Switchback Event

The Running Event (TRE) celebrated a record-breaking 18th edition November 19-21 in Austin, TX, reflecting the industry's continued growth and innovation. “The success of this year's event demonstrates exactly what makes the run and outdoor industry so special," said Christina Henderson, TRE Event Director. "Once again, we saw record-breaking attendance and our largest-ever exhibit hall, which is only a testament to the growth and excitement that is abundant in our industry right now. We're proud of TRE's role in that success." TRE 2024 welcomed 4,872 total verified attendees—a 20% increase from 2023—and showcased 336 brands, including 111 new exhibitors. Spanning a 90,500 sq. ft. exhibit hall, 15% larger than the previous year, the event featured the latest in footwear, apparel, technology, and more, alongside dozens of educational sessions and networking opportunities. Read the post-show release here: https://lnkd.in/ePqQDsDG

Switchback at The Running Event kicks off next week! Here are a few highlights you'll find in Austin: ??Education sessions including "Navigating the Post-Election Landscape: Market Insights and Opportunities" (presented by Jaclyn Levy, Outdoor Industry Association), "Developing Meaningful Relationships with Non-Profits" (presented by Leave No Trace), and "The New Outdoors: How Culture & Style Collided with the Outdoors" (presented by Highsnobiety) ??Get outside during the annual Trail Cleanup, taking place Tuesday, November 19 at 7:00 AM at the Ann and Roy Butler Hike & Bike Trail ??Join us for an Outdoor Industry Gathering at "The Park" (Booth 2111) on Wednesday, November 20 from 2:30-3:00 PM ??Meet our 2024 partner organizations during our first-ever Partner Hour! Stop by "The Park" on Wednesday, Nov. 20 from 4:00-5:00 PM and learn more about these impactful industry groups. For a look at all education and networking events - and to register - visit https://lnkd.in/enyjQp9m

New episode alert on the outdoor adventure lifestyle podcast! ??? I had a fantastic conversation with Christina Henderson, event director of Switchback Event, a groundbreaking event that merges business, education, and community-building for the outdoor industry. Christina dives into Switchback's journey, rapid growth, and how they’re shaping the future of outdoor connections and sustainability. If you’re passionate about the outdoors, this one’s for you! #outdooradventure #lifestylepodcast #outdoorindustry #communitybuilding #sustainability #outdoorprofessionals

Switchback has established an advisory board to help support and guide its June standalone gathering in Nashville, TN, and?the co-located gathering at The Running Event. The board will advise Switchback on education, networking, and growth opportunities while representing the needs and challenges of the outdoor industry. “The formation of the Switchback advisory board comes at a pivotal time for our industry,” said Kent Ebersole, Outdoor Industry Association President. “Together, we have the opportunity to shape the future of how we gather as an industry in ways that will catalyze meaningful change. I look forward to collaborating with the board to ensure that the outdoor industry remains a leader in innovation and a force for good for both people and the planet.” Ready today's press release to learn more and meet the Switchback advisory board: https://lnkd.in/eNQNyWSY

Switchback and The Running Event Director Christina Henderson recently joined The GearJunkie Podcast to talk everything from the crossover between running and the outdoors to the journey to her current role. "Run specialty and outdoor specialty have many of the same opportunities, challenges - they can learn from each other, so bringing them all together is very powerful," said Henderson. Listen to the episode here: https://lnkd.in/euYnx8PR

Not sure what to expect at Switchback at The Running Event? The 2024 Event Guide is a great resource for learning more about education programming, exhibiting brands, networking opportunities, and much more. Check it out!

Give yesterday's episode of The Rock Fight a listen! Outdoor Industry Association President Kent Ebersole talks through the OIA's recently-announcement partnership with Switchback, as well as the future of the OIA and outdoor industry gatherings.

We're thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), designed to strengthen the impact of our twice-annual outdoor sector gathering. As a key tool in supporting industry connections and growth, the year-round partnership will debut at the inaugural Switchback Spring, taking place June 16-18, 2025, in Nashville, TN. It will also include support of Switchback’s fall event, held in conjunction with The Running Event. As a partner,?OIA will enhance Switchback gatherings with learnings from leading industry data, legacy knowledge of essential and emerging issues, and deep connections throughout the outdoor community. “The number one request I hear from both long-time veterans of our industry and the rising next generation is ‘give us a great place to gather.’ The Switchback team has a proven track record of success, and we’re excited to collaborate with them on growing an event that can deliver multiple benefits to a wide range of outdoor industry members,” said Kent Ebersole, OIA President. For more information about the partnership, read today’s press release:

Are you looking to foster a stronger connection with your trail running crew? Check out our latest article on Trailheads by Switchback where we share 5 actionable tips to help you engage and grow your trail running community. From creating inclusive events to leveraging social media, these insights will take your group to the next level and keep the adventure going! Read the full article below. Whether you're an organizer, a dedicated runner, or someone looking to get started, our Trailheads publication offers valuable tips, industry insights, and inspiration for all things outdoor. Follow Switchback to stay updated!

Discover the inspiration behind the name "Switchback" and how it embodies success for outdoor retailers. A recent Trailheads article explores what's ahead for Switchback, how we got to where we are now, and why "Switchback" ties it all together. Read the full story to learn how the event will support the outdoor industry in navigating new directions. #Trailheads