it everything, or just one of stock or custom?

I did e-mail them directly ... but I would think they would be on Christmas shutdown right now, if I remember correctly from previous years? There's nothing on their website at all about it ...
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Jenna on December 23, 2011, 06:07:27 PM
This makes me really sad.  I love my boots and the thought of having to switch back to SP Teri makes my feet cry.  Klingbeil was the only brand that fit right and gave me no pain.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: MadMac on December 23, 2011, 08:25:43 PM
I'm concerned for Don and the Klingbeil family/employees. I hope they are all doing ok. They have all been so wonderful & caring over the years -- I do hope all is well.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Sk8tmum on December 23, 2011, 10:04:20 PM
I'm concerned for Don and the Klingbeil family/employees. I hope they are all doing ok. They have all been so wonderful & caring over the years -- I do hope all is well.

I know ... they are such wonderful people ... and they really care about the skaters they fit.  You couldn't ask for nicer folk, and it is a family tradition with them too ...
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: retired on December 24, 2011, 10:34:41 PM
I'm sad for everyone because there is a strong, passionate fan base for Klingbeils.   I had them, destroyed them , bought another strong pair which I still have.  Price was always an issue, as well as the distance to the fitter.  The only people I knew who wore them were adult skaters with feet problems and coaches (with feet problems, that goes without saying)
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Debbie S on December 24, 2011, 11:46:13 PM
This makes me really sad.  I love my boots and the thought of having to switch back to SP Teri makes my feet cry.  Klingbeil was the only brand that fit right and gave me no pain.

Ditto. I had been planning to get new Klingbeils this spring/summer (been in my current pair for almost 6 years). Maybe I should hurry up and get the boots now, but it's really not a great time b/c it's been less than a year since my ankle surgery, and there is still a teeny bit of swelling. I wanted to wait until my ankle was 'normal' size to get fitted again. Maybe I should just get the tongues replaced now - that might extend the life of the skates for a bit - and consider getting Harlicks when the time comes. But I since I live on the East Coast, I sure won't be able to go to Harlick in person like I did with Klingbeil. :(

I feel so sad for the Klingbeil family and their employees. They are such nice people and the service I received from them was always top-notch.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Query on December 25, 2011, 09:23:04 AM
What?????

Eeks!!!!

Makes no sense. Such short notice, and nothing on their web site. Has someone else bought rights to the name?

So you'd still be able to buy a Klingbeil boot, but it would be exactly like a Reidell, etc.?

Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Query on December 25, 2011, 09:54:34 AM
MOD NOTE: THIS ENTIRE POST IS A WORK OF FICTION AND SUPPOSITION.
PLEASE DO NOT RELAY ANY PART OF IT AS FACT OR TRUTH.



I've got a free advertising idea for Klingbeil.

The lady who answers the phone should say she "can't" answer the question at this time. But if you order within the next 10 days, you are sure to get a genuine Klingbeil.

How many orders could such a rumor generate? Maybe someone else had the same idea.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Debbie S on December 25, 2011, 02:46:10 PM
Makes no sense. Such short notice, and nothing on their web site. Has someone else bought rights to the name?

So you'd still be able to buy a Klingbeil boot, but it would be exactly like a Reidell, etc.?

I think if they sold their company, that would be the official word. File that under "duh". I assume they are closing b/c there is less of a demand for skates, esp custom ones, and their operating expenses have been increasing, to the point where they are no longer making enough money to stay in business. Something called the recession - perhaps you have heard of it?  88)



Quote
The lady who answers the phone should say she "can't" answer the question at this time. But if you order within the next 10 days, you are sure to get a genuine Klingbeil.

How many orders could such a rumor generate? Maybe someone else had the same idea.

I don't suppose you have any clue as to how thoughtless your post sounds? If you were trying to be funny, you missed. A longtime business is closing and people are losing their jobs.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: rosereedy on December 25, 2011, 04:41:39 PM
This makes me sad. I was planning on getting new boots soon. I could but what if the boots need servicing or need tweeks before I could skate on them. My coach is friends with Don. She hadn't heard nothing. Could someone be so kind as to send me a copy of the email so I can show my coach?
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: icedancer on December 25, 2011, 05:01:32 PM
This makes me sad. I was planning on getting new boots soon. I could but what if the boots need servicing or need tweeks before I could skate on them.

