Surfing Apparel and Accessories Market

Surfing Apparel and Accessories Market Size & Share Analysis

The global surfing apparel and accessories market is anticipated to increase from US$9.5Bn in 2024 to US$14.1Bn by the end of 2031. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 5.5% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2031.

Key Highlights of the Market

• The increase in the number of surf schools, the acceptance of surfing as a lifestyle sport drives the market
• The increase in the number of surf schools, the acceptance of surfing as a lifestyle sport
• Consumers are increasingly looking for products that are environmentally friendly and made from sustainable materials
• North America holds the highest share of the surfing apparel and accessories market, with a significant 39.4% share in 2022

Attributes	Key Insights
Surfing Apparel and Accessories Market Size (2024E)	US$9.5 Bn
Projected Market Value (2031F)	US$14.1 Bn
Forecast Growth Rate (CAGR 2024 to 2031)	5.5%
Historical Growth Rate (CAGR 2019 to 2023)	5.81%

Market Introduction and Trend Analysis

Surfing attire and accessories is a delightful blend of practicality, style, and that unmistakable salty vibe. List of surfing apparel and accessories include wetsuits, wetsuit base layers, hoods, boardshorts, swimshorts, one-piece swim suits, sturdy bikini tops and bottoms, speedos, rash guards, surf tees Etc.

There is an increasing demand for surfing apparel and accessories market as below given:

• Increasing Popularity of Surfing: Surfing is becoming increasingly popular as both a sport and a lifestyle activity. This has led to a higher demand for surfing apparel and accessories.
• Health and Wellness Trends: More people are engaging in outdoor activities and water sports for their health benefits, which boosts the demand for high-quality, performance-oriented surfwear.
• Sustainability: Consumers are increasingly looking for eco-friendly and sustainable products. Brands are responding by incorporating recycled materials and organic fabrics into their surfwear lines.
• Technological Innovations: There is a growing interest in tech-driven products, such as smartwatches for tracking performance and advanced weather-resistant fabrics.
• Fashion Influence: Surf-inspired fashion is gaining traction beyond the beach, with many people purchasing surfwear as casual, everyday clothing

Historic Growth and Course Ahead

As surfing gained popularity, so did surf apparel. Brands like Quiksilver and Billabong emerged, specializing in gear for wave warriors. Colorful boardshorts became the rage, and surfers were all about that splash of pattern.

Surfers stripped down—literally and figuratively. No shoes, no jewelry, and sometimes, no underwear.

Covid 19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the surfing apparel and accessories market. With lockdowns and travel restrictions in place across many countries, outdoor activities including catching those epic waves were severely limited. As a result, sales took a dip during 2020 and early 2021. Surf shops, especially those in tourist-dependent regions, felt the impact as they had to temporarily close their doors. But, like a seasoned surfer paddling back out after a wipeout, the market is resilient and bouncing back

Market Growth Drivers

• Increasing Popularity of Surfing: Surfing is gaining popularity as both a sport and a leisure activity. This has expanded the customer base for surfing apparel and accessories.
• Lifestyle and Fashion Trends: Surfing apparel is not just for surfers anymore. It has become a fashion statement, with many people wearing surf-inspired clothing even if they don’t surf.
• Technological Advancements: Innovations in textile technology have led to the development of high-performance, durable, and comfortable surfing gear. This has increased the appeal of surfing apparel and accessories.
• Growth of Surf Schools: The rise in the number of surf schools has made surfing more accessible to beginners, further boosting the demand for surfing gear.
• Health and Fitness Trends: Surfing is increasingly seen as a fitness activity, attracting health-conscious individuals who invest in quality surfing apparel.
• Artificial Surf Pools: The development of artificial surf pools has made surfing more accessible, regardless of proximity to natural surf spots, driving market growth

Factors Impeding the Market

1. Supply Chain Challenges: Just as navigating a tricky reef break demands precision, the surfing apparel industry faces supply chain complexities. Global disruptions—whether due to shipping delays, raw material shortages, or factory closures—have affected production and distribution. When the pipeline gets clogged, it’s harder to get those rad board shorts and rash guards onto the shelves.
2. Competition from Other Water Sports: Picture this: a lineup crowded with various water sports enthusiasts—kayakers, paddleboarders, and kite surfers—all vying for their slice of the ocean. The surfing apparel market faces similar competition. While surfing’s popularity continues to rise, it shares the waves with other aquatic pursuits. Brands need to ride the right marketing swells to stay afloat and maintain their market share.
3. Economic Uncertainties: Just like a surfer scanning the horizon for the next set, businesses in this market keep an eye on economic tides. Uncertainties—currency fluctuations, inflation, and global economic shifts—can impact consumer spending. When wallets tighten, discretionary purchases like surf gear might take a backseat.
4. Environmental Concerns: Surfers are inherently connected to the ocean—they ride its energy, respect its power, and witness first-hand the effects of climate change. As environmental awareness grows, consumers increasingly seek sustainable and eco-friendly products. Brands that don’t align with these values risk wiping out in the market

Future Opportunities for the Surfing Apparel and Accessories Companies

Increasing Popularity of Surfing: Surfing is gaining popularity as both a sport and a lifestyle activity. This trend is expected to continue, leading to higher demand for specialized surfing gear

E-commerce Expansion: The rise of online retail platforms is making it easier for consumers to access a wide range of surfing apparel and accessories. This is expected to contribute significantly to market growth

Category-wise Analysis

Offline distribution channel to Emerge as the Dominant Force

Category	Market Share through 2023
Offline distribution	79.3%

In 2023, the offline distribution channel held the majority share of the surfing apparel and accessories market, accounting for approximately 79.3% of the revenue

The offline distribution channel plays a significant role in the surfing apparel and accessories market for several reasons:

• Tangible Experience: Offline stores allow customers to see, touch, and try on products, which helps them make more informed purchasing decisions.
• Immediate Availability: Customers can immediately take their purchases home, which is especially appealing for those who need items quickly.
• Customer Service: In-person assistance from knowledgeable staff can enhance the shopping experience, providing personalized recommendations and support.
• Brand Presence: Physical stores help brands establish a strong presence and build customer trust through direct interaction.
• Wide Availability: Retail giants like Decathlon, Walmart, and SPAR offer a wide range of surfing gear and apparel, making it convenient for customers to find what they need.

These factors collectively contribute to the high contribution of offline distribution channels in the surfing apparel and accessories market.

Surf Apparel Segment to Exhibit Substantial Revenue Growth

Category	Market Share through 2023
Surf Apparel Segment	75%

The surfing apparel products market is quite dynamic. As of 2020, the surf apparel product segment accounted for the largest share of over 75%

• Increasing Popularity of Surfing: Surfing has gained widespread popularity as both a sport and a lifestyle activity. This has led to a higher demand for specialized apparel that caters to surfers’ unique needs.
• Lifestyle and Fashion Trends: Surf apparel is not just for surfers anymore. It has become a fashion statement, appealing to a broader audience who appreciate the casual, beach-inspired style

Region-wise Analysis

North America to Take Charge in the Market

Region	Market Share through 2022
North America	39.4%

North America held the highest share of the surfing apparel and accessories market, with 39.4% in 2022. This dominance is largely due to the growing popularity of surfing among adventure enthusiasts in the region.

Factors contributing to growth of the North America market are as follows:

• Rising Popularity of Surfing: The increasing number of individuals, both beginners and experienced surfers, participating in the sport has expanded the customer base for apparel and accessories.
• Established Manufacturers: The presence of established manufacturers like O’Neill, Hurley International, Roxy, and Volcom LLC contributes significantly to market growth.
• Well-Established Infrastructure: The predominance of a well-established water sports and surfing infrastructure in North America supports the market.
• Technological Innovations: Advancements in textile technology have led to the creation of high-performance, durable, and comfortable surfing gear

Key Industry Developments

July 2024

Orca’s Bossa Boardshort and Explorer Backpack: These new products are designed for both comfort and versatility, perfect for surf adventures

2020

Rip Curl’s E-Bomb Wetsuit: Known for its flexibility and warmth, this wetsuit was a hit among surfers looking for high-performance gear.

2020

Kaola Surf Hat: This high-performance surf hat provided excellent sun protection and became a favourite among surfers

Competitive Landscape Analysis

Companies in the surfing apparel market are adopting several key development strategies to stay competitive and meet the evolving demands of consumers. Here are some of the major strategies:

• Sustainability Initiatives: Many brands are focusing on eco-friendly practices by using sustainable materials like recycled polyester, organic cotton, and neoprene alternatives made from natural rubber. They are also adopting biodegradable and recyclable packaging.
• Technological Innovations: Companies are leveraging new technologies to enhance their products. This includes the use of advanced materials that improve performance and durability, as well as AI to analyze customer preferences and optimize inventory management.
• E-commerce Expansion: With the rise of online shopping, brands are expanding their e-commerce platforms to reach a global audience. This provides consumers with convenience and a wider range of choices.
• Collaborations and Partnerships: Brands are forming strategic partnerships and collaborations to expand their market reach and enhance their product offerings. This includes collaborations with other brands, athletes, and influencers.
• Product Diversification: Companies are diversifying their product lines to include a wider range of apparel and accessories, catering to both surfers and non-surfers who are drawn to the surfing lifestyle.
• Retail Innovations: To enhance the in-store experience, brands are investing in new technologies and training for sales associates. This includes the use of digital tools to improve merchandising and customer engagement

Market Report Scope

Attributes	Details
Forecast Period	2024 to 2031
Historical Data Available for	2019 to 2023
Market Analysis	US$ Million for Value
Key Regions Covered	North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America The Middle East and Africa
Key Countries Covered	The United States Canada Germany The United Kingdom France China Japan South Korea India Brazil UAE South Africa
Key Market Segments Covered	Product Distribution Channel Region
Key Companies Profiled	Billabong Hurley, Inc. O’Neill RVCA Volcom, LLC GLOBE INTERNATIONAL LIMITED REEF Roxy, Inc Curl. Ltd. Quiksilver, Inc
Report Coverage	Market Forecast Company Share Analysis Competition Intelligence DROT Analysis Market Dynamics and Challenges Strategic Growth Initiatives
Customization & Pricing	Available upon request

Surfing Apparel & Accessories Market Research Segmentation

By Product

• Apparels
  • Wetsuits
  • Board Shorts
  • Surf Tees
  • Others
• Accessories
  • Surfboard Leash
  • Fins
  • Others

 By Distribution Channel

• Offline
• Online

 By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• The Middle East and Africa

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