UPDATE: Morgan Stanley Initiates Coverage On Deckers Outdoor

Jay Sole of Morgan Stanley initiated coverage of Deckers Outdoor Corp (NYSE: DECK) with an Overweight rating and $105.50 price target.

"We think high UGG brand customer loyalty and a diversifying product line will help it evolve if style trends abruptly shift," Sole wrote. The analyst adds that fears of fashion risk are "overstated" especially as Deckers Outdoor is in a position to grow its international sales at a faster rate than domestic sales.

The UGG brand is a "dominant" brand and has remained relevant longer than many expected, according to Sole. In fact, the analyst notes that UGG shoes tied for the No. 1 spot in overall brand sales within U.S. women's fashion footwear last year.

Deckers Outdoor's premium brand offerings is properly exposed across omni-channels, according to Sole. The analyst believes that Deckers Outdoor could benefit from "meaningful" margin expansion by increasing its direct sales to consumers.

Deckers Outdoor's next step is to expand sales within casual footwear, sandals, loungewear and sleepwear, outerwear and accessories, according to Sole. The analyst believes that the company has "shown promise" in these categories and the company will see success over time.