PUBLISHER: Global Industry Analysts, Inc. | PRODUCT CODE: 1794780
PUBLISHER: Global Industry Analysts, Inc. | PRODUCT CODE: 1794780
Global Surfboards Market to Reach US$17.8 Billion by 2030
The global market for Surfboards estimated at US$10.7 Billion in the year 2024, is expected to reach US$17.8 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 8.9% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Shortboards, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 9.3% CAGR and reach US$11.7 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the Longboards segment is estimated at 7.5% CAGR over the analysis period.
The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$2.8 Billion While China is Forecast to Grow at 8.6% CAGR
The Surfboards market in the U.S. is estimated at US$2.8 Billion in the year 2024. China, the world's second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$2.8 Billion by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 8.6% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 8.2% and 7.5% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 7.1% CAGR.
How Are Surfboards Adapting to Changing Sports and Lifestyle Trends?
Surfboards have evolved from handcrafted wooden planks to precision-engineered performance tools that cater to a wide spectrum of skill levels, wave conditions, and surfing styles. As surfing becomes more mainstream and integrated into global sport and lifestyle culture, surfboard designs are diversifying-ranging from high-performance shortboards to beginner-friendly foam boards and hybrid models. This variety is attracting a broader consumer base, from casual beachgoers to professional athletes, fueling innovation and market expansion.
The growing recognition of surfing as an Olympic sport and the rise of surf tourism have also elevated demand for specialized equipment. Enthusiasts are now seeking surfboards optimized for specific wave types, travel durability, and even environmental impact. Lightweight materials, customizable shapes, and increased availability of rental and demo programs are making the sport more accessible. These evolving consumer preferences are pushing manufacturers to balance performance with affordability, sustainability, and mass-market appeal.
How Is Technology Redefining Surfboard Design and Production?
Advancements in materials science and computer-aided design are revolutionizing surfboard manufacturing. Traditional polyurethane and fiberglass constructions are being supplemented-or even replaced-by EPS foam, epoxy resins, and carbon fiber layers, offering improved flexibility, buoyancy, and impact resistance. CAD-based shaping and CNC milling machines are now standard in production facilities, ensuring greater dimensional precision and repeatability in board manufacturing.
Additionally, digital simulation tools are helping designers optimize rocker profiles, fin configurations, and rail contours before prototyping. Smart surfboards embedded with GPS and motion sensors are emerging in elite training and recreational markets, enabling real-time tracking of wave count, ride speed, and maneuver data. These technologies are enhancing the surfing experience and opening new business models in performance analytics and connected sports equipment.
Where Is Demand for Surfboards Growing Beyond Traditional Markets?
Surfing is no longer confined to its historic strongholds in North America and Oceania. Emerging coastal tourism in Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa is creating new markets for surfboard sales, rentals, and schools. Regions such as Portugal, Morocco, and Sri Lanka are establishing themselves as global surf destinations, bringing with them local production hubs and surfboard retail ecosystems.
The rise of inland surf parks-engineered wave pools capable of replicating ocean conditions-has further expanded surfing’s geographic footprint. These facilities, often located far from natural coastlines, are introducing urban populations to the sport and driving demand for boards suitable for artificial wave settings. This shift is compelling manufacturers to explore new design categories and distribution strategies tailored for controlled, repeatable surf environments.
The Growth in the Surfboards Market Is Driven by Several Factors…
It is driven by innovation in eco-friendly materials, the expanding footprint of surf tourism, and the growing popularity of surfing as a competitive and recreational sport. The increased use of bio-resins, recycled foams, and sustainable packaging is appealing to environmentally conscious consumers, encouraging market differentiation through green credentials.
Simultaneously, surf schools, adventure travel companies, and artificial wave parks are broadening the customer base and creating institutional demand. The availability of digital design platforms and direct-to-consumer distribution models is enabling custom surfboard orders at scale, supporting niche preferences and new entrants. Moreover, media coverage of international surfing events and influencer-driven surf culture is fueling aspirational demand across both lifestyle and athletic demographics.
SCOPE OF STUDY:
The report analyzes the Surfboards market in terms of units by the following Segments, and Geographic Regions/Countries:
Segments:
Product (Shortboards, Longboards, Other Surfboards); Distribution Channel (Specialty Stores, Supermarkets / Hypermarkets, Online Retail Distribution Channel, Other Distribution Channels); End-Use (Recreational Users End-Use, Professional Users End-Use)
Geographic Regions/Countries:
World; United States; Canada; Japan; China; Europe (France; Germany; Italy; United Kingdom; and Rest of Europe); Asia-Pacific; Rest of World.
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