For the past five years, retailers and brands have faced numerous challenges—from pandemic disruptions and supply chain issues to increasing customer acquisition costs and the rise of direct-to-consumer sales. At the same time, the in-person industry event landscape has evolved dramatically. But at The Running Event (TRE) in Austin, Texas, it was clear that the outdoor and run specialty retail verticals are thriving, with new opportunities emerging.

Launched in 2006, TRE has become a must-attend event for the running and outdoor specialty markets. In 2022, TRE expanded with the introduction of Switchback, a dedicated space for outdoor brands. This year, Switchback at TRE celebrated its third edition with 45 outdoor brands showcasing the latest in footwear, apparel, and outdoor gear, bringing a vibrant energy to the show floor. Industry conversations buzzed around the continued synergy between the specialty run and outdoor markets as both sectors see increased consumer interest and participation.

“The level of awareness and conversation around Switchback Spring on the TRE show floor was exciting and inspiring,” said Christina Henderson, Switchback event director. “Many brands and retailers are looking forward to a gathering that will be good for their business, great for discovery and new relationships, and also provide a space for the broader outdoor industry to gather and learn.”

The event marked a significant milestone with 4,872 verified attendees—a 20% percent increase from 2023—and 336 exhibiting brands, including 111 new exhibitors. With an expanded exhibit hall covering 90,500 sq. ft. (15% larger than the previous year) the show featured the latest innovations in footwear, apparel, nutrition, recovery, and technology. In-person engagement, a key draw for TRE, was heightened by dozens of educational sessions and networking opportunities.

The show has always had a global reach, and this year was no different. Attendees and exhibitors from across the U.S. and abroad, including more than 250 international retailers, came together for three days of business, education, and camaraderie, mirroring a pre-pandemic atmosphere. More than 1,800 retailers, endurance event management professionals, and other industry members were in attendance, while more than 220 media professionals walked the show floor. Reflecting the growing harmony between the outdoor and running industries, TRE also showcased a major partnership in Austin. Earlier this year, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) and Switchback announced a strategic partnership, which will officially begin in 2025. OIA was present at TRE 2024, though, using the time to connect with Switchback at TRE exhibiting brands, partner organizations, and the event team. The success of Switchback at TRE also set the stage for the inaugural standalone Switchback event in Spring 2025, which will take place in Nashville, Tennessee, from June 16–18. 

“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,” said Kent Ebersole, OIA President.

  This year’s event was also marked by a sense of community, with initiatives like the third annual Trail Cleanup, presented by ASICS, which brought together more than 250 participants and resulted in 600 pounds of trash collected. “Take these learnings and inspire your community to do the same,” said Low Impact Alliance president Christian Fyfe of the Palmetto Running Company in Hilton Head, SC.

“Switchback’s growth is a testament to the enthusiasm in the outdoor community,” said Christina Henderson. “We’re excited to create a gathering space that’s as much about the people as it is about the business.” 

Looking Ahead to Nashville

With such momentum, it’s no surprise that Switchback is already looking ahead to its first standalone show in Nashville in 2025. Industry insiders are optimistic that this new event will bring the same level of excitement and collaboration that TRE has fostered over the years. Many brands are already signing up or are making plans to do so.

Some of the staple outdoor-centric brands that exhibited at Switchback at TRE – and along adjacent aisles – included The North Face, MiiR, TEVA, Xero, Birkenstock, Tifosi, Oiselle, tasc, Superfeet, oofos, Outdoor Research, Thorlo, Lowa, Merrell, Deuter, SmartWool, Patagonia, Osprey, Keen, Oboz, CTR hats, Olukai, Kleen Kanteen, LaSportiva, Scarpa, and more. 

“At the core, our mission is to create a space where everyone can connect, learn, and grow,” said Kent Ebersole, President of OIA. “We’re excited for the future of this show and its ability to bring together all the diverse voices in the outdoor industry.”

A Focus on Diversity and Sustainability

Another notable presence at the show was the Running Industry Diversity Coalition (RIDC), which continues to be a powerful force in fostering diversity and inclusion in the running and outdoor industries. In collaboration with TRE and On, RIDC also provided scholarships for certain shops to attend, including Southwest Runners, from Farmington, NM. Groups like Native Women Running and Rising Hearts were key participants as well, highlighting the ongoing efforts to make the outdoor community more accessible and inclusive.

Sustainability was also front and center at the show, with brands like Eco S’mulch (EcoSneakers.org) leading the charge with innovative, environmentally forward solutions. Their presence at Switchback at TRE highlighted the growing importance of sustainability within the outdoor and running industries. Partnerships with organizations like Leave No Trace and Low Impact Alliance furthered educational efforts around sustainability at the event.

A New Era for Outdoor Industry Events

As the outdoor industry continues to evolve, the importance of face-to-face gatherings has again become clear. Switchback at TRE’s growing success, combined with the support from major industry players like OIA, signals a promising future for the inaugural Switchback Spring event.

“The key takeaway from this year’s event is the energy and enthusiasm of the community,” said Christina Henderson. “We are reminded that, at the heart of it all, we share a passion for the outdoors and a desire to connect and grow together.”

For more information about the inaugural Switchback Spring event in Nashville, June 16-18, 2025, or to subscribe to updates, visit SwitchbackEvent.com.