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Outdoorist: February 2026

As the winter months come to a close, the OIA team is working on a variety of initiatives aimed at advancing the collective progress of our industry. We’re preparing for our upcoming events and have recently launched new resources across advocacy, sustainability, research and learning to ensure our members have the latest and greatest information at their fingertips.

Update on the SCOTUS Tariff Ruling

Last week, the Supreme Court ruled that the White House’s global tariffs are not authorized under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. However, the ruling did not address whether, how or when duty refunds will be provided. Additionally, the president announced over the weekend he was imposing 15% global tariffs and indicated he will continue to use other trade authorities to bypass the court’s ruling.

OIA members can join the Trade Advisory Council via Mobilize. Non-members can contact us today to learn how you can receive updates and guidance as new tariff information emerges.

>> ACCESS MOBILIZE

>> CONTACT US

Advocate for Our Industry at OIA Capitol Summit 2026

OIA members are heading to Washington, D.C., April 28–29 to receive expert advocacy training and participate in face-to-face meetings with policymakers.

Our industry needs united action now more than ever to advance sensible trade policies, ensure public land access and protect the shared natural spaces where we work and play.

If you’re interested in joining us at Capitol Summit 2026, reach out to learn about membership options.

>> CONTACT US

Expand Your Skills with OIA Learning

OIA Learning provides expert-led courses designed to help outdoor businesses overcome their toughest challenges. Whether you’re onboarding new staff or upskilling cross-functional teams, these practical resources will help you prepare for what comes next.

Here are some of our most popular courses.

  • Sustainability Law 1: Understand PFAS, EPR and product life cycle regulations
  • Getting Started with Advocacy: Learn practical ways to engage with policy priorities
  • Intro to Trade Policy: Navigate tariffs and global sourcing considerations
  • Know Your Network: Master supply chain mapping for better visibility

Individual OIA Learning courses can be purchased by the general public, but OIA members enjoy complete access to our entire course catalog.

>> START LEARNING

Camping Participation Continues to Grow

Camping continues to see steady growth as more people seek accessible and social outdoor experiences. This trend creates a major opportunity for the wider industry, as many campers also participate in hiking, fishing and other outdoor activities.

Our “2026 Camping Report” is available exclusively to OIA members in the portal and features insightful demographic and participation data. Non-members can read the summary for the high-level takeaways and trends.

>> ACCESS THE PORTAL

>> READ THE SUMMARY

Gain Insight into the American Outdoor Consumer

OIA Director of Research Kelly Davis and Casey Taylor from CivicScience recently joined Switchback for a webinar on the current state of the American outdoor consumer. They explore how changing lifestyles, economic pressures and shifting values are reshaping our industry.

OIA members can tune into the recording to get robust quantitative and qualitative research that can help your team make smarter, data-driven decisions. 

>> WATCH THE RECORDING

Prepare for Sustainability Compliance in 2026

Sustainable business practices have moved from optional corporate initiatives to strict legal requirements. Our latest blog post highlights new regulations in the U.S. and EU, including California’s climate disclosures, expanding PFAS bans and evolving green marketing standards.

Read the full post to understand compliance requirements and learn how OIA can help your brand navigate this rigorous regulatory environment.

>> READ THE BLOG

Learn Best Practices for Sustainability Marketing

Over the past decade, companies have recognized the value of marketing their sustainability efforts. However, as brands share more about their environmental initiatives, global regulators are cracking down on greenwashing.

The OIA team and an expert panel are hosting a member-only webinar on March 19 at 9 a.m. PT to review new marketing regulations and examine product litigation. They’ll explore how sustainability and marketing departments can work together to create messaging strategies that are both impactful and compliant.

If you’re interested in attending and accessing our other educational resources, learn about OIA membership today.

>> CONTACT US

Meet the New Sustainability Advisory Council Members

We’re excited to welcome three new leaders to the OIA Sustainability Advisory Council. Joining us this year are Vito Castelgrande of LifeStraw, Ellen Johnson of Columbia Sportswear and Dawn Mancini Moyer of FENIX Outdoor.

These members bring deep expertise to the council as we continue to drive progress on industry-wide sustainability initiatives. We look forward to their contributions in shaping a more resilient and responsible future for the outdoor industry.

Get Ready for Switchback Spring 2026

Switchback Spring is heading to New Orleans June 16–18. The event features a full day of specialized education followed by two days of exhibition.

OIA members can take advantage of discounted booth pricing and free retailer passes. Don’t miss the premier live event for outdoor retailers and brands.

>> REGISTER NOW

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