GapKids Teams With Wild Planet to Introduce 'the Hoodio' Jacket with Built-In Ra

Nov. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- GapKids and Wild Planet announced today the debut of "The Hoodio," a new, groundbreaking product that incorporates fun and technology into apparel for kids. The Hoodio, a GapKids fleece jacket with a built-in FM radio designed by Wild Planet, is the first integrated product design created by the two companies.

"In looking for new ways to connect with kids and expand our company beyond toys, we explored the fusion of fun and clothing and decided to pursue the category of Wearable Tech," said Daniel Grossman, CEO of Wild Planet. "We worked in collaboration with GapKids to design the Hoodio, our first Wearable Tech item."

"Wearable technology is the latest innovation in the apparel, electronic and toy industries, and we're excited to be at the forefront of this trend by partnering with Wild Planet to create a kids product as cool and interactive as the Hoodio," said Mark Breitbard, senior vice president of GapKids and babyGap merchandising.

Just in the time for the holidays, the Hoodio hits stores on November 15 and is a must-have gift for kids of all ages this season. Kids are going to love the interactivity of this exciting new product that features a built-in radio control keypad located on the sleeve and a hood that conceals the speakers. Moms will love the Hoodio because it's machine-washable and the speakers can be removed so kids can wear the jacket from the playground to the classroom.

The Hoodio retails for $68 and is available for boys and girls in all GapKids stores and online at www.gapkids.com. It comes in black, green camouflage, blue and pink. The Hoodio marks the first time GapKids and Wild Planet have launched an exclusive, integrated product design and the fourth time the companies have partnered on exclusive product offerings. GapKids and Wild Planet introduced Spy Gear Cargo Shorts in spring 2004, a Gear Bag with a Pathfinder Tool attachment in fall and Wild Planet Spy Gear Trekking Pants this winter.

Source: Gap Inc.