I was thinking the same thing - I have never tried Klingbeils but have always thought that I might order some "some day" - especially as I pretty much have never liked my current boots - but now seems too late to order a new pair...

I have seen on other boards that people are planning to order boots now - so I am guessing that this will keep them busy for a little while after that January 7th deadline for ordering (which is what I read on another board) -

My husband and I were talking about the overhead for custom boots, wondering what the profit margin is, etc. - plus the cost of the employees, materials, website, building to house them in, etc.

It would be cool if they could somehow pare down by not having a "place" to go to (maybe do house-calls like I do with my business - the overhead is very very low!) - or if someone else would start making the boots and keep the basic foundations of the ideas behind their boots, materials, etc. OR they could just charge more for the boots... anyway, I am sure they have been through this - just putting my thoughts out there...
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: rosereedy on December 25, 2011, 05:07:09 PM
I was thinking the same thing - I have never tried Klingbeils but have always thought that I might order some "some day" - especially as I pretty much have never liked my current boots - but now seems too late to order a new pair...

I have seen on other boards that people are planning to order boots now - so I am guessing that this will keep them busy for a little while after that January 7th deadline for ordering (which is what I read on another board) -

My husband and I were talking about the overhead for custom boots, wondering what the profit margin is, etc. - plus the cost of the employees, materials, website, building to house them in, etc.

It would be cool if they could somehow pare down by not having a "place" to go to (maybe do house-calls like I do with my business - the overhead is very very low!) - or if someone else would start making the boots and keep the basic foundations of the ideas behind their boots, materials, etc. OR they could just charge more for the boots... anyway, I am sure they have been through this - just putting my thoughts out there...

I have klings now and love them. I worry if I order a pair now they could be a rush job and not be any good. I thought about going to Jacksons but not sure about them. I could go back to SP Teri but they weren't my favs. They were very hard inside. I am so sad. The Facebook page of everything figure skating said they were going to try to find out more info.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: JHarer on December 25, 2011, 05:26:00 PM
I'd be happy to copy and paste the email here as soon as I am home and have access to my computer. For some reason I have trouble with copy & pasting on my phone.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: sarahspins on December 25, 2011, 06:51:07 PM
I don't suppose you have any clue as to how thoughtless your post sounds? If you were trying to be funny, you missed. A longtime business is closing and people are losing their jobs.

I don't think that was her intent at all, but rather a suspicion that the company brand/name/rights/pattern/etc has been sold.  Perhaps this doesn't mean an end the the Klingbeil line exactly, but an end of control by the Klingbeil family, which could the comment that only orders in the next 10 days would be "genuine" Klings... I would hope that if the company was sold, that all existing employees could continue to be employed if they wished to be (this happened recently with our small town internet company - no one actually lost any jobs, even the former owner, as odd as that sounds).
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Debbie S on December 25, 2011, 07:26:20 PM
  Perhaps this doesn't mean an end the the Klingbeil line exactly, but an end of control by the Klingbeil family, which could the comment that only orders in the next 10 days would be "genuine" Klings...

The "comment" was not an actual comment made by anyone at the company but something query made up to sound cute (and I think query is a "he"). I know his posts are difficult to understand, but that's how I read it. And I think throwing out garbage like that is rude and insulting to the posters here.

There is no indication that the company has been sold to a new owner. The company has stated that they are going out of business. I hope Don and the other employees can find new jobs quickly.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: AgnesNitt on December 25, 2011, 08:00:42 PM
I always wanted to get a pair of Klingbeils after my disaster with Harlicks. Now I guess I'm a Jackson girl forever.

Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: sarahspins on December 25, 2011, 10:20:22 PM
There is no indication that the company has been sold to a new owner.

