HALE'IWA, HI (February 11, 2013) - Xcel is excited to announce its win for the Drylock boot as Hardgoods Accessory Product of the Year at the 10th annual Surf Industry Manufacturer Association (SIMA) Image Awards, held last Friday at the Grove Theater in Anaheim, CA. It is Xcel's fourth SIMA Image Awards win, and the first in the Hardgoods Accessory Product category, awarded to the surf hardgood accessory product retailed in 2012 that featured the most exciting innovation, design, or appeal. "We're proud and honored to be recognized once again by our industry peers," says Lance Varon, Xcel Design Director. "From day one, Xcel's driving focus has been to deliver the best possible product through an unwavering commitment to innovation, quality, and fit." "To have the Drylock boot nominated and ultimately win Hardgoods Accessory Product of the Year is a testament to the strength of that commitment among our outstanding team of employees, retailers, and team athletes." The Drylock boot is one of Xcel's most popular accessory products, trusted by surfers everywhere seeking the highest levels of warmth and performance. Innovative technologies include Xcel's exclusive Drylock ankle seal construction and heat-retaining, earth-friendlier ThermoCarbon lining made from bamboo charcoal and recycled poly fibers. Varon and the Xcel team joined over 850 attendees representing industry brands and retailers at the high-energy awards ceremony. "It's an exciting win for the Drylock boot and for Xcel," adds Greg Wade, Xcel Sales and Marketing Vice President. "Being honored in such a highly technical product awards category [fins, leashes, boardbags, and other wetsuit accessories are also eligible] is especially rewarding for a product-focused brand like us." Xcel is a three-time SIMA Image Awards Wetsuit of the Year (2007, 2008, 2010) winner. The goal of the SIMA Image Awards is to identify the surf industry's most influential companies and recognize them for their efforts to advance and grow the industry. Nominees are chosen by an industry panel of manufacturer and retailer experts. Winners are chosen by a final vote open to all SIMA member companies and specialty retailers.