Soft Surfboard Market Report 2025 (Global Edition)

Global Soft Surfboard Market Report 2025 Market Size Split by Type (Polyurethane (P.U.) Boards, Balsa Boards, Hollow Wooden Boards, Other), by Application (Entertainment, Sport Competition, Training, ...

Soft Surfboard Market Report Description

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How 2025 Tariffs Are Reshaping the Consumer Goods Industry

In 2025, the global trade landscape has shifted dramatically following the U.S. introduction of sweeping tariffs under President Donald Trump’s administration. These "Liberation Day Tariffs," launched in April, aim to reduce trade deficits and boost domestic manufacturing. Tariffs range from 10% on imports from countries like the UK and Australia to 46% on Vietnamese goods, with a blanket 34% tariff on many Chinese imports and 25% on all steel, aluminum, and auto parts. This policy heavily impacts the consumer goods sector apparel, appliances, packaged foods, and personal care products due to their deep reliance on global supply chains, especially in Asia. U.S.–China trade tensions have intensified, with reciprocal tariffs reaching up to 145% on U.S. goods and 125% on Chinese exports, while China’s trade surplus with the U.S. hit USD 102.6 billion in March 2025. In response, the EU and Canada have implemented retaliatory measures, signaling a broader shift toward protectionism.

The consumer goods industry is feeling immediate effects: production costs are rising, sourcing is delayed, and inflation pressures are mounting. Apparel and footwear now face 25% tariffs, prompting brands to seek nearshoring options or raise prices. Household appliances incur 20% tariffs, complicating inventory and procurement strategies. Packaged foods and beverages are hit with 10–15% tariffs, impacting contracts and leading to supplier diversification and product reformulation. Personal care firms face higher costs for imported ingredients and packaging, leading to local sourcing efforts and delays in new product launches. Meanwhile, electronics, though temporarily exempt, are preparing for possible disruptions by diversifying suppliers and increasing inventories.

China remains the backbone of U.S. consumer goods sourcing, accounting for a large portion of imports either directly or through upstream components. This makes tariffs on Chinese goods especially disruptive. The rising input costs 15–30% in many categories combined with seasonal pressures and tight timelines, are causing delays and increased costs. Smaller brands, in particular, are struggling due to limited capital and reduced supplier leverage. Many are being forced to increase prices, cut product variety, or compromise on quality.

Market research is now critical to navigating this volatile environment. It supports supplier mapping and risk assessment, helping brands identify alternative sourcing countries with stable regulations and quality control. It also aids in cost and margin analysis, guiding decisions on pricing and sourcing changes. Optimization of product design and materials through research allows companies to reduce costs while maintaining consumer expectations. Additionally, research helps assess consumer price sensitivity, enabling strategic repositioning. Tracking regulatory changes and running scenario planning models allow firms to anticipate and adapt to future trade shifts.

To cope, companies are restructuring their global sourcing models. Major brands like Nike and IKEA are expanding operations in Vietnam, India, and Mexico, while embracing “in-market for market” strategies to reduce exposure to tariffs and logistics risks. Many are adopting AI-driven demand forecasting and automated procurement, and pushing suppliers for transparency. Product redesign and SKU rationalization are also common. The most successful firms are those using data-driven insights, operational flexibility, and strategic supplier partnerships to adapt not just survive in this new era of global trade.

Competitive Landscape of the Soft Surfboard Market

Key players deploy strategic initiatives such as product innovations, partnerships, and mergers. Companies prioritize R&D to introduce progressive surfboards, ensuring a competitive edge. Robust distribution networks and adherence to quality standards amplify market presence, fostering an environment where agility and innovation define industry leaders.

• In March 2018, INT, a premier designer and manufacturer of hand-crafted soft surfboards, launched a new collection of surfboard designs in their proprietary hybrid construction featuring soft PE foam decks and hand-shaped rails with hard fiberglass bottoms. All models, designed by Jason Koon (Super, Pyzel, Figures of Merit) and Todd McFarland (Channel Islands), are built using Marko Foam's 100% recyclable iFoam blanks, bio-epoxy resins, and sustainably harvested bamboo stringers.

(Source: https://shop-eat-surf.com/2018/03/content-int-launches-new-hybrid-soft-surfboard-collection/)

Top Companies Market Share in Soft Surfboard Industry: (In no particular order of Rank)

• Agit Global Inc.
• Beach beat Surfboards
• Brusurf LLC
• Channel Islands Surfboards Inc. (The Burton Corporation)
• Global Surf Industries
• Hobie Cat Company Inc.
• Haydenshapes Surfboards
• Infinity Surfboards Incorporated
• Keeper Sports Products LLC
• Rusty Surfboards Inc. (Vegas Enterprises Pty Ltd.)
• Superbrand Surfboards
• Xanadu Surfdesigns
• Confidential Data
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*List of Second Tier Companies, List of Third Tier/ Start-up Companies (Inquire with sales executive) Request Any Company Profile for Preview Purpose OR Data Validation!

If any Company(ies) of your interest has/have not been disclosed in the above list then please let us know the same so that we will check the data availability in our database and provide you the confirmation or include it in the final deliverables.

North America dominated the market in 2024 and accounted for around 40% of the global revenue

According to Cognitive Market Research, North America dominated the market in 2024 and accounted for around 40% of the global revenue. Since it is home to a large population of surfing enthusiasts, particularly along the coasts of California, Hawaii, Florida, and the Pacific Northwest, these regions boast world-renowned surf destinations with consistent waves and vibrant surf culture, increasing focus on innovation and sustainability in manufacturing processes aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly surfboard alternatives, further encouraging North America's dominance in the global soft surfboard market.

The Asia Pacific region is witnessing an increase in the sales of soft surfboards. The region's vast coastline mainly drives this surge, and numerous tropical destinations provide ideal conditions for surfing. The increasing investments, rising disposable incomes, and increasing leisure spending among consumers in countries like Australia and Indonesia are leading to a demand for these surfboards. Additionally, the emergence of local surfboard manufacturers and brands and the proliferation of surf schools and rental services further stimulate the market by enhancing accessibility and awareness of soft surfboards among beginners and casual surfers, fostering a dynamic market landscape.

The current report Scope analyzes Soft Surfboard Market on 5 major region Split (In case you wish to acquire a specific region edition (more granular data) or any country Edition data then please write us on info@cognitivemarketresearch.com

• North America (United States, Canada, Mexico)
• Europe (United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Rest of Europe)
• Asia Pacific (China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, Singapore, Taiwan, South East Asia, Rest of APAC)
• Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Peru, Chile, Rest of South America)
• Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Turkey, UAE, Egypt, Qatar, Rest of Middle East)
• Africa (Nigeria, South Africa, Rest of Africa)

The above graph is for illustrative purposes only.

North America Soft Surfboard Market Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Soft Surfboard market size was estimated at USD XX Million, out of which North America held the major market of more than 40% of the global revenue with market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% from 2024 to 2031 due to the large population of surfing enthusiasts, particularly along the coasts of California, Hawaii, Florida, and the Pacific Northwest. These regions boast world-renowned surf destinations with consistent waves and vibrant surf culture, driving high demand for surfboards of all types. The sports competition in North America attracts top professional surfers from around the world, showcasing the region's world-class surf breaks and generating significant interest and excitement among spectators and participants, driving sales in application types. In conclusion, the region's innovation and process sustainability align with the increasing demand for eco-friendly surfboard alternatives, propelling substantial market growth.

Europe Soft Surfboard Market Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, with a market value of USD XX million in 2024, it is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.6% from 2024 to 2031. Europe accounted for over 30% of the global market size of USD XX million. The rise of European surf tourism, coupled with establishing surf schools, rental services, surf camps, vibrant surf culture, and world-class surf destinations, has enhanced individuals' accessibility to surfing. In conclusion, increasing awareness of eco-friendly options, a combination of favorable surf conditions, and thriving surf culture in the soft surfboard market in Europe are expected to witness growth.

Asia Pacific Soft Surfboard Market Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Soft Surfboard market size was estimated at USD XX Million, out of which Asia Pacific held the market of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1% from 2024 to 2031. The Asia Pacific region is experiencing growth in the sales of Soft surfboards. The region's vast coastline and numerous tropical destinations provide ideal conditions for surfing, attracting a growing number of enthusiasts and tourists in this market in APAC. In conclusion, innovation and product development in the soft surfboard market further fuel its growth in the Asia Pacific region.

South America Soft Surfboard Market Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Soft Surfboards market size was estimated at USD XX Million, out of which Latin America market of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% from 2024 to 2031. Soft Surfboard sales in Latin America are experiencing growth due to the wealth of surf spots with diverse wave conditions, attracting surfers worldwide. Countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Peru are renowned for their world-class surf breaks, vibrant surf culture, and growing tourism infrastructure, contributing to the increasing popularity of surfing as a recreational activity and sport. The region's emphasis on outdoor lifestyle and adventure sports aligns well with the appeal of soft surfboards, which offer durability, beginner-friendly design, and versatility across different wave conditions. In conclusion, a combination of favorable surf conditions and increasing accessibility to surfing fosters substantial growth in sales of the soft surfboard market in Latin America.

Middle East Soft Surfboard Market Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Soft Surfboard market size was estimated at USD XX Million, out of which the Middle East and Africa held the major market of around 2% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8% from 2024 to 2031. MEA experiences an upswing in Soft Surfboard due to the coastal regions such as Morocco, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates offering favorable surfing conditions, including consistent waves and warm waters, accessibility for surfing to locals and tourists, driving demand for soft surfboards attracting surfers from around the world. In conclusion, the region's growing youth population's interest in outdoor adventure sports and growing interest in surfing propels the market growth for Soft Surfboards in the Middle East and Africa.

Soft Surfboard Market Analysis

Type Segment Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, polyurethane (P.U.) boards held the major market share over the forecast period. These are popular among surfers of all skill levels due to their durability, flexibility, and overall performance characteristics. These polyurethane boards are widely available from numerous manufacturers and retailers, contributing to their accessibility and widespread adoption within the surfing community. The combination of their performance attributes, availability, and broad appeal likely positions polyurethane boards as the top-selling segment in the soft surfboard market.

Balsa boards are the fastest-growing category over the forecast period owing to their high-performance characteristics, including responsiveness and lightweight construction. The unique properties of balsa wood contribute to its popularity among enthusiasts who are willing to invest in a premium surfing experience. Therefore, Balsa Boards are the fastest-growing segment compared to Hollow Wooden Boards and other alternative materials in the soft surfboard market.

• Polyurethane (P.U.) Boards 
• Balsa Boards
• Hollow Wooden Boards 
• Other

The above Chart is for representative purposes and does not depict actual sale statistics. Access/Request the quantitative data to understand the trends and dominating segment of Soft Surfboard Industry. Request a Free Sample PDF!

Application Segment Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, sports competition holds a prominent market share. Professional surfing events and amateur competitions drive significant demand for high-performance soft surfboards among athletes and enthusiasts. Further, the competitive nature of these events drives surfers to seek specialized equipment that can enhance their performance and competitive edge, further contributing to the revenue generated from soft surfboard sales within the sport competition category.

While entertainment is the fastest-growing category over the forecast period, particularly among recreational surfers and casual enthusiasts, the revenue generated from this segment may be more dispersed across a broader range of surfboard types and brands catering to various skill levels and preferences.

• Entertainment
• Sport Competition
• Training
• Personal Use
• Other

The above Graph is for representation purposes only. This chart does not depict actual Market share.

Soft Surfboard Price Range Segment Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, mid-range surfboards hold a prominent market share. This segment offers various options with sufficient durability, maneuverability, and buoyancy to satisfy casual and intermediate surfers. It balances price and quality, attracting a broad range of surfers seeking reliable boards with decent performance at a reasonable cost, making it the dominant force in the soft surfboard market.

However, the premium soft surfboard segment is the fastest-growing category over the forecast period, offering advanced features, materials, and performance characteristics; they typically cater to a niche market of experienced surfers willing to invest in top-of-the-line equipment.

• Premium
• Mid-Range
• Low-End

Soft Surfboard Age Group Segment Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the adult group holds a prominent market share. This is because adults make up the majority of active surfers worldwide. As a result, there's a huge market demand for soft surfboards well fitted to adult preferences and skill levels. They are more likely to invest in higher-end soft surfboards, with a wider variety of options accommodating beginners, intermediate, and advanced surfers, contributing further to the dominance of this segment in the market.

While children’s age group became the fastest-growing category over the forecast period by introducing younger individuals to the sport of surfing safely and enjoyably, there is a heightened emphasis on safety features such as rounded edges and softer fins to minimize the risk of injury during falls. As more families engage in outdoor activities, the children's soft surfboards demand rises.

• Children
• Adults

Soft Surfboard Distribution Channel Segment Analysis

According to Cognitive Market Research, the online channels segment holds a prominent market share. Online retailers offer a vast selection of soft surfboards, catering to diverse preferences and budgets while providing detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and comparison tools to facilitate informed purchasing decisions. This is only because of the widespread adoption of e-commerce platforms, the convenience of online shopping, and the global reach afforded by digital marketplaces, which makes it a dominating segment.

Further, the offline segment became the fastest-growing category over the forecast period, often serving as a community hub where surfers can gather, exchange tips, and share experiences, fostering a sense of amity among enthusiasts. It further allows immediate purchase gratification, as customers can walk out of the store with their desired soft surfboard.

• Online
• Offline

Author's Detail

Sneha Mali

Research Analyst at Cognitive Market Research

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I am a research analyst working in various domains including the Consumer Goods domain, and my primary responsibility is to conduct thorough research on various subjects and provide valuable insights to support client requirements. I have knowledge of research methodologies, and data mining which enables me to analyze large data sets, draw meaningful conclusions, and communicate them effectively. I stay up-to-date with the latest research trends, methodologies, and technologies to ensure that my research is accurate, relevant, and impactful.

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