---
title: "Sourcing Spas, Hot Tubs & Inflatable Pools"
summary: "From inflatable Jacuzzis to acrylic swim spas. Navigating the pool industry."
category: "guide"
date: "2026-03-14"
author: "Withyou Trip Sourcing Team"
image: "/images/blog/sourcing-spas-pools-hero-unique.png"
---
# Dive In: Sourcing Spas & Pools
Phase 2. A high-ticket item category.
## 1. Inflatable vs. Hard Shell
* **Inflatable:** (Like Lay-Z-Spa). PVC material. Cheap retail price ($400). High volume.
* **Acrylic:** Fiberglass reinforced. Expensive retail ($5000+). Low volume.
## 2. Acrylic Sheet Brand
* For hard shell spas, ask: *"Is this US Aristech Acrylic?"*
* Chinese domestic acrylic yellows in the sun after 2 years. US acrylic lasts 10+.
## 3. Equipment Pack (The Brain)
* **Balboa (USA):** The gold standard control system. Buyers trust it.
* **Gecko (Canada):** Also excellent.
* **Generic Chinese:** Cheaper, but harder to service if it breaks abroad.
## 4. Production Hub
* **Guangzhou/Foshan:** Many spa factories are near the fair.
## Summary
Shipping is a nightmare. A container holds only 6-8 swim spas. You are shipping air.