With momentum continuing to build for Switchback, the outdoor-focused trade show and conference has entered into a partnership with the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA).
This strategic partnership, according to Switchback and OIA, was formed “to strengthen the impact, effectiveness and attendance of the twice-annual outdoor sector gathering.” Although this partnership will debut at the first-ever Switchback Spring in Nashville, which is scheduled for June 16-18, 2025, OIA will also support the section inside The Running Event (TRE) in November.
“OIA and Switchback are completely aligned on the importance of building a valuable and welcoming environment for the entire outdoor industry community and doing it with the support of quality industry partners,” Switchback event director Christina Henderson said in a statement. “OIA has an inspirational commitment to this industry and the people who comprise it, and their deep working relationships with both brands and retailers is unparalleled.”
In a statement released Monday, the two stated OIA will work to enhance Switchback events “with key learnings from leading outdoor industry data, legacy knowledge of essential and emerging issues and deep connections throughout the outdoor industry community.” Also, OIA will “contribute to and recommend educational sessions and speakers, host special events and support industry initiatives” at Switchback.
What’s more, a statement confirmed OIA members will receive discounted exhibitor rates at Switchback events beginning in 2025.
“This new partnership with Switchback underscores OIA’s commitment to driving the future business growth and overall health of the outdoor industry. We’re excited to join the Switchback team and collaborate on an event that will bring the industry together, which is critical for fostering innovation, driving business, strengthening industry culture and ensuring long-term sustainability,” OIA board chair and Lifestraw chief executive officer Alison Hill said in a statement.
After making its debut inside TRE in November 2022, Switchback announced in June that it would become a standalone event. These standalone events will be held each June.
Switchback explained via statement that its event format is based on four pillars — learning, discovery, connection and celebration — and offers a schedule of conference programming and peer learning. Also, the format incorporates all facets of the show in a single dedicated space, including “brand exhibition space, group meals, educational sessions, networking events and attendee housing.”
Switchback’s next event will take place inside TRE at the Austin Convention Center in Austin, Texas, from Nov. 19-21. Switchback Spring will debut June 16-18, 2025, at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville.
“The number one request I hear from both long-time veterans of our industry and the rising next generation is ‘give us a great place to gather.’ The Switchback team has a proven track record of success, and we’re excited to collaborate with them on growing an event that can deliver multiple benefits to a wide range of outdoor industry members,” OIA president Kent Ebersole said in a statement.
Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.
