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The portable kayaks market size is forecast to increase by USD 10.24 million at a CAGR of 1.66% between 2023 and 2028. The market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing preference for recreational kayaking. The convenience and ease of transport offered by portable kayaks have made them a popular choice among consumers. Another trend influencing the market is the growing popularity of artificial water sports experiences, such as wave pools and white water channels, which provide a controlled and consistent environment for kayaking. However, the high costs of purchasing a new kayak have led many consumers to opt for rentals instead. This trend is expected to continue, as it allows individuals to try out different types of kayaks before making a purchase.
Overall, the market is poised for steady growth, driven by these key trends and the ongoing demand for recreational activities.
The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing popularity of water sports and the convenience offered by folding models. Product pricing is a crucial factor influencing the market's growth, with manufacturers using materials like hypalon, neoprene, polyvinyl chloride, and polyurethane to hit a balance between affordability and durability. Political scenarios and macroeconomic analysis play a vital role in shaping the competitive position of portable kayaks. Future analysis suggests that versatility will be a key trend, with folding kayaks, such as those with tongue and groove sections, gaining popularity. Roof racks are essential for transporting these kayaks, and their availability and ease of use can impact market growth.
Pakayak, a well-known brand in the industry, offers innovative designs, making it a significant player in the market. Overall, the market is poised for continued growth, driven by consumer demand and technological advancements.
The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD Million" for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018 - 2022 for the following segments.
The inflatable kayaks segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market encompasses two main categories: inflatable and folding kayaks. Political scenarios and factors significantly influence product pricing in this industry. Inflatable kayaks, known for their lightweight and compact design, are the market leaders, accounting for a substantial share. Their affordability, with entry-level models priced around USD200 and high-end ones reaching up to USD2,000, makes them an attractive choice for many. Inflatable kayaks consist of a lightweight boat with flexible tubes containing pressurized gas for sides and bows. These kayaks can be set up more swiftly than folding kayaks, making them popular among paddlers. However, folding kayaks, like those from Klepper Lifestyle and Perception Kayaks, offer greater versatility through their folding models.
These models can be disassembled and stored in a garage or on roof racks, taking up less space than rigid kayaks. Folding kayaks, such as Pakayak's sections with tongue and groove joints and watertight compartments, are made of materials like Hypalon, Neoprene, Polyvinyl chloride, and Polyurethane. They provide superior tracking and stability, especially in choppy waters. Strategies like roll designs, bungee systems, cockpit space, carry handles, and storage compartments cater to the needs of various paddlers. For instance, fishing kayaks may require additional features like rod holders and livewells. Some popular folding kayaks include the Pakyak Bluefin and Tucktec folding kayak.
These models track well in flat water and offer durability and affordability. In summary, the market is driven by political factors, winning imperatives, and consumer preferences for versatility, affordability, and durability. Both inflatable and folding kayaks cater to these needs, with each having its unique advantages.
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The inflatable kayaks segment was valued at USD 101.13 million in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.
North America is estimated to contribute 43% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.
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The market in North America experienced a notable expansion in 2023, fueled by the rising enthusiasm for recreational activities, an influx of domestic and international tourists, and the proliferation of sea kayak tournaments and events. These vessels, characterized by their hard plastic shells and wide designs, offer enhanced stability for users, making them suitable for both novice and experienced kayakers. However, their lightweight construction, while beneficial for portability, can make them more susceptible to punctures. To ensure comfort and spaciousness, portable kayaks come equipped with customizable features such as adjustable foam backrests, air sponsons, and deck bungees. Additionally, carrying toggles facilitate easy transportation.
For heavier paddlers, touring boats with skin-on-frame construction provide greater comfort and reliability. Despite their lightweight design, these kayaks prioritize stability and safety, featuring cockpits that securely hold paddlers in place during calm stream excursions.
Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.
Growing preference for recreational kayaking is the key driver of the market. The portable kayak market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing popularity of adventure tourism and the rising number of tourists seeking unique experiences. Kayaks, such as those from Klepper Lifestyle and Perception Kayaks, come in various types, including inflatable, folding, and folding models. Product pricing is a crucial factor influencing market growth, with manufacturers focusing on offering affordable yet durable options, such as those made from materials like Hypalon, Neoprene, Polyvinyl chloride, and Polyurethane. Folding kayaks, like the Pakayak Bluefin, offer versatility and convenience, featuring sections that interlock using tongue and groove joints and stainless steel hardware.
These kayaks come with watertight storage compartments, cockpit space, carry handles, and bungee systems for additional gear storage. Paddlers appreciate their ability to track well in choppy waters and the roll design for easy transportation on roof racks. Political scenarios and factors, such as regulations and tariffs, can impact market growth. Winning imperatives for market players include offering innovative designs, ensuring durability, and catering to diverse customer needs. For instance, fishing kayaks are gaining popularity, featuring storage compartments and specialized features for anglers. The Tucktec folding kayak is an example of a successful product, offering a balance between affordability and performance for paddlers in flat water conditions.
Artificial water sports experiences gaining traction is the upcoming trend in the market. The global market is expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period due to several factors. One of the primary drivers is the increasing popularity of indoor versions of outdoor adventure sports, including kayaking. This trend is particularly relevant given the high cost of water sports equipment and the need for athletes to travel long distances to participate in certain water sports activities. Moreover, the availability of artificial water bodies for kayaking is gaining traction among enthusiasts, providing a more convenient and accessible option. Product pricing remains a crucial factor in the market, with manufacturers focusing on producing affordable yet durable solutions.
Companies like Klepper Lifestyle and Perception Kayaks offer a range of portable kayaks, including inflatable and folding models, made from materials such as Hypalon, Neoprene, Polyvinyl chloride, and Polyurethane. Folding kayaks, such as those from Pakayak, offer versatility and ease of transportation, with sections that interlock using tongue and groove joints and carry handles for convenient transport. These kayaks also feature watertight storage compartments, cockpit space, bungee systems, and paddler-friendly designs that track well in choppy waters. The Tucktec folding kayak, for instance, boasts a roll design, making it an affordable yet durable option for flat water and fishing kayaking enthusiasts.
With winning imperatives such as these, the market is poised for growth in the coming years.
High costs of kayaks lead to a higher preference for rentals is a key challenge affecting the market growth. The market faces challenges due to high product pricing, which can be a significant barrier to entry for potential buyers, particularly in developing regions. The average cost of quality portable kayaks, such as those from Klepper Lifestyle and Perception Kayaks, can exceed USD1,500. This high price point restricts the market growth, as many casual kayakers in regions like Indonesia and Cambodia prefer renting kayaks instead of purchasing them. Moreover, the preference for inflatable kayaks made of materials like Hypalon, Neoprene, Polyvinyl chloride, and Polyurethane over folding kayaks made of sections with tongue and groove connections and carrying stainless steel frames is driven by affordability.
Folding kayaks, such as Pakayak's Bluefin model, offer versatility with their compact size and watertight storage compartments, cockpit space, carry handles, and bungee systems. However, their higher cost and the need for roof racks limit their appeal. To win in this market, vendors must focus on developing affordable, durable, and flat-water-suitable folding kayaks with roll designs, such as Tucktec's models, that track well in choppy waters and offer ample cockpit space for paddlers.
The market forecasting report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator's stage to the laggard's stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their market growth analysis strategies.
Customer Landscape
Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the market.
The market research and growth report includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about key companies, including:
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key market players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.
The portable kayak market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing popularity of water sports and the convenience offered by folding and inflatable models. Product pricing is a crucial factor influencing the market's growth, with manufacturers focusing on offering affordable yet durable options made of materials like hypalon, neoprene, polyvinyl chloride, and polyurethane. Political scenarios and factors, such as regulations and economic conditions, also impact the market's trajectory. Winning imperatives for players in this market include offering versatile designs, such as folding models with sections that interlock using tongue and groove mechanisms or inflatable kayaks with bungee systems for added storage.
Brands like Klepper Lifestyle and Perception Kayaks are focusing on developing watertight designs with cockpit space, carry handles, and roll designs that track well in choppy waters. Fishing kayaks are gaining popularity due to their stability and storage compartments. Pakayak's Bluefin model is an example of a successful folding kayak, with a durable design and a watertight seal ensured by a silicone gasket. Roof racks are a common accessory for portable kayaks, enabling paddlers to easily transport their kayaks to different bodies of water.
Market Scope |
|
Report Coverage |
Details |
Page number |
159 |
Base year |
2023 |
Historic period |
2018-2022 |
Forecast period |
2024-2028 |
Growth momentum & CAGR |
Accelerate at a CAGR of 1.66% |
Market Growth 2024-2028 |
USD 10.24 million |
Market structure |
Fragmented |
YoY growth 2023-2024(%) |
1.18 |
Regional analysis |
North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa |
Performing market contribution |
North America at 43% |
Key countries |
US, Canada, Australia, Italy, and France |
Competitive landscape |
Leading Companies, Market Positioning of Companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks |
Key companies profiled |
AIRE Inc., Aqua Marina, Aqua Xtreme, BIG Adventures LLC, Gumotex Group, Hangzhou Kudo Outdoors Inc., HYSIDE Inflatables, Klepper Lifestyle GmbH, Long Haul Folding Kayaks, NAUTIRAID, Nova Craft Canoe, Oru Kayak Inc., Pelican International Inc., Point 65 Sweden AB, Sea Eagle Boats Inc., Tahe Kayaks OU, TRAK Outdoors Ltd., WAKA KAYAKS, WATER SPORT EQUIPMENT GROUP, and Perception Kayaks |
Market dynamics |
Parent market analysis, market growth inducers and obstacles, market forecast, fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, market condition analysis for the forecast period |
Customization purview |
If our market report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized. |
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1 Executive Summary
2 Market Landscape
3 Market Sizing
4 Historic Market Size
5 Five Forces Analysis
6 Market Segmentation by Product
7 Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel
8 Customer Landscape
9 Geographic Landscape
10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends
11 Vendor Landscape
12 Vendor Analysis
13 Appendix
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