New Report: Outdoor Market Shows Modest Rebound to $28B in 2024, Driven by Casual Consumers

April 15, 2025

Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) released its 2025 Outdoor Retail Sales Trends Report, showing a modest 1% rebound in outdoor retail sales in 2024, totaling $28 billion. The report reveals that casual consumers, not core outdoorists, are driving the majority of growth, signaling a continued shift in purchasing behavior and product demand.

While participation in outdoor activities continues to grow, data from the new report indicates a market in transition. Apparel sales stayed flat, equipment sales dipped slightly, and the strongest gains were seen in accessories and footwear, particularly in lifestyle-oriented products. Casual outdoor consumers are prioritizing versatile gear, higher-value footwear, and sustainable accessories, like tote bags, over technical equipment. In 2024, large retailers in the athletic specialty and sporting goods (ASSG) channel maintained steady growth, independent specialty retailers saw slight declines but showed positive momentum late in the year, and the retail e-commerce channel continued a multi-year decline. OIA