BOULDER, CO (April 3, 2025) —Newly announced tariffs will make it more expensive to make and sell outdoor gear in the U.S., hurting American businesses, workers, and consumers, says Outdoor Industry Association. The outdoor industry is a key economic engine in the U.S., generating $1.2 trillion in consumer spending and supporting over 5 million American jobs. Last year alone, 175.8 million Americans participated in outdoor recreation, an all-time high. But now, many of the products that make those experiences possible are about to get much more expensive.
“These tariffs will raise costs for American manufacturers, retailers, and families,” said Kent Ebersole, President of OIA. “That’s going to slow growth, put pressure on small and mid-sized outdoor companies, and could force some to close their doors. These tariffs also make it more difficult for global outdoor brands to operate in the U.S. and maintain their American workforce.”
In a recent survey, 84% of OIA members surveyed said they will be impacted by new tariffs, resulting in millions of dollars in financial losses and affecting hundreds of outdoor products. “These rising costs could lead to fewer jobs, less innovation, and fewer options for consumers,” Ebersole said. “This will especially impact vital businesses that make American’s access to the outdoors possible.”
“We urge policymakers to consider the broader economic impact of these trade decisions,” Ebersole said. “Outdoor recreation matters to millions of Americans and thousands of businesses. We need a balanced trade policy that keeps outdoor gear affordable, supports U.S. jobs, and helps our industry continue to grow.”
OIA encourages support for the bipartisan Trade Review Act of 2025, introduced by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), which would create greater transparency and oversight in U.S. trade policy, both critical steps to protecting the outdoor recreation economy.
Outdoor businesses are also encouraged to join OIA’s Trade Policy Town Hall webinar on April 8 at 12 PM MT, where policy experts will share more about the latest tariff policies and what businesses can do to stay ahead of impacts.
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.
