JUNE 16-18, 2026
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
ERNEST N. MORIAL CONVENTION CENTER
![]()
JUNE 16-18, 2026
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
ERNEST N. MORIAL CONVENTION CENTER

As the dedicated gathering place for the outdoor industry, attendees can look forward to three high-energy days of education, business, connection, and celebration.
Switchback Spring will open with a full day of education built specifically for outdoor specialty retailers and their teams. The day will close on a celebratory note at the Welcome Party.
Days two and three shift to the exhibit hall, where retailers, media, and more will discover new products from established and emerging brands alike. Additional programming on the show floor will address broader outdoor industry challenges and trends. Opportunities to build new industry relationships will continue throughout all three days of the event with dynamic networking and tailored meetups.














Growing up, all I ever wanted or could think of was being outside. Fishing, swimming in the lake, riding bikes, exploring in the woods, climbing rocks, duck diving in the ocean – it didn’t matter to me what I was doing, as long as I was outside. And the person I credit for creating this deep love of the outdoors is my mom. She was a single mom with three kids, and she encouraged all of us to be adventurous and to explore; to not worry about getting dirty or skinning up our knees. She was my inspiration in so many ways.
As we prepare to gather in New Orleans for Switchback Spring 2026, I hope you’ll take a moment to think about who or what inspired your passion for the outdoors. It’s one of the best parts of gathering in person as an industry and community—sharing that passion and getting inspired all over again.
I believe this year’s event will provide that inspiration in many ways, to all who attend and participate. There will be meaningful content and education sessions designed to elevate your business. An exhibit hall full of innovative brands and companies that create purpose-driven product for the best outdoor experiences. Three days of meeting, connecting, and building relationships with some of the most inspirational people in the world whose common denominator is a love for the outdoors.
The best advice our team can share with those of you coming to Switchback is totake advantage of all the opportunities being offered. Attend the conference sessions on Tuesday; say hello to your booth neighbors while setting up on the show floor; don’t miss the opening night party at Generations Hall; take advantage of those unscheduled meetings over coffee or a drink in your hotel lobby. As my mom would say: get out there, explore, and have fun!
On behalf of the entire Switchback team, thank you for being a part of this gathering. We look forward to hearing what inspires you most at Switchback!



















Discover the art of being outside with our Japanese-designed camping gear and apparel.
Switchback Spring is where the outdoor industry converges to do business, learn, and celebrate everything that makes this community so special. Here’s a glimpse of what you can look forward to this June in New Orleans.

Our goal for outdoor specialty retailers is to use our gathering to elevate their importance, amplify their voice to the broader industry, and most importantly help them with their day-to-day business by providing them with a fantastic place for learning and discovery, as well as a focused environment for meaningful brand meetings.

– SEAN SMITH, SWITCHBACK EVENT DIRECTOR
Switchback was built to support the outdoor industry. A critical part of that mission is dedicated time for business and product discovery on the show floor—a space for outdoor brands and retailers to meet, collaborate, and do business. For two full days, the Switchback Spring exhibit hall will be home to 200+ outdoor brands representing hard- and soft-goods categories like footwear, apparel, camping, hiking, hydration, nutrition, accessories, trail running, technology, and first aid. Expect to find a mix of legacy and emerging brands ready to connect, along with immersive activations, celebratory happy hours, and dynamic show floor education.
CHECK OUT PAGE 20 FOR THE EXHIBITOR

One of the biggest takeaways from the inaugural Switchback Spring was the importance of in-person gatherings. This year, opportunities for connection and conversation will be woven throughout each day of the event, from dedicated celebrations like the Welcome Party to built-in networking time between conference sessions and in the exhibit hall.


Connection is a key ingredient to successful business strategies and growth. Take advantage of your time in New Orleans to share ideas and challenges with your peers; create space to cultivate new industry relationships and grow your network. And don’t let it end there. Take those conversations back to your business and lean on them throughout the year as you navigate the ever-changing retail landscape.
Learning is the foundation for growth and discovery at Switchback Spring, which is why programming spans all three days of the event. In collaboration with Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) and centered around the theme “Equipping the Outdoor Industry for the Future,” the Switchback team strategically created an education program packed with actionable, timely learnings for outdoor specialty retailers that will leave attendees feeling inspired and energized to take new insights back to their teams.


While Day One education (Tuesday, June 16) is dedicated to outdoor specialty retailers, the learnings will continue throughout Days Two and Three in the exhibit hall at the Trailheads Theater. This unique area of the show floor is a space to step away from the noise and engage with thought leaders and Switchback partner organizations for conversations focused on outdoor access, community impact, public lands advocacy, and so much more.


TUESDAY, JUNE 16
10:00 AM – 7:00 PM: Badge Pick-up
10:45 AM – 11:45 AM: Conference Brunch 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM: Welcome & Opening Remarks 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Featured Presentation
1:30 PM – 4:15 PM: Conference Breakout Sessions
3:15 PM – 3:45 PM: Conference Coffee Break 4:30 PM – 5:45 PM: Featured Presentation 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Welcome Party at Generations Hall

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17
DAY THREE
THURSDAY, JUNE 18
6:45 AM – 7:45 AM: Morning Walk at Audubon Park
8:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Badge Pick-up
9:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Exhibit Hall: Day Two Hours 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM: Theater Presentations Presented by: Have a question about Switchback?
REACH OUT TO ATTENDEE RELATIONS COORDINATOR EMMA GALECKAS FOR DIRECT SUPPORT: INFO@SWITCHBACKEVENT.COM. Emma Galeckas Sr. Attendee Relations Coordinator 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Badge Pick-up 7:45 AM – 8:30 AM: Conference Breakfast 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM: Featured Presentation 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Exhibit Hall: Day One Hours 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM: Theater Presentations 4:45 PM – 5:30 PM: Switchback Partner Social 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Exhibit Hall Happy Hour



HOW TO SWITCHBACK
THURSDAY, JUNE 4 | 2:00 PM ET
Join the Switchback team for a discussion about what to expect at Switchback Spring 2026 and how you can maximize your time in New Orleans. Hear about can’t-miss onsite activities and programming, and get a peek into what it’s like to plan the event. CLICK HERE for more details!

The XTRATUF Camp Collection is built for life outdoors. 100% waterproof with slip-resistant outsoles and a fleece lining for cold nights, these a staple around any campsite.
Featured Product: ADB Camp Collection, XMADBC30, XMADBC20, XWADBC50, XWADBC10
TUESDAY, JUNE 16


Developed in partnership with Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), the Switchback Spring 2026 education program is built around the theme “Equipping the Outdoor Industry for the Future.” Sessions are designed to reflect the evolving needs of the industry while delivering forward-thinking, action-driven content.

Conference Brunch will be served on Tuesday, June 16 from 10:45 AM – 11:45 AM.
Outdoor specialty retailers will leave inspired, informed, and ready to act with tools they can immediately apply to their businesses. Topics will span leadership and change management, outdoor culture and community, supply chain strategy and merchandising, AI, marketing, and more.
Press, and Exhibitor Conference pass holders
TUESDAY, JUNE 16 / 11:45 AM – 5:45 PM / Level 2, Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
10:45 AM – 11:45 AM CONFERENCE BRUNCH
11:45 AM – 12:00 PM WELCOME & OPENING REMARKS
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
FEATURED PRESENTATION: Who’s Getting Outside: Participation Trends Shaping the Outdoor Market

Kelly Davis Outdoor Industry Association (OIA)
1:30 PM – 2:15 PM
The Role of Ecommerce in Outdoor Specialty Retail




Lloyd Vogel (Moderator) Garage Grown Gear
Eoin Comerford Outsize Consulting
Molly Hanks Doyle Title Nine
Andrew “Coach” Livingston Marion Outdoors
Durability as Value: Making Longevity a Competitive Advantage in Outdoor Retail

Julie Brown (Moderator) Outdoor Industry Association (OIA)

Leigh Gray W.L. Gore & Associates


Troy Sicotte Mountain Hardwear
Chris Speyer Mountain Equipment Company (MEC)
From Cash Chaos to Confident Growth: A Profit System for Outdoor Specialty Retailers

Jacob Curtis Curtis Accounting Solutions
6 Lessons from the Outdoor Industry’s Best Marketers

Amanda Smith Monday Creative
Lessons in Change Fluency for Outdoor Retail Leaders: Building Resilient, Adaptable Teams

Julie Lamarra Utah State University
2:30 PM – 3:15 PM
Trade Winds: Tariffs, Risk, and the Future of Outdoor Business

Kent Ebersole (Moderator) Outdoor Industry Association (OIA)

Cassie Abel Wild Rye

Megan Costello Sorini Strategic Advisors LLC

Emily Vedaa Columbia Sportswear Company
Selling What Matters: Using Sustainability to Elevate the Customer Experience

Rick Crawford Emerger Strategies

Alex Lauver Douglas Strategies
AI 101: What AI Can (And Can’t) Do for Specialty Retailers

Leslie Leonard Outdoor Equipped
Future-Proofing Your Retail Store: Apparel Merchandising Strategies That Drive Performance

Holly Wiese 3 Dots Design 3:15
3:30 PM – 4:15 PM
The Retail Resale Opportunity: Strategies for Secondhand Success

Marcus Woolf (Moderator) Trailheads
Shawn Bentley Massey’s Outfitters
Ethan Garceau Outdoor Gear Exchange

Alejandro Guanaga Outdoor Gear Revival
Josh Sims The Gear Fix
The Philosophy Behind a Team That Stays: Hiring and Retention Strategies for Independent Retailers

Chris Frangiosa VILD Consulting Group / TCO Fly Shop
The New Outdoors: Curating Product for the Lifestyle Consumer

Kelly Davis (Moderator) Outdoor Industry Association (OIA)

Kerri Olson Piragis Northwoods Company
The Digital Backcountry: Safeguarding Your Business in the Trust Economy

Peter Pawlus REPatron
FILM SCREENING & PANEL: Best Day Ever: A Blueprint for Building More Inclusive Outdoor Communities





Remarkable outdoor industry experts and thought leaders will take the main stage at Switchback Spring. Put these special sessions on your must-attend list.
TUESDAY, JUNE 16 / The
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
SPEAKER:
Kelly Davis Director of Research, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA)

Outdoor participation continues to grow, creating new opportunities to strengthen the outdoor economy. In this session, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) will share the latest insights into who’s getting outside, how people are participating, and what these trends mean for brands and retailers.
Drawing from OIA’s trusted research and business intelligence, this session will explore participation trends, demographic shifts, and the fastest growing outdoor activities—connecting the data to consumer behavior and spending. Attendees will gain actionable insights to help make informed decisions, better serve both core and casual outdoor participants, and translate participation growth into meaningful business impact.

As part of OIA’s work to champion equitable outdoor experiences that strengthen the outdoor industry, this session equips attendees with the data and insights needed to navigate a growing and evolving market.
MODERATOR:
Joe Jackson
Marketing Manager, Switchback

SPEAKERS:
Berne Broudy
Co-Director / Producer, Best Day Ever

Greg Durso
Adaptive Athlete / Associate Producer, Best Day Ever

Join us for a screening of the award-winning short film Best Day Ever, followed by a conversation about ways the outdoor industry can move beyond intention and into action when it comes to outdoor access and inclusion.
The film follows adaptive riders Greg Durso and Allie Bianchi as they navigate life after spinal cord injuries with humor, grit, and independence, supported by a tight-knit Vermont trail community. At its core, this isn’t just a story about adaptive trails and mountain biking; it’s a blueprint for building community and lowering barriers to entry in meaningful, lasting ways.
The panel will explore what it takes to create truly welcoming outdoor experiences, from trail systems and retail environments to product development—and how small, thoughtful changes can have an outsized impact on individuals and communities. Expect an honest, interactive conversation designed to spark ideas, challenge assumptions, and leave attendees with tangible ways to build more inclusive outdoor spaces.
Popcorn, beer, and other refreshments will be served during the screening!




