Increase in 'Naho-ro-jo' Due to 'COVID-19'... Sales of Hiking and Bicycle Equipment Up

Increasing Number of Customers Looking for Sports Equipment to Enjoy Alone

Sales Soar: Hiking Gear up 157.8%, Bicycle Gear up 1680%, etc.

[Asia Economy Reporter Cha Min-young] As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, more people are enjoying exercising alone.

According to Lotte Mart on the 9th, an analysis of sports product sales on the Lotte Mart Mall from the 17th of last month to the 5th of this month showed a significant increase in sales of sports equipment that can be enjoyed alone compared to the same period last year. Notably, hiking gear sales rose by 157.8%, bicycle gear by 1680%, weight training equipment by 16.9%, and camping gear by 68.5%. Sales of easily used solo items such as dumbbells, yoga bands, and hula hoops also increased by 211.8%, 58%, and 16.1%, respectively.

In particular, hiking, cycling, and weight training are representative exercises that can be done alone without contact with others, characterized by being safely enjoyed in open or personal spaces rather than crowded areas. It is known that virus infections are activated in enclosed spaces, and recently government agencies have advised avoiding large groups gathering indoors.

Additionally, as more people seek to enjoy camping safely alone, sales of related products have also increased. Demand for easily used mats and picnic blankets has risen. These products saw a 153.1% increase compared to the same period last year.

In response, Lotte Mart Mall offers a variety of hiking and sports equipment. The 'Mountain Equipment Hip Sack' is sold for 10,900 KRW, the 'Sports550 Camping Mat (single)' for 9,800 KRW, and the portable 'Iron Mesh Camping Table' for 39,000 KRW. The prices of the 'Smart Hiking Backpack' and 'Basic Hiking Stick' are 19,800 KRW and 13,800 KRW, respectively.