Level Up Your Outdoor Business

Two people hiking on a mountain

OIA Research Now Offers Key Reports for Purchase – Membership May Be More Economical. 

The Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) understands that data-driven decisions are crucial for business success. That’s why OIA Research exists: to provide actionable insights that boost your bottom line, get more Americans engaged in outdoor recreation, build stronger outdoor businesses and a stronger outdoor economy.   

We dive deep into the outdoor economy utilizing data from Circana (formerly NPD), the Physical Activity Council, and our own research to deliver the business intelligence, participation insights, and market trends that outdoor organizations need to lead with clarity and confidence. 

We also keep you informed about the macroeconomic trends impacting the outdoor market. OIA Research provides updates on customer sentiment, GDP, employment trends, and analyzes the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) Outdoor Recreation Economic Impacts report each year to help you understand the broader economic context in which your business operates.  

Whether you’re targeting consumers, tracking market trends, or benchmarking your financial performance, OIA Research has you covered. And now, to make these powerful resources more accessible, OIA is offering individual purchases of some of its most valuable reports.  

Unlocking Insights: OIA’s Research Suite 

OIA’s comprehensive research suite provides data-driven insights across a wide range of topics: 

  • Outdoor Consumer Insights: Get to know your customer. This proprietary dataset provides in-depth information on average spend by segment (core, moderate, and casual), motivations for participating in outdoor recreation, the customer journey, and key demographics. Understand who your customers are and what drives their purchasing decisions. The initial report focuses on retail behavior and independent specialty retailers. 
  • Outdoor Participation Trends Report: The definitive source for participation data. This annual report, compiled with the Physical Activity Council, tracks participation rates across 46 different outdoor activities. Access insights into demographics, recreation venues, participation frequency, and trends in new and lost participants. Understand who’s participating, where they’re going, and how participation is changing over time.  
  • Single Sport Reports: For granular insights into specific activities, the Single Sport Reports provide a treasure trove of raw data. Explore participation trends across different sports and activities in detail, utilizing data that includes year-to-year changes, detailed demographic profiles by gender, as well as insights into core versus casual participants and cross-sport involvement. Note: this report focuses on the data itself, without offering in-depth analysis or pre-packaged insights. If you’re a data-driven decision-maker who enjoys digging deep and drawing your own conclusions, these reports are for you. 
  • Category Reports: Dive deep into specific product categories. These reports combine retail trends, consumer intelligence, and participation data to provide a holistic view of the target audience for outdoor footwear and apparel. Understand consumer trends and learn how to capitalize on them in product development, marketing, distribution, and sales. 
  • Retail Sales Trends: Keep your finger on the pulse of the outdoor retail market. Powered by Circana, these reports analyze point-of-sale data to track dollar sales, unit sales, and average retail sales prices for outdoor apparel, equipment, accessories, and footwear. Monthly reporting provides ongoing insights into trends across key channels: Athletic Specialty and Sporting Goods (e.g., Dick’s, Big 5, REI), independent outdoor specialty retailers, and online retail. An annual Retail Sales Report is published each March. 
  • Holiday Report: A timely reference on market conditions and consumer trends likely to impact the 2025 holiday shopping season including consumer spending, retail trends, hot product trends, and more. Due out late September to inform your holiday push. 
  • Financial and Operational Benchmarking Report (2024): Benchmark your company’s financial performance against industry peers. Based on proprietary data from over 50 outdoor companies, this report provides insights into profit and loss, operations costs, sourcing, and more. Compare your performance with others in your manufacturing categories and identify areas for improvement. (Footwear, apparel, hard goods, and outdoor accessories) 
  • Research Consulting and Custom Work: Need tailored insights? OIA Research provides personalized, custom research based on your specific needs. 

Expanded Access: Purchase Key Reports Individually  

Now, you can access some of OIA’s most valuable research without a full membership commitment. The highly sought-after Annual Participation Trends Reports, Single Sport Reports, and the insightful Consumer Insights Report are now available for individual purchase. 

