Activewear Market

Activewear Market Size and Trends:

The global activewear market size was valued at USD 414.17 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 672.03 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.0% from 2025-2033. North America currently dominates the market, driven by a strong fitness culture, rising athleisure trends, advanced fabric innovations, and the continuous expansion of e-commerce. The sportswear market share by companies in this region highlights the dominance of major players such as Nike and Adidas, with Nike reporting $38.8 billion in revenue for the first nine months of fiscal 2024.

The blend of sporty and relaxed clothing, typically referred to as athleisure, is becoming more popular. Activewear has transcended its traditional exercise context and is now seen as everyday fashion, attracting a wider audience in search of trendy yet functional apparel. Moreover, advancements in textile technology, including moisture-wicking, breathable, stretchable, and odor-resistant fabrics, improve comfort and efficiency. These developments serve both serious athletes and everyday users. In addition to this, the increasing environmental consciousness among individuals is catalyzing the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly activewear. Brands are utilizing recycled and organic materials to attract ethically-minded buyers. Additionally, the rising availability of online shopping platforms is enhancing the accessibility of activewear for shoppers worldwide. Online shopping provides ease, a variety of product choices, and attractive pricing, driving sales.

The United States is a key region in the market owing to the rising focus on health and wellness, which is resulting in an increase in gym memberships, yoga participation, and outdoor activities. This shift is driving the demand for high-performance activewear that supports a variety of fitness regimens. Besides this, the emphasis on local manufacturing, as people value domestically produced goods, is bolstering the market growth. This focus not only supports the local economy but also ensures higher quality standards and faster production cycles. Additionally, local production meets the increasing need for sustainable and ethically made activewear, building trust and loyalty with eco-conscious and socially aware individuals. In 2024, Lara Trump revealed the debut of her American-manufactured activewear collection, highlighting patriotism, functionality, and fashion. The collection, created for women from various backgrounds, honors resilience and strength while emphasizing manufacturing based in the US. The brand embodies her life as a sportswoman and business owner, seeking to motivate those who strive for success.

Activewear Market Trends:

Health and wellness trend

The increasing interest in health, wellness, and fitness is a predominant driver supporting the market growth. The global fitness market is expanding at a rate of 5.6% annually, according to industry reports. With almost 40% of the fitness sector and a projected USD 95 Billion in revenue this year, the gym and health club business is the largest segment. As people increasingly adopt healthier lifestyles, there is a significant shift towards regular exercise, catalyzing the demand for comfortable, versatile, and high-performance. This trend is further amplified by the rising awareness about the importance of physical health and its impact on mental well-being, influencing individuals to invest in quality wear that supports their fitness journey. The proliferation of fitness apps, online workout communities, and virtual fitness classes during recent times, is making fitness activities more accessible, thereby expanding the user base. Brands are responding by innovating with eco-friendly materials, advanced technical features, and fashionable designs, making it suitable for a broad range of physical activities and everyday wear, thus blurring the lines between workout clothes and casual attire.

Technological Advancements and Innovation

The global market is significantly driven by technological advancements and innovations in fabrics and manufacturing processes. Modern individuals demand the product that not only provides comfort and flexibility but also incorporates advanced features such as moisture-wicking, temperature control, anti-odor, and ultraviolet (UV) protection. The integration of wearable technology, like fitness trackers and smart fabrics that monitor biometrics, has also elevated the functionality of it, making it appealing to tech-savvy people. Producers are constantly investigating novel materials, including recycled plastics and compostable fabrics, to improve sustainability and attract eco-friendly consumers. These advancements respond to the rising individual demand for high-quality clothing that supports an active way of life while also matching personal beliefs about sustainability and ethical production methods, thereby affecting buying choices.

Influence of Social Media and Celebrity Endorsements

Social media platforms and celebrity endorsements play a crucial role in shaping user preferences and strengthening the market growth. Influencers and celebrities showcase the latest activewear market trends, influencing their followers' buying choices and setting fashion trends. The visual nature of platforms like Instagram and TikTok serves as a perfect showcase for brands, enabling them to reach a broad audience by featuring their products in various lifestyle contexts. This visibility not only boosts brand awareness but also encourages a lifestyle that prioritizes fitness and health, further driving the demand for the product. Collaborations between brands and high-profile personalities in creating signature lines are also becoming a significant market trend, offering exclusivity and tapping into the fan base of those personalities, thereby attracting a larger user base and driving sales in the sector. Furthermore, activewear digital commerce has rapidly expanded and transformed the sector. Leaders such as Nike demonstrate the magnitude of this expansion. They expect that eventually half of their sales will come from e-commerce. Nike's revenue is expected to rise from USD 37.40 Billion to USD 44.38 Billion.