Okay, well I apologize, the thread was/is a little difficult to follow reading on my phone.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Sk8Dreams on December 25, 2011, 10:40:15 PM
Assuming it is true that they are going out of business, I'm worried about Don.  He wasn't at the PSA/ISA Conference Trade Show this year.  I hope it is not a health issue.  I felt very disloyal trying a different boot, and was toying with the idea of going back to Klings next year.  I'm still hoping this is not true. No one ever provided such incredible customer service.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Sk8tmum on December 25, 2011, 11:39:14 PM
I wish we knew more about the whys, and if everyone there is okay. They were the kindest, most considerate and accomodating people that we'd met in years in the skating world.  The little things they did - including adding in features on my kid's boots, at no charge of course, to accomodate some unique challenges ... and the followup. Plus, welcoming us into the actual storefront, and chatting about all things skate related ...  it does seem an end of a bit of history. I've heard from people who were Knebli users "back in the day" who still discuss those boots with fondness and a wish that they had continued ...

I've been on GoldenSkate, and bounced around FSU a bit, but, haven't seen any discussion about the closing. 
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Isk8NYC on December 26, 2011, 01:00:26 AM
I'm a little out of the loop with the good folks at Klingbeil, but the family has been through the wringer over the past ten years with work and health issues, yet they continued to provide great service and a quality product.  It's entirely possible that they just want to retire and have no "heir apparent" to pass the business along to - succession planning is so crucial for small businesses, but sometimes, there's no one to take over the reins.

I wish them all good luck and health.  They've certainly earned the right to retire and (Don especially) deserves to play more golf after dealing with feet for years.

Wonder what will happen with all that memorabilia in the shop, and the fitting chair?

I have a pair of boots that need repairs, so I'll probably ship them back sooner, rather than later.  I had wanted to get over to Queens when I was in the area earlier this month, but the timing just didn't work out.

I don't think you'll see much discussion on the other message boards - they're more devoted to the spectator side of skating than the athlete's side.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: icedancer on December 26, 2011, 12:28:30 PM
  it does seem an end of a bit of history. I've heard from people who were Knebli users "back in the day" who still discuss those boots with fondness and a wish that they had continued ...


And Stanzioni's.

I always wanted a pair of Knebli boots.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: hopskipjump on December 26, 2011, 12:39:00 PM
I looked up Stanzoni -  http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1076622/index.htm

WOW!  Can you imagine?  Being a parent and buying boots fr your skater that could be adjusted for growth for 2 seasons?
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Sk8tmum on December 26, 2011, 01:16:09 PM
I looked up Stanzoni -  http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1076622/index.htm

WOW!  Can you imagine?  Being a parent and buying boots fr your skater that could be adjusted for growth for 2 seasons?

Actually, that is exactly what we got from our Klingbeils. First, they are all leather - so you can stretch them for about a full size - and, with the customs, you can (could) get growth insoles that pop out and give you further growth room. We got 1-1/2 size in growth with the current pair.  Plus, they would rebuild them ... no problem - which certainly cut down on the "broken down" boots, and, with their customizing them for height/weight/leg length, you never had to over or underboot ...
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: AgnesNitt on December 26, 2011, 03:28:37 PM
If Stanzione's were made today they would cost $640.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Query on December 26, 2011, 03:55:01 PM
Actually, I hadn't read renatele's post carefully - I thought it was an unconfirmed rumor.

My Klings are breaking down, but they've had 11 years, thousands of hours on the ice, and some deliberate extra physical, chemical and thermal extreme efforts to break them in. Mine didn't fit, but I blame that on the outside fitter, not the company. When I came up to their factory store 5 or 6 years later, they rebuilt them for free, and tried in vain to make them fit - no charge.

Everything about Klingbeil boots bespeaks quality, and everything about my interactions with Don and company bespoke a total commitment to service, along with an extraordinary amount of knowledge and experience.

The community of expert custom skate boot makers is extremely small. It's possible they contacted all the ones that were at loose ends, if there were any, and no one was interested. Perhaps they also didn't want the family name attached to someone less expert, or who would provide poorer service.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: sarahspins on December 26, 2011, 04:18:17 PM
If Stanzione's were made today they would cost $640.