OIA Research is designed to help you: 

  • Make informed decisions based on solid data. 
  • Identify and capitalize on emerging trends. 
  • Target the right consumers with the right products. 
  • Optimize your product offerings and marketing strategies. 
  • Improve your operational efficiency and profitability. 

 Before you click “buy,” be sure to compare the cost with OIA membership. OIA members receive access to all of these reports, along with many other benefits, making membership a potentially more cost-effective solution if you need access to multiple reports. 

Don’t miss out. Unlock the power of OIA Research and take your outdoor business to the next level. 

  • OIA reports, analyses, and custom projects will all assist in bettering your company, and can assist in getting data-driven insights for success. 
  • Reports will be sold to non-members, but membership can sometimes be the less expensive option. 
  • Don’t hesitate to check OIA’s website to explore those options. 

Visit outdoorindustry.org/researchsales.com to explore report purchase options and compare them to the benefits of OIA membership.  

Therm-a-Rest elevates insulation collection for Spring 2026 with updated Parsec sleeping bag and Corus quilt

RENO, NV (Sept. 30, 2025) — Therm-a-Rest® is set to enhance outdoor sleep experiences in spring 2026 with the introduction of its new Parsec™ Sleeping Bag and Corus™ Quilt. These latest additions are designed to provide superior comfort and warmth, featuring PFAS-free materials, 100% recycled nylon shells, and responsibly sourced Hydrophobic Down for optimal heat retention even in wet conditions.

Parsec Sleeping Bag: Best-in-Class Warmth-to-Weight Ratio for Mountain Adventures
The Parsec Sleeping Bag is crafted for adventurers seeking speed and efficiency in the mountains. For spring 2026, the Parsec series (available in 0F/-18C and 20F/-6C ratings) is upgraded with premium 900-fill Muscovy Hydrophobic Down, increasing its warmth without adding weight. Further updates include more plush baffles for improved loft, a refined internal zip pocket for easier access, and a simplified design that removes synergy straps for a cleaner aesthetic. Both options feature Box Baffled construction to eliminate cold spots and include quilt and blanket loops for system integration.

  • Parsec 20F/-6C: weighs 805g (1 lb 12 oz) (regular)
  • Parsec 0F/-18C: weighs 1,090g (2 lb 6 oz) (regular)

Corus Quilt: Redefining Backpacking Comfort
Designed for outdoor enthusiasts who value adaptable warmth and freedom of movement, the down Corus Quilt is a core member of the Backpacking Comfort category. Available in 20F/-6C and 32F/0C ratings and filled with 650-fill Nikwax Hydrophobic Down, the updated Corus is now entirely PFAS-free and comes in new colors. Its versatile design features a precisely shaped footbox that can slip over a sleeping pad for extra warmth, full-perimeter side baffles to eliminate drafts, and an exterior zip chest pocket for quick access to essentials. Like the Parsec, it also uses Box Baffled construction to maximize loft and eliminate cold spots.

  • Corus 20F/-6C: weighs 735g (1 lb 10 oz) (regular)
  • Corus 32F/0C: weighs 565g (1 lb 4 oz) (regular)

“For more than 50 years, we have been driven by a passion for innovation and a deep commitment to helping people sleep better outdoors,” said Chris Davis, Product Line Manager for Therm-a-Rest. Our team has dedicated itself to reimagining what’s possible in outdoor comfort—listening to the needs of backpackers and campers, and pushing the boundaries of design and technology. The Parsec and Corus are the culmination of decades of experience, ensuring that every night spent under the stars is as restful as it is memorable.”

Therm-a-Rest’s insulation products are engineered for reliability. Every sleeping bag and quilt undergoes rigorous testing in the brand’s onsite cold chamber, ensuring temperature ratings you can trust. For 50 years, Therm-a-Rest has been driven by a singular mission: to provide better sleep outdoors. This promise is now extended to the new Parsec and Corus.

The Parsec Sleeping Bag and Corus Quilt will initially be available at www.thermarest.com followed by US and Canadian retailers in spring 2026. For more information, visit www.thermarest.com.

