Outdoorist: March 2026

With spring officially arriving, the OIA team is carrying real momentum into the months ahead. OIA Rendezvous just wrapped up in Denver, bringing senior leaders together for a memorable two days of collaboration and candid discussions.

We’re now preparing for Capitol Summit 2026 in April while continuing to keep our members ready for what comes next through resources and support focused on research, sustainability, and advocacy.

Rendezvous Was Everything We Hoped It Would Be

After a decade-long hiatus, OIA Rendezvous returned this month with intention and focus. Senior leaders from across the outdoor industry gathered in Denver for a full day of substantive conversation on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Rendezvous opened with a fireside chat between REI President and CEO Mary Beth Laughton and Altra Global Brand President Jen McLaren on leading through change.

A standout moment from the event was when Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert and OIA President Kent Ebersole pushed the room to act with conviction on public lands and other issues where the outdoor industry has real influence.

Some other notable highlights were Cotopaxi CEO Lindsay Shumlas leading a conversation on building durable businesses in a challenging environment, Black Diamond President Neil Fiske discussing how the company embeds sustainability into product design, OIA’s Kelly Davis presenting the latest outdoor participation data, and Chris Keyes of Re:Public and Peak Design’s Annie Nyborg addressing the urgency and complexity of speaking out for public lands.

Other sessions focused on developing an AI business strategy, building pathways for lasting outdoor participation, and a collaborative workshop where attendees helped shape OIA’s priorities for the year ahead.

Read the full recap for a detailed overview of each session.

>> READ THE RECAP

Langston Co. Provides Outdoor Brands with Smart Consumer Insights

Langston Co. is a leading consumer insights firm that helps outdoor brands get confident answers about their category, audience, and competitive landscape. Their AI-powered Insights Assistant tool combines category-specific survey data with analysis, not just answers, whenever you need it. They also offer custom research and brand health tracking to help teams stay ahead of consumer trends and make the right strategic decisions.

Explore how Langston Co. can help you respond to any stakeholder question with speed and confidence.

>> LEARN MORE

BranchPattern Makes Green Buildings Accessible 

BranchPattern is a building consultancy dedicated to creating better built environments. Their team of professional engineers, registered architects, and building scientists help organizations optimize human experience and environmental performance in their properties. They worked on the beautiful VF Headquarters that hosted OIA Rendezvous and count half of the Fortune 10 among their clients.

Discover how BranchPattern helps real estate portfolio owners achieve sustainability goals and check out the case study that showcases the stunning work they’ve done on behalf of their clients.

>> LEARN MORE

>> VIEW CASE STUDIES

Make Your Voice Heard at Capitol Summit 2026

Washington, D.C., is where decisions on trade policy, public lands, environmental protections, and the other issues that affect our industry get made. Capitol Summit 2026 provides the opportunity to be part of those conversations. OIA members get to participate in dedicated advocacy training and face-to-face meetings with members of Congress.

If you’re interested in attending Capitol Summit 2026 and our other events throughout the year, contact us to discuss membership.

>> CONTACT US

Sponsor an OIA Event

Sponsorship opportunities for Capitol Summit are still open, and spots for our fall Catalyst Conference just became available.

Contact Andrew Sayre and Jamila Pugh on our membership team for more information.

>> CONTACT US

Customs and Border Protection Will Pay Tariff Refunds

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is now under court order to refund IEEPA tariffs paid by importers. Refunds could begin arriving by April 20, though the exact timeline and process are still being worked out.

It is critically important that importers enroll immediately with CBP to receive electronic refunds. CBP estimates that only 6% of the 330,000 eligible importers have taken this step.

Read our blog post to learn more about the tariff refund process.

>> READ THE BLOG

Outdoor Recreation Is a $1.3 Trillion Economy

The latest Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) data confirms that outdoor recreation reached its highest total economic impact on record in 2024, accounting for $1.3 trillion in gross output, 2.4% of U.S. GDP, and 5.2 million jobs.

But the record comes with a caveat. 2024 also saw the slowest growth of the post-pandemic period. Rising costs are widening the gap between people who want to get outside and those who can realistically afford to.

