Switchback Spring, an education and business show for the outdoor industry, wrapped up its debut event in Nashville. The event included 194 brands and 290 retailers, gathered for three days of educational programing, business meetings and face-to-face connections.
Business was the clear focus, as industry members leaned into retailer and brand meetings, and filled educational sessions on topics such as outdoor consumer buying behavior, the latest on public lands and tariffs.
Switchback Spring drew 1,286 attendees from 41 states and nine countries, with exhibiting brands and organizations covering over 30,000 square feet of exhibit space. The event included 46 speakers and 26 education sessions, including a live broadcast on the show floor with The Rock Fight podcast and a morning hike hosted by Merrell at Nashville’s Shelby Bottoms Greenway.
“The success of Switchback Spring was truly a team effort. Credit goes to our event team, our advisory board, our partners at Outdoor Industry Association and, most importantly, the outdoor community,” said Switchback director, Christina Henderson. “As successful and energizing as this debut event was, it also showed us where the opportunities are to lean in and further support the outdoor industry.”
Organizers announced today that the next installment of Switchback Spring will be held at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, June 16-18, 2026.
“As brands and retailers have embraced Switchback Spring, they’ve really made it their own with new ideas, new initiatives and incredible energy. We knew we needed a space to support that momentum,” said Henderson. “We’re excited for New Orleans, and for the energy and flexibility the venue will provide Switchback Spring in 2026.”
Additionally, Switchback at The Running Event will occur Dec. 2-4 in San Antonio.