Downloadable Image Assets HERE

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About Therm-a-Rest

Since 1971, Therm-a-Rest has been dedicated to providing outdoor enthusiasts with high-quality, innovative gear designed for comfort and performance. From sleeping pads to sleeping bags and camp furniture, Therm-a-Rest products are engineered to enhance outdoor experiences and help adventurers get the best night’s sleep possible. For more information, visit www.thermarest.com.

About Cascade Designs, Inc.
For over 50 years, Cascade Designs, Inc. and its brands, Therm-a-Rest, Mountain Safety Research (MSR), Platypus, SealLine, and PackTowl, have led the outdoor industry in designing innovative, useful, and long-lasting equipment, manufacturing the majority of its products in market at its Reno, Nev., U.S.A. and Cork, Ireland facilities, and with offices in Seattle, Wash. From the original self-inflating Therm-a-Rest camping mattress to the first multi-fuel stove from MSR, Cascade Designs has developed leading products that explorers, travelers, adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts, and weekend campers can rely on to deliver optimum performance in the outdoors through exceptional engineering and quality. For more information, please visit www.cascadedesigns.com.

WX Saber Advanced Now Meets MIL_PRF-32432A Testing Standard

Frisco, TX – [September 30, 2025] Wiley X, a global leader in protective eyewear, announced that the WX Saber Advanced, one of their best-selling styles, is now tested to meet the MIL-PRF-32432A safety standard – the highest U.S. military qualification for combat eye protection.

This rigorous standard exceeds ANSI Z87.1+ requirements and sets the benchmark for impact resistance, optical clarity, and ballistic protection within the Military Combat Eye Protection (MCEP) System. The Saber Advanced was previously tested to the MIL-PRF-32432(GL) standard, already more demanding than ANSI testing. With this upgrade to MIL-PRF-32432A, the WX Saber Advanced now delivers unmatched durability and performance to meet the most demanding requirements of the U.S. military.

For more information about the WX Saber Advanced and Wiley X’s full line of protective eyewear, visit www.wileyx.com.

Altra Steps Into a New Era with Renewed Focus on Foot Health

The brand’s first global platform puts longevity at the center of athletic performance

DENVER (September 29, 2025) — Altra has always been a challenger in the running shoe industry and, today, with the launch of Altra Fit, the brand continues to disrupt industry status quo. Altra Fit is the company’s first global brand platform and the start of a multi-year investment to explore the power of the foot to unlock human potential. The initiative marks a new era for the brand under Creative Director Dani Coplen, who is reshaping Altra’s identity to highlight the connection between healthy movement and long-term performance.

“Runners are constantly promised faster shoes, but speed alone does not define success,” said Jen McLaren, President of Altra. “Altra Fit is about broadening the definition of performance. Longevity is part of the story, and we are making foot health a central theme of our brand so runners can continue to enjoy the sport for years to come.”

Unlike conventional footwear that narrows or elevates the foot, Altra has always emphasized designs that respect natural movement. Altra Fit carries that philosophy forward, spotlighting the role footwear can play in supporting healthier running mechanics and encouraging consistency over time.

“Altra started by breaking the rules of what a running shoe should look like,” said Dani Coplen, Creative Director at Altra. “With Altra Fit, we are doubling down on that challenger spirit. We want runners to know that performance is not just about seconds off a split, it’s about sustaining your running for the long haul.”

The rollout begins this fall with new creative campaigns, in-store experiences, and community activations with run clubs and specialty retailers. Athlete stories and expert perspectives will highlight how Altra’s approach to design supports both performance and long-term participation in the sport.

By centering its platform on the fit, it acknowledges the combined potential of the foot and the shoe.  Altra is offering an alternative in an industry often focused on marginal speed gains. Altra Fit positions the brand around a simple belief: the best measure of performance is not just how fast you run, but how long you can keep running.