TUESDAY, JUNE 16 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM GENERATIONS HALL
Switchback Spring officially kicks off in New Orleans with an evening built for connection. Following the afternoon featured presentation, join the Switchback team for a short walk to Generations Hall – just minutes from the convention center – and step into one of the city’s most iconic venues.
Arrive to the sounds of a New Orleans–based brass band, followed by complimentary food, drinks, and a DJ as the outdoor industry comes together to reconnect with familiar faces and meet new ones. From retailers and exhibitors to media and partner organizations, the community will gather to raise a glass and set the tone for Switchback Spring.




Originally built in the 1820’s as a sugar refinery, Generations Hall blends historic New Orleans character with a modern atmosphere—setting the stage for a memorable night.

OIA
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17
8:30 AM – 9:30 AM The New Orleans Theater B, Level 2,






What does it take to commit to a descent no one has skied before?
And what does it take to show up for the wild places that make that moment possible?
Join us for a powerful conversation on adventure, risk, and the shared responsibility our industry carries to safeguard the public lands and waters that sustain our businesses—and our lives.
Big mountain skier and The North Face athlete Griffin Post will share the story behind some of his most consequential career turns and what those moments taught him about preparation, decisiveness, and showing up when it matters most. From the Tetons to the Arctic Circle, Griffin has pushed the boundaries of what’s possible on snow, earning X-Games gold and building a career defined by athletic excellence and an unwavering commitment to the landscapes that make it all possible.
This conversation goes beyond storytelling, though. Griffin will be joined by leaders from The Conservation Alliance and The North Face for a candid discussion about the state of our public lands in 2026—and how the outdoor industry can move from mission statements to meaningful action.
Come ready to be inspired and challenged to join the fight in protecting our public lands.
Wednesday, June 17 at 10:00 AM marks the opening of the 2026 exhibit hall! Explore the next few pages to get to know the brands exhibiting at Switchback Spring.


Scan the QR code for the most up-to-date exhibitor list.
EXHIBITOR KEY:
Booth #439, 539

Booth #839

Booth #639, 739
OFFICIAL EVENT PARTNER

Outdoor Industry Association
Booth #238
5.11 Inc.
Booth #1334
Aarn Packs
Booth #416
Akaso Tech LLC
Booth #1313
Allover LLC
Booth #304


CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:


Alpcour Booth #1316
Alpine Fit Booth #312

Altra Booth #821
Aparso Booth #1239
Apply Stickers Booth #1233
Arc’teryx Booth #527
ASICS Booth #621
Aull-DRY Booth #200
Avalara Booth #1310
Backpackers Pantry Booth #1142


BearVault Booth #1110
Bellroy Trading Pty Limited Booth #411
Berghaus Booth #533
Bert Shoes Booth #308

Bertucci Field Watches Booth #1118
Better Wheel Workshops Booth #120
Big Sky International Booth #1001
BioLite / Goal Zero Booth #401
Bison Designs, LLC Booth #1034
Black Men Run - TURF Booth #104

BloqUV Booth #1013
Blundstone Booth #327
BOCO Gear Booth #506
Body Glide Booth #516
Brightz, ltd. Booth #107
Business Oregon Booth #121
Butt Napkins Booth #1113
Cascade Designs Booth #1227
Case Knives Booth #1111
Chaco Booth #717

Chubbies
Booth #706
Cleanwaste Booth #1209
Clif Bar Booth #718
CLIQ | Kammok Booth #1106
Cloudveil Mountainworks Booth #833
Coastal Range Equipment, Inc. Booth #309

COCOON Booth #905
Coleman Booth #904
CORE Equipment Booth #1037
Cotopaxi Booth #921
Crazy Creek Products LLC Booth #1131
Crocs Booth #1019
CURREX | PowerStep Booth #517
Custom Batch Hats LLC (Tailgate Hats) Booth #1231
Dakini, Inc. Booth #1140
Dark Energy Booth #316
Darn Tough Booth #610
datefix Booth #113
Deaf Athletic Booth #212
Disc-o-bed Booth #1210
DKOTA GRIZZLY Booth #412
Dometic Booth #937
DrinkTanks Booth #121
Dry Brew Booth #418
DUER Booth #227
Eagles Nest Outfitters Booth #511
Elastic Suite Booth #910
ENDVR.io Booth #219
Envoy B2B Booth #934
Escape Climbing Booth #1112
EYEONIZE Booth #121
Farm to Summit Booth #305

Fjällräven Booth #521
FKT Gear Booth #313

Flabocce Booth #200
Flower Mountain Booth #105
Flowfold Booth #221
Flylow Gear Booth #100
FLYN Booth #221
Furnigami Booth #1208
GCI Outdoor Booth #1221
Gear Envie, Inc Booth #303

GiantMouse Knives Booth #1005
GORE-TEX® Brand Booth #339
Grand Trunk Booth #815
GRIVEL CORP. Booth #1335
GSI Outdoors, LLC Booth #801
Guntersville Breathables; frogg toggs Booth #404
Halfdays Booth #201
heat it US LLC
Booth #1007
Helle Norway Booth #1101
Hispanic Access Foundation Booth #108
Hollow Socks Booth #510
Hults Bruk Booth #1104
HydraPak Booth #707

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Booth #301

Ignik Outdoors Booth #1000
Instent Home of Vitabri Booth #1327
Jack and Sage Booth #400
Jungmaven Booth #206
JUNK Brands Booth #1321
KingCamp Outdoor Products Co., Ltd. Booth #1234
Kitworks Booth #121
Komperdell Sportartikel GmbH Booth #210
Kuma Outdoor Gear Booth #127
Land of Outsiders (Michigan Outdoors) Booth #200
Leave No Trace Booth #106

Lectric Boil Booth #200
Lems Shoes Booth #421
LGBTQ+ Outdoors Booth #110

Liberty Mountain Booth #1101
Life is Good Booth #427
LifeStraw Booth #501
Lightspeed Commerce Inc. Booth #1041
Locally Booth #1217
Lock Laces Booth #138
Loon’r Booth #203

