Long gone are the days when boot Hall 2 with its surf shops and flood of outfitting material (also affectionately known as "Hell 2") was the busiest bazaar in Europe. However, it is clear that many visitors still come to Düsseldorf to snap up a bargain. What does boot 2025 have to offer for bargain hunters?
First impression: No, I don't want an iSUP. As always in recent years, F2 has a second stand next to the new products with a colourful, not to say very colourful, selection of inflatable boards. Some of the test models are priced in the three-figure range, and one heavily rocked model is even available for just 99.00 euros. Moving on quickly, there are a few windsurf boards around the corner. Also from test stocks, but apparently well-preserved freeriders around 130 litres attract the interest of several customers. I've just done the surfing course and pick up on a sales pitch - hopefully the man will be lucky with his purchase and move on, I think. Just under 1000.00 euros is still a tidy sum.
The Surfer's Paradise shop is also flying the windsurfing flag and has a few second-hand boards strapped to the top of its stand. A tagged-on JP, an RRD slalom sail, an Exocet Cross and a few older F2s are waiting for new owners. I wonder how long they've been dragged along? "They're going, we already sold three boards yesterday," says salesman Andreas. He has even more in his trailer and keeps bringing them into the hall. So it's worth asking. "Many buyers come from Holland and look around here!" There are also a few individual sails, mainly from smaller brands, and a few masts and booms. Plus the obligatory rummage boxes with base plates and fins. At least no iSUPs.
Wings in almost all sizes
There is a large selection when it comes to wings: several stands have advertised various lines in almost all sizes, so the stocks seem to be full. You should also be able to find a wing board at boot, mainly wide all-rounders can be seen at the stands, but also some downwind sticks. There are also kites, but there are no numbers after the decimal point in terms of prices or sizes.
Next corner, even more iSUPs, among which one or two inflatable boats have smuggled themselves in. If you don't want to lug the parcel around the trade fair, you can have your new board sent straight to your home. After all, you have to keep your arms free for all the other surfer memorabilia: Hawaiian shirts, hula girls for dashboards, US number plates, caps, T-shirts, seat covers - if you want to kit yourself out not only on the water, but also for your lifestyle, you're sure to find what you're looking for.
Many wetsuits and accessories
In stark contrast to the stalls with brightly coloured clothing: lots of neoprene that spreads its scent throughout the hall. Neo shoes in all variations, caps, headbands, buoyancy waistcoats and rows and rows of wetsuits, some in attractive sizes. Those who are not afraid of the undignified fitting in a cramped cubicle can try them on to their heart's content. There are also a surprising number of chunky drysuits that you would imagine on a sailing boat (or an iSUP?). Harnesses are much easier to try on. A large wall with various models (including seat harnesses!) at Surfer's Paradise, a rummage box with 100-euro bargains, including some high-quality hard shells. Unfortunately not in the right size - last Christmas aftermath?
As I tug at the buckles to stop having to pull in my stomach, I flinch as a loud hiss sounds directly behind me. Another iSUP has been sold and is being rolled up in front of the shining eyes of its new owner. Another new water sports enthusiast, I think. After all, an iSUP is kind of a nice introductory drug.
