Outdoor Retailer will expand its “Gear of Tomorrow” platform at its August 20-21 show in Minneapolis by integrating university research labs and graduate business students into core programming, positioning the event as a working forum for product innovation and emerging industry leadership.
The initiative brings the University of Minnesota Wearable Technology Lab and the Western Colorado University Outdoor Industry MBA directly onto the show floor, connecting academic research and next-generation executives with brands, retailers and decision-makers.
According to a press release, led by Dr. Lucy Dunne, the University of Minnesota lab focuses on 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 design, and emergency and survival-focused applications.
Presentations will take place on the CAMP stage and through curated panels and structured industry roundtables. Select projects will also appear in a digital innovation lookbook distributed to attendees.
“Our work is grounded in solving real performance challenges,” said Lucy Dunne. “This partnership creates a direct bridge between research and the companies developing outdoor products at scale.”
Outdoor Retailer will also launch the OR Gen Z Challenge in partnership with Western Colorado University’s Outdoor Industry MBA program.
Students will present research on how younger consumers and early-career professionals approach participation, sustainability, brand expectations and career pathways within the outdoor sector.
Findings from that research will be shared on the CAMP stage on August 20, offering brands data-driven insight into generational 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 Outdoor Industry MBA at Western Colorado University. “This gives our students a platform to contribute meaningful perspectives grounded in research.”
The press release said embedding university research labs and MBA programs into show programming responds to increasing technical complexity and shifting consumer expectations across the outdoor market.
“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.”