The Rising Popularity Of Fishing As A Recreational Activity Significantly Drives The Inflatable And Folding Kayaks Market: Cognitive Market Research

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market Overview 

Product Overview and Scope of Inflatable and Folding Kayaks

Inflatable kayaks are lightweight, low-to-the-water, air-filled canoe-like boats in which the paddlers sit facing forward, legs in front, using a double-bladed paddle that draws the boat forward by alternating strokes from one side of the boat to the other. Inflatables are heavier in weight even before getting wet. Foldable kayaks are traditional rigid kayaks, with their streamlined shape, lower weight, and ergonomic design. Foldable kayaks feature displacement hulls which make for better speed, stability, and mobility. In addition, foldable kayaks can easily dry out with their smooth, non-fabric shell, whereas the fabric shell of inflatables can hold water weight for hours. Several types of inflatable kayaks including 1-person inflatable kayaks, 2-person inflatable kayaks, and 3-person inflatable kayaks. Various types of folding kayaks including traditional folding kayaks, hybrid kayaks, and origami kayaks.

Inflatable kayaks are made out of durable PVC rubber material that can be deflated and rolled up for easy storage or transport. Folding kayaks are made up of multiple parts that can be folded down into a more compact package when not in use. Features of inflatable kayaks such as lightweight, cost-effective, and prone to damage. Features of folding kayaks such as sturdy, maneuverable, and heavyweight. Portable folding kayaks are suited for recreational paddling on calm waters. Inflatable models, on the other hand, are typically better for touring and fishing. Because of their increased versatility and portability when packed away compared to their rigid counterparts.

Folding kayaks perform better in rougher conditions, such as waves or rapids, as they offer greater stability due to their rigid frames, whereas inflatables may become unstable in choppy waters as their bodies flex more with each movement of the paddles.

Furthermore, inflatable kayaks are more suitable for those who want to take them out on a regular basis due to these can’t be damaged easily and if goes wrong with the material can always send the pump back and get it repaired. Foldable kayaks might be more practical for those who want to take it out fishing from time to time but leave it in place because they don’t have much storage space at home. These can easily carry it over their shoulder or in a backpack just like any other hiking backpack would do too.

Advantages of inflatable kayaks include,

•    Lightweight design that usually weighs less than 30 pounds
•    Increased stability
•    Inherent buoyancy due to air-filled chambers
•    Portable and storage-friendly, ultra-compact deflated size
•    Higher weight capacity than a comparable hard-shell
•    Budget-friendly prices

Advantages of foldable kayaks include,

•    Portability and Ease of Transportation
•    Space-Saving Storage
•    Easy Assembly and Disassembly
•    Durability and Performance
•    Accessibility and Versatility
•    Cost-Effective Option

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market –Industry Analysis

Market Drivers

• The rising popularity of fishing as a recreational activity significantly drives the inflatable and folding kayaks market

Inflatable kayaks are most often used for recreational paddling in calm waters such as protected inlets, lakes, and slow-moving rivers. Folding kayaks come in recreational and touring designs. These are often wide and stable, particularly tandem folding designs. folding kayaks are suited for recreational paddling on calm waters. Inflatable models, on the other hand, are typically better for touring and fishing. Due to their increased versatility and portability when packed away compared to their rigid counterparts.

Fishing as a recreational activity is significantly popular across the globe. The data states that more than 50 million American crowd has been spotted at the nation’s waterways. People with their families and friends gathered along the shore or in fishing kayaks enjoying freshwater, fly-fishing, and saltwater fishing activities. Data report of the Outdoor. Similarly, fishing has become America’s most enduring pastimes fun activities where people of all age group gather and enjoys family and free time. The survey finding shows that 93% of Americans approved of legal recreational fishing.

The following graph represents the Number of kayaking participants in the United States from 2016 to 2021(in millions)

People generally prefer inflatable and folding kayaks for fishing purposes. According to the research, 29% of respondents stated that they go kayak fishing 15-30 days per year, and 28% of respondents stated that they go kayak fishing 5-15 days per year Hence, with the rising popularity of fishing as a recreational activity, recreational fishing is driving the growth of inflatable and folding kayaks market.
The following graph represents the Average price of kayaks in the U.S. from 2006 to 2013(in U.S. dollars)

• The growing water tourism and leisure industry significantly boosts the demand for inflatable and folding kayaks market

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Revenue by Region (2018-2023)

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Revenue and Market Share (%) by Region (2018-2023)

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks market was valued at USD XX, in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% over the forecast period, from 2023 to 2030.