Lorpen Booth #1101
Lucky Eleven Brands – Sling Bottle and Sandebag Booth #1011
Luxefly Basecamp Booth #1135
Maine Outdoor Brands Booth #221
Marmot Mountain Booth #827
Merrell Booth #439, 539
MeUndies Booth #130
Michigan Outdoor Innovation Fund Booth #200
Mimikai Booth #608
Minimal Gear Booth #1116
Minus 33 Merino Wool Booth #232
Mobile Warming Booth #1004
Moment & Long Weekend Booth #900
Morakniv Booth #1101
Mountain and Isles, LLC Booth #1137
Mountain Equipment/ Bridgedale Booth #911
Mountain Hardwear Booth #601
Mountain House Booth #805
MUNICIPAL APPAREL COMPANY, LLC Booth #434
MuskOx
Booth #408
My Medic Booth #1206
Mykos Footwear / LâMO Booth #810
Nalgene Booth #1101
Near Zero
Booth #216
Newell Brands
Booth #1117
Nikon Inc Booth #834
Nite Ize, Inc. Booth #927
Nokta Engineering Inc Booth #1305
NuuSol Booth #121
Ocean Bottle Limited Booth #1235
Opinel Booth #1230
OS1st Booth #806
Outdoor Cap Booth #1317
Outdoor Element Booth #217
Outdoor Industry Association Booth #238

Outpatch Booth #310

PACKFIRE Booth #711
Parks Project Booth #932
Pertex Booth #1238
Pika Outdoors Booth #307

Ponyflo® by David & Young Booth #128
Prepared Hero Booth #1207
Primus Booth #1101
PyreLogs Booth #1023
rabbit Booth #901
Rallyware for Retail Booth #1236
RecPak Booth #311

RICS Software Booth #1312
Ripstop By The Roll Booth #1211
Ripton Co Booth #417
Rite in the Rain
Booth #1010
ROARK Booth #1127

Rocky Brands / Xtratuf Booth #407
Rugged Road Outdoors Booth #619
Rumpl Booth #701
Rustek Booth #121
Salewa Booth #915
SallyeAnder Booth #1017
Salty Britches Booth #205
Sandboxx Group (Reef Suncare) Booth #113
SAOLA USA INC Booth #931
SCARPA Booth #607
Science In Sport Booth #207
Sea to Summit Booth #1121
Secrid BV Booth #1047
Sherpa Adventure Gear Booth #606
Shibumi Shade Booth #1301
SHOKZ Booth #321
Sidas USA Booth #218
Silva Booth #1101
Singing Rock Booth #1101
Skida Booth #120
Smartwool Booth #721
Snow Peak Booth #839
Sol Sister Sport Booth #209

Snowshoe Leather Care Booth #121

SPRINTS Funner Gear Booth #317
Stio Booth #727
Strike Footwear Booth #213
Strike Visuals Booth #109
Sun Company, Inc. Booth #126
Sunday Afternoons Booth #133
Sunski Booth #1014
Suunto Booth #616
SWOOP Booth #211

Symbiosis Gear Booth #306

Ten Thousand Booth #134
Tenaya Booth #1101
tentree Booth #433
TEREN Booth #410
Teva Booth #633
Thacker Booth #716
THE GEOPROJECT Booth #710
The Landmark Project Booth #811
The North Face Booth #639, 739
The SG Companies – Salt Life / RS Booth #233
The Vision Council Foundation Booth #139
Thread Booth #1030
Timber Ridge Booth #1201

Travoca USA LLC Booth #117
TreeSleeve Booth #120
UCO Booth #1139
Ultraspire Booth #935
UNIFI Manufacturing, Inc. Booth #112
Ursack Booth #1306
UYN Booth #914
Valor Skincare Booth #200
Vermont Outdoor Businesses Booth #120
Vibram FiveFingers Booth #332
VIONIC Booth #208
Waboba, Inc. Booth #1213
Washington Shoe Company Booth #101
Wild Tribute Booth #507
WildBatch Booth #302

Wondery Outdoors Booth #735
Woolloomooloo Shoe, LLC Booth #712
World Famous Sports Booth #1329
Xero Shoes Booth #1216
YY Nation Booth #613
Zenone Poles Booth #335
Zensah Booth #140
Zippo Manufacturing Company Booth #1107


















The Product Spotlight is a showcase of the latest innovations from a mix of outdoor industry brands. Stop by to check out what’s new and then visit the brands’ booths to learn more about each product. Preview some of the goods you’ll find in this year’s Product Spotlight below.
























Created in partnership with Garage Grown Gear and Founded Outdoors, Pathfinders is a new, special section of the Switchback Spring exhibit hall dedicated to a curated collection of retail-ready young brands.
Many new, emerging brands don’t yet have the scale, time, or visibility to show up at major trade events on their own. Yet so often, these brands are offering the most innovative products in the outdoor market. With support from Garage Grown Gear and Founded Outdoors, Pathfinders brands will exhibit at Switchback Spring in a special section dedicated to these emerging brands.
















CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:





For us, it’s about supporting our brands in their growth. Part of that growth is finding new wholesale and retail partners, and Switchback is a national platform where buyers are looking for new and interesting things.
– Lloyd Vogel, Founder & CEO, Garage Grown Gear


“Why

The Trailheads Theater is a unique, open space built for learning and connection with a focus on broader outdoor industry trends, insights, and opportunities. Designed with all industry members in mind, each session blends compelling storytelling with timely conversations led by thought leaders and industry experts. These presentations will inspire positive action and change in local communities and across the outdoor industry.







Kellyn










Moving the Outdoor Culture Off-Road: Community Building as a Bridge to a Stronger Industry Presented by Black Men Run Trail & Ultra Running Fanatics (TURF)


Tommie Runz (Moderator)









EXHIBIT HALL BOOTH #1027
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17
4:45 PM – 5:30 PM

Join us at the Trailheads Theater for Switchback’s first-ever Partner Social: a celebration dedicated to organizations driving meaningful change across the outdoor industry.

