Outdoor Retailer Summer 2023

Introduction to Outdoor Retailer Summer 2023

Outdoor Retailer Summer 2023, held in Salt Lake City, Utah, was the ultimate gathering for outdoor enthusiasts and industry professionals. This year’s event featured 1,000+ exhibitors and 20,000+ attendees, highlighting the latest in outdoor gear, apparel, and innovation. From sustainable products to cutting-edge technology, the trade show set the tone for the future of outdoor adventures.

The largest global B2B trade events serving the outdoor industry.

Outdoor Retailer is North America's largest tradeshow in the outdoor industry drawing attendees from around the world. At the heart of Outdoor Retailer is an incredible community of brands, retailers, decision makers, designers and key stakeholders that gather to do business and have important conversations that influence our future. Don't miss out—a community together wins!

Outdoor Retailer returned to Salt Lake for Snow Show 2023 welcomed more than 6,000 attendees and featured over 400 global brands as the snow sports and outdoor industries gathered to celebrate innovation and community. The event opened with The Summit by Outdoor Retailer on-mountain experience at Brighton Resort on January 9, 2023, where participants engaged in unique winter classes and experiences, including Alpine touring, splitboarding, snowshoe hiking, winter first aid, avalanche essentials, ski waxing clinics, cooking demonstrations, and more.

The three-day Snow Show from January 10-12, 2023, brought together retailers and reps, designers and product developers, advocates and influencers, explorers and journalists into the Salt Palace Convention Center for commerce, learning, discovery, and connection. And the fifth annual Outdoor Retailer Innovation Awards recognized the new products and programs pushing the industry forward.

Key Highlights of Outdoor Retailer Summer 2023

1. Sustainable Outdoor Gear

Sustainability was a major focus, with brands showcasing eco-friendly products:

• Recycled materials in backpacks, tents, and apparel
• Biodegradable camping gear like utensils and packaging
• Carbon-neutral production processes

Brands like Patagonia and REI Co-op led the charge, emphasizing their commitment to environmental responsibility.

2. Lightweight & Compact Equipment

Innovations in lightweight gear were a game-changer:

• Ultralight tents and sleeping bags
• Collapsible cookware for easy packing
• Compact hiking poles with advanced materials

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 tent was a standout, offering durability and portability.

3. Tech-Enhanced Outdoor Experiences

Technology is transforming outdoor adventures:

• GPS-enabled smartwatches for navigation
• Solar-powered chargers for off-grid trips
• Wearable tech for tracking performance

The Garmin Instinct 2 Solar watch impressed with its long battery life and rugged design.

4. Inclusive Outdoor Apparel

Apparel brands focused on inclusivity and functionality:

• Extended sizing for all body types
• Adaptive clothing for people with disabilities
• Gender-neutral designs

Columbia’s PFG Tamiami Shirt and The North Face’s FutureLight Jacket were crowd favorites for their versatility and comfort.

Trends to Watch in 2024

Based on Outdoor Retailer Summer 2023, here’s what to expect in the coming year:

1. Eco-conscious innovations in gear and apparel
2. Hybrid products for multi-sport adventures
3. Community-driven initiatives to promote outdoor access

Why Outdoor Retailer Matters

Outdoor Retailer is more than a trade show—it’s a platform for innovation and collaboration. It brings together:

• Brands showcasing their latest products
• Retailers discovering new trends
• Outdoor enthusiasts exploring the future of adventure

Final Thoughts

Outdoor Retailer Summer 2023 proved that the outdoor industry is evolving with a focus on sustainability, technology, and inclusivity. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual hiker, the event offered something for everyone.

For more information, visit the official Outdoor Retailer website or explore Outside Online for additional insights.