What began as niche garage sales and local gear swaps has exploded into a $27.5 billion resale market, outpacing traditional retail growth. Brands like Arc’teryx, Patagonia, and REI are leading the resale movement, as secondhand gear is redefining how we see and engage with the outdoors.
Sustainability: The Driving Force Behind the Resale Revolution
Consumers are voting with their wallets: 55% of Americans now insist on buying from sustainable brands, and outdoor enthusiasts are at the forefront of this shift.
- The global outdoor products market is projected to reach $129.1 billion by 2032 (up from $70.2 billion in 2023), with resale driving a significant share of this growth.
- Resale spending surged 5% year-over-year in October 2024, far outpacing the broader retail sector’s 3% decline.
Brands are responding with circular economy initiatives. Patagonia’s Worn Wear program, launched in 2017, repairs and resells used gear while offering free repairs to extend product lifecycles. Similarly, REI’s Used Gear platform has diverted tons of equipment from landfills since its 2018 debut, with pop-up resale stores expanding nationwide. The environmental impact is staggering: extending a garment’s life by just 2.2 years reduces its carbon footprint by 82%.
Accessibility: Democratizing the Outdoors Through Affordability
Resale isn’t just an eco-friendly solution—it’s making outdoor adventure more accessible by breaking down financial barriers. With premium hiking jackets often retailing for over $300 and tents exceeding $500, secondhand platforms offer a way for more people to access high-quality gear without the steep price tag.
At Durango Outdoor Exchange, 70% of winter sales come from consignment, which allows families and budget-conscious adventurers to gear up affordably. This trend reflects a wider shift in the industry, where resale is growing in market expansion. The outdoor apparel market, valued at $18.9 billion in 2019, is projected to reach $25.3 billion by 2025, with resale contributing to this growth at an annual rate of 7%.
Brands are also seeing resale as a powerful customer acquisition tool. REI reports that 30% of used gear buyers are first-time customers who later invest in new products, proving that resale doesn’t just make outdoor gear more accessible – it builds long-term brand loyalty.
Tech-savvy millennials and Gen Z – who comprise 57% of the outdoor resale market – are driving demand for platforms that blend affordability with sustainability. As REI’s CEO noted: “Resale isn’t cannibalizing sales; it’s expanding our community.” The Future of Outdoor Retail is Circular.
The resale boom shift signals a cultural realignment – Brands that embrace re-commerce are seeing double-digit growth in customer engagement while reducing their environmental impact. For consumers, it’s a chance to access premium gear, support sustainability, and join a community that values adventure over excess.
ENDVR equips RSAs with the knowledge to confidently communicate a brand’s commitment to sustainability, product longevity, and resale opportunities. Through interactive training and real-time updates, RSAs can guide customers on trade-in programs, gear refurbishment, and eco-friendly purchasing options. When RSAs understand resale’s value, they don’t just sell products—they strengthen brand loyalty and reinforce sustainability with every customer interaction. Talk to an expert to learn how ENDVR can help your brand drive education, engagement, and impact.