Meet the people behind the mission-driven work making our industry better: the advocates, educators, conservationists, entrepreneurs, and community builders who are expanding “who” belongs in the outdoors and how we can show up for the places we love, together. From protecting public lands to breaking barriers for underrepresented communities, our partners represent a more inclusive, equitable, and resilient outdoor industry.
Whether you’re a longtime supporter of these organizations or want to learn about the work they do, we invite you to join us at the Partner Social. Participants will walk away with fresh connections and new perspectives to move the outdoors—and the industry—forward.

EXHIBIT HALL
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
We’ll close out the first trade show day with an Exhibit Hall Happy Hour! Expect a lively show floor with interactive activations, delicious snacks, and a variety of drinks to keep the celebrations going.
BRANDS INCLUDE:











THURSDAY, JUNE 18
6:45 AM – 7:45 AM AUDUBON PARK
Join Switchback at the Morning Walk: an early start designed to get participants outside, moving, and connected before heading to the exhibit hall.
Open to all, this guided walk (or run!) takes place at Audubon Park, one of New Orleans’ most iconic outdoor spaces. Shuttles will depart from the Hall H Lobby of the convention center and bring you straight to the park, home to the Audubon Loop and a canopy of historic live oak trees.
Once at the park, move at your own pace—walk, run, or explore alongside your peers. After, enjoy a light breakfast and coffee while connecting with participating brands at their displays.
ONSITE AT AUDUBON PARK



New for 2026, spend time with brands outside of the exhibit hall during the Morning Walk and test products in a real outdoor environment.
PARTICIPATING BRANDS INCLUDE:






*As of May 2026

The Audubon Loop features a dirt trail stretching over two miles around the park’s perimeter. Surrounded by more than 2,000 trees, the route offers a scenic start to your day. TIP: Keep an eye out for local birds like egrets, herons, cormorants, and ahingas.
6:00 AM
Meet in the Hall H Lobby of the convention center 6:15 AM
Shuttles begin departing
The park is approximately a 20-minute drive away
7:00 AM
The walk will start promptly

Grab-and-go breakfast sandwiches & coffee will be provided after the walk 7:45 AM
Return shuttles begin departing 8:00 AM
Arrive back to the convention center










From Switchback Spring 2025 Attendees:







Jahmicah Dawes Slim Pickins Outfitters





“I enjoyed the educational sessions and the industry research shared was valuable to share with our company.”
“The conference organizers did a great job selecting the educational sessions and topics as well as lining up an amazing slate of exhibitors. Well done all the way around and making this a worthwhile conference for retailers and brands in this space.”
“Switchback brings something different to the world of outdoor gear conferences. Between the education and fantastic exhibit floor of brands, it’s a worthy event to spend a few days at!

Subscribe to Trailheads and access content that speaks directly to the goals, needs, and challenges of outdoor specialty retailers, brands, and organizations.
Produced by Switchback, Trailheads stories are delivered weekly at www.switchbackevent.com/ trailheads and via a monthly newsletter.




From in-store merchandising and staff training to brand partnerships, product trends and industry updates, Trailheads delivers practical, timely insights from the people who know outdoor specialty best. Produced by


Why Public Lands and Why Now: RE:PUBLIC Executive Director Chris Keyes on existential threats, untapped coalitions, and how outdoor retailers can maximize their influence.
From ‘Seconds’ to Summits: Built on local farms, rescued produce, and a tight-knit Durango community, Farm to Summit is growing thoughtfully through independent outdoor retailers.
The Middle is Getting Lighter: As more consumers chase ultralight without the trade-offs, brands are building “bridge” products, and retailers have a key role in getting the experience right.



Outdoor Industry Association breaks down the latest tariff policy changes, refund challenges, and what outdoor brands and retailers need to...



From baseball diamonds to bayou adventures,


Breaking Trail: How the Outdoor Foundation’s Thrive Outside Program Improves Community Access to Nature
Discover how the Outdoor Foundation’s Thrive Outside initiative is expanding access to nature...
In 2024, the Trailheads team launched the Switchback Roadshow with a mission to visit
As event organizers, the team knows that sometimes the best insights come from face-to-face, candid conversations; from being inside stores and learning first-hand from retailers themselves. The visits give the team a better understanding of what outdoor specialty retailers are facing in their day to day, which has sparked countless story ideas for Trailheads and inspired some of the educational content you’ll find at Switchback Spring.



Since the Switchback Roadshow began, the team has visited specialty retailers in Tennessee, North Carolina, Maine, New Hampshire, Louisiana, and Oregon. Follow Trailheads for more store spotlights, real-world insights, and lessons from the field as the Roadshow continues!








The Conservation Alliance is the leading business coalition for conservation. Uniting companies across industries, perspectives, and geographies, they harness the collective power of their members to protect lands and waters for future generations. The Conservation Alliance pairs corporate advocacy with funding for grassroots action on the ground. Investing in The Conservation Alliance is not only an investment in protecting the resources businesses depend on, it’s a way to strengthen the outdoor economy and ensure long-term business resilience.
Since its founding in 1989, The Conservation Alliance and its members have:
• Helped protect over 125 million acres of land and nearly 5,000 river miles by advocating for common-sense policies
• Granted $34.5 million to local groups to improve and protect critical landscapes across the country
Brands for Public Lands is a coalition of businesses, led by The Conservation Alliance, that is strategically focused on building a collective defense against the significant, current threats to the public lands system. This coalition currently comprises over 170 companies headquartered in 30 states representing varying industries and interests – from outdoor apparel and gear, to media, retailers, and tourism. Collectively, the group represents over 72,000 employees and over $20 billion in revenue.

Click here to learn more about Brands for Public Lands.

PUBLIC LANDS ARE THE FOUNDATION on which the outdoor industry was built. They are the places where we test our products, where our stories originate, and where outdoor communities are built. According to Paul Hendricks, Executive Director of The Conservation Alliance, the scale and speed of the threats to public lands right now is unlike anything the industry has faced before. “We’ve seen just an all-out attempt across all branches of our government to open up our
By Joe Jackson, Switchback Marketing Manager
public lands to extractive industries,” he said. “It’s not flood the zone anymore. It’s a tidal wave, then another tidal wave, then another.”


