Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Size and Outlook 2031

Report Description

Forecast Period	2027-2031
Market Size (2025)	USD 50.12 Billion
CAGR (2026-2031)	4.19%
Fastest Growing Segment	On-the-water Sports Gear and Equipment
Largest Market	North America
Market Size (2031)	USD 64.12 Billion

Market Overview

The Global Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market will grow from USD 50.12 Billion in 2025 to USD 64.12 Billion by 2031 at a 4.19% CAGR. The Global Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market comprises specialized apparel and hardware, including wetsuits, safety vests, and boards, designed for aquatic activities such as surfing, diving, and kayaking. The primary drivers supporting market growth include the rising global interest in outdoor adventure tourism and a growing consumer emphasis on physical wellness. Additionally, increased accessibility to inland and coastal water bodies through infrastructure development continues to broaden the potential customer base for these durable goods.

However, the high retail cost of advanced performance equipment presents a significant challenge, often limiting adoption among consumers with restricted discretionary income. This financial barrier can hinder broader market penetration, particularly in emerging economies where price sensitivity is acute. Providing context on the foundational market scale, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, in 2025, the total number of registered and documented recreational vessels in the United States reached 11.8 million units for the 2024 period. This substantial fleet size underscores the robust and recurring demand for compatible water sports accessories and safety equipment.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Global Participation in Recreational and Competitive Water Sports acts as a primary catalyst for market expansion, fundamentally driven by a societal shift toward outdoor fitness and wellness. As consumers increasingly prioritize active lifestyles, there is a parallel escalation in demand for specialized aquatic gear, ranging from high-performance wetsuits to essential safety apparatus. This trend is quantifiable through industry activity levels; according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, February 2024, in the '2024 U.S. Topline Participation Report', participation in the water sports category specifically grew by over 9% in 2023 compared to the previous year. This substantial influx of new enthusiasts necessitates a continuous supply of both entry-level and professional-grade equipment, compelling manufacturers to diversify product lines to accommodate varying skill levels and drive recurring revenue through equipment upgrades.

Simultaneously, the Surge in Coastal and Adventure Tourism is reshaping consumption patterns, as "experiential travel" encourages diverse demographics to engage in aquatic activities during domestic and international leisure trips. This driver is intrinsically linked to the economic vitality of waterfront communities, where gear rental hubs and retail operations thrive on seasonal visitor flux. Underscoring the economic magnitude of this sector, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, November 2024, in the 'Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account, U.S. and States, 2023', boating and fishing activities alone generated a value added of $36.8 billion to the economy. To support this massive recreational ecosystem, major industrial players maintain significant inventory depth; for instance, according to Brunswick Corporation, February 2024, in the '2023 Annual Report', the company generated $1.2 billion in net sales specifically from its Engine Parts & Accessories segment in 2023. Such financial volumes indicate a robust, sustained requirement for maintenance gear and accessories to support the broader tourism and recreation infrastructure.

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Key Market Challenges

The high retail cost of advanced performance equipment presents a formidable barrier to the expansion of the global water sports market. As manufacturers integrate specialized materials to enhance durability and safety, the resulting price points frequently exceed the discretionary budgets of average consumers. This financial threshold effectively stratifies the market, restricting access to affluent demographics while excluding potential enthusiasts in emerging economies where price sensitivity is most acute. Consequently, the addressable customer base remains narrower than interest levels would suggest, effectively converting potential volume sales into niche luxury transactions and stalling the adoption curve for essential gear.

The direct impact of these financial headwinds is evident in the contraction of transactional volume within the broader marine leisure sector. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, in 2024, new boat sales accounted for 238,117 units, representing a decline in retail volume largely attributed to economic pressures and pricing. This reduction in the acquisition of foundational vessels directly dampens the recurring demand for compatible water sports accessories and safety equipment, demonstrating how cost barriers are actively hampering the market's trajectory.

Key Market Trends

The Development of Electrically Propelled Surfboards and Jet Skis is reshaping the water sports landscape by introducing high-performance, emission-free alternatives to traditional combustion engines. This shift is characterized by advancements in battery density and electric motor efficiency, enabling silent operation that allows riders to access environmentally protected waters previously restricted to motorized vessels. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on premium electric personal watercraft (PWC) that combine instant torque with advanced connectivity features, effectively creating a new luxury segment within the marine leisure industry. For instance, according to International Boat Industry, September 2025, in the 'Taiga Motors returns with new electric PWC' article, Taiga Motors unveiled its new Orca WX3 electric model, with retail pricing expected to start at US$23,999, highlighting the significant value proposition of specialized electric propulsion systems.

Simultaneously, the Integration of IoT Sensors and Wearable Technology in Gear is transforming how athletes interact with the aquatic environment through real-time performance analytics. Innovations in augmented reality (AR) and heads-up displays (HUD) now allow swimmers and divers to view critical metrics such as pace, heart rate, and navigation data directly within their field of view, eliminating the need to interrupt activity to check wrist-worn devices. This trend creates a quantified training ecosystem where hardware seamlessly synchronizes with digital coaching platforms to optimize technique. Exemplifying this technological leap, according to Auganix, July 2025, in the 'FORM Upgrades AR Swim Goggles with Gorilla Glass 3' report, the company launched its Smart Swim 2 PRO goggles featuring advanced AR capabilities at a price point of USD $329, demonstrating the growing commercial viability of smart aquatic equipment.

Segmental Insights

The On-the-water Sports Gear and Equipment segment currently represents the fastest-growing category within the Global Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market. This accelerated expansion is primarily driven by a surge in global participation regarding accessible recreational activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and rafting. Increasing consumer interest in soft adventure tourism combined with a focus on outdoor physical fitness has heightened the demand for personal watercraft and safety apparatus. Furthermore, strategic initiatives by bodies like the International Surfing Association to standardize competitions and improve accessibility continue to bolster global adoption rates for this specific segment.

Regional Insights

North America retains a dominant position in the Global Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market, driven by robust consumer participation and high disposable income. The region benefits from extensive access to diverse water bodies, including vast coastlines and inland lakes, which fosters a strong culture of recreational boating and board sports. Furthermore, strict safety regulations enforced by the United States Coast Guard compel the widespread adoption of compliant safety gear, such as personal flotation devices, significantly boosting market volume. This rigorous regulatory framework, combined with established tourism infrastructure, sustains North America’s leadership in the global industry.

Recent Developments

In November 2024, Garmin released the Descent X50i, the company's largest dive computer to date, equipped with a vivid 3-inch color touchscreen. The device incorporated SubWave sonar technology, allowing divers to exchange preset messages and monitor the tank pressure, depth, and distance of up to eight other divers underwater. Designed for both technical and recreational environments, the computer featured a 20 ATM water rating, a built-in backup dive light, and leakproof metal buttons. This product launch highlighted the company's focus on enhancing underwater communication and situational awareness for the diving community.
In June 2024, Suunto launched the Suunto Ocean, a new wearable device that integrated the functionalities of a premium dive computer with those of a GPS sports watch. The product featured a vibrant AMOLED color display and supported various dive modes, including single gas, multigas, and free diving. A key technological advancement was the inclusion of underwater route tracking, which allowed users to visualize their dive path in the company's mobile application after surfacing. Manufactured in Finland with renewable energy, the device also offered over 95 sport modes for topside activities, catering to versatile adventure enthusiasts.
In February 2024, Fliteboard announced the release of the Flite AIR and Flite AIR PRO electric hydrofoil boards at the Miami International Boat Show. These new models utilized a patent-pending rigid inflatable board technology, which combined a solid riding platform with a durable outer bladder to reduce production costs and weight. Priced at $6,995 USD, the boards were positioned as the most accessible options in the brand's lineup, specifically targeting beginners, schools, and rental operations. The launch aimed to broaden the consumer base for electric foiling by offering a durable, lightweight, and more affordable alternative to carbon fiber models.
In January 2024, Jetsurf introduced four new motorized surfboard models, significantly expanding its portfolio of high-performance water sports equipment. The launch included the JETSURF Electric 2, which featured an advanced water cooling system designed to regulate the temperature of the motor, controller, and battery for prolonged lifespan and peak performance. Additionally, the company revealed the Titanium DFI Super Light, a combustion-engine board weighing only 40 lbs and capable of speeds approaching 40 MPH. These innovations were developed to offer riders enhanced agility and speed while introducing improved safety features such as an intelligent battery charger.

