From bicycling to snowshoeing, various outdoor activities have seen a pandemic-induced surge in interest. New sales numbers show that the trend is diversifying.
“While this trend has shined since March, different products are rising to the top of the fastest-growing list month over month,” said Matt Powell, vice president and senior industry advisor at The NPD Group.
Highest growth sports goods in outdoor and recreation categories in December:
- Golf nets and screens — Up 221% year over year
- Electric bicycles — Up 189%
- Portable power — Up 156%
- Standup paddle boards — Up 151%
- Pilates reformers — Up 140%
“Consumers continue to invest in various equipment they would typically be using in a gym or studio,” Powell added. “The growth in portable power tells us that consumers are extending their home into their yards and hitting the trails, bringing the modern day essentials along with them.”
Backcountry-related equipment sales in the U.S. grew 76% in the first few months of last year’s snow season, according to The NPD Group.
Prior to that, bike sales were up nearly two-thirds over the prior year in the spring.