Best-selling sports products for your catalog

by Stef Calimlim (Content Editor)

Photo by Hermes Rivera on Unsplash

The sports industry is inarguably one of the hardest hit sectors by the COVID-19 pandemic. In the early months of the pandemic, manufacturers and retailers saw their market valuation and sales drop significantly. However, the disruptions brought about by this health crisis also opened new opportunities for several sports market segments. Moreover, with governments easing restrictions into the new normal and vaccine rollouts reaching more of the global population, the sporting goods industry is set to bounce back and emerge stronger. Buyers looking to source in-demand and highly profitable sports products from verified suppliers can check out the following selections, which are available at Global Sources:

Electric scooters

Electric scooters are the future of urban mobility. They are popular among consumers because they are practical, eco-friendly and economical transport alternative. The global market is expected to reach $34.7 billion by 2028 according to Research and Markets' latest report. The Asia-Pacific region, which dominated the global market in 2020, is poised to continue dominating the market, while North America is projected to grow at a significant rate from 2021 to 2028. Manufacturers offer a wide range of electric scooters for adults and children. While most units come with built-in batteries, some manufacturers offer variants with replaceable batteries which are suitable for those in the ride-sharing business. Power ratings range from as little as 80W to as much as 12,000W. The standard speed range is 24 to 30kph, but units with higher motor power can dish out up to 109kph acceleration rate.

Electric bikes

An electric bike or e-bike is also at the forefront of urban mobility's future. This sustainable mode of transport extends the range of trips undertaken by non-motorized bicycles and at faster speeds. Typical selections include foldable and non-foldable units with built-in or removable lithium or lead-acid batteries, 150 to 2,000W motor, 12 to 26in tires, and aluminum alloy frames. These e-bikes have a speed ranging from 25 to 80kph, and a standard range of 50 to 80km on a single charge. There are also units with 100 to 180km range. Research and Markets' report showed that the e-bike market is poised to reach $79.7 billion by 2026 from $47 billion in 2021, growing at 11.1 percent CAGR.

Trampolines

Round, square and rectangular trampolines for indoor and outdoor use make up the most common selections available in the marketplace. Some are foldable, while others are inflatable and suitable for use water activities. Whether for recreational or fitness, consumers consider safety features and quality of materials when purchasing trampolines. Suppliers offer types that use coiled steel springs, elastic springs or glass-reinforced plastic rods, which are covered with safety padding to avoid injury. Some models have netted enclosures for added safety. Dimensions vary, with some suppliers accepting customization requests.

Water shoes

Specifically designed for use in aquatic sports, and other outdoor and water-based activities such diving, swimming, surfing, snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking, water shoes offer a combination of comfort and protection on slippery surfaces or when wading through water with unpredictable and rough terrain. Popular types include lightweight and skin-friendly water shoes that don't cause blisters. These are made of rubber, quick-dry spandex or breathable mesh and have nonslip outsoles. Manufactures offer unisex footwear, and pairs for men, women and children - all of which come in various sizes, designs and colors.

Golf carts

Also known as buggy or golf car, golf carts are no longer just exclusive for use in tournaments and country clubs. There's a growing number of uses for golf carts such us in universities, off-road vacation sites, large private properties, farms and even construction sites. The units available in the market range from gas, electric-powered, and push and pull golf carts to two-, three- or four-wheel scooter types.

Basketball shoes

Basketball shoes are one of the most popular types of sneakers or athletic footwear ever. Extending beyond their on-court use, basketball shoes are also a big part of street fashion. Consumers not only look for cheap or affordable basketball shoes, design and innovation also play important roles when choosing the right kicks. A pair that has good ankle protection, stylish design, excellent outsole traction and grip, and provides a top-tier performance are popular among consumers.

Pool floats

They're not just a party must-have and popular summer item, pool floats are also one of the most fashionable sports and outdoor accessory, making them popular among "Instagrammers" and social media-savvy consumers. They are typically made of PVC, and come in various shapes and designs, with some suppliers accepting OEM requests.

Soccer balls

According to an article written by Kewill CMO Evan Puzey, approximately 40 million soccer balls are sold yearly around the world. One of the primary drivers of this significant sale is the World Cup, which is one of the most-watched sporting events in the world. The soccer balls available in the market are not exclusive for collectors and fans of the sport, suppliers also offer models for training and for children. They can be handsewn or machine-stitched variants and made of one or two layers of cowhide, PU, explosion-resistant PVC or TPU. Various designs and dimensions are available for sourcing.

Golf balls

The growing golf tourism and technological advancements are some of the emerging trends driving the global golf ball market. Moreover, golf's popularity surged in 2020 as non-contact sports were encouraged due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While golf is popular among the older demographic, the sport is witnessing an increasing number of younger participants, especially with female players. Popular offerings come in 65 to 75 and 80 to 90 Shore D hardness and with 322, 332, 352, 392 or 432 dimples. These are made of rubber and Surlyn or PU. Some suppliers offer toy golf balls, which have hollow plastic design, while others manufacture unique types such as LED and glow-in-the-dark golf balls.