Activewear Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global activewear market, along with forecast at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on product type, material type, pricing, age group, distribution channel and end user.

Analysis by Product Type:

• Top Activewear
• Bottom Activewear
• Innerwear
• Swimwear
• Outerwear
   

Top activewear consists of clothing such as sports bras, tank tops, t-shirts, and sweatshirts tailored for exercise. This section serves different fitness activities, providing items that blend comfort, airflow, and aesthetic appeal. Producers concentrate on integrating cutting-edge technologies like moisture-wicking, fast-drying materials, and seamless design to improve performance and comfort. The variety in styles, hues, and practical elements enables people to customize their exercise clothing, showcasing their fashion tastes and the particular needs of their selected fitness regimen.

Bottom activewear encompasses a range of products including leggings, shorts, joggers, and track pants, which are essential components of fitness and leisure attire. This segment is developed with the inclusion of various materials and designs that cater to different types of physical activities, ranging from high-intensity workouts to yoga and Pilates. The focus is on providing maximum comfort, flexibility, and durability, with features like compression technology, adjustable waistbands, and pockets for functionality.

Innerwear primarily includes sports bras and performance underwear, designed to offer support, comfort, and breathability during physical activities. This segment emphasizes the importance of fit, technical fabrications, and innovative features like moisture management, anti-chafing seams, and enhanced breathability to ensure optimal performance and comfort. The demand for this is driven by an increasing awareness about the necessity for proper athletic support and the growing participation of women in various sports and fitness activities.

Swimwear segment is specialized attire designed for water-based activities such as swimming, surfing, and water polo. This category focuses on chlorine-resistant materials, provide UV protection, and offer quick-drying properties, alongside ensuring a snug fit that enhances aquatic performance. Innovations in eco-friendly materials and inclusive sizing are also pivotal, meeting the growing user expectations for sustainability and body inclusivity.

Outerwear includes jackets, hoodies, and windbreakers that are typically used as the outermost layer to protect against the elements during outdoor activities. This segment caters to a variety of climate conditions, offering options that are waterproof, windproof, insulated, or breathable to suit different environmental settings and personal preferences. The designs are not only functional but also incorporate stylish elements, allowing for a smooth transition from workout to casual settings.

Analysis by Material Type:

• Nylon
• Polyester
• Cotton
• Neoprene
• Polypropylene
• Spandex
   

Polyester accounts for the majority of the market share owing to its exceptional durability, resistance to shrinking and stretching, and quick-drying capabilities, making it highly favored for athletic wear. Its ability to wick moisture away from the body, coupled with its breathability and lightweight nature, offers athletes and fitness enthusiasts optimal comfort and performance enhancement. The versatility of polyester allows for blending with other fibers, enhancing functionality with properties like stretch and compression. Moreover, it holds color well, maintaining vibrancy wash after wash, and is resistant to wrinkles and abrasions, ensuring longevity and sustained appearance. The cost-effectiveness and ability of the material to be recycled align with the growing user demand for sustainable fashion, although its synthetic nature poses environmental challenges. Nonetheless, continuous innovations in polyester recycling and sustainable production are enhancing its appeal, solidifying its dominance in the market.

Analysis by Pricing:

• Economy
• Premium
   

Economy segment caters to cost-conscious buyers seeking affordability without compromising on basic functionality. This segment includes a wide range of options that are budget-friendly yet durable, offering essential features such as comfort, basic moisture-wicking, and breathability. Primarily targeting the mass market, these products are often produced in high volumes, which helps keep prices low. Brands in this segment may not offer the advanced technological features or high-end materials seen in premium lines but focus on providing value for money, making accessible to a broader demographic. This segment appeals to individuals who are new to fitness, casual exercisers, or those who prioritize cost over high-tech performance features, ensuring that staying active and leading a healthy lifestyle remains inclusive and affordable.

Premium is characterized by high-end, often luxury brands that offer superior quality, advanced technological features, and exclusive designs. This segment appeals to individuals who are willing to invest in top-tier products for their perceived durability, enhanced performance capabilