GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2023

Critical Outdoor Industry Trends [Fresh Research]

Last Updated: October 31, 2023

Written & Summarized by: Jannik Lindner

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Highlights: The Most Important Outdoor Industry Trends

Outdoor Industry Trends: Our Guide

Stay ahead of the curve with our deep dive into the critical outdoor industry trends backed by fresh research. Uncover the key market changes, consumer behaviours, and innovative technologies reshaping the outdoor industry. Don’t get left behind – let us navigate the rapidly evolving landscape and ensure you’re well-prepared for future developments.

Eco-Tourism And Sustainable Travel

Outdoor enthusiasts are more interested in eco-tours and sustainable travel, choosing activities and destinations focused on preserving and protecting natural resources.

Experiential And Adventure Travel

Outdoor lovers prioritize personal growth, cultural immersion, and environmental conservation in activities like hiking, biking, rafting, and paragliding, seeking unique experiences.

Wellness And Mindfulness Retreats

The wellness and mindfulness trend has branched out into the outdoor industry, with more tourists seeking retreats in natural settings to unplug from technology and focus on wellbeing.

Alternative Accommodations

Glamping is on the rise, blending camping and hotel comforts, while unique stays like treehouses, yurts, and eco-lodges gain popularity.

Solo Travel And Women-Led Expeditions

Solo travel is booming as more seek independence and empowerment outdoors. Plus, there’s a rising demand for women-led tours and expeditions tailored for women.

Family-Oriented Experiences

Amid a work-life balance push, the outdoor industry emphasizes family bonding in nature with guided trips, camping, and educational programs for all ages and skills.

Voluntourism, Community-Based Tourism

The outdoor industry notes a rise in voluntourism, where travelers volunteer during vacations, and community-based tourism, enhancing local economies through cultural experiences.

Multi-Generational Travel

Multi-generational travel rises as baby boomers retire and the youth seek outdoor adventures, promoting family bonding and shared experiences among grandparents, parents, and children.

Customization And Personalization

Customized and personalized travel experiences are becoming increasingly popular, with travelers seeking outdoor activities tailored to their interests, fitness levels, and personal preferences.

Adaptive And Inclusive Outdoor Recreation

Inclusivity is vital in the outdoor industry, with growing efforts to create adaptive programs and experiences for those with disabilities and other minority groups.

VR, AR, And Gamification

Technology is playing a role in outdoor trends, with the integration of virtual and augmented reality enhancing outdoor experiences through gamification, interactive apps and location-based services.

Drone Photography And Videography

Drone technology is becoming more accessible and affordable, leading to a rise in drone photography and videography to capture stunning outdoor landscapes and adventures.

Wearable Technology And Smart Gear

The outdoor industry embraces wearable tech and smart gear, blending fashion, function, and technology for safer, more comfortable, and higher-performing outdoor experiences.

Conservation And Education Initiatives

The outdoor industry grows in popularity, playing a larger role in conservation through citizen science projects, eco-tourism certifications, and community partnerships.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top outdoor industry trends for 2021?

The top trends include an increased focus on sustainability, the rise in popularity of outdoor e-commerce sales, growth in adventure travel, digital technology advancements, and the blurring of lines between outdoor gear and casual, everyday clothing.

How is sustainability shaping the outdoor industry?

Companies are increasingly focusing on eco-friendly practices, such as using recycled materials in product manufacturing, adopting circular economy principles, and promoting responsible consumption. Many outdoor brands now prioritize repair services and environmental stewardship initiatives as part of their broader sustainability efforts.

How has COVID-19 impacted the outdoor industry?

The pandemic has led to a surge in demand for outdoor gear and activities, as people have adapted to social distancing guidelines by pursuing more outdoor leisure pursuits. This has created both opportunities and challenges for companies in the industry, which must adapt to shifting customer expectations and preferences while also addressing supply chain bottlenecks.

What role does technology play in the outdoor industry trends of 2021?

Technological advancements like wearable devices, navigation apps, and outdoor-focused ecommerce platforms are becoming increasingly prominent. Innovations in material science, such as lightweight and durable fabrics, contribute to the continuous improvement of outdoor products. Additionally, digital marketing strategies help brands reach new and existing customers more effectively.

Can you explain the trend of "athleisure" and its impact on the outdoor industry?

Athleisure refers to the merging of athletic wear and leisure wear, blurring the lines between performance gear and casual attire. In the outdoor industry, this trend has led to the creation of versatile products that cater to a wide range of activities – from hiking to social gatherings – as customers increasingly prioritize a blend of function, comfort, and style in their apparel choices.

How we write these articles

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly. See our Editorial Guidelines.

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