MINNEAPOLIS — Outdoor Retailer, the national gathering of the outdoor community, is expanding its “Gear of Tomorrow” platform, an initiative focused on product innovation and emerging industry talent, by bringing university research labs and next-generation business leaders directly into the heart of its August 2026 show in Minneapolis, according to a release.
“Gear of Tomorrow” spotlights students, designers, engineers, and future executives developing ideas that are shaping the outdoor industry’s next phase of growth. For 2026, Outdoor Retailer is partnering with the University of Minnesota’s Wearable Technology Lab and Western Colorado University’s Outdoor Industry MBA (OIMBA) program, connecting academic research and emerging leadership talent with brands, retailers, and decision-makers on the show floor.
Engineering the Next Phase of Outdoor Performance
Led by Dr. Lucy Dunne, the University of Minnesota’s Wearable Technology Lab explores technical apparel at the intersection of textiles, electronics, biomechanics, and environmental response. Students will present applied research and prototype concepts addressing:
- Climate-adaptive apparel systems
- Integrated cooling technologies
- Enhanced mobility and movement design
- Emergency and survival-focused applications
Through the CAMP stage presentations, curated panels, and structured industry roundtables, brands gain early access to breakthrough concepts, emerging talent, and research that can accelerate product development pipelines. Companies will engage directly with students testing next-generation solutions, offering a rare opportunity to scout partnerships, inform R&D strategy, and evaluate commercially viable technologies before they reach the broader market. Select projects will also be featured in a digital innovation lookbook distributed to attendees, extending visibility and connection beyond the live event.
“Our work is grounded in solving real performance challenges,” said Dr. Dunne. “This partnership creates a direct bridge between research and the companies developing outdoor products at scale.”
The OR Gen Z Challenge: Understanding the Industry’s Emerging Leaders
Outdoor Retailer is also launching the OR Gen Z Challenge in partnership with Western Colorado University’s Outdoor Industry MBA program. OIMBA students will present research examining how younger consumers and early-career professionals approach participation, sustainability, brand expectations, and career pathways within the outdoor sector.
Their findings will be shared on the CAMP stage on August 20, offering brands research-backed perspectives on evolving generational priorities and engagement patterns.
“The industry’s long-term health depends on how well it listens to the next generation,” said Jen Visitacion, program director of the OIMBA at Western Colorado University. “This gives our students a platform to contribute meaningful perspectives grounded in research.”
Strengthening the Industry Pipeline
As outdoor brands navigate increasing technical complexity and shifting consumer expectations, demand continues to grow for well-trained designers, engineers, and business leaders.
By embedding university research labs and MBA programs into core show programming, Outdoor Retailer is positioning “Gear of Tomorrow” as a working forum where emerging talent and established companies connect in practical, actionable ways.
“Outdoor Retailer has always been where the outdoor business gathers,” said Lindsay Hubley, senior vice president of Emerald’s Sports and Outdoor Division. “With ‘Gear of Tomorrow,’ we’re creating meaningful opportunities for the people who will lead its continued evolution.”