About Altra

Altra isn’t just a shoe. It’s a promise. It all started when we hacked the typical running shoe, challenging industry convention by opening the toe box so your feet could splay naturally. Born from a passion for innovation and natural running, Altra designs footwear in Colorado that helps runners move more naturally. The Altra Fit allows toes to spread for enhanced comfort, balance and strength, so you can Stay Out There™ for more miles and more years. #altrarunning #stayoutthere

Wiley X Joins Boot Campaign’s YOU MATTER Initiative to Support Suicide Prevention

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Frisco, TX – [September 23, 2025] Wiley X, a global leader in protective eyewear, is proud to partner with Boot Campaign’s nationwide YOU MATTER initiative this September to raise awareness for suicide prevention and remind veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders that their lives matter.

As part of the campaign, Wiley X employees and brand ambassadors will wear YOU MATTER shirts and share tributes to those who serve, helping spread a powerful message of hope, gratitude, and support. Together, Wiley X and Boot Campaign stand united in the fight against veteran and first responder suicide.

For more information about Boot Campaign and the YOU MATTER initiative, visit BootCampaign.org.

For more information about Wiley X and its commitment to first responders, military service members, veterans, and their families, visit www.wileyx.com.

CONTACT:

Thomas Stickley, Backbone Media, LLC

Thomas.stickley@backbone.media

970.847.5463

On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Reimagine the Modern Outdoors

Swiss performance meets Tokyo style and REI outdoor heritage in a globally minded exploration capsule

SEATTLE, TOKYO, and ZURICH (September 22, 2025) – Joined together by a shared love of the outdoors, On, BEAMS, and REI Co-op have unveiled a limited-edition collection that combines Swiss innovation with the reimagination of American outdoor heritage through a Japanese lens. Starting September 25, the capsule will be available online at Beams.co.jp, On.com, and REI.com. Select retail locations for each brand will also sell the collection. The partnership between the leading premium Swiss sportswear brand, Tokyo lifestyle retailer, and American specialty outdoor retailer bridges continents for a collection of apparel, gear, and accessories that weaves together contemporary style and high-performance for untold adventures.

The On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Collection includes a full range of head-to-toe apparel and gear designed to blur the line between technical performance and everyday style, from shoes and jackets to tents and camping essentials. The three-way collaboration builds upon the success of the original On x BEAMS collection launched in 2024, and is designed to move seamlessly between outdoor adventure and style.

To create the limited-edition collection On, Beams, and REI selected iconic products in their respective lines that help everyone explore outdoors with a focus on performance. For the design, the three mountains graphic is a tribute to the iconic peaks in the native regions of each brand – the Matterhorn in the Alps, Mt Fuji in Japan, and Mount Rainier in REI’s home state of Washington. REI’s Living Archive was leveraged for inspiration and to research examples of timeless colorways. Faded denim and earthy neutrals in the apparel, gear, and accessories give the collection a classic, well-loved appeal.

“At On, our goal is simple: to inspire the human spirit through movement. Our brand collaborations give us unique opportunities to amplify this mission—reaching new audiences and exploring fresh expressions of movement, all while staying true to the spirit that drives us,” says Julia Sieter, global head of collaborations at On. “With the BEAMS and REI capsule, we’ve brought together three distinct brands to create something special. The collection delivers performance without compromise: a jacket built for relentless rain yet refined enough for the city, and shoes engineered for rugged trails that feel effortless on the street. Its versatility is designed for a life that moves without limits.”

“The On x BEAMS x REI Co-op collection takes the best of all three brands and reflects a fresh take on outdoor culture through the lens of camping, running and lifestyle,” says Isabelle Portilla, REI vice president of Co-op Brands. “For 87 years, REI has inspired and equipped the community with high-quality gear and apparel that carries the REI name and many other leading and up-and-coming brands. Camping and hiking are core to our rich history as the activities remain enduring for authentic connections to nature as part of an active life.”

“With this collection, On, REI, and BEAMS wanted to express the unique outdoor experience each of us has learned from our different environments,” says Keita Kobayashi, BEAMS Men’s Casual Buyer. “We created this collection with the hope that by wearing this product lineup—a mix of On’s latest technology, REI’s classic style, and BEAMS’ fashion perspective—people will enjoy the outdoors in their own way across a variety of scenes.”

