Outdoor Industry Trends

In the take-it-for-what-it’s-worth file, the organizers of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market trade show have identified a few “key trends” based on last month’s show in Salt Lake City. Here’s the dope:

Trend No. 1—Luxury Camping
Many exhibitors are addressing the needs of the maturing Baby Boomer Generation by introducing high-end camping gear designed around comfort. Exhibitors at Summer Market displayed top-of-the-line camp furniture, canoes and kayaks, wired apparel, grills, radio coolers, hammocks and more, all intended for campers demanding the comfort of home away from home.

Trend No. 2—Footwear Segment Takes Off
The footwear segment continues to build momentum as an essential part of the outdoor community. Niche markets now include outdoor walking and women’s climbing shoes.

Trend No. 3—Increasing Action Sports Presence
Yet another buzz factor is the steady emergence of the action sport market at the OR trade show. New exhibitors such as Quiksilver USA, 686 and Olukai had attendees talking about the fusion of action sports with outdoor adventures.

Trend No. 4—Connecting With the Youth Market
This year, many outdoor industry manufacturers and retailers are turning their focus towards the youth market, also known as the “Millennial Generation.” This generation’s notion of fun represents the future of the business, and thus a number of exhibitors are launching products designed to engage and excite the youth market.