Key Market Players

Arena Italia S.p.A.
Aquatec - Duton Industry Co., Ltd
Apollo Sports USA
Sunsets Watersports
Body Glove International
Billabong International Limited
Speedo International Ltd
Sherwood Scuba
Swimwear Anywhere, Inc.
Beuchat International

By Sports Type	By Product Type	By End User	By Distribution Channel	By Region
Underwater Sports Gear and Equipment In-the-water Sports Gear and Equipment On-the-water Sports Gear and Equipment	Water Sports Equipment Water Sports Apparel (Swimwear, Swim Caps, Swim Goggles, Others)	Women Men Children	Sporting Goods Retailers Hypermarkets/Supermarkets Online	North America Europe Asia Pacific South America Middle East & Africa

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market, By Sports Type:

Underwater Sports Gear and Equipment
In-the-water Sports Gear and Equipment
On-the-water Sports Gear and Equipment

Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market, By Product Type:

Water Sports Equipment
Water Sports Apparel (Swimwear, Swim Caps, Swim Goggles, Others)

Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market, By End User:

Women
Men
Children

Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market, By Distribution Channel:

Sporting Goods Retailers
Hypermarkets/Supermarkets
Online

Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market, By Region:

North America

United States
Canada
Mexico

Europe

France
United Kingdom
Italy
Germany
Spain

Asia Pacific

China
India
Japan
Australia
South Korea

South America

Brazil
Argentina
Colombia

Middle East & Africa

South Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market.

Available Customizations:

Global Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

Global Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of this report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at [email protected]

Table of content

1. Product Overview

1.1. Market Definition

1.2. Scope of the Market

1.2.1. Markets Covered

1.2.2. Years Considered for Study

1.2.3. Key Market Segmentations

2. Research Methodology

2.1. Objective of the Study

2.2. Baseline Methodology

2.3. Key Industry Partners

2.4. Major Association and Secondary Sources

2.5. Forecasting Methodology

2.6. Data Triangulation & Validation

2.7. Assumptions and Limitations

3. Executive Summary

3.1. Overview of the Market

3.2. Overview of Key Market Segmentations

3.3. Overview of Key Market Players

3.4. Overview of Key Regions/Countries

3.5. Overview of Market Drivers, Challenges, Trends

4. Voice of Customer

5. Global Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

5.1. Market Size & Forecast

5.1.1. By Value

5.2. Market Share & Forecast

5.2.1. By Sports Type (Underwater Sports Gear and Equipment, In-the-water Sports Gear and Equipment, On-the-water Sports Gear and Equipment)

5.2.2. By Product Type (Water Sports Equipment, Water Sports Apparel (Swimwear, Swim Caps, Swim Goggles, Others))

5.2.3. By End User (Women, Men, Children)

5.2.4. By Distribution Channel (Sporting Goods Retailers, Hypermarkets/Supermarkets, Online)

5.2.5. By Region

5.2.6. By Company (2025)

5.3. Market Map

6. North America Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

6.1. Market Size & Forecast

6.1.1. By Value

6.2. Market Share & Forecast

6.2.1. By Sports Type

6.2.2. By Product Type

6.2.3. By End User

6.2.4. By Distribution Channel

6.2.5. By Country

6.3. North America: Country Analysis

6.3.1. United States Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

6.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast

6.3.1.1.1. By Value

6.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast

6.3.1.2.1. By Sports Type

6.3.1.2.2. By Product Type

6.3.1.2.3. By End User

6.3.1.2.4. By Distribution Channel

6.3.2. Canada Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

6.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast

6.3.2.1.1. By Value

6.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast

6.3.2.2.1. By Sports Type

6.3.2.2.2. By Product Type

6.3.2.2.3. By End User

6.3.2.2.4. By Distribution Channel

6.3.3. Mexico Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

6.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast

6.3.3.1.1. By Value

6.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast

6.3.3.2.1. By Sports Type

6.3.3.2.2. By Product Type

6.3.3.2.3. By End User

6.3.3.2.4. By Distribution Channel

7. Europe Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

7.1. Market Size & Forecast

7.1.1. By Value

7.2. Market Share & Forecast

7.2.1. By Sports Type

7.2.2. By Product Type

7.2.3. By End User

7.2.4. By Distribution Channel

7.2.5. By Country

7.3. Europe: Country Analysis

7.3.1. Germany Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

7.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast

7.3.1.1.1. By Value

7.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast

7.3.1.2.1. By Sports Type

7.3.1.2.2. By Product Type

7.3.1.2.3. By End User

7.3.1.2.4. By Distribution Channel

7.3.2. France Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

7.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast

7.3.2.1.1. By Value

7.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast

7.3.2.2.1. By Sports Type

7.3.2.2.2. By Product Type

7.3.2.2.3. By End User

7.3.2.2.4. By Distribution Channel

7.3.3. United Kingdom Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

7.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast

7.3.3.1.1. By Value

7.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast

7.3.3.2.1. By Sports Type

7.3.3.2.2. By Product Type

7.3.3.2.3. By End User

7.3.3.2.4. By Distribution Channel

7.3.4. Italy Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

7.3.4.1. Market Size & Forecast

7.3.4.1.1. By Value

7.3.4.2. Market Share & Forecast

7.3.4.2.1. By Sports Type

7.3.4.2.2. By Product Type

7.3.4.2.3. By End User

7.3.4.2.4. By Distribution Channel

7.3.5. Spain Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

7.3.5.1. Market Size & Forecast

7.3.5.1.1. By Value

7.3.5.2. Market Share & Forecast

7.3.5.2.1. By Sports Type

7.3.5.2.2. By Product Type

7.3.5.2.3. By End User

7.3.5.2.4. By Distribution Channel

8. Asia Pacific Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

8.1. Market Size & Forecast

8.1.1. By Value

8.2. Market Share & Forecast

8.2.1. By Sports Type

8.2.2. By Product Type

8.2.3. By End User

8.2.4. By Distribution Channel

8.2.5. By Country

8.3. Asia Pacific: Country Analysis

8.3.1. China Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

8.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast

8.3.1.1.1. By Value

8.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast

8.3.1.2.1. By Sports Type

8.3.1.2.2. By Product Type

8.3.1.2.3. By End User

8.3.1.2.4. By Distribution Channel

8.3.2. India Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

8.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast

8.3.2.1.1. By Value

8.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast

8.3.2.2.1. By Sports Type

8.3.2.2.2. By Product Type

8.3.2.2.3. By End User

8.3.2.2.4. By Distribution Channel

8.3.3. Japan Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

