GLORY BOARDS SUP 2025 PREVIEW

Retail Buyers Guide: SUP 2025 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: GLORY BOARDS
Interviewee: Stefan Karpe – CEO

In our previous S/S 25 SUP Buyer’s Guide, most indicators showed the 2022-23 overstocks were mostly cleared out. Did 2024 ended on the same note with a better demand vs. offer balance?
Yes, 2024 showed further signs of market stabilization. After two years of struggling with overstock, the industry found a healthier balance. For GLORY BOARDS, the year ended with strong sell-through in retail – especially in online sales – and we were able to adjust production volumes to better meet real market demand.

Cheaper entry-level iSUPs represent the bulk of the sales but the segment is flooded with brands and products, whereas more advanced SUPs offer better margins. How do you intend to position your brand on the market spectrum in 2025?
In 2025, we continue to focus on delivering exceptional value in the mid to premium segment. Our models come with high-quality components like carbon paddles and reinforced constructions, offering customers a long-lasting product experience. We see ourselves clearly positioned above mass-market entry-level brands.

Which are your key inflatable models for 2025 in the Allround/Cruising segments?
Our bestsellers in this segment are the FUN 10’0” Allround SUP Set with Carbon Paddle, and the CROSS 11’0” Allround SUP Set with Carbon Paddle, designed for the perfect allround use.

Which Specialty iSUP are you pushing in 2025: Race & Flatwater, River, Fishing, SUP-Kayak…?
We are focusing on the TOURING 12’6” Touring SUP Set with Carbon Paddle, a sleek inflatable board built for longer distances and better glide performance. This model addresses the growing interest in fitness paddling and light touring.

There has been a relative status quo the past 3 years regarding new technologies & materials? Do you have some exciting news to share for the year coming or did the SUP products reach maturity concerning designs/constructions?
We believe the SUP market has reached a solid level of maturity when it comes to materials and constructions. For 2025, we are keeping proven technologies and design principles, ensuring consistency in quality and performance across our range.

(hardboard brands only) The opportunity for hardboard sales seem to be whether in the school/rental area or in the high-end performance models. Do you cater to this demand?
No, we are focused exclusively on inflatable SUPs at this time.

How are you supporting retailers through this difficult period?
We offer competitive wholesale conditions, attractive set pricing including carbon paddles, and fast delivery from central stock. On top of that, we support retailers with professional marketing materials, social media content, and direct customer service to drive both online and in-store sales.

Key Products:

FUN 10’0” Allround SUP Set with Carbon Paddle:
The perfect inflatable SUP for beginners! The FUN 10’0″ offers great stability, effortless control, and playful performance. A kickpad enables quick turns, and D-rings allow kayak seat conversion. This board is ideal for first-timers looking for a quality allrounder. Comes with a free carbon paddle for maximum value and performance on your SUP journey.

Glory_Board_FUN_mint_Set_online

CROSS 11’0” Allround SUP Set with Carbon Paddle:
A true all-in-one board for the whole family. The CROSS 11’0″ functions as both a SUP and sit-on-top kayak with an optional seat. Its stable design makes it perfect for relaxed paddling, even for two. Whether at the lake or on a coastal tour, this versatile board brings fun and flexibility to every outing.

Glory_Board_CROSS_blau_Set_online

TOURING 12’6” Touring SUP Set with Carbon Paddle:
Designed for advanced paddlers, the TOURING 12’6” delivers long-distance performance with excellent glide and speed. The pointed nose cuts smoothly through the water, while the length and profile reduce drag. Great for training, expeditions, or fitness paddling. A kickpad at the tail enables sharp turns, making this board both fast and responsive.

Glory_Board_Touring_tuerkis_online