The shift from isolated threats to systemic ones is what makes the need for advocacy immediate. In the past, advocacy often looked like defending individual landscapes, one at a time. Now, the stakes are broader. As Hendricks described, the “underpinnings of our public land system are being wiped out,” from the weakening of cornerstone legislation to the dismantling of long-standing management frameworks. Policies that once felt foundational are being treated as optional. Agencies are being reshaped. Safeguards are being stripped back. Perhaps most significantly, it’s all happening at a pace designed to overwhelm. In a recent webinar hosted by Switchback “Lay of the Land: Protecting Our Public Lands and Waters,” leaders from The Conservation Alliance and RE:PUBLIC noted a convergence of forces pushing toward accelerated extraction policies, reduced agency capacity, and eroding legal guardrails that once protected our public lands. Together, they represent a redefinition of how public lands are valued and managed. It would be easy, in the face of that, to feel paralyzed and assume the problem is too large, too complex, or too political.

The goal of this article isn’t to bum you out, though. There is good news. The outdoor industry is uniquely positioned to respond to these threats because it sits at the intersection of culture, economy, and access. It also represents a strong political force if we speak up and work together.
“We need businesses to use their voice,” Hendricks said. “Advocacy, at its most basic form, is standing up for what you believe in.” That might sound simple, but in practice it represents a meaningful shift. For decades, many brands and retailers have been cautious about stepping into advocacy, concerned about alienating customers or wading into perceived political territory. But the framing around public lands is evolving and perhaps returning to something more fundamental.
Public lands are not a niche issue. They are, as Hendricks put it, “the great equalizer.” They are where Americans hunt, fish, hike, ride, climb, and gather. That cross section of enthusiasts runs across political, geographic, and economic lines. That equality matters because one of the most persistent misconceptions about conservation is that it belongs to one side of the political spectrum.
In reality, the constituency for public lands is far broader. It includes backcountry skiers and RV travelers, anglers and climbers, small-town outfitters, and global brands. It also includes the customers walking into independent retail shops every day.
For retailers, the connection to public lands is not abstract. It’s daily. It’s the customer walking in for trail shoes before a weekend in the mountains. It’s the fly angler gearing up for a trip. It’s the family asking where to camp in your local region. The health of those places is directly tied to the health of the business.

In the face of this potentially existential threat, Kent Ebersole, President of Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), sees the industry’s greatest strength in its willingness to come together and solve problems collectively. “No other industry comes together and says, ‘We need to solve a problem like this,’” he said, pointing to gatherings like Switchback and the OIA Rendezvous as catalysts for that kind of action.
That collective muscle is being reawakened on a macro scale. At recent industry gatherings, Ebersole described a palpable shift from passive concern to active urgency. Leaders weren’t just discussing issues; they were calling for action. Public lands rose to the top of that list, not as an abstract value, but as a core pillar of the industry’s future.
Importantly, that call is no longer aimed solely at big brands. “Retailers are the local army,” Ebersole said. “They have the ability to deploy at the local and regional level like nobody else can.” That insight reframes advocacy from something distant to something immediate. A one-door shop in a rural town may not see itself as a policy player, but to an elected official, that business represents jobs, community, and votes. “You say small business and they care,” Ebersole noted. “It’s an economic driver and they know it.”

One of the most consistent themes across these big-picture advocacy conversations is that no single brand, retailer, or organization can meet this moment alone. But together, the outdoor industry represents a powerful, unified voice. Public sentiment around protecting lands and waters is at historic highs. Americans value access to public lands across political lines. They’re more than just recreational spaces; our public lands are a part of the country’s identity.
Now is the time for action. We invite you to use Switchback Spring as the place to strengthen your resolve, increase your current levels of knowledge and advocacy, or find a place to use your voice. This in-person, national gathering creates a unique opportunity for the outdoor industry to align and figure out how we want to take action together.
That action does not need to be complicated. “If every single attendee walked away and said, ‘I’m going to take action on one thing,’ think about the difference that would make,” Ebersole said. Multiply one action across an entire show floor, and it starts to look really powerful. It looks like momentum.
That momentum will be just what our industry needs to face the next tidal wave. Together.


Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a member-based collective of business leaders, climate experts, policymakers, and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and expanding access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone.
This partnership confirms that attending Switchback is an investment in the future of the outdoor industry. Our board and membership are eager for a cornerstone national event that delivers value across all sectors and is held bi-annually at optimal times in spring and fall to meet the needs of the industry’s go-to-market process.
– KENT EBERSOLE, PRESIDENT, OIA
OIA’s early endorsement of Switchback was incredibly valuable for the debut event, and their expanded role is a key component in shaping and growing Switchback to best support and grow the overall outdoor industry.

– CHRISTINA HENDERSON, VICE PRESIDENT, DIVERSIFIED (SWITCHBACK PARENT COMPANY)


VISIT OIA AT BOOTH #238
Stop by to say hello, pick up helpful resources, or simply take a moment to relax.
In 2024, Switchback and OIA entered into a strategic partnership designed to strengthen the impact and effectiveness of the event. Since then, the partnership has deepened to support broader, industry-wide goals. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the outdoor industry and setting it up for long-term growth.
Through the partnership, OIA and Switchback collaborate closely to shape the event’s future while ensuring it reflects the needs of the outdoor industry. As the Official Event Partner, OIA collaborates with Switchback to:
CONTRIBUTE industry data to support informed conversations, programming, and decision-making.
SHAPE educational goals and key event elements.
STRENGTHEN connections with OIA members and industry thought leaders.
SUPPORT initiatives that encourage collaboration and advance the outdoor industry.
Strong partnerships drive the success of Switchback and the broader outdoor industry. Switchback Spring partner organizations guide the event’s initiatives, education, and more through expertise, insights, and leadership. While in New Orleans, connect with these organizations and learn more about their work, which is driving meaningful change across the outdoor community.