8.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast

8.3.3.1.1. By Value

8.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast

8.3.3.2.1. By Sports Type

8.3.3.2.2. By Product Type

8.3.3.2.3. By End User

8.3.3.2.4. By Distribution Channel

8.3.4. South Korea Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

8.3.4.1. Market Size & Forecast

8.3.4.1.1. By Value

8.3.4.2. Market Share & Forecast

8.3.4.2.1. By Sports Type

8.3.4.2.2. By Product Type

8.3.4.2.3. By End User

8.3.4.2.4. By Distribution Channel

8.3.5. Australia Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

8.3.5.1. Market Size & Forecast

8.3.5.1.1. By Value

8.3.5.2. Market Share & Forecast

8.3.5.2.1. By Sports Type

8.3.5.2.2. By Product Type

8.3.5.2.3. By End User

8.3.5.2.4. By Distribution Channel

9. Middle East & Africa Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

9.1. Market Size & Forecast

9.1.1. By Value

9.2. Market Share & Forecast

9.2.1. By Sports Type

9.2.2. By Product Type

9.2.3. By End User

9.2.4. By Distribution Channel

9.2.5. By Country

9.3. Middle East & Africa: Country Analysis

9.3.1. Saudi Arabia Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

9.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast

9.3.1.1.1. By Value

9.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast

9.3.1.2.1. By Sports Type

9.3.1.2.2. By Product Type

9.3.1.2.3. By End User

9.3.1.2.4. By Distribution Channel

9.3.2. UAE Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

9.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast

9.3.2.1.1. By Value

9.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast

9.3.2.2.1. By Sports Type

9.3.2.2.2. By Product Type

9.3.2.2.3. By End User

9.3.2.2.4. By Distribution Channel

9.3.3. South Africa Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

9.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast

9.3.3.1.1. By Value

9.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast

9.3.3.2.1. By Sports Type

9.3.3.2.2. By Product Type

9.3.3.2.3. By End User

9.3.3.2.4. By Distribution Channel

10. South America Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

10.1. Market Size & Forecast

10.1.1. By Value

10.2. Market Share & Forecast

10.2.1. By Sports Type

10.2.2. By Product Type

10.2.3. By End User

10.2.4. By Distribution Channel

10.2.5. By Country

10.3. South America: Country Analysis

10.3.1. Brazil Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

10.3.1.1. Market Size & Forecast

10.3.1.1.1. By Value

10.3.1.2. Market Share & Forecast

10.3.1.2.1. By Sports Type

10.3.1.2.2. By Product Type

10.3.1.2.3. By End User

10.3.1.2.4. By Distribution Channel

10.3.2. Colombia Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

10.3.2.1. Market Size & Forecast

10.3.2.1.1. By Value

10.3.2.2. Market Share & Forecast

10.3.2.2.1. By Sports Type

10.3.2.2.2. By Product Type

10.3.2.2.3. By End User

10.3.2.2.4. By Distribution Channel

10.3.3. Argentina Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market Outlook

10.3.3.1. Market Size & Forecast

10.3.3.1.1. By Value

10.3.3.2. Market Share & Forecast

10.3.3.2.1. By Sports Type

10.3.3.2.2. By Product Type

10.3.3.2.3. By End User

10.3.3.2.4. By Distribution Channel

11. Market Dynamics

11.1. Drivers

11.2. Challenges

12. Market Trends & Developments

12.1. Merger & Acquisition (If Any)

12.2. Product Launches (If Any)

12.3. Recent Developments

13. Global Water Sports Gear & Equipment Market: SWOT Analysis

14. Porter's Five Forces Analysis

14.1. Competition in the Industry

14.2. Potential of New Entrants

14.3. Power of Suppliers

14.4. Power of Customers

14.5. Threat of Substitute Products

15. Competitive Landscape

15.1. Arena Italia S.p.A.

15.1.1. Business Overview

15.1.2. Products & Services

15.1.3. Recent Developments

15.1.4. Key Personnel

15.1.5. SWOT Analysis

15.2. Aquatec - Duton Industry Co., Ltd

15.3. Apollo Sports USA

15.4. Sunsets Watersports

15.5. Body Glove International

15.6. Billabong International Limited

15.7. Speedo International Ltd

15.8. Sherwood Scuba

15.9. Swimwear Anywhere, Inc.

15.10. Beuchat International

16. Strategic Recommendations

17. About Us & Disclaimer

Report Description

Table of content

Figures and Tables

Frequently asked questions

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