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market Regional Analysis

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market Regional Analysis by Region

Based on the region, the North America region holds the dominant market share throughout the forecast period, primarily driven by its immense popularity in water recreational sports, catering to the growing demand for thrill and adventure. The region's kayak market is further fueled by government initiatives promoting adventure tourism. Additionally, the organization of state and national-level kayaking championships by government bodies and sporting leagues is providing a significant boost to the kayak market in North America. For instance, In September 2019, TRAK Kayaks Canada-based company unveiled their much-anticipated product line for 2020, introducing the TRAK 2.0 kayak series, named "BLACK BLUE." This innovative lineup featured a range of top-notch offerings, including the ultimate touring kayak, premium all-carbon paddles, essential floating bags, versatile backpacks, and a variety of high-quality kayak equipment.

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market Segmentation Analysis

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market Segmentation Analysis by Product Type

Inflatable Kayaks 

• Inflatable 1-Person Kayak (Solo Kayak)
• Inflatable 2-Person Kayak (Tandem Kayak)
• Inflatable 3-Person Kayak
• Inflatable Adjustable Seat Kayak

Folding Kayaks 

• Traditional
• Hybrid
• Origami
• Hardshell

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market, by Product Type

Source: Cognitive Market Research

Based on product type, the inflatable kayaks segment dominated the market share throughout the forecast period. An inflatable kayak is a type of watercraft designed for recreational boating and paddling activities. Unlike traditional hard-shell kayaks, inflatable kayaks are made of durable, puncture-resistant materials and can be inflated and deflated for easy transport and storage. These kayaks are typically made from materials like PVC or Hypalon and are equipped with multiple air chambers to enhance safety. Inflatable kayaks come in various sizes and styles, ranging from solo models to tandem (two-person) designs. They are popular among outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and adventure seekers due to their portability and versatility.

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market by Material:

•    Polyethylene
•    PVC
•    Hypalon
•    Thermoformed ABS

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market by Application:

•    Fishing
•    Sports
•    Leisure
•    Exploration
•    Rescue
•    Others

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market by End User:

•    Business
•    Household
•    Rental
•    Institutions

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market by Distribution Channel:

•    Sports Variety Stores
•    Third Party Online Channel
•    Direct-To-Consumer Channel
•    Modern Trade Channel

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market by Design:

•    Traditional
•    Sit-on-top
•    Self-bailing

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market by Pump Type:

•    Manual
•    Electric

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market by Accessories:

•    Paddles
•    Life vests
•    Repair Kits
•    Others

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market Players

•    GUMOTEX
•    Terravent Kayak
•    Advanced Elements, Inc.
•    Sea Eagle Boats, inc.
•    Aquaglide Paddle
•    Aqua Xtreme
•    Sevylor
•    Oru Kayak Inc. 
•    TRAK KAYAKS
•    Long Haul Folding Kayaks
•    Others

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Market Related Reports

•    Global Fishing Kayak Market
•    Global Recreational Boat Market
•    Global Marine Vessel Market 
•    Global Fishing Clothing Market

Global Inflatable and Folding Kayaks Manufacturers Profiles/Analysis

GUMOTEX

GUMOTEX Basic Information, Manufacturing Base, Sales Area, and Competitors

Business Segment/ Overview:

GUMOTEX. is a Czech Republic-based company involved in the manufacturing of kayaks, rescue systems, rubber compounds, and others.  The company has developed its own material NITRILON and NITRILON Extra based on natural rubber, a renewable and environmentally friendly resource. The company is basically operating under three segments: automotive division, coating division, and service division.

Products offered by the company are segmented into inflatable boats, rescue systems, rubber compounds coated fabrics, sun visors, car mats, PUR, EPP, plastic parts, and others. Inflatable boats include kayaks, canoes, rafts, and fishing boats. Further, the rescue system segment offers inflatable tents & halls, decontamination showers & tents, flood barriers, and others.

Inflatable & Folding Kayaks Product Types Specification

Business Strategy

GUMOTEX is investing in research and development, to offer innovative and advanced technology-based products, which will meet the changing requirements of the customers. It is producing the raw material from which the boats are produced, so it has control over the entire production process. Further, the products offered by the company are made by hand and these products are inspected carefully, and for this, the quality system of the company is in accordance with the requirements of ?SN EN ISO 9001:2009.

In addition, the company has a significant focus on environmental sustainability through the use of sustainable raw materials during the manufacturing of boats. For instance, one of the basic manufacturing materials of the boat is found between the bark and the wood of the Brazilian rubber tree i.e., rubber. The company has developed its own material NITRILON and NITRILON Extra based on natural rubber, a renewable and environmentally friendly resource, which is increasing the brand value of the company.  During production, the company uses the most modern technologies in perfect symbiosis with traditional manual work procedures, which helps in expanding their production capacity and less production time.

GUMOTEX S.W.O.T Analysis

Strength

• Significant focus on environmental sustainability
• Robust product portfolio
• Wide range of distribution area
• Investing in research and development

Weakness

• Raw material procurement cost

Opportunity

• Growing recreational and outdoor activities
• Increasing spending capacity
• Increasing awareness regarding water sports

Threats

• Fluctuations in exchange rates
• Threat of new entrant
• Low entry barriers