Which is about on par with Klingbeils and where (full) customs from SP Teri or Harlick start.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: AgnesNitt on December 26, 2011, 06:57:59 PM
An amusing story about figure skating by Robert A. Heinlein starts on page 145 of this book (http://books.google.com/books?id=YUHzYPFrJyQC&pg=PA151&lpg=PA151&dq=stanzione+boots&source=bl&ots=JZGnz8t0aO&sig=zr5_mttxrb2xHHdjYO2GJ9sg2mA&hl=en&sa=X&ei=sgf5TrbYAurk0QGY3qyqAg&ved=0CFMQ6AEwAg#v=onepage&q&f=false).
You'll have to read it all the way through to find out why it's in this thread.

It also gives a look into figure skating decades ago.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: MadMac on December 26, 2011, 08:12:10 PM
Love the story AgnesNitt!
Now my first skates were Oberhamers. Anyone else remember those? There is a brief mention of these skates here:

http://robsrollerworld.homestead.com/Tidbits.html

Klingbeils and others are also mentioned. (scroll down about half way)
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Sk8Dreams on December 26, 2011, 08:43:32 PM
Now my first skates were Oberhamers. Anyone else remember those?

I have a small collection of vintage skates, a pair of Oberhamers among them.  Very well made!
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: icedancer on December 26, 2011, 08:56:13 PM

Now my first skates were Oberhamers. Anyone else remember those? There is a brief mention of these skates here:

I had Oberhamers.  They were good boots but as a kid I was jealous of my dad who had custom Harlicks and my friends who had Knebli's. 
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Debbie S on December 27, 2011, 02:57:13 PM
I just called Klingbeil. The last day for orders is Jan 7. They will be in the shop until the end of January. They are open this week through Friday and are closed Saturday and next Monday.

Oh, and their current price is $649, including any 'extras'. I think I paid $610 for my current pair by the time all was said and done, so it's not that big of an increase for me.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Bunny Hop on December 28, 2011, 04:41:10 AM
Now my first skates were Oberhamers. Anyone else remember those? There is a brief mention of these skates here:
My first skates were Altamuras. There's possibly only one or two other people here who might remember them. Altamura was an Australian brand of skate (yes, it's true!), and I understand their higher level boots were like bricks to wear. I only had the recreational level, which is probably a good thing from what I've heard! I still have them at the back of the wardrobe as a relic of my teenage skating days (and they may be of historical interest at some point). A friend of mine still skates in hers, but she only skates occasionally on public sessions.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: aussieskater on December 28, 2011, 05:37:17 PM
My first skates were Altamuras. There's possibly only one or two other people here who might remember them.  Altamura was an Australian brand of skate (yes, it's true!), and I understand their higher level boots were like bricks to wear.

Oh yes I remember them!  When I first started 8(?) years ago, for the first year or so I used my husband's old skates from when he was at uni (yes my feet are that big).  They were black Altamuras I sprayed white, and I still have the calluses on my Achilles tendons from them, and the doctor says I likely always will.  Built like the proverbial outhouse...

Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: PrettySk8Dress on December 28, 2011, 11:05:11 PM
I just called Klingbeil. The last day for orders is Jan 7. They will be in the shop until the end of January.

Any word on just why Klingbeil is closing ? Bad 1930's Depression economy ? Mis-management ? Labor problems ? Enron style graft ? Overwhelming competition and market situations ? Just lost interest, and moving on to a different business ? I hope that the owners and employees can look beyond the closing and continue to work things out for the best possible outcome of each one affected, and their families.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: sarahspins on December 28, 2011, 11:17:33 PM
The speculation at my rink is that health issues are likely to be forcing the closure.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: rosereedy on December 29, 2011, 08:41:25 AM
When I called them yesterday, she made it seem that they went out of business because lack of business.  I wish them all the best.  I love the skates a lot because they were perfect for me.  Klingbeil going out of business is like Riedell going out or SP Teri. 
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Willowway on December 29, 2011, 07:30:49 PM
I spoke to Don today. Health issues are not the reason. It's purely the business environment and there are many aspects of that which just do not support the kind of high-level craftmanship and extended service business model that Klingbeil has always been.

