Simulated Golf Is Experiencing Real Growth, In Homes And Beyond

“There have been a lot of new players – companies that have entered the business in the past few years,” Wood added. “From a golf population perspective, we know there is significant interest in indoor golf and we are definitely experiencing that.”

An estimated 6.2 million Americans used a golf simulator in the past year, a number that has surged 73% compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to a new report from the National Golf Foundation. For comparison, that’s roughly equivalent to the combined population of Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Diego, and Dallas.

These figures reflect the growing home simulator market as well as commercial simulator venues – from an increasing array of national franchises like Topgolf Swing Suites, Five Iron Golf, and X-Golf to regional locations like Play-a-Round Golf in the Philadelphia area.

More and more traditional golf facilities are embracing simulators as an added value, offering greater customer and member engagement during the offseason or after dark. Simulators are becoming standard in instructional venues and golf retail stores, and are appearing more frequently in a wider variety of places: bars and restaurants, casinos, stadiums, hotels, on cruise ships, and more, thanks to a range of suppliers such as aboutGolf, Foresight Sports, Full Swing Golf, Rain or Shine Golf, Rapsodo, SkyTrak, and Trackman.

“The golf simulator market has really expanded in recent years. From the rise of commercial locations to the availability of personal launch monitors, people are learning about the benefits of simulator golf,” said SkyTrak CEO Jeff Foster. “We’re excited about what’s ahead and how we can continue to help people improve their game.”

Golfzon, which has a substantial commercial simulator presence in South Korea, with nearly 90 million 18-hole rounds played annually at its 5,000+ locations, is among those looking to expand in the North American market. Golfzon America partnered with Troon, the world’s leading management company, to launch state-of-the-art indoor golf entertainment venues called Golfzon Social, featuring the company’s most advanced simulators.

“While golf is at the heart of Golfzon Social, the facilities cater to everyone seeking a fun and relaxing time, regardless of their golfing skill," says Golfzon America CEO Tommy Lim. "We've removed the stressful elements that beginners might feel at a traditional golf course, making them comfortable and more likely to enjoy the sport."