ARCHERY may look like a simple and basic sport to get involved it but can be surprisingly expensive.
Archery may look like a simple and basic sport, but getting involved can be surprisingly expensive.
Unlike some hobbies where beginners can start with minimal gear, archery requires equipment that quickly adds up in cost. Quality bows, arrows, targets, and protective gear all carry a premium, and even practicing at a local range can involve additional fees.
We spoke to the University of Southampton Archery captain, Alfred Bestford, to get a clearer picture of the costs involved. “Even a single arrow can cost around £40, and I have four of those alongside the standard £20 ones,” he explained, highlighting how equipment expenses can escalate quickly for those serious about the sport.
The Archery captain also gave a breakdown of his bow, which costs around £700 in total. It’s not just the gear that adds to the expense—many archers also invest in coaching, club memberships, and tournament entries, all of which can add hundreds of pounds a year.
Yet despite the high costs, archers say it’s worth every penny. The focus, discipline, and thrill of hitting the target make archery more than just a hobby—it’s a serious passion. For newcomers, the costs might seem daunting, but experts like Alfred encourage starting small and building gradually. Even with careful budgeting, archery remains one of the priciest sports to take up in the UK. But for those who stick with it, the reward of mastering the bow is unparalleled.
I had never even picked up a bow before last week, but I felt the thrill as soon as the string touched the side of my face, just as Alfred instructed. Experiencing the difficulty and precision required firsthand gave me a new appreciation for the sport. If you want to try your own archery adventure, you can follow the link below.
