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Switchback Spring

The education and business gathering for the outdoor industry community

Join us at Switchback Spring 2026, the premier gathering for the outdoor industry community, taking place from June 16-18 in New Orleans, LA, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Switchback Spring offers a dedicated platform for specialty retailers, media, and brand leaders in backpacking, apparel, and footwear to connect, learn, and grow.

Discover Switchback

What Industry Leaders Say about Switchback

In partnership with OIA, Switchback delivers key learnings from leading outdoor industry data, legacy knowledge of essential and emerging issues, and deep connections throughout the outdoor industry community.  Hear what people are saying:  

“Toad&Co was excited to attend Switchback for the first time and it proved to be well worth it! The energy was palpable – industry friends reconnecting, ideas spreading, brands and products being discovered, and new partnerships emerging. We are excited for what the future holds.”
Sarah Matt
Sarah MattChief Revenue Officer, Toad & Co
“As an industry it is critical that we come together to advance our business and values. TRE has been a successful formula that allows for education, trade, and gatherings. We’re looking forward to seeing how this approach can work in the outdoor space.”
Susan Viscon
Susan VisconChief New Ventures and Impact Officer, REI Co-op
“As an industry, we’ve come full circle. There’s a fresh appetite to get back together and back to trade shows, as it’s an important part of who we are. Switchback is key for our business, an authenticator as we re-establish ourselves as a functional performance brand in the outdoors."
Lee Cox
Lee Cox VP/GM, Deckers Emerging Brands
“I’m excited for the opportunity to connect with retailers and friends in the industry at Switchback in June 2025. Everyone misses a gathering, and this TRE-format event in partnership with OIA should be really special. There’s a buzz here in discovering different brands and connecting with prospective retailers, and I’m looking forward to being a part of bringing that energy to the outdoor industry. And it’s only year one – I hope that we can continue to come together year after year and make it better for everyone."
Josh Tedeschi
Josh TedeschiSenior Manager, US Specialty Sales, Arc'Teryx
Exclusive Benefits for OIA Members

OIA members enjoy a discounted Switchback Spring exhibiting rate of $27 per square foot.

10×10: $2,700 | 10×20: $5,400 | 20×20: $10,800

Included with Each Booth:

  • Back drape (8 ft. high), side drape (3 ft. high), and rail drape
  • Booth identification sign (7 in. x 44 in.)
  • Comprehensive listing on the event website and mobile app
  • Two exhibitor badges per 100 sq. ft. of booth space
Why Attend Switchback

Discovery

Switchback provides the opportunity to discover new brands, new products, new relationships, and new pathways to grow your business. An interactive, dynamic exhibit hall, valuable networking time, and thoughtful education combine to create one-stop events with endless opportunities for discovery.

Industry Leading-Education

Switchback offers full days of educational programming built to address the outdoor industry’s current challenges and forecast emerging retail trends. Targeted programming will be applicable and valuable to specialty retailers across all business levels and positions.

Time to Connect

Dedicated time for connection—created with the attendee experience in mind—will happen intentionally throughout each event. Retailers will have the opportunity to meet with cornerstone and emerging outdoor brands. From happy hours and receptions to structured meeting time, expect to build new relationships, learn from your industry peers, and celebrate the outdoor specialty community.

A One-Stop-Shop

Switchback packs value into just three dedicated days. Centrally located in Nashville, you’ll access leading brands, the latest products, meaningful networking, and unmatched education—all in an accessible location and a short amount of time.

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