The Outdoor Foundation and The Coleman Company, Inc. released the Special Report on Paddlesports, which provides a detailed look at participation in kayaking, canoeing, rafting and stand up paddling. Among other findings, the report reveals that 21.7 million Americans – 7.4 percent of the population – enjoyed paddling on rivers, lakes, streams and other waterways in 2014.
Overall, all segments of paddle are on the rise, again setting the record for the number of participants with a three million increase since the study began in 2010. Paddlers averaged seven annual outings in 2014, up from 6.8 the year before. Collectively, paddling participants made nearly 216 million outings, showed the study.
“Paddlesports are increasing in popularity among Americans who desire to connect with the outdoors,” said Christine Fanning, executive director of The Outdoor Foundation. “Despite the increase in popularity, there remains growth opportunity, especially among minorities, which are significantly underrepresented in the sport.”
The report uses the latest participation data collected annually by the Outdoor Foundation to present detailed information on participation in kayaking, canoeing, rafting and stand up paddling by gender, age, ethnicity, income, education, geographic region and more.
“We’re excited by the continued growth in the paddlesports industry. It shows a bright future for our quality Sevylor products from our inflatable SUPs to our boats, kayaks and canoes,” said Robert F. Marcovitch, President and CEO of Coleman. “The Special Report on Paddlesports is an invaluable tool for us to further refine our product offerings and for retailers to plan their paddlesports purchases.”
Download a copy of the Special Report on Paddlesports.