1% for the Planet is a global organization that exists to ensure our planet and future generations thrive. They inspire businesses and individuals to support environmental partners through membership and everyday actions. They make environmental giving easy and effective through partnership advising, impact storytelling and third-party certification.

American Trail Running Association (ATRA) was formed in mid-1996 as a Colorado not for profit corporation to serve the mountain, ultra & trail (MUT) running community. Their mission is to represent and promote mountain, ultra & trail running, offering individual, club, race and corporate memberships. A primary benefit is their quarterly newsletter, Trail Times, which includes a national events calendar, thoughtful articles, and timely information about the sport.

Big City Mountaineers (BCM) bring the transformative power of time spent in nature to a generation of young people who face increased barriers to outdoor access, as well as other systemic challenges in their lives. A BCM experience helps youth better connect with themselves, with nature, with their community, and with a sense of joy. By providing free, fully outfitted, and professionally led outdoor and backcountry trips, BCM gives youth ages 12 to 18 meaningful opportunities to strengthen their skills, their mental and physical health, their socialemotional well being, and help them become better stewards of our planet.

Black Men Run-TURF is for the runners that like to get off-road, occasionally put in super long miles, and don’t mind busting their asses every once in a while. Trail and ultrarunning requires a special kind of crazy, and they want to continue to build upon this amazing community.

The Conservation Alliance (TCA) protects outdoor spaces and wild places through the collective power of their member companies. Members’ annual contributions go directly to TCA’s grants program. Each year, member companies select community-focused grantees across North America who are committed to creating a healthy, livable planet for all. Conservation today creates jobs, helps local communities, addresses climate change, and provides for future generations.

Founded Outdoors: Entrepreneurs need specific skill sets, industry knowledge, and professional connections to drive business growth. Historically, however, access to these resources has been limited based on demographic, geographic, and socioeconomic factors. Alongside their partners, Founded Outdoors is building support – programming, community, mentorship, and financing – to make it possible for entrepreneurs from all different backgrounds to build successful companies.


Hispanic Access Foundation (HAF) connects Latinos and others with partners and opportunities to improve lives and create an equitable society. One day, every Latino in America will enjoy good physical health and a healthy natural environment, a high-quality education, economic success and civic engagement in their community with the sum of improving the future of America.

Leave No Trace (LNT) accomplishes its mission by providing innovative education, skills, research and science to help people care for the outdoors. By working with the public and those managing public lands, LNT focuses on educating people—instead of costly restoration programs or access restrictions—as the most effective and least resource-intensive solution to land protection.

LGBTQ Outdoors’ mission is connecting the LGBTQIA+ community to the outdoors and to one another. They strive to create a national network of inclusive outdoor spaces and community-based chapters that foster environments of safety, connection, and belonging. By promoting and advocating for queer inclusion in the outdoor industry, they aim to increase representation and support, strengthening connections within our community and fostering a love for the outdoors.

Outdoor Diversity Alliance (ODA) helps outdoor companies grow with purpose and move from self driven, internal diversity, equity and inclusion work to shared, collective action. They listen to and pay underrepresented communities and support the development of authentic relationships by helping outdoor companies and underrepresented communities connect. They bring best practices forward and work together to build a prosperous and thriving industry.

Outdoor Market Alliance (OMA), founded in 2020, is a non-profit supporting community-driven initiatives and the independent rep model. Representing 25 agencies and over 175 brands across the Rockies, OMA provides showroom and meeting space for collaboration while promoting environmental stewardship, diversity, and inclusion in the outdoor industry.

Outdoor Foundation is dedicated to getting people outside for their health, the health of communities and the health of the outdoor industry. Through community investment and groundbreaking research, they work with partners across the country to address equity barriers and help make the outdoors accessible for all.
Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, was founded in October 2020 as an educational organization with a mission that extends beyond running. Dedicated to championing transformative change within the sport, the RIDC partners with brands, race events, retailers, and run clubs to ignite unparalleled advancements for Black, Indigenous, and other people of color in the running industry.







The State Outdoor Business Alliance Network (SOBAN) is a national learning network made up of 24 state outdoor business alliances – from Alaska and New Mexico to North Carolina and Maine – along with two industry groups in British Columbia.
Founded in 2019, SOBAN works to advance a shared vision for the outdoor economy: one that supports strong local businesses, protects outdoor places, and expands access to outdoor experiences for all.
Switchback and SOBAN have partnered to bring greater visibility to emerging outdoor brands and strengthen connections with outdoor specialty retailers. The partnership bridges local innovation with national reach, bringing together retailers, brands, and state organizations in one place.
Together, the goal is simple: support business growth at the state level while creating new pathways to do business.

Switchback State Showcases feature regional brands from across the country. Supported by their state alliances, this group of Switchback exhibitors is expanding distribution and building relationships with the outdoor industry.
STOP BY THE STATE SHOWCASES IN THE EXHIBIT HALL:
*As of May 2026
Maine BOOTH #221

MAINE OUTDOOR BRANDS:
• FLYN
• Flowfold
• Sambob
• Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation
Oregon BOOTH #121
BUSINESS OREGON:
• KITWORKS
• Rustek
• Eyeonize
• Snowshoe Leather Care
• NuuSol
• DrinkTanks
• Oregon Outdoor Alliance
• Athletic & Outdoor (Prosper Portland)
• Bend Outdoor Worx
Michigan BOOTH #200

LAND OF OUTSIDERS:
• Lectric Boil
• Valor Skincare
• Flabocce
• Aull-Dry
• Michigan Outdoor Innovation Fund
Vermont BOOTH #120

