The Surf Industry Members Association (SIMA) released a new 22-page report – Diversity in Surfing – in which it examined some of the changing dynamics of the surfing industry. Of note, the document revealed that Caucasian and White surfers dropped off from 65 percent (2022) to today’s 61 percent.
“This decline,” the report stated, “suggests that more individuals from diverse backgrounds are getting involved in the sport, which can be attributed to the efforts made to promote inclusivity and create opportunities for underrepresented communities.”
Noting the addition of nearly a million enthusiasts since 2019, the report highlighted several statistics:
- 40 percent of U.S. surfers are of African American/Black, Hispanic or Asian/Pacific Island heritage, with Black surfers having the largest growth over the past 3-5 years and constituting the largest number of “casual” surfers (below eight times per year).
- Asian and Pacific Islander surfers having the largest increase in “core” surfers (over eight times per year) over a two-year period.
- Hispanic surfers making up the largest percentage of “core” surfers.
- Women now make up 35 percent of surfers.
- Non-Caucasian surfers outpaced Caucasians in “participation growth.”
- Caucasian surfers fell from 65 percent (2022) to 61 percent (2023).
To access the report, click here.