Our blog post provides a full breakdown of what these numbers mean for the outdoor industry.

>> READ THE BLOG

More Sustainability Courses Added to OIA Learning

We’ve added 12 new sustainability courses, totaling 8+ hours of video content to OIA Learning. The Level 1 & 2: Sustainability Essentials, Supply Chains & The Triple Bottom Line track is taught by Derek Sabori, a practitioner and educator with 15+ years of experience in the sustainability field. These new courses cover topics like:

  • Key sustainability concepts and the history of the modern environmental movement
  • Current environmental and social issues shaping the industry
  • Sustainability across the product lifecycle
  • Sustainability reporting, ESG frameworks, and brand rankings
  • Applying sustainability principles in business and everyday life

You can take the full track or any of the individual courses. And be sure to check out our other courses on sustainability, trade policy, advocacy, and consumer trends.

>> START LEARNING

Tariffs Took a Toll on Outdoor Retailers in 2025

Outdoor product sales in the Athletic Specialty and Sporting Goods (ASSG) channel finished 2025 modestly below 2024 levels. Tariff-driven price increases weighed on purchasing throughout the year, and while dollar sales were relatively stable in spots, unit volumes dropped across the board.

Our 2025 Annual Retail Market Report provides OIA members with the data and analysis needed to make informed decisions about product development, pricing strategy, and marketing investment.

Non-members can download the Executive Summary to get the high-level trends.

>> ACCESS REPORT

>> DOWNLOAD SUMMARY

Retailers Faced a Host of Challenges in Q4

In addition to the 2025 Annual Retail Market Report, we recently released our Q4 2025 Retail Trends Report. The data shows retail channels finished the year slightly down in dollars sold. While the topline number suggests that the quarter was relatively stable, the underlying data tells a more complete story.

Declining unit sales in nearly every category, rising average retail prices, and weakened consumer sentiment converged to pressure performance in Q4.

OIA members can access the report in the portal. Non-members can download the Executive Summary for the key takeaways.

>> ACCESS REPORT

>> DOWNLOAD SUMMARY

Prepare for New EU Packaging Regulations

The EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) applies to any brand selling packaged products in European markets, regardless of where the company is headquartered.

Compliance deadlines are already approaching and understanding what is required and when is a must for brands and retailers operating or selling in Europe.

OIA members can access our new policy brief that covers recyclability requirements, reuse and refill targets, and reporting obligations by country. Non-members can book a meeting with our team to learn about all the benefits of OIA membership.

>> ACCESS THE PORTAL

>> CONTACT US

Market Your Sustainability Efforts with Confidence

As outdoor brands increasingly market their sustainability efforts, global regulators are cracking down on greenwashing. In our recent webinar, we covered legal requirements to be aware of and messaging best practices that can help your brand maintain consumer trust. 

OIA Legislative Consultant James Pollack walked through current marketing regulations and enforcement trends. OIA’s Keelin Christensen then led a conversation with the Black Diamond team on how they develop sustainability messaging that is both credible and compliant.

OIA members can watch the recording on-demand in the membership portal. Non a member? Discover how OIA membership gets you access to these educational resources.

>> ACCESS THE PORTAL

>> CONTACT US

Switchback Spring Is Coming to New Orleans

Switchback Spring is heading to New Orleans June 16–18. The three-day event brings together outdoor retailers and brands for dozens of educational sessions, exciting networking events, and an interactive exhibit hall.

OIA members get booth discounts and complimentary retailer passes. Register today and contact us to learn about exclusive membership benefits.

>> REGISTER NOW

The Outdoor Foundation Is Expanding Outside Access

As OIA’s philanthropic arm, The Outdoor Foundation is working to ensure that more people, in more places, have a path to outdoor participation. Its Thrive Outside Initiative is now active in 15 communities across the country, including recent launches in Western North Carolina and Pittsburgh. 

By bringing together cross-sector partners to remove barriers, the program has helped connect hundreds of thousands of children and families to meaningful time outside.