VERMONT OUTDOOR BUSINESSES:
• Skida
• TreeSleeves
We’re really excited to partner with Switchback and bring OIA’s work directly into the outdoor specialty retail community. This year’s education is focused on the issues that matter most right now: how we navigate trade uncertainty, protect public lands, grow participation, and build stronger, more sustainable businesses. I’m looking forward to being in New Orleans and having these conversations together.”
– KENT EBERSOLE, PRESIDENT, OIA
Participation in outdoor recreation is growing, and the influx of new participants is impacting the outdoor market. I’m looking forward to telling everyone how much the participant base grew and changed in 2025, and the profound effect it has on how we design and market products. Come to this session if you are hungry for the latest data on the outdoor participant base, including details on specific activities, demographic shifts, and frequency of participation across 51 outdoor activities.”
– KELLY DAVIS, DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH, OIA
I can’t wait to attend Switchback Spring in New Orleans. This year’s education program is one you don’t want to miss. I’m looking forward to discussing product durability with industry experts from across the value chain. Attendees will leave with a fresh perspective, actionable insights, and a clearer picture of what it can look like when the industry works together to make products last longer.”
– JULIE BROWN, SR. DIRECTOR OF ENGAGEMENT AND IMPACT, OIA








Mother’s Restaurant
CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT | $ CLASSIC NEW ORLEANS
A local favorite serving po’boys, gumbo, jambalaya, and other staples, this is a quick, casual spot where you can’t go wrong.
WAREHOUSE DISTRICT | $$ SEAFOOD
Specializing in open-hearth cooking and fresh oysters, this resturant is great for group dinners and trying the local catch.
This brief guide will help you discover some of New Orleans’ best food, music, and outdoor spaces. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, evening entertainment, or a spot to get some exercise in, here are a few local favorites:
FRENCH QUARTER | $ CAFÉ & DESSERT
An iconic stop famous for powdered-sugar-covered beignets and café au lait, this is perfect for an early morning coffee or late-night sweet treat.
WAREHOUSE DISTRICT | $$ CRAFT BREWERY
Known for creative beers and a spacious taproom, this brewery is great for casual meetups with a rotating lineup of brews.


WESTWEGO | $$ SWAMP & WILDLIFE
One of the closest swamp tours to New Orleans, offering airboat and covered boat options into the bayou with alligator sightings and Cajun guides.
BAYOU ST. JOHN | $$ KAYAK TOURS
Paddle through Bayou St. John on a guided kayak tour, passing historic homes and lush scenery just minutes from downtown.
FRENCH QUARTER | $$ LIVE JAZZ
An intimate, no-frills venue featuring traditional New Orleans jazz performances nightly in a historic setting.
FRENCH QUARTER | $$ HAUNTED HISTORY

A guided nighttime walking tour through some of the city’s most infamous haunted locations, blending real history with chilling storytelling.
MOONWALK RIVERFRONT PARK & WOLDENBERG PARK
A scenic riverfront promenade ready for a morning run or casual walk along the river with passing steamboats.
MID-CITY TRAILS & GREEN SPACE
A 1,300-acre park in the center of the city featuring hiking trails, botanical gardens, art mediums, and more.
UPTOWN RUNNING & WALKING LOOP
A great park for walking, running, and enjoying the outdoors.
MID-CITY WATERFRONT PATH
A peaceful path following the bayou that is great for jogging, biking, or a casual stroll near the water.



Switchback Spring 2026 will be hosted at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, located along the Mississippi River in the heart of downtown New Orleans—just
Switchback Spring will be located in Hall H of the convention center. The building is large; please allow additional travel time when planning your day.
CLICK HERE FOR A SIMPLE MAP OF THE AREA
Scan the QR code for the most convenient drop-off and entrance location:

• Rideshare recommended: Search “Taxi/Rideshare Zone – 400 Calliope St” for drop-off and pick-up locations
• Driving: Park in Lot F for the closest access to Hall H (Switchback’s location)
• For GPS: Search “Convention Center Lot F (400 Calliope St)”
• Daily parking: $23 per vehicle (no in/out access); arrive early, as parking lots may fill quickly.
• Payment: Use the ParkMobile app (onsite or in advance) steps from the French Quarter and Warehouse District. With walkable access to restaurants, hotels, and outdoor activities, the city becomes part of the event experience.
In partnership with onPeak, Switchback offers discounted rates at a selection of New Orleans hotels. As the only official housing provider, onPeak offers convenient booking options along with flexible change and cancellation policies to support your travel plans.
Book your hotel room by Tuesday, May 26, to access the best selection and pricing and to ensure a seamless stay during Switchback Spring.
CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATIONS
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
If you’re flying to Switchback Spring, you’ll arrive at MSY, located just outside of downtown New Orleans. With direct flights from major cities across the U.S., getting to New Orleans is simple and accessible. From the airport, attendees can reach downtown and the convention center via rideshare services, taxis, or rental cars. It’s approximately a 20-minute drive.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MSY


The Switchback Spring 2026 Event App is available for registered attendees and exhibitors. The app is your go-to resource in New Orleans and will include all event information.
You can also set meetings and connect with brands, retailers, media, and more directly through the app. Attendees and exhibitors are encouraged to pre-plan meetings and start making connections early to maximize time onsite.
Access Wi-Fi at Switchback: Network: Switchback Password: switchbackspring26
OR GO TO www.switchbackevent.com/event-app TO LEARN MORE.

DOWNLOAD THE APP AND START PREPARING FOR YOUR TIME IN NEW ORLEANS!
1. PLAN your daily schedule, including education sessions and fun activities.
2. BOOKMARK must-see brands on the show floor.
3. CONNECT with industry peers before the event through a simple networking tool.
4. STAY IN-THE-KNOW about important event updates.


Switchback has partnered with Matterbox to assemble and donate snack packs for the Louisiana-based nonprofit Second Harvest Food Bank.
While you’re in the lobby, look for our Give Back Station signage, and be sure to stop by during the times listed here to build a snack pack. All materials and instructions will be provided!
THANK YOU TO THE PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS:


TUESDAY, JUNE 16 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM









DECEMBER 1 - 3, 2026 | SAN ANTONIO, TX
Henry B. González Convention Center
Back for year five, Switchback at The Running Event (TRE) 2026 will be a one-stop opportunity to access top run and outdoor brands under one roof, connect with industry peers, and gain valuable, actionable education to advance your business.
