When it comes to growth and idea-sharing in the running and outdoor industries, Switchback at The Running Event might just be the place to go.
Founded in 2006, The Running Event (TRE) brings together the running industry and creates a space for business, learning, and connection. Now in its second year, Switchback at TRE invites the greater outdoor industry to join the event.
Switchback at TRE provides a new expo area for brands and retailers. This new expo opens up the event to exhibitors from the outdoor industry at large, not just the running sector. For three days (from November 28 to 30), the event will run at the Austin Convention Center in Austin, Texas.
Read on to learn more about the event and how to attend in 2023.
Photo: Switchback at The Running Event
What Is Switchback at The Running Event?
Switchback is an expansion of The Running Event that includes brands and exhibitors from the greater outdoor industry. TRE is North America’s premier run specialty trade show. In 2022, it had over 275 exhibitors and attracted thousands of retailers and attendees seeking the latest in footwear, apparel, and gear.
The crossover between running and other types of outdoor recreation continues to grow at an exciting rate. Switchback at TRE takes advantage of the TRE platform and the many running brands that attend the trade show. Adding a space for outdoor specialty brands was a natural progression for the event.
This intimate gathering of people, ideas, and products fosters relationship-building and uncovering the latest trends. The event includes interactive exhibits, conference sessions, and plenty of networking opportunities. In 2022, the event included 11 training sessions and 25 conference sessions. It culminated with a dynamic keynote from Allyson Felix, the most decorated American track and field Olympian of all time.
Photo: Switchback at The Running Event
Growth of Switchback at TRE
Now in its 17th year, The Running Event has gathered thousands of industry professionals. With the addition of more outdoor retailers, brands, and thought leaders, the opportunity for growth is ever-increasing. It has great potential for the running and outdoor industries to merge and move forward.
“Switchback at The Running Event creates one-of-a-kind moments of productivity, continued learning, and celebration among attendees and brands we don’t see or experience anywhere else,” said Christina Henderson, event director for The Running Event.
“Our mission to advance the running industry is unwavering, and we are thrilled to welcome outdoor retailers and brands once again in 2023 to both support that mission and provide a valuable opportunity for the outdoor specialty industry.”
The event sets up its exhibit hall to promote networking, communication, and interaction. Exhibitors and attendees can connect with peers and access educational tools, panel discussions, and interactive experiences. According to Switchback at TRE, it’s a cost-effective opportunity for anyone in the outdoor industry who wants to connect with running.
Who’s Going
Switchback at TRE already has a varied group of exhibitors from the outdoor industry signed up. These brands include SCARPA, KEEN Footwear, Dansko, LOWA Boots, adidas Terrex, Lamo Sheepskin, Oboz Footwear, Farm to Feet, Sunski, Allrounder by Mephisto, Flipmits, Alegria Shoes, Zamberlan, and Outdoor Research. Top brands from the running world, such as HOKA, Brooks, ASICS, Balega, New Balance, On, and Saucony are also attending.
Several unique outdoor and running organizations will be onsite to share their knowledge and insights. The groups include the National Shoe Retailers Association, The Conservation Alliance, the Running Industry Diversity Coalition, and the Low Impact Alliance.
But Switchback at TRE isn’t just about networking and products — it’s also a chance to share a love for running and the outdoors. In addition to learning about the newest products and ideas, participants will also have a chance to celebrate the community centered around it.
Photo: Switchback at The Running Event
How to Attend
According to Switchback at TRE, no other event gets such a varied group of outdoor and running industry leaders together to share ideas, inspiration, and insights. It claims to be a not-to-be-missed opportunity for anyone involved in the running or outdoor industries.
If you’re part of an outdoor brand, store, or organization that would like to attend, visit the Switchback at TRE website to learn more about attending or exhibiting.
[Editor’s Note: This article is sponsored by Switchback at The Running Event. Find out more about Switchback at The Running Event. Thank you to the event for its sponsorship of iRunFar, which helps to make iRunFar happen and free for all to enjoy. Learn more about our sponsored articles. This article first appeared on sister website GearJunkie.]