The collection includes:

Footwear

  • On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Cloudultra 3 Trail Running Shoes, $210 US
  • On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Cloudrock Low Waterproof Hiking Shoes, $190 US

Apparel

  • On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Explorer Sock Knee High, $40 US
  • On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Performance Cap, $60 US
  • On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Studio T-Shirt, $80 US
  • On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Club Hoodie, $150 US
  • On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Trek Jacket, $310 US
  • On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Trek Pants, $160 US

Camp

  • On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Speed Pack 18L, $140 US
  • On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Base Camp 4 Tent, $499 US
  • On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Flexlight Camp Chair, $79.95 US
  • On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Zephyr 25 Sleeping Bag, $199.95 US
  • On x BEAMS x REI Co-op Helix Insulated Air Sleeping Pad, $169 US

To bring the campaign to life, On partnered with photographer Erinn Springer, whose work offers a more intimate, human view of the outdoors. Centered on the idea of “untold adventures,” the imagery shifts focus away from extreme pursuits and instead celebrates the quiet, everyday ways people connect with nature—reflecting the ethos of a collection that balances utility with expression.

For more information about this collaboration, please visit the collection landing page at https://www.rei.com/b/on-beams-rei-co-op-collab.

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About On: On was born in the Swiss Alps in 2010 with the mission to ignite the human spirit through movement – a mission that still guides the brand today. Fourteen years after market launch, On delivers industry-disrupting innovation in premium footwear, apparel and accessories for high-performance running, outdoor, training, all-day activities and tennis. On’s award-winning CloudTec® innovation, purposeful design and groundbreaking strides within the circular economy have attracted a fast-growing global fan base – inspiring humans to explore, discover and Dream On.

On is present in more than 60 countries globally and engages with a digital community on www.on.com.

On Media Contact:

Alixandra Matos, alixandra.matos@on.com

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 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.

REI Media Contact:

Megan Behrbaum, mbehrba@rei.com

About BEAMS: BEAMS opened its first store in Harajuku, Tokyo, in 1976. As a pioneer of the select shop model, BEAMS has led the way by sourcing and proposing a wide range of fashion and lifestyle items from around the world. BEAMS also has extensive experience as a creative group, generating new value through collaborations and providing creative solutions across various genres, extending far beyond the realm of fashion. 

BEAMS Media Contact:

Minami Dodo, dodo.minami@beams.jp

RECCO expands global search-and-rescue network with first SAR Helicopter Detectors in New Zealand

 New search-and-rescue Helicopter Detector placements in New Zealand cover the North and South Islands.

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (September 19, 2025) — RECCO, an international leader in advanced search-and-rescue technology, this month announced continued expansion of its global RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector network with the first placements in New Zealand.

The RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector is a system that can help search-and-rescue teams find RECCO-equipped hikers and other outdoor users quickly and efficiently in the event they become lost. The RECCO SAR was launched in 2016, expanding the system’s applications from finding victims involved in avalanches to all-season search-and-rescue missions year-round.

Two RECCO SAR units have now been deployed in New Zealand, each centrally placed on the North and South Islands, and are now available for the use of search-and-rescue teams throughout the country.

“We’ve been quietly working away in the background for some time now to get the RECCO SAR into New Zealand and it’s awesome to see it finally deployed and available to rescuers.” said Andrew Hobman of Avalanche NZ Ltd, who is also a RECCO representative and instructor in New Zealand.

The unit on the North Island is placed at The Central North Island Emergency Management Center at Waimarino, Te Whare Whakaora o Waimarino. Having the RECCO unit based at Tongariro National Park will provide a central deployment location for search-and-rescue teams across the North Island.

“This technology adds another level of capability to our specialist SAR teams. Where a person is equipped with a RECCO reflector, this system has the potential to help us quickly locate missing people in challenging terrain, whether in the bush, alpine environments, or even under avalanche debris,” said Senior Constable Conrad Smith, New Zealand National Park Police, adding: “It’s always important to be prepared, carry the right gear, take a personal locator beacon and other communication device, and let others know of your intentions.”

RECCO reflectors are not a replacement for personal locator beacons (PLBs), and should be seen as a compliment to them, providing an additional way of being searchable that does not require a battery or need to be turned on. RECCO also recommends that people inform others of the equipment they are carrying, which can be valuable information to rescue teams in case of an emergency.

Andrew Hoyle, leader of the Ruapehu Alpine Rescue Organisation based at Waimarino in the central North Island, said the RECCO system will not only help find missing persons but also help to reduce risk to rescuers responding to a callout, since it can help reduce the number of people exposed to risk during field missions.

“We used it successfully this week at the local SAREX [Search and Rescue Exercise] and managed to locate at least one target in areas that couldn’t be searched safely.”

The unit on the South Island is placed at the GCH Aviation’s Christchurch Rescue Helicopter base, where the Canterbury Westpac Rescue Helicopters are located.

“This could be a real life-saver when we are searching for people in the bush or in an avalanche,” said Rick Knight, Air Rescue Crew Chief at GCH Aviation. “Right now, Christchurch will be home to the only South Island detector, making it a critical asset for South Island operations.”

Regional rescue teams in Nelson, Greymouth, Wanaka, Queenstown and Canterbury underwent training in September, and the South Island unit is now operational and available to support search-and-rescue missions year-round.

The detector arrived on the South Island on Sept. 5 and was immediately deployed the next day to help the SAR Response Team in Greymouth try to locate a missing man on the West Coast.

“The arrival of this technology represents a major step forward for search and rescue in New Zealand, strengthening the ability of SAR teams to respond swiftly and effectively in life-threatening and time critical situations”, said Senior Sergeant Mark Kirkwood, West Coast SAR Coordinator, adding: “It’s a game changer.”

The RECCO SAR helicopter detector can quickly search large areas, covering a square kilometer in six minutes. Along with helping reduce search times for missing people, the helicopter-based detector can reduce the time and risk exposure for rescue workers during missions.

“Since the 1990s, our handheld detectors have been used for avalanche rescue operations in New Zealand ski areas, and now we’re excited to expand RECCO’s capabilities to year-round search and rescue. With two operational helicopter detectors now in service, we’re proud to support rescue teams across the country,” said Fredrik Steinwall, CEO of RECCO.

RECCO Reflectors are integrated into apparel, helmets, backpacks, running vests, shoes and climbing harnesses by more than 150 brand partners, including brands like Arc’teryx, Helly Hansen, POC and Camelbak. A complete list of partner brands is available at recco.com. Reflectors are also available as stand-alone products to be attached to a helmet or a backpack or worn as a belt.

“The two-week training and deployment campaign in New Zealand has been a great success and we’d like to extend a huge thanks for the overwhelming support and positive response from rescue teams throughout the country.” said Craig Donovan, Head of Detector Operations at RECCO.

There are currently 45 RECCO SAR Helicopter Detectors globally, with 14 located in North America, 28 units across Europe, one unit in Nepal and now two in New Zealand.

Images are available here

About RECCO

 RECCO® advanced rescue technology makes outdoor enthusiasts searchable to rescuers in case of an avalanche accident or when lost in the outdoors. The technology builds on a two-part radar system. Rescuers carry RECCO® detectors that send out search signals which are echoed by RECCO® reflectors, carried by the user. RECCO® detectors are used worldwide at more than 900 ski resorts and mountain rescue organizations in 32 countries. RECCO® reflectors are integrated into select apparel, helmets, protection gear and boots manufactured by more than 150 leading outdoor brands. RECCO AB was founded in 1983 in Sweden and is owned by its founder Magnus Granhed and the publicly traded investment company Traction AB (listed on OMX Nordic Exchange Stockholm). More info at recco.com.

 

Media Contact:

Verde (NA)

Julia Granhed (Rest of world)

 

Your Guide to Sourcing More Sustainable Aluminum

Introducing OIA’s Aluminum Guidebook

Aluminum is one of the most widely used materials in the outdoor industry, valued for its strength, lightweight properties, affordability, and availability. However, it is also a significant contributor to many brands’ environmental footprints. In response to OIA members seeking guidance on reducing their aluminum-related greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, we created the Aluminum Guidebook. While aluminum is a common material in outdoor products, the industry lacks clear guidance on practical environmental impact strategies for this material. The guidebook fills that gap by outlining actionable pathways to lower the environmental impact of aluminum without compromising product performance. 

