In mid-summer 2024, Russians increased their purchases of stand-up paddleboards (SUP) and inflatable boards by more than triple compared with the same period a year earlier. The typical expenditure reached 29,166 rubles, reflecting a 20% rise over the previous year. These findings come from the Chek Index analytics team and were shared with socialbites.ca, underscoring a sharp uptick in demand for portable, user-friendly watercraft as summer activities expand across the country.
Inflatable boats also saw a marked surge, with purchase frequency approaching double that of 2023 and an average spend of 19,239 rubles, climbing roughly 10% year over year. Rowing boats experienced nearly double the interest as well, while their average bill hovered around 1,140 rubles, up modestly by 8%. Life jackets followed suit, being bought 1.8 times more often, with an average price of 1,474 rubles. Pet life jackets demonstrated an even stronger rise, doubling their sales relative to the prior year and averaging 1,784 rubles per unit, marking a noticeable shift toward family-friendly water recreation and pet-inclusive outings.
Analysts point to a growing enthusiasm for inflatable watercraft among active recreation enthusiasts, driven by a combination of factors. Accessibility and compact storage appeal to urban residents and travelers alike, while ease of use and speed of deployment make these devices ideal for quick adventures on rivers, lakes, ponds, and coastal areas. The expansion of domestic tourism appears to be a significant catalyst, fostering a broader community of inflatable float users who share tips, safety practices, and equipment recommendations across networks and platforms. This trend suggests a durable shift in how people plan and enjoy their time near water bodies.
Industry observers note that summer programming increasingly features livestreamed events, festival activities, and casual gatherings where SUP boards are a common sight. The growing mainstream adoption of SUP boarding is reflected not only in leisure pursuits but also in the development of related products and services aimed at combining water-ready gear with complementary offerings such as paddles, pumps, storage solutions, and safety equipment. As this segment expands, businesses are embracing new models, marketing tactics, and partnerships to meet rising demand while promoting responsible use and environmental stewardship.
The study was conducted in July 2024, capturing a snapshot of consumer preferences during peak warm-weather months and the vacation season. The data provide insight into changing consumer behavior, as more people incorporate water-based activities into their travel plans and daily routines. In related observations, Russians appear to be prioritizing value-driven purchases and bundling accessories with core equipment to maximize the enjoyment and practicality of their outdoor excursions.