Don has extended the Last Order deadline to Jan. 14.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: AgnesNitt on January 01, 2012, 08:44:36 PM
Klingbeil closing story  http://gazebonews.com/2012/01/01/new-skates-from-old-friends-in-the-new-year/
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Isk8NYC on January 01, 2012, 10:20:32 PM
Klingbeil closing story  http://gazebonews.com/2012/01/01/new-skates-from-old-friends-in-the-new-year/

Nice article - I liked the "I love Don Klingbeil!" line!  I'll bet a lot of people feel the same way.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Sk8Dreams on January 03, 2012, 05:14:49 PM
Nice article - I liked the "I love Don Klingbeil!" line!  I'll bet a lot of people feel the same way.

I sure do!

I called Klingbeil's today to order an extra pair of insoles, and spoke with Lorraine.  She said that it was a tough decision for Don, but he finally just had to do it.  He's not sure what he's doing next, except taking some time off to think about things. 
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Isk8NYC on January 04, 2012, 01:08:18 PM
Don posted a Facebook message about their closing:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Klingbeil-skating-boots/292901017391686?sk=wall
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: MadMac on January 04, 2012, 03:45:48 PM
Well, I just ordered my last pair of the most amazing boots in the skating world. I think this will be pair number 4 for me. It was only last November that I got Pair #3, but I decided that I would bite the bullet and open the purse for one more pair before the doors close. Two brand new pair should last me quite a while. Janice was such a sweetie on the phone. She said the phone is ringing off the hook and emails are pouring in expressing sadness and good wishes. They really are appreciative of the outpouring of support.
Bless you, Klingbeil Family!! You will be missed.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Willowway on January 05, 2012, 06:37:50 PM
For anyone who still wants to order or is considering it - as of today Don is extending the Last Order day to Jan. 21st and anything ordered on or before will be finished. They have been inundated with orders and will just stay there for however long it takes (an extra month or more) to fulfill those orders. I was in the workroom today and they were sure busy! Everyone there is just fantastic.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Debbie S on January 05, 2012, 10:42:55 PM
I'll be sending my skates to them tomorrow to have the tongues replaced, since it was getting to be time to do that anyway. My coach looked at the boots and said they would last me at least another year, if not 2, so I'm going to hold off on new skates for now.

That's nice that they extended their deadline. I'm sure they had their reasons for doing things as they did, but they might be less inundated if they announced their closing farther in advance. Then there wouldn't be mass panic. And this time of year is hard anyway, with the holidays and all, to plan unexpected skate fittings and purchases.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: FigureSpins on January 10, 2012, 04:53:43 PM
Update from Klingbeil's Facebook page:

Quote
Dear valued customers,

 We at Klingbeil want to thank you for your wonderful letters and suport. Its because of you we are still in business. We are sincerely grateful (sp) for the increased demand for our boots. We should be on Channel 7 News in New York Jan 17 at 5 pm. I hope you can watch it.

 Thank You,
 Donald Klingbeil

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Klingbeil-skating-boots/292901017391686


Can someone capture/share this news report so those of us out of the area can watch?
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: AgnesNitt on January 10, 2012, 05:01:34 PM
Quote
Dear valued customers,

 We at Klingbeil want to thank you for your wonderful letters and suport. Its because of you we are still in business. We are sincerely grateful (sp) for the increased demand for our boots. We should be on Channel 7 News in New York Jan 17 at 5 pm. I hope you can watch it.

 Thank You,
 Donald Klingbeil

That's a little ambiguous. Does it mean they're not closing? Or that they're thankful for our previous support? Or that they're extending the closing for the last few customers?
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Sk8tmum on January 10, 2012, 05:37:09 PM
I was confused by that too.  I am thinking maybe it's that they were able to stay open a bit longer to do the rest of the orders?  Realistically, what they are experiencing is a phenomenon that doesn't guarantee future success; in fact, it may cause a drought in orders in the future. If people are doing planning replacements now, instead of later, that means that the huge uptick in sales now will be matched by a drop in future sales.

Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Debbie S on January 10, 2012, 11:50:41 PM
That's a little ambiguous. Does it mean they're not closing? Or that they're thankful for our previous support? Or that they're extending the closing for the last few customers?

I interpreted it to mean that loyal customers are what has allowed them to stay in business this long. And the current rush for boots has kept them open a bit longer than they intended.

It would be great if they reconsidered, but I suspect they've thought about this for a while and reached the point where they just couldn't sustain the business anymore. :(
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Sk8Dreams on January 16, 2012, 06:00:37 PM
I am Super Disappointed in Klingbeil right now!

I ordered new insoles for $45 plus $10 shipping.  They just arrived, and they are plain leather insoles with almost no padding, and only at the heel ends.  The ones in my boots are thickly padded on the entire length, which is why I wanted a second pair.  I could buy what they sent me at the drugstore.  I tried to email a pic to them, but the web site does not have an email address, only a contact form.  Anyone have that address?  I would email the pic, then call.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Sk8tmum on January 16, 2012, 08:18:48 PM
I am Super Disappointed in Klingbeil right now!

I ordered new insoles for $45 plus $10 shipping.  They just arrived, and they are plain leather insoles with almost no padding, and only at the heel ends.  The ones in my boots are thickly padded on the entire length, which is why I wanted a second pair.  I could buy what they sent me at the drugstore.  I tried to email a pic to them, but the web site does not have an email address, only a contact form.  Anyone have that address?  I would email the pic, then call.

SKTBOOTMAN@AOL.COM
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Sk8Dreams on January 17, 2012, 12:20:28 PM
Thanks.  I called and spoke with Lorraine this morning, who gave me the email.  Sent the pix and am going in Fri to bring the insoles.  I'm sure they'll fix them up, but I hate the hassle, especially after paying $10 for shipping.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: NoVa Sk8r on January 17, 2012, 06:08:39 PM
A news piece that ABC TV just did this evening on Klingbeil:
http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/story?section=news/local/new_york&id=8508693
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: FigureSpins on January 17, 2012, 07:27:13 PM
A news piece that ABC TV just did this evening on Klingbeil:
http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/story?section=news/local/new_york&id=8508693

You're wonderful!  Thanks so much for sharing the link.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: AgnesNitt on January 17, 2012, 07:43:46 PM
From the article and the interview, Klingbeil's was down to fewer than 15 orders a week. 

The 2008 crash must have taken out a lot of kids from skating. My rink has some freestyles that are practically empty.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: FigureSpins on January 17, 2012, 08:02:15 PM
To me, I think Klingbeil was forgotten and they need to promote and market their products better.  Their internet presence was severely lacking and they were using the same advertisements from ages ago.  They're not tech-savvy, which is part of the charm, but they really do need to step it up and reach out to new customers.  (I had this conversation with Don and Wil (whose name I can't spell) last year.)

A consultant or even a college intern could help them revamp their marketing plans and become active on the internet.  I'm cheered by seeing the Facebook posts, so it's possible there will be a turnaround.  They need a little help getting there, imo.  (And a good spell-check, lol.  I say that with ♥ for the company/people.)

Look at the websites of their competitors - SP-Teri is very active, Harlick even has their travel plans online for fittings.  If they're not ready to retire, they need to get in the game and show that they're still playing.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: NoVa Sk8r on January 17, 2012, 10:36:40 PM
To me, I think Klingbeil was forgotten and they need to promote and market their products better.  Their internet presence was severely lacking and they were using the same advertisements from ages ago.  They're not tech-savvy, which is part of the charm, but they really do need to step it up and reach out to new customers.  (I had this conversation with Don and Wil (whose name I can't spell) last year.)
Amen. I had this exact conversation with Janice and Lorraine a year ago after they asked me what I thought.

I really wish that Sarah Hughes, Sasha Cohen, and Tim Goebel--who all wear Klingbeil boots--would do some print ads and/or be interviewed to be placed on the Klingbeil site and in Skating magazine (and other places).

I was at the Klingbeil shop today to pick up my relined skates and hope that I get to return!
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Sk8tmum on January 17, 2012, 11:36:38 PM
Amen. I had this exact conversation with Janice and Lorraine a year ago after they asked me what I thought.

