
Rachel Gross: A Historic Approach to the Outdoor Business
Discover how historian Rachel Gross became a leading voice on outdoor retail and the cultural story behind America’s obsession with gear and nature.
Discover how historian Rachel Gross became a leading voice on outdoor retail and the cultural story behind America’s obsession with gear and nature.
Family-run since 1953, Ramsey Outdoors has thrived in one of New Jersey’s toughest retail markets—even landing a cameo on The Sopranos. Discover how this local legend balances tradition, community, and competition in the modern outdoor gear landscape.
Explore Summit Hut, Tucson’s top outdoor gear store, offering 15,000+ square feet of apparel, footwear, and equipment from brands like Patagonia, Osprey, and La Sportiva. With expert staff, unique in-store features, and a thriving online business serving customers worldwide, Summit Hut is the ultimate destination for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Discover the history of outdoor gear and adventure brands at Utah State University’s Outdoor Recreation Archive. With 15,000+ documents, this collection preserves catalogs, sketches, and records that inspire designers, historians, and outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.
Discover how Altra is taking its next steps in innovation, community, and performance. From athlete partnerships to new product launches, see how the brand is shaping the future of running.**
Gen Z and millennials are driving the thrifting boom, reshaping outdoor retail with a preference for secondhand gear over high-priced new items. Social media, sustainability, and affordability fuel this shift, as young shoppers seek unique finds and eco-friendly alternatives. Explore how thrift culture is redefining outdoor fashion and commerce.
As Eagle Creek celebrates its 50th anniversary, CEO Travis Campbell is leading the brand’s revival by refining its product line, enhancing sustainability, and rebuilding its wholesale business. Discover how the adventure travel gear pioneer is making a comeback.
Discover how Jim Markley, co-founder of SmartWool, built Sockwell into a leader in lifestyle compression socks. Learn about the brand’s journey, U.S.-based manufacturing, and its expansion into the performance running category.
Howler Brothers started as a group of college bandmates and evolved into a distinctive outdoor lifestyle brand. In this Q&A, Wholesale Director Mason Brent shares their journey from music to apparel, their unique design philosophy, and what’s next for the brand.
New Zealand-based Aarn Packs is bringing its innovative, posture-friendly backpacks to the U.S. Trailheads talks with owner Daniel Farber about the brand’s design philosophy, expansion plans, and the adventures that inspire their gear. Catch them at Switchback Spring 2025!
Explore the 4 major trends shaping outdoor retail in 2025, from the rise of casual consumers and glamping to store expansions and the impact of tariffs. Gain insights to stay ahead in a transforming market.
Christina Henderson, Event Director
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Beth Gordon, New Business Development Director
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Emma Galeckas, Attendee Relations Coordinator
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207-842-5607