The Future of Outdoor Starts in Minneapolis.

Outdoor Retailer is entering a new era, and you need to be part of it. Join us in Minneapolis from August 19-21, 2026, for a completely reimagined experience designed to foster connection, drive innovation, and shape the future of the outdoor industry. This is more than a trade show; it’s the central gathering for discovery, strategic growth, and community. Whether you’re a specialty retailer, a growing brand, or an industry leader, this is your platform to connect with the people and ideas that will move your business forward.

Your Path to Discovery and Growth

We’ve rebuilt Outdoor Retailer from the ground up based on conversations with leaders like you. The result is an event focused on what matters most: discovering unique products, gaining practical education, and building meaningful partnerships.

Experience the Reimagined Show Floor

Our new format is designed for collaboration and innovation. Explore curated districts that make it easier to find what you’re looking for and discover the unexpected.

• Ascent: An innovation district dedicated to emerging brands and disruptive products. Find your next bestseller before anyone else.
• Outdoor Lab: Get a first look at forward-thinking product design and sustainable materials that will define the gear of tomorrow.
• Leadership Village: Connect directly with a dedicated team of industry veterans, athletes, and brand leaders co-led by Sunny Stroeer and Paul Gagner, who are shaping the show’s direction.
• Campfire & Camp Forward: Hear inspiring stories from the heart of the outdoor community and listen to futurist keynotes and startup pitches that offer a glimpse into what’s next.

Exclusive Education to Elevate Your Business

This year, we’re launching two powerful, back-to-back educational forums on August 19th, both included with your registration. Gain actionable insights to strengthen every aspect of your operations.

Retail Playbook Lab

Wednesday, August 19, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Designed exclusively for retail owners, buyers, and managers, this half-day conference provides hands-on expertise to modernize your business. Choose from nine interactive workshops across four essential tracks:

• The People & Culture Playbook: Learn proven strategies for hiring, training, and retaining a career-focused retail team.
• The Resilient Operations Playbook: Master the essentials of risk management and cybersecurity to protect your business.
• The Customer Growth Playbook: Develop low-cost social media programs, execute engaging in-store events, and authentically serve a more diverse customer base.
• The Future-Proofing Playbook: Get hands-on with AI tools to automate tasks and learn how to launch a profitable resale or repair program.

The Lab concludes with a lunch keynote from Eoin Comerford, former CEO of Moosejaw, on the critical importance of new brand discovery.

Industry Day: Outdoor Next

Wednesday, August 19, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM

Immediately following the Retail Playbook Lab, join the entire industry for “Outdoor Next: Ideas That Move Us Forward.” This dynamic forum tackles our community’s biggest challenges and opportunities through a series of rapid-fire panels and debates.

• The Big Debate: Is the independent shop the future of the outdoor industry?
• The New Customer Code: Unlock growth with Gen Z and women, two of the most influential customer segments.
• The Gear of Tomorrow: Explore the next frontier of performance gear, from wearables to smart tech.
• The Tools of Tomorrow: Learn how AI and the circular economy will transform our business models.

A New Home in an Outdoor Hub

Minneapolis offers the perfect backdrop for the next chapter of Outdoor Retailer. Chosen for its world-class trails, expansive waterways, and a vibrant outdoor business community, the city provides both the infrastructure and the inspiration to drive our industry forward.

With strong support from the local outdoor economy—a sector contributing $13.5 billion to the state—this move marks a fresh stage for collaboration and creativity to thrive.

Join Us in Minneapolis

Be part of the conversation. Discover the products, people, and strategies that will define the next decade of the outdoor industry. Secure your spot and get ready to connect, learn, and grow.

Apply for the Hosted Buyer Program

Outdoor Retailer has a robust Hosted Buyer Program intended for specialty independent retailers who are ready to purchase outdoor apparel, clothing, footwear, gear, recreation and leisure products. Get in on the ground floor and be part of this brand new program. Submitting your application below will afford specialty retailer buyers the opportunity to subsidize out-of-pocket travel costs to attend the show. Each application will be reviewed and vetted by our show team on a case-by-case basis. Submitting an application does not guarantee approval. 

How Can We Help?

Questions about the show? Want to know more information? Our show team is here to help answer any questions you may have.