I really wish that Sarah Hughes, Sasha Cohen, and Tim Goebel--who all wear Klingbeil boots--would do some print ads and/or be interviewed to be placed on the Klingbeil site and in Skating magazine (and other places).

It's not just marketing, it's the product line too. They essentially have one "good" product, which is the custom boot; that market is diminishing as an increasingly sophisticated range of stock boots from a variety of manufacturers makes it far more likely that a skater will be able to get a stock boot that fits nicely and is available immediately - not in 4 to 6 weeks.  So, less people need customs.

I see Harlick as the closest "model" to Klingbeil - and Harlicks has a dreadful website. However, they have a strong fan base, and a wider range of boots, and, you're right, they do travel to fittings. I've handled more than few pairs of stock Klings.  They are heavy (barring the ultralight), basic, all leather skates, with nothing much in the way of features to them. They are generally far longer to break in than a heat molded skate, and, far more likely to need multiple adjustments for fittings, punching, etc, as they are - old fashioned, all leather skates that have to be broken in the old-fashioned way.  Given the choice between "on the ice and go" with a heat molded boot, or "break in and adjust and work them in over a few weeks or so" - which way are most kids and parents going to go?

If you look at a Harlick stock boot, it's much more sophisticated and more more up to date, and have a wider range of options, styles, etc.  We won't even discuss the all singing, all dancing Riedells, or the funky trendy Edeas (with their rhinestones and other techno features).

My kids check out the feet of the skaters they see on the TV: SPTeri, Edea, Riedell, Harlick ... they've never seen a Klingbeil.  The skaters you mention - other than Sasha, who seems to be in/out of retirement - aren't skaters in the forefront of skating any longer ... I remember Tim Goebels, but, I don't think my teenagers would ...

The other issue, this huge backlog of skates: that may be the entire forward looking market for Klings for the next year pushed back into 2 months of "get 'em before they're gone" orders. I know that the Kling skaters around here did that - they ordered now instead of later, so, what would have been a June order became a January order ... meaning that there is nothing in the pipe for June ... and, if they're that backlogged, any new customers who are intrigued may not be willing to wait around the length of time necessary to get the skates ...

Sorry, I think Don is great, I love the skates he's made for my kid - I wish the world was different - but, maybe it's the MBA in me, I'm just looking at the business model.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Debbie S on January 18, 2012, 12:26:50 PM
It's not just marketing, it's the product line too. They essentially have one "good" product, which is the custom boot; that market is diminishing as an increasingly sophisticated range of stock boots from a variety of manufacturers makes it far more likely that a skater will be able to get a stock boot that fits nicely and is available immediately - not in 4 to 6 weeks.  So, less people need customs.

I see Harlick as the closest "model" to Klingbeil - and Harlicks has a dreadful website. However, they have a strong fan base, and a wider range of boots, and, you're right, they do travel to fittings. I've handled more than few pairs of stock Klings.  They are heavy (barring the ultralight), basic, all leather skates, with nothing much in the way of features to them. They are generally far longer to break in than a heat molded skate, and, far more likely to need multiple adjustments for fittings, punching, etc, as they are - old fashioned, all leather skates that have to be broken in the old-fashioned way.  Given the choice between "on the ice and go" with a heat molded boot, or "break in and adjust and work them in over a few weeks or so" - which way are most kids and parents going to go?

Hmmm, I've been told by other skaters who have tried both that Harlicks are heavier than Klingbeils, but maybe that's changed. Mine are much lighter than the stock SP-Teris I previously had, but my SP-Teris were way too much boot for me. All things considered, my Klingbeils were fairly comfortable even when I first started skating on them. I think it took a couple weeks before they were officially broken in, but I did not get any blisters or similar problems during the process. Even with a heat-molded boot, there is still a break-in process (I've had them). My boots only needed adjusting right after I got them, before I even skated in them - I tried them on when they arrived and they were a little big around the ankle, but I've heard of others having the same thing so I suspect Klingbeil always makes them a bit big - easier to make smaller after the fact than it is to make them larger, I guess. I called Klingbeil and it happened that I was going to Nats that year (2006) and they were a vendor and this was late December, so I just waited a couple weeks, tried them on for Don in person, and he took the skates with him back to NY. I think I got them about a week after he would have gotten back.

