SUP 2022
retail buyer’s guide
RETAIL BUYER’S GUIDE
JOBE
Fully reinflated, iSUPs are continuing to provide a boost to standup paddle boarding, retaining a customer base that is now turning to a more athletic, varied range of uses. Meanwhile, rigid SUPs are searching for a second wind by eyeing up leisure and recreation. 2022 trends by David Bianic.
“It seems that our end-users are more rational In periods of huge stress - the virus, international conflicts, inflation - human beings need to redress when making their purchasing decisions, and we the balance and leisure activities have provided haven’t seen a dramatic surge in demands as last a breath of fresh air for everyone. Boardsports year.” Chap Zhang, Aqua Marina equipment and especially SUP has nothing to worry about when it comes to demand, this is the paradox of these uncertain times. “Unfortunately the word ‘normal’ seems to have disappeared from the market dictionary”, sums up What hurts is that manufacturing and delivering SUPs Alberto Girolimetti, CEO of Outride. Nonetheless, has become challenging for the sector’s players in the last two years or so, weighed down by an increase a return to previous habits does seem to be in costs of materials and transportation. But as the happening, remarks Chap Zhang, Senior Product masks drop this spring 2022, is there hope for brands Manager for Aqua Marina: “It seems that our end-users are more rational when making their of returning to the world as it was before? 59
