Core Insights - Niche water sports are gaining popularity among the general public, leading to increased sales and rental of water sports equipment, as well as training programs, indicating a rapid development in this sector [1][3][9] - The summer heat has prompted many to explore new summer activities, with paddleboarding, kayaking, diving, and wake surfing becoming trendy options in the consumer market [3][5] Industry Trends - The rental market for paddleboards and kayaks is thriving, with reports of at least 2,000 people renting equipment on weekends, a significant increase compared to the previous year [5] - Diving and wake surfing, previously considered niche, are now seeing a surge in interest, with some diving centers reporting a doubling in customer numbers during the summer [6][8] Consumer Behavior - Consumers are increasingly investing in personal water sports equipment, with individuals spending around 3,000 to 40,000 yuan on complete sets of gear [11] - Major sports brands like Decathlon are experiencing a rise in inquiries and sales for water sports equipment, with monthly sales of professional diving and surfing suits exceeding 3,000 units [11] Market Potential - The water sports industry in China is showing signs of rapid growth, with the market sizes for kayaking, inflatable paddleboards, and surfing boards reaching 143 million yuan, 384 million yuan, and 224 million yuan respectively in 2022 [11] - Industry experts believe that the domestic water sports outdoor industry is still in its growth phase, with significant potential for further development as these activities become more mainstream [12]

Industry Overview - Water sports are driving the "water-friendly economy" in various cities, with activities like paddleboarding and kayaking gaining popularity during the summer [1] - The number of water sports events in Zhejiang province is significant, with nearly 20 events held weekly and over 200 events planned for the summer [8] Event Highlights - The 7th Nanxun Ancient Town Paddleboard Open was held, attracting over 400 participants from more than ten countries in 2025, showcasing the event's growth and its contribution to local tourism [3][5] - The event features not only paddleboards but also various water sports equipment, highlighting the innovation in water sports gear [8] Equipment Manufacturing - Fuyang is a key production base for rowing boats in China, with one company holding over 16% of the global market share [8] - Innovations in materials, such as aluminum alloy molds and carbon fiber, have significantly improved the manufacturing process and product performance [9][10] - New product designs, like a combination of paddleboarding and rowing, are emerging, showcasing the industry's adaptability and innovation [12] Market Potential - The outdoor sports industry in China is expanding, with over 1 million consumers in surfing and paddleboarding, leading to a market size exceeding 1 billion yuan [17] - The development of water sports is supported by technological advancements and a growing awareness of water resource accessibility [19]