The Outdoor Foundation is also helping shape the industry’s broader conversation on participation, leading sessions at OIA Rendezvous and contributing to upcoming events like Outside Days and Switchback Spring.

Check out the great work they’re doing and contact their team to explore partnership opportunities.

>> LEARN MORE

Customs & Border Protection Will Pay Tariff Refunds

Customs and Border Protection (“CBP”) remains under court-order to refund importers the monies paid (plus interest) and have stopped collecting tariffs levied under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (“IEEPA”). Refund timing and the process is still not certain but could start in as few as 45 days (est. April 20). 

While CBP figures out the refund process, it is critically important that importers, especially those of you who only import once or twice a year, enroll immediately with CBP to receive electronic refunds via Automated Clearing House (“ACH”). Instructions can be found HERE. CBP estimates that only 6% of the 330,000 importers who paid IEEPA tariffs have completed this step. Importers should also ensure they are actively tracking liquidation dates of impacted entries and deadlines for filing protests. 

Beyond the procedural unknowns, there are still other important questions that remain unanswered, including: 

  • Who is eligible to participate? 
  • What will importers need to do to participate? and, 
  • What will happen to impacted customs entries that: 
  • Have not been protested and are past their 180-day protest deadline; and, 
  • Are past their 90-day liquidation date but within the 180-day protest deadline. 

SSA’s affiliated customs counsel Neville Peterson advises the safest option for importers wanting full refunds to mitigate the risk of falling into one of the currently ambiguous scenarios above is to: 

  • File a 1581(i) lawsuit with the Court of International Trade (“CIT”), and; 
  • File protests for all liquidated entries. 

To review Neville Peterson’s full summary of the events that have unfolded this week and resulting guidance, click HERE. 

Details behind these developments: 

Despite much speculation and widespread mischaracterization in the press that the government intended to challenge having to pay the refunds, CBP has affirmed it will comply with the CIT’s March 4 order. CBP did however declare it is unable to immediately comply with the order due to functionality limitations in ACE, but proposed creation of new mechanism that would “streamline and consolidate refunds and interest payments on an importer basis.” 

Following a conference between the parties at the CIT on March 6th to discuss CBP’s response, Judge Richard Eaton withdrew the requirement for CBP to immediately comply with the order; all other aspects of the order remain in place. 

CBP predicts the proposed refund system could be deployed in as soon as 45 days; they did not specify a predicted timeline for actual refund receipt. 

The proposed mechanism would work as follows: 

The importer files a declaration in ACE that includes a list of entries on which IEEPA duties were paid. 

  • ACE runs a series of validations on each entry within the declaration and automatically re-calculates the duty owed without the IEEPA tariffs (with applicable interest). 
  • CBP verifies the declaration and processes refunds as soon as practicable. 
  • ACE automatically finalizes (liquidates or reliquidates) the entries. 
  • ACE automatically aggregates the refunds with interest by importer and liquidation date. 
  • CBP certifies the refunds. 
  • The Department of the Treasury issues IEEPA refunds electronically via ACH. 

We are continuously tracking this developing issue and will provide additional information as it becomes available. OIA members can access Mobilize or join the Trade Advisory Council for updates and guidance. Not a member? Get in touch today to learn more. 

New BEA Data Confirms Outdoor Recreation’s Economic Strengths and Signals Headwinds Ahead

2024-BEA-Data

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) has released new statistics measuring the outdoor recreation economy in 2024 for the nation, all 50 states, and the District of Columbia. This marks the eighth consecutive year that BEA has published federal data tracking the economic impact of outdoor recreation. An important milestone that continues to validate what our industry, communities, and consumers have long known: outdoor recreation is a powerful driver of economic activity, job creation, and national well-being. 

The annual BEA data remains one of the clearest and most credible measures of the outdoor recreation economy’s role in the United States. It helps demonstrate not only the scale of our industry, but also why continued investment in outdoor access, recreation infrastructure, and participation matters for local communities, rural economies, and public health. 

