Winter Purchases in Russia: Sleds, Skates, and More
Before the year closes, Russians tend to stock up on gear for outdoor winter fun. A recent report from the TASS agency, citing a study by the Russian Central Bank, highlights this seasonal shift in consumer behavior. The focus is clear: sleds, skates, and related winter equipment rise to the top of shopping lists during the pre-holiday period.
In terms of purchase volume, sleds lead the pack. They accounted for 34% of total purchases made with mobile banking cashier’s checks during the season. This pattern mirrors the previous year, suggesting a stable preference for sledding as a family-friendly winter activity. At the close of 2022, the average expenditure on a sled was 1,009 rubles, while at the end of 2021 it stood at 1,058 rubles, reflecting a modest price evolution over the year.
Second place goes to ice skates, which include walking skates, figure skates, and hockey skates. The share of mobile bank receipts for skates rose from 19% a year earlier to 31%. The 2022 average price for ice skates hovered around 4,980 rubles, with the 2021 average at 1,209 rubles, indicating a significant shift in price bands across different skate categories and possibly a broader range of product options in the market.
Trailing behind is the category of pipes, which represents about 16% of total receipts for winter entertainment goods. A year earlier, pipes accounted for 20%. The 2022 average price for a pipe was 1,720 rubles, compared to 1,856 rubles in the previous year, signaling a stabilization in pricing after a period of fluctuation in demand for outdoor toys and accessories.
Beyond the numbers, the season underscores a broader social trend: spending time outdoors with family during the New Year holidays. The sentiment stresses the value of simple, accessible joys—walking, skating, and playing outside—as important ingredients for a happy, healthy winter season. This perspective resonates with families seeking affordable, active ways to celebrate together, especially as winter days grow shorter and temperatures drop. The data suggests that practical gear for outdoor play remains a reliable, tangible way to create memorable holiday moments without overextending budgets.
As families plan purchases for the holiday period, several practical considerations emerge. First, the sled category demonstrates that durable, versatile equipment can deliver long-term value across multiple seasons. Buyers may look for features such as safety handles, sturdy runners, and space for multiple riders when evaluating sleds. Second, the rise in skate purchases invites shoppers to consider compatibility with outdoor rinks or indoor facilities, along with blade quality, boot comfort, and maintenance needs to maximize enjoyment and safety. Third, pipes and similar small accessories remind consumers to assess material quality, finish, and the practicality of storage options after the holidays end. Finally, the overall trend points to the importance of timing purchases to align with seasonal promotions and end-of-year discounts, which can yield meaningful savings without compromising quality.
In summary, the period before the New Year shows a clear pattern: families prioritize active, outdoor activities, with sleds leading the way, followed by skates and supportive accessories. The deliberate balance between price and value reflects both traditional holiday customs and a pragmatic approach to shopping in today’s market. The emphasis remains on shared experiences, healthy exercise, and moments of joy spent outside in the winter air.