I haven't seen them at Nats for a few years - I didn't go in 07 or 08 but did go in 09 - but I've heard USFSA charges vendors insane fees. And I suspect Regionals and Sectionals are better places to find clientele. And large summer comps, like Liberty, which Klingbeil does attend each year. Exhibiting at more of those comps, revamping their website, and using social media (they do have a FB but there's a lot more they could be doing with it) would go a long way toward capturing new customers.

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My kids check out the feet of the skaters they see on the TV: SPTeri, Edea, Riedell, Harlick ... they've never seen a Klingbeil.  The skaters you mention - other than Sasha, who seems to be in/out of retirement - aren't skaters in the forefront of skating any longer ... I remember Tim Goebels, but, I don't think my teenagers would ...

From her Twitter, it appears Sasha Cohen is no longer in Klingbeils. She mentioned breaking in new skates in December, which involved heat molding, and posted a pic. They looked like Jacksons. However, there are current elites who wear Klingbeils. Someone on another board mentioned Keegan Messing, and I'm sure there are others. Klingbeil should definitely use that in advertising.

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The other issue, this huge backlog of skates: that may be the entire forward looking market for Klings for the next year pushed back into 2 months of "get 'em before they're gone" orders.

Good point. Although if they were to still be open in June, I would probably order a new pair at that point. Right now, I've still got a good year or more to go with my current skates, and having been laid off for 9 months (starting a new job in 2 weeks), I can't afford $650 for skates right now
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: sarahspins on January 18, 2012, 03:50:57 PM
From her Twitter, it appears Sasha Cohen is no longer in Klingbeils. She mentioned breaking in new skates in December, which involved heat molding, and posted a pic. They looked like Jacksons.

I know she has *tried* Jacksons in the past and had some of her best success in Klings, but the hooks are wrong in the twitter pic for the possibility that they are Jacksons.. I think they are almost definitely Grafs.

I do think that social media would be a great asset for Kling as well as getting more of the "who's in kings" out there.. I know that Jackson is constantly posting on their FB page the big names that have just gotten new boots - both long time Jackson skaters and new ones.  It keeps the buzz going - SP Teri does very much the same, I'm not sure about Harlick.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: FigureSpins on January 20, 2012, 07:54:57 AM
Another Klingbeil Facebook update:

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Klingbeil skating boots

 Dear Valued Customers,
 Due to the great increase in boot orders Klingbeil will still be taking orders for boots.Because of you wonderfull Skaters we are still operating and our delivery time is 6-8 weeks. We can not give you a date when we will stop taking orders at this time.We will try to energize our company and keep our doors open as long as we can.Thank you again we never expected to be open at this time and its because of you our skating family.
 Thank You,
 Donald Klingbeil
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Klingbeil-skating-boots/292901017391686
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Isk8NYC on January 20, 2012, 10:44:16 AM
Topic closed since current plans are that Klingbeil will be sold/moved to Manhattan for future business.

Klingbeil NOT Closing *Updated 1/30/2012*
http://skatingforums.com/index.php/topic,2950.0.html

Nothing is solid, yet, though.
Title: Re: Klingbeil closing :(
Post by: Query on January 20, 2012, 12:35:43 PM
Because of the comments in this discussion, I sent Klingbeil the following message:

"I understand you are planning to closing, but are remaining open to service those orders now coming in. I will be very sorry to see you go.

"If you want to extend the time that orders continue to come in rapidly, I suggest three changes to your web page:

"(1) Put the prices back on the web page. Your custom boots have always been priced very competitively. By dropping the price from the web page, you lost a major selling point.

"(2) Put the fact that you will be closing soon, and that people must order soon if they want skates, on the web page.

"(3) Put your fitting schedule on the web page. In particular, if your rep will travel to do fits, say when and where."

If people have other suggestions, perhaps they would be welcome.