Trade in Ski and Snowboards Lacks Momentum - Germany's winter sports industry shrinks as exports and imports plummet

Germany's winter sports industry has seen major shifts in recent years. Exports of skis and snowboards fell by nearly a fifth in 2024, while imports dropped sharply compared to a decade ago. Despite these declines, the country exported more winter sports gear than it imported for the first time since 2021.

In 2024, Germany exported 523,100 skis and snowboards worth €95.2 million. This marked an 18.8% decrease in volume from previous years. The biggest buyers of German-made equipment were France, Austria, and the United States.

Imports also declined significantly. The country brought in 518,800 winter sports items valued at €71.7 million. This figure represents a 29.8% drop from 2014, when imports reached around 739,200 units. Most imported goods came from China (36.7%), Austria (24%), and Slovenia (8.2%).

The decline in production has hit major German brands hard. Companies like Fischer Sports, Völkl (under Markengruppe Amphibena), and Blizzard once held 15-20% of the market. By 2025, their combined share had fallen below 10%. Rising competition from Asian manufacturers and shrinking demand due to climate change have contributed to the downturn. Despite this, the three firms still dominate the domestic market, controlling over 60% of ski and snowboard sales.

Germany's winter sports sector faces ongoing challenges from global competition and changing weather patterns. Exports have fallen, and imports remain well below past levels. However, the slight rebound in export volumes over imports suggests a small but notable shift in trade dynamics.