In 2024, the outdoor recreation economy generated $1.3 trillion in gross output, representing the largest overall economic impact in the history of the sector. Outdoor recreation accounted for 2.4% of U.S. GDP, and the industry supported 5.2 million jobs nationwide. Total compensation for outdoor recreation jobs reached $324 billion, or 3.2% of total U.S. wage and salary compensation. 

These numbers underscore the size and significance of the outdoor recreation economy. But they also tell a more complicated story. 

While 2024 marks a new high-water mark in total economic impact, it also reflects the slowest growth of the post-pandemic era. That matters. Because behind the topline gains, the industry is facing real pressure, from affordability challenges and consumer spending constraints to broader economic uncertainty that could shape participation and purchasing behavior in the months ahead. 

The data, paired with participation trends, suggest that Americans still want to get outside. Demand for outdoor experiences has not disappeared. But for many households, the costs associated with getting outdoors—gear, vehicles, travel, services, and even the basics required to participate safely—have become harder to afford. 

This is an important distinction. We are not seeing a collapse in interest. We are seeing a growing gap between desire and ability to participate fully. 

When people spend less on the products and services that support outdoor recreation, it has ripple effects across the economy. It can mean fewer trips, lower participation frequency, softer retail demand, and reduced revenue for the outfitters, guides, campgrounds, manufacturers, and local businesses that depend on recreation-driven visitation. In many communities, especially rural communities, those ripple effects translate directly into fewer jobs, less business activity, and weaker local economic impact. 

That is why these new BEA statistics matter so much. 

Outdoor recreation is more than a consumer category. It is a major contributor to the U.S. economy, a source of jobs in communities of every size, and an engine for rural development. In many places, outdoor recreation supports small businesses, strengthens tourism economies, and helps diversify the local economies tied to public lands, trails, waterways, parks, and recreation infrastructure. 

It also delivers benefits beyond the balance sheet. Outdoor recreation contributes to healthier people and healthier communities by helping more Americans spend time outside, stay active, reduce stress, and build lasting connections to the natural places around them. At a time when the country continues to grapple with physical and mental health challenges, that contribution is both economically and socially significant. 

The 2024 data also highlights shifts across key segments of the outdoor recreation economy: 

  • Conventional outdoor recreation: Bicycling, hunting, fishing, boating, hiking, camping, climbing, RVing, snow sports, and related activities accounted for 29.5% of outdoor recreation’s total contribution to GDP and grew 2% (in value added $) from 2023 to 2024. 
  • Other outdoor recreation activities: Amusement parks, festivals, concerts, sporting events, field sports, and guided tours represented 19% of the sector’s total GDP contribution and grew 5.3% (in value added $) from 2023 to 2024. 
  • Supporting outdoor recreation activities: Construction, travel, lodging, food and beverage, and government expenditures accounted for 51.5% of total outdoor recreation GDP and grew 4.6% (in value added $) in 2024. 

These shifts reinforce a message our industry cannot ignore: the appetite for outdoor recreation remains strong, but participation and spending are becoming more constrained. If we want this sector to continue growing in a durable, inclusive way, affordability and access must remain central to the conversation. 

That means continuing to advocate for policies and investments that: 

  • expand access to outdoor spaces and public lands, 
  • improve recreation infrastructure, 
  • support domestic manufacturing and outdoor businesses, 
  • reduce barriers to participation, 
  • and strengthen the community and economic ecosystems that make outdoor recreation possible. 

As the outdoor industry looks ahead, this year’s BEA data offers both a reason for pride and a call to action. The outdoor recreation economy continues to be a major force in the American economy. But sustaining that strength will require intentional action to ensure people can continue to participate, and that the businesses and communities that support outdoor recreation can continue to thrive. 

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

Preparing Your Outdoor Business For Sustainability Compliance in 2026

For the outdoor industry, sustainable business practices have moved from nice-to-have initiatives to strict legal requirements. Brands are navigating an increasingly complex system of laws across the United States, Canada, and the European Union (EU) that cover everything from greenhouse gas emissions reporting to green marketing claims.   

This blog post aims to provide a broad overview of sustainability compliance obligations for the outdoor industry, along with actions for meeting those requirements. But before we get into it, we need to start with a short disclaimer. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Readers should consult with qualified legal counsel to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. 

Climate Accountability: Confusion in California 

California is the only state in the U.S. that has enacted climate disclosure laws. The laws mandate companies with over $500M in annual revenue to disclose their climate-related financial risk (SB 261) and mandate companies with over $1B in annual revenue to disclose their scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions (SB 253). Lawsuits challenging the constitutionality of these laws have upended the enforcement timeline. Here’s the latest:  

  • Climate-related risk reporting (SB 261): Under the original regulatory timeline, covered entities were supposed to submit their climate-related risk reports on January 1, 2026. However, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals granted an injunction pending appeal for SB 261, effectively pausing the enforcement of the law. Oral arguments were heard in January. Until the Ninth Circuit releases a decision following those arguments, reporting for this law is paused.  
  • Greenhouse gas emissions disclosure (SB 253): The Ninth Circuit did not grant an injunction pending appeal for SB 253. Enforcement of this law is still proceeding as scheduled, which means that covered entities should be preparing to report their scope 1 and 2 emissions in August of this year, and prepare to report their scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions in 2027. This schedule is subject to change, pending the ongoing lawsuit challenging SB 253, in addition to SB 261.  

Chemistry: PFAS Regulations Expand in Scope Across the U.S. 

Chemistry is the backbone of performance gear, providing the waterproofing and durability outdoor enthusiasts expect. However, concerns about the harm of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have led to a wave of bans and reporting requirements, including: 

  • Bans on products with intentionally added PFAS: Several states have already enacted bans on the sale of textiles and apparel containing intentionally added PFAS. 
  • Mandatory disclosure labels: Many jurisdictions require a visible label stating that products contain PFAS when on sale in retailers and online.  
  • Reporting requirements: Many states require companies to report products that have intentionally added PFAS. The U.S. government also has a one-time backward looking reporting requirement under TSCA, however, there are proposed changes to this requirement that would significantly reduce and/or eliminate reporting requirements for most outdoor companies.  

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Shifting Responsibility of Products’ End-of-Life  

Governments are increasingly holding producers responsible for the waste their products and packaging create, and are turning to Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs. EPR assigns producers financial or operational responsibility for the collection and recycling of their goods, which often entails: 

  • Stewardship organization enrollment: Producers can be required to join a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) and pay fees based on the volume and material type of their packaging.   
  • Textile recovery registration: California became the first state in the U.S. to enact a textile EPR program. Brands doing business in California will soon be required to register with a PRO and pay fees to fund the repair, sorting, and recycling infrastructure for apparel and textile articles.   
  • Eco-modulated fees: Many EPR programs are implementing “eco-modulation,” meaning fees are adjusted based on the product’s sustainable attributes.  

Green Claims: Eliminating “Greenwashing” 

Vague claims like “sustainable” or “eco-friendly” are facing global unprecedented scrutiny. Multiple U.S. states and other countries have introduced guidelines to ensure environmental marketing messaging is accurate. While laws differ, outdoor companies generally need to:   

  • Substantiate all sustainability claims: Under current federal guidelines, brands must be able to prove any environmental claim they make with reliable evidence. 
  • Adhere to state-level laws: While every state has laws prohibiting deceptive conduct, many have made “greenwashing” (the act of making false or misleading claims about the environmental benefits of a product) a violation of consumer protection laws. 
  • Disclose carbon offset processes: California now requires companies that use “net zero,” “carbon neutral,” or similar terminology to disclose on their website how those claims are achieved (CA AB 1305). 

Ensure Your Outdoor Brand is Compliant in 2026 

As new laws take effect, OIA is here to help outdoor companies implement sustainable business practices and remain compliant. We recently released an updated version of our “Guide to Comply” exclusively for OIA members. This 20+ page resource covers the specific regulations impacting the outdoor industry in 2026. 

In addition to this guide, our Support Plus and Leadership members get access to our Sustainability Policy and Reporting Task Forces. These groups provide time-sensitive alerts as new legislation emerges and a place to discuss compliance challenges with peers.  

If you’re ready to learn more about the benefits of becoming an OIA member, get in touch with us.  

References: 

https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/california-corporate-greenhouse-gas-ghg-reporting-and-climate-related-financial 

https://www.whitecase.com/insight-alert/california-climate-disclosure-laws-ninth-circuit-hears-oral-argument-no-ruling-yet 

https://calrecycle.ca.gov/epr/textiles/ 

https://www.persefoni.com/blog/ab-1305 

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240AB1305

Outdoorist: January 2026

As we move into 2026, our team is already hard at work representing the interests of the outdoor industry. We’ve opened registration for three of our signature convening opportunities, announced our annual policy agenda, and released numerous valuable resources for our members.

As always, our goal is to ensure the OIA community has the support needed to thrive in an evolving market. We look forward to working alongside you this year as we continue to pursue a sustainable and inclusive future for the outdoors.

Join Us for Collective Advocacy at OIA Capitol Summit 2026

The decisions being made in Washington, D.C., today will define the strength of the outdoor economy for years to come. A powerful collective of industry leaders will take to Capitol Hill on April 28-29 to engage directly with legislators and policy experts.

Capitol Summit 2026 is hosted exclusively for OIA members. If you’re interested in attending, contact us today to discuss our membership options.

>>CONTACT US

Interested in Sponsoring OIA Events?

Sponsorship opportunities are available for OIA’s flagship events. Get in touch to learn how we can help you showcase your brand to our membership base.

>> LEARN MORE

The 2026 OIA Policy Agenda Has Been Announced

OIA is committed to standing strong on conservation, recreation, trade, and sustainability. This year, our federal priorities include securing funding for public lands infrastructure and advocating for legislation that supports rural recreation economies. On the international front, we are focused on stabilizing supply chains through tariff reform and trade program renewals. Our 2026 policy agenda is detailed, so we encourage you to review it and learn all the ways we plan to support the outdoor industry this year.

>>REVIEW THE POLICY AGENDA

Record Growth in U.S. Hiking Participation

Hiking has become the most popular outdoor recreation activity in America, reaching a record 63.4 million participants in 2024. Unlike other activities that saw a temporary pandemic spike, hiking has experienced sustained growth. This trend provides a major opportunity for the industry, as even casual hikers have shown a willingness to invest in quality apparel, hydration systems, and safety accessories. OIA members get access to a vast library of research reports that cover specific sports and segments of the outdoor industry, including our recent “Hiking Report” that highlights detailed participation data.

>> CHECK OUT THE REPORT SUMMARY

Managing Chemical Risks in Recycled Materials

As outdoor brands increase their use of recycled content, managing chemical safety has become a significant hurdle. Current recycling systems often struggle to ensure feedstocks are free from hazardous substances like PFAS and heavy metals. Understanding these infrastructure gaps is essential for maintaining non-toxic circularity and winning consumer trust. Our latest blog post will help you identify and mitigate chemical risks in your supply chain.

>> READ THE BLOG 

Understanding the Core Outdoor Consumer

OIA regularly hosts ConsumerVue webinars to help our members keep up with the latest development in the market. Our most recent session explored the spending behaviors and attitudes of high-value segments, including the “Super Core” and “Skill Builder” consumers shaping the industry for 2026. These deep dives are just one of the many resources we provide to help outdoor businesses thrive. OIA members can access the recording in the membership portal. Not a member? Get in touch today to learn more about the benefits of OIA membership.

>> ACCESS PORTAL

>> LEARN MORE

Strengthening the Community at Switchback Spring 2026

Switchback Spring is returning to New Orleans June 16-18. As the premier forum for retailers and brands, the event features a day of specialized education followed by two days of exhibition. OIA members can take advantage of discounted booth pricing and free retail passes.

>> REGISTER NOW

The Hidden Challenge of Circularity: Managing Chemical Risks in Recycled Materials

recycled-materials-challenges

Recycling is a cornerstone of the circular economy, aiming to reuse products and regenerate materials to reduce environmental impacts like greenhouse gas emissions. However, as outdoor companies expand their commitments to using recycled content, a significant challenge has emerged: chemical safety. 