“The production of aluminum in our supply chain is one of the biggest sources of carbon emissions.  The industry and SRAM have made progress, but we have a lot of work left to do. Creating this guidebook was a great opportunity to share our experience, learn from others on this journey, and will help SRAM formalize our work and educate our teams on how we can adopt more low-carbon aluminum,” said Nick Myhre, Sustainability and Strategy with SRAM. 

Aluminum Guidebook Purpose 

The Aluminum Guidebook helps sustainability, sourcing, materials, and product teams in outdoor companies of any size integrate more environmentally friendly aluminum into their products.   

Co-created by OIA’s Aluminum Task Force, made up of brands across categories such as camp, cycling, ski and snow, footwear, drinkware, and accessories, the guide brings together resources from brand leaders, aluminum organizations (e.g., Aluminum Stewardship Initiative, International Aluminum Institute), and learnings from direct conversations and site visits with manufacturing partners. These members worked to build a comprehensive guidebook for all outdoor brands to reduce their emissions.

We encourage members to use the guidebook to establish internal processes for sourcing low-impact aluminum and to engage their supply chain partners in driving real, measurable progress together. The guidebook is designed to help sustainability and supply chain teams build stronger internal alignment by creating a shared language and an understanding of why low-carbon aluminum matters and how to source it. 

OIA acknowledges that aluminum production also presents other sustainability challenges, including ecosystem disturbances, air and groundwater pollution, and water consumption. While these issues are important, the guidebook centers specifically on reducing GHG emissions.   

“As a mid-sized brand, Peak Design is very familiar with the challenges of sourcing low-carbon aluminum and the complexities of the aluminum supply chain. For over six years, Peak Design has been expanding our use of lower-impact aluminum, but it became clear that we couldn’t fully succeed alone. By engaging with OIA, we’ve helped align brands around a shared understanding of the challenges and built a unified, actionable, recommended approach to low-carbon sourcing. The guidebook bridges common disconnects between sourcing, sustainability, and leadership teams and offers a clear framework for decision-making. This work directly supports our own goals while helping raise the bar for the outdoor industry. There is a long way to go, but we have a clearer roadmap than ever before,” said Oliver Ambros, Supply Chain Sustainability Manager at Peak Design.  

Guidebook Key Points:   

  • Low-impact aluminum = aluminum produced with a lower carbon footprint 
  • There are two main ways to reduce carbon emissions in aluminum production: 
    • Low-carbon energy, such as hydro or other renewable power sources 
    • Recycled content materials, either pre– or post-consumer 
  • Lower emissions ≠ worse performance 
  • Strong relationships with internal teams and supply chain partners are critical for increased impact.   

Lower Emissions ≠ Worse Performance 

Low-impact aluminum (produced using recycled content and/or low-carbon energy sources) is a key driver for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and meeting climate targets. Shifting to low-impact aluminum does not mean sacrificing product performance. While the outdoor industry represents a small share of global aluminum demand, collaboration across our industry can help build a stronger, collective voice to advocate for low-carbon options.  

Strong Relationships are Key to Impact 

Building strong relationships is essential for impact—internally with product and design teams to align performance and sustainability goals, and across the value chain to better understand sourcing challenges and opportunities. Together, we can help accelerate the shift toward low-impact aluminum and a more sustainable industry. 

Resources to Support Your Low-Impact Aluminum Journey 

  • Join OIA to gain full access to the Aluminum Guidebook  

“OIA members created the Aluminum Guidebook to help our industry tackle a shared challenge: driving meaningful emissions reductions in a complex and competitive aluminum supply chain. It can be difficult for individual brands to influence suppliers, especially when competing with larger industries like automotive or aerospace, but when our members come together, they become a powerful collective voice for change. This guidebook is a tool to harness that strength and support coordinated, actionable progress across the industry,” said Julie Brown, OIA Sustainable Business Innovation Director.