Switchback
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.
Exclusive Benefits for OIA Members
OIA members enjoy a discounted Switchback Spring exhibiting rate of $28 per square foot (non-member rate: $31 per square foot).
10×10: $2,800 | 10×20: $5,600 | 20×20: $11,200
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
Attend Switchback at The Running Event
December 2-4, 2025 | Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center | San Antonio, TX
Switchback at The Running Event (TRE) delivers an elevated onsite experience where outdoor specialty retailers can source products, develop meaningful peer relationships, and gain industry insights to stay ahead of trends and better serve customers.
OIA member retailers get $100 off the All Access Pass, including access to all education and trade show hours as well as the Opening Party, Indie 5K, and the Riverwalk Run + Cleanup. Contact your membership manager for details.
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.
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:
