Global Sources Sports and Outdoor Show: A Hub for Emerging Sports Tourism, What You Need To Know

The Global Sources Sports & Outdoor Show, which is currently taking place in Hong Kong, will turn out to be a landmark event in the outdoors and sports tourism industries. The show, which takes place until October 30, 2025, at AsiaWorld-Expo, will exhibit over 600 exhibitors from throughout Asia displaying the latest inventions in sports equipment, outdoor gear, and apparel, with new trends like pickleball and World Cup-themed products receiving special attention. The event is likely to be the main attraction for about 15,000 professional buyers; thus, it not only emphasises the prosperous outdoor recreation market but also the flourishing global sports tourism industry.

The Rising Popularity of Pickleball and Its Global Impact on Tourism

One of the standout trends at this year’s show is the rapid growth of pickleball, a sport that has seen a meteoric rise in popularity worldwide. With 48 million active players globally and projections to reach 100 million by 2030, pickleball is increasingly becoming a significant force in the sports industry. As China leads the way in manufacturing pickleball paddles, producing over 70% of the world’s supply, the Global Sources Sports & Outdoor Show offers a comprehensive pickleball ecosystem to cater to both recreational players and professional athletes.

Exhibitors are displaying a wide range of pickleball products, including high-performance paddles made from carbon fiber, fibreglass, and polymer composites, as well as competition balls that meet international tournament standards. The Pickleball Expo Cup 2025, which features corporate and open divisions, is set to make waves in the industry. Visitors to the show will also have the opportunity to watch live demonstrations by Hong Kong’s top-ranked pickleball players, offering an immersive experience for tourists and buyers alike.

With its blend of competitive and recreational elements, pickleball represents an exciting growth opportunity for sports tourism. The sport is attracting travelers who are not only seeking new activities but also exploring unique destinations where they can enjoy their favorite pastime. This trend will continue to grow as more resorts, hotels, and tourism boards recognize the appeal of pickleball-friendly travel experiences.

World Cup-Themed Products and the 2026 Business Boom

Looking ahead to 2026, the World Cup will generate a surge of international tourism and product demand, and the Global Sources Sports & Outdoor Show is already tapping into this momentum. A special World Cup-themed area at the event showcases football equipment, match support merchandise, and customized football-themed souvenirs, all made with eco-friendly materials. Visitors will find a wide range of professional football apparel and customized products like team jerseys, scarves, and flags, which are expected to be popular for match viewing parties and fan experiences.

The show also emphasizes personalized football merchandise, offering buyers flexible customization services for small-batch production and rapid sampling, ideal for the growing football tourism market. As tourists flock to World Cup host countries, these products will allow them to engage with the event on a deeper level, creating an immersive experience for fans. The football experience zone at the show allows buyers to actively participate in football activities, offering a taste of the excitement that will soon captivate the world in 2026.

Outdoor Adventure and Camping Innovation for Travelers

In addition to sports equipment, the Global Sources Sports & Outdoor Show features a wide array of innovative outdoor products. As outdoor tourism becomes more popular, this showcase offers everything from multifunctional backpacks and high-performance camping stoves to portable water bottles and camping refrigerators. Products are designed with the adventurous traveler in mind, from ergonomic backpacks made with waterproof, abrasion-resistant materials to lightweight camping carts that combine portability with rugged durability.

As sustainable tourism continues to grow, eco-friendly outdoor products are becoming a key focus at this year’s show. Companies are showcasing intelligent, sustainable innovations designed to meet the needs of travelers who prioritize both adventure and environmental responsibility. The introduction of solar-powered camping gear, recycled materials for outdoor equipment, and energy-efficient solutions helps ensure that outdoor experiences remain accessible while minimizing their environmental impact.

Interactive Experiences and the Future of Sports Tourism

The Global Sources Sports & Outdoor Show emphasizes interactive experiences to engage visitors in a hands-on way. The Indoor Triathlon Invitation Competition simulates skiing, cycling, and rowing challenges, giving attendees the chance to experience the thrill of these sports using professional equipment. These competitions add an exciting dimension to the event and offer tourists an immersive way to participate in global sports trends.

In addition, the Sports Innovation Forum during the event will explore the future of sports tourism, discussing sustainable material applications, sportswear design, and how performance enhancement intersects with travel experiences. This forum will provide key insights into how sports tourism can evolve to meet the growing demand for sustainable, active travel options.

Global Sources Sports & Outdoor Show: A Hub for Sports Tourism

The Global Sources Sports & Outdoor Show held in Hong Kong is not only a trade fair; it is also a major event for the development of the sports and outdoor tourism industry. The exhibition, which covers a wide range of products, including pickleball paddles, football merchandise, and advanced outdoor equipment, gives the visitor an insight into the changing face of sports tourism. The event takes the active and eco-friendly travel experience trend and makes it the norm, which will give the world outdoor activities and sports tourism in the next decade.

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