OutdoorXpo · Watersports
Get in front of
the people who
spend on water
From the rush of whitewater to the meditative glide of paddleboarding at dawn — the Watersports section of the OutdoorXpo brings Britain's most dynamic aquatic pursuits under one roof. Discover world-class brands, connect with the paddling and sailing communities, and find everything you need to get out on the water.
Visitor Profile · Watersports
The UK's passion for the water has never been stronger
Kayaking, SUP, sailing, surfing, wild swimming, open-water triathlon — watersports have become one of the fastest-growing segments of the UK's outdoor activity market. The pandemic ignited a lasting love affair with blue spaces, and participation has remained consistently elevated ever since.
The Watersports section at the OutdoorXpo is the industry's most direct route to this engaged, spending-ready audience — from committed regulars to aspiring enthusiasts keen to take the plunge.
What to Expect
Everything the water demands
The Watersports section brings together an unrivalled mix of brands, experiences and expertise across the full spectrum of aquatic pursuits.
Paddlesports
The UK's fastest-growing watersports category — kayaking, canoeing, sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding all represented by leading brands and specialist retailers. Demos, kit clinics and skills sessions run throughout the show.
Kayak · SUP · CanoeSurfing & Board Sports
From longboards to foil boards, surf schools to travel specialists — explore the full world of wave riding. Get fitted for a wetsuit, discover artificial wave centres near you, and talk technique with experienced instructors.
Surf · Foil · WingSailing & Powerboating
RYA-affiliated clubs, charter companies and equipment manufacturers gather to help visitors discover dinghy sailing, keelboat racing and powerboating. Ideal for those taking their first steps or upgrading their setup.
Sailing · RIB · RacingDiving & Snorkelling
Freediving, scuba and snorkelling — one of adventure travel's fastest-growing sectors. Discover dive centres, conservation dive travel operators, and the latest mask, wetsuit and rebreather technology from global specialists.
Scuba · Freedive · MarineOpen Water Swimming
Wild swimming has become a cultural phenomenon. This section covers everything from tow floats and thermal wetsuits to organised open water swim events and coaching from endurance swimming experts.
Wild Swim · Triathlon · ColdWatersports Travel
From surfing the Maldives to SUP touring in Scotland — connect with specialist travel operators, boat-based adventure operators and adventure resorts offering world-class aquatic experiences on every continent.
Travel · Expeditions · ToursUK Market Data
A market in confident growth
The UK watersports industry is backed by strong and rising consumer demand. Here's what the numbers say.
Visitor Insights
Reach your most valuable audience
OutdoorXpo visitors are passionate, well-informed and ready to invest in their watersports. Whether they're upgrading equipment, planning a trip or exploring a new discipline for the first time, they arrive with intent.
Our visitor survey reveals that 69% of attendees engage with watersports in some form — making this one of the highest-concentration watersports audiences at any UK consumer show. Nearly three in ten visitors actively want to do more on the water, representing a prime purchase-ready segment for brands at every price point.
Visitors are typically aged 28–55, with above-average disposable income and a strong pattern of multi-activity participation. Many combine watersports with hiking, climbing and adventure travel — creating genuine cross-sell opportunities across the show floor.
Visitor watersports engagement — survey breakdown
Exhibit in the Watersports section
Secure your stand alongside the UK's leading watersports brands and connect directly with tens of thousands of passionate outdoor consumers. Whether you're launching a product, recruiting club members or growing brand awareness — the OutdoorXpo delivers measurable results.
Exhibition enquiries welcome