Inaugural Switchback Spring opens doors as outdoor industry gathers with optimism and energy

June 16, 2025

Compelling keynotes and new industry data headline Day One

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE (June 16, 2025 ) /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – Switchback Spring, the education and business gathering for the outdoor industry, opened its doors for the first time today as more than 280 retailers, 194 brands, and dozens of industry and media organizations gathered for a three-day convening focused on big ideas, shared opportunities, and essential business conversations.

The three-day schedule kicked off with a standalone Education Day as speakers unveiled new data about the evolution of outdoor consumers, delivered rich insights about finding success in the face of business challenges, and addressed the critical need for advocacy in support of public lands and waters.

“While the specific topics of our guest speakers spanned a remarkably wide range during our Education Day, one overarching message tied together just about every presentation: the outdoor industry is stronger when it gathers together,” said Christina Henderson, Switchback director.

Switchback Spring’s morning keynote featured a conversation between Jim Weber, former CEO of Brooks, and Melanie “Mel” Strong, founding partner at NEXT VENTURES, a health, sports, and wellness venture capital firm. The two discussed how brands and retailers can sustain and thrive through challenging times, the importance of building a resilient organization, insights on adapting to change and disruption, and the value of strong leadership and strategic thinking.

“We’re excited to be a part of this important new gathering in the outdoor sector. The energy and enthusiasm of the attendees has been fantastic,” said Weber.

After a full day of presentations on topics including retail best practices, the latest trade tariff information, and trends in retail and consumer purchasing, Day One wrapped up with the release of new data regarding outdoor consumers from a study co-commissioned by Switchback Spring organizer Diversified and official event partner Outdoor Industry Association (OIA).

The afternoon keynote was entitled “Unlocking Outdoor Consumer Trends for Retailers.” Key findings from the report included data on a growing demographic of outdoor consumers that occupies the broad space between the most active “core” outdoorists and the more “casual” consumers. Additional insights included how future market success hinges on the ability to embrace a more inclusive, experience-driven, and emotionally attuned approach to outdoor engagement; and how independent specialty retailers are well positioned to capitalize on these trends by using their strengths in community building. The complete findings from the report are available to all Switchback attendees and OIA members here.

“The growing block of influential outdoor consumers between the fringes of core and casual is a community that needs to be reckoned with at retail. This is no longer a binary market of core vs. casual – but a multi-faceted and dynamic one,” said Kent Ebersole, OIA president. “The data is incredibly powerful by itself, but the conversations that it prompted immediately after the release were really the true benefit.”

The opening Education Day was capped off by a celebratory Welcome Party, hosted by OIA and Merrell, where brands and retailers gathered to swap stories and gear up for the next two days of Switchback Spring — when the event shifts to the exhibit floor.

During days two and three, brands and organizations will present their spring 2026 lines and meet with retailers, media, and industry thought leaders. Additional speakers and panels will be hosted on the show floor at the Trailheads Theater, while networking events and an offsite hike will create more opportunity for industry connection.

To view the complete list of events from the opening day of Switchback Spring, as well the upcoming events on the exhibit floor, please visit https://www.switchbackevent.com/switchback-spring-schedule/.

ABOUT SWITCHBACK SPRING

Switchback is the twice-a-year business and education gathering for the outdoor industry owned and operated by Diversified, a leading international media company with a portfolio of face-to-face exhibitions and conferences, online communities, and digital and print publications. Scheduled at optimal times for discovery and buying conversations, Switchback is held each fall in conjunction with The Running Event and each spring as a standalone event. Blending an accessible format with a schedule of education, peer connection opportunities, and business meetings, Switchback is a dedicated gathering place for all sectors of the outdoor industry community. Upcoming dates for the event include Switchback at TRE (Dec. 2-4, 2025; San Antonio, TX). To learn more about Switchback, please contact Michael Collin (michael@palemorning.com) or visit www.switchbackevent.com.