A “Slice” of Virtual Reality
Q: What do you get when you combine incredible game simulation, fast-growing virtual reality technology, and a sport that dates back to the 15th century?
A: A booming golf simulator market that is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 8.3%.
Thanks to this growth, golfers can now play famous courses worldwide more often, with greater fun and at more affordable prices!
More people are playing golf globally, which drives the expansion of golf facilities. GPS-based devices provide golfers with accurate insights for challenging 9- and 18-hole courses. Moreover, golf simulators are integrating virtual reality technology, which will increase their popularity even more over the next decade.
Have you ever played Pebble Beach? How about St. Andrews or Royal Troon? Now you can! In fact, you can play dozens of legendary courses—from Ridgewood in New Jersey to Reykjavik Korpa in Iceland—all from the comfort and convenience of an indoor golf center, club, or even your home!
The Rise of the Simulator
Golf simulators cost anywhere from $799 to $70,000, depending on how seriously you take the game. They let you:
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Play year-round
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Play in any weather
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Play day or night
In 2019, the market valued golf simulators at $1.23 billion. Experts expect the market to grow at an 8.3% annual rate through 2029. North America holds over half of this market (54%) and hosts about 74% of golf facilities.
North America will likely dominate this market for the next decade because more people are taking up golf. In 2017, around 8.2 million people played golf in the region, and that number should rise by 25%, which will further boost market growth.
Growth in Asia-Pacific and Beyond
In Asia-Pacific, golf has traditionally been a sport for the wealthy. However, this region is set to become the fastest-growing market for golf and golf simulators, with a projected growth rate of 12% over the next decade. For example, South Korea has emerged as a lucrative market, with around 4.3 million active golfers—8% of the population. Brazil, Turkey, the UAE, and India also show strong growth.
Commercial Demand and Home Use
More than half of all simulators are installed in commercial spaces. You’ll find them at corporate events, colleges, universities, and private homes. However, home use can be tricky due to space and cost. Many home simulators require a space at least 10 feet wide, 15 feet long, and 10 feet high for proper swings. Yet, basement ceilings often measure only 7 feet, which limits installation options.
The market currently has many competitors, including GolfZon, Trugolf, OptiShot®, TrackMan™, and Full Swing. These brands offer highly realistic play experiences, and many simulators are portable, making them more attractive and helping the market grow.
Professional golfers also use simulators indoors to improve their skills. The latest models integrate app-based solutions that work with smartphones, which should further drive growth.