Today’s recycling systems are not fully equipped to guarantee that recycled feedstocks are free from hazardous substances. Without strong safeguards, brands and manufacturers risk unintentionally recirculating “legacy” chemicals into their products or even introducing new contaminants caused by the recycling process itself.  

Understanding the Infrastructure Gap 

Recycling capabilities vary wildly across plastics, textiles, paper, and metals. Most current systems are optimized for clean, single-material streams, but real-world waste is often highly mixed and chemically complex. 

In general, there are two common recycling processes that each pose different chemical risks: 

  • Mechanical Recycling: Dominates the market but tends to recirculate rather than remove chemicals, leaving new products vulnerable to contamination. 
  • Molecular (Chemical) Recycling: Can remove unwanted substances, but requires more energy and may result in chemicals of concern released into the environment surrounding the recycling facility.  

Critical Risk Areas for the Outdoor Industry 

For our industry, textiles represent the most critical risk area. Currently, less than 1% of collected textiles are recycled back into new fibers, but those that are often come from sources with unknown chemical histories. 

Factors like limited ingredient transparency and multi-material construction increase the likelihood that restricted substances, such as PFAS, phthalates, heavy metals, and flame retardants, make it into the final product. These risks extend to other materials as well: 

  • Plastics: Often contain non-intentionally added substances (NIAS) and residual chemicals. 
  • Metals: Can inadvertently introduce toxic heavy metals if waste streams are poorly characterized. 
  • Paper: Requires careful management to avoid contaminants found in original coatings and inks. 

A Path Toward Non-Toxic Circularity 

There is currently no comprehensive, affordable testing protocol that can reliably identify every contaminant in every batch of recycled feedstock. And while certifications help manage risk, they do not completely eliminate it. Rather, success depends on rigorous implementation and total supply-chain transparency. 

To move forward, outdoor companies must adopt a systems-level approach to chemical risk. This includes: 

  • Evaluating the origin of feedstocks and sorting processes. 

  • Assessing contamination risks specific to material types. 

  • Collaborating across industry, academia, and policy to develop safer chemistries and better traceability. 

Learn About Chemical Safety with OIA’s New Guidebook 

The Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) has developed a comprehensive “Chemical Risks of Recycled Materials Guidebook” to equip outdoor companies with the tools and insights needed to safely source recycled materials. It outlines risks by material category, compares recycling technologies, and provides a practical framework for evaluating suppliers and assessing contamination risk based on four key categories: 

  • Original material use, application, and industry.
  • Collection, sorting, and other pre-processing methods.
  • Recycling methods and quality control specifications.
  • End-use application. 

The guidebook is currently available in the OIA Mobilize platform. Not an OIA Support Plus or Leadership member but want to learn more? Get in touch today. 

REI Co-op, Carhartt, ERM Coho, and OIA Announce Collaborative Renewable Energy Project

REI Co-op, Carhartt, ERM Coho, and Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) announced their participation in a collaborative solar project. The solar project, Misae II, developed by Greenalia, is located in Texas and will begin delivering renewable energy certificates to REI Co-op and Carhartt in 2026.

The collaborative solar project, accessed via a Virtual Power Purchase Agreement (VPPA), was offered through OIA’s Climate Action Corps Impact CoLab, in partnership with member brands and ERM Coho. OIA’s Impact CoLabs accelerate industry progress by enabling brands and suppliers to work together, meeting company sustainability goals more efficiently and cost-effectively. Learn more about Impact CoLabs here.

“We’re excited by how this VPPA will support our longstanding commitment to 100% renewable energy. This is our largest solar project (yet) in a state where we have a strong presence with 11 stores. Partnering with others in the outdoor industry on this project demonstrates how collaboration is critical to accelerating the decarbonization of our grids and protecting everyone’s right to a healthy outdoors,” said Jay Creech, manager of net zero for REI Co-op.

A VPPA is a financial contract for differences between a buyer (or group of buyers) and a large-scale renewable energy project, in which the buyer commits to a fixed price and receives the floating wholesale electricity price.  Companies that are unable to install onsite solar to meet 100% of their energy demand can use VPPAs to procure offsite renewable energy. VPPAs are typically only available to very large energy buyers. Smaller companies can access VPPAs by working together, and industry associations like OIA provide a platform to enable that collaboration.

“This agreement demonstrates the success that results from buyers and developers being collaborative. When companies unite as a structured buyer group, they unlock access to large-scale clean energy solutions and strengthen decision-making,”  said Chris O’Brien, Partner, Vice President Business Development for ERM Coho.

Key Outcomes of the VPPA CoLab:

  • Renewable Energy: The VPPA supports 18.5 megawatts of renewable energy.
  • Collective Impact: Individually, OIA members would not have met the electricity supply required to participate in a VPPA. By coming together through OIA to aggregate their energy demand, members were able to execute a joint VPPA.
  • Building Knowledge: Members gained a strong understanding of the complex VPPA market through the CoLab. The collaborative process demystified renewable energy procurement and equipped members with the tools to execute a clean energy deal.
  • Driving New Construction: The CoLab enabled the construction of a new utility-scale solar project in Texas, bringing additional clean energy onto the grid.
  • Verified Impact: CoLab participants receive Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), allowing them to reduce their emissions.

“The path to a better future is paved through collaboration and partnership,” said Gretchen Valade, Director, Sustainability, Carhartt, Inc. “No single organization can tackle the complexities of decarbonization alone, but together, we can drive meaningful progress. We are proud to be a part of this important effort to support renewable energy generation and build a more sustainable world.”

“We are incredibly proud of the successful collaboration among the VPPA CoLab participants, culminating in a renewable energy project that will deliver long-term clean energy benefits and advance the outdoor industry’s collective climate goals. This project stands as a powerful testament to the impact we can achieve when we unite our efforts and provides a replicable model for others in the industry,” said Julie Brown, Director of Sustainable Business Innovation at OIA.

About Outdoor Industry Association

Based in Boulder, Colo., with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a catalyst for meaningful change. A member-based collective, OIA is a passionate group of business leaders, climate experts, policy makers, and outdoor enthusiasts committed to sustainable economic growth while protecting – and growing access to – the benefits of the outdoors for everyone. For more than 30 years, OIA has catalyzed a thriving outdoor industry by supporting the success of every member company across four critically aligned areas: market research, sustainability, government affairs, and inclusive participation. OIA delivers success for its members through education, events, and business services in the form of solutions and strategies, consultation, collaboration, and opportunities for collective action. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org.

About Carhartt

Established in 1889, Carhartt is a global premium workwear brand with a rich heritage of developing durable products for workers on and off the job. Headquartered in Dearborn, Mich., with more than 3,000 employees worldwide, Carhartt is family-owned and managed by the descendants of the company’s founder, Hamilton Carhartt.

About ERM Coho

ERM Coho is a global climate adviser dedicated to helping clients navigate complexity and take ambitious steps on their climate journey. We provide deep market insight, analytical problem-solving, and change management expertise so that clients can switch to renewable energy and make other large-scale climate and water resiliency investments with confidence and internal alignment. To learn more about how ERM Coho can help organizations get ahead of their climate goals, visit www.cohoclimate.com.

About Greenalia

Greenalia S.A. is a global IPP focused on renewable energy. The company uses wind, sun, and forestry biomass from certified plantation residues to generate and store energy in harmony with nature, providing employment and innovation in Europe and the US. The company’s main activity is the generation of renewable energy, being present in six technologies: onshore wind, offshore wind, solar, biomass, storage, hydrogen, and carbon capture.

About REI Co-op

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI, is a growing community of 25 million members who expect and love the best quality gear and outstanding customer service. In addition to the co-op’s many stores across the country, outdoor enthusiasts can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet, or the REI shopping app. Everyone is welcome to shop at REI, but members who join the co-op enjoy a range of benefits. REI is a purpose-driven and values-led company dedicated to enabling life outside for all.