The majority of U.S. citizens have had at least one vaccine, with the ease of restrictions making outdoor sports more appealing. DICK’S Sporting Goods and Academy Sports and Outdoors should reap the benefits of these tailwinds, based on significant market share. Which stock is the best buy right now? You can read more about DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc., which is a retailer of sporting goods based primarily in the east United States. They offer hardlines such as sporting equipment, gym equipment and accessories. Academy Sports and Outdoors, Inc., also acts as an outdoor and sporting products retailer in the United States.

Outdoor activities are growing in popularity due to rapid vaccination rollsouts and subsequent relaxation of social distancing requirements. This year, the U.S. sports and outdoor industry has seen a substantial increase in sales. According to NPD Group equipment sales in sports specialty retailers increased by 23% during the first half 2021 compared with the period prior to the 2019 pandemic. It was mostly due to a 17% rise in brick and mortar sales, as well as a 31% increase in e-commerce. With significant progress made on vaccination, the industry will continue to expand in the coming months. ASO and DKS, both sporting goods stocks DKS, could bring in significant revenues.

ASO gained 73.5% in the last six months while DKS returned 67.4% during this time. However, DKS’ 132.7% gain year-to-date compares with ASO’s 106.3% return. In terms of the past nine month’s performance, DKS is the clear winner with a 135.3% gain versus ASO’s 112.3%.

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