Amidst the pandemic, outdoor sports and recreation activities like golf, fishing, and pickleball experienced a surge in popularity. Unlike other pandemic-driven trends that faded away, the interest in outdoor activities has remained strong.
By the end of 2023, outdoor participation reached a record high of 175.8 million Americans, accounting for 57% of the population aged 6 and older, according to the Outdoor Industry Association.
However, the increased interest also highlighted the lack of innovation in the outdoor recreation industry. Traditional practices like over-the-phone bookings and cash payments, along with a gear market dominated by legacy brands, presented a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs.
In response, entrepreneurs have developed SaaS software for hunting and fishing guides, AI-powered platforms for booking golf tee times, and even apps to help locate pickleball courts. Venture capitalists have also taken notice, investing millions in sports tech companies to meet the growing demand.
Online Acceleration
The shift to online interactions during the pandemic has accelerated the adoption of technology in the outdoor recreation sector. Startups like AnyCreek and Mallard Bay have created platforms for booking hunting and fishing guides, catering to a new generation of tech-savvy customers.
Companies like Loop Golf have also emerged, automating the process of finding and booking tee times at golf courses to accommodate the influx of new players. The demand for more efficient and tech-driven solutions is evident across the industry.
Behavior Changes
Consumers have come to expect digital interactions with businesses post-pandemic, driving the need for technology-driven solutions in recreational activities. Startups offering gear, clothing, and accessories for outdoor enthusiasts have also seen a surge in demand.
Companies like Eastside Golf, Malbon Golf, Nettie, and Recess are catering to the needs of new hobbyists by providing modern and stylish products. The trend towards experiential spending over material possessions further supports the growth of these startups.
Venture-backed startups like Hipcamp and AutoCamp paved the way for innovation in the outdoor recreation industry, showing that there is still vast potential for entrepreneurs to explore. Despite the market’s size, many businesses in this sector are still in need of tech-enabled solutions to enhance their offerings.
As consumer demand for digital solutions continues to rise, the outdoor recreation industry presents a significant market opportunity for startups to disrupt and innovate. The time is ripe for entrepreneurs to capitalize on this trend and revolutionize the way people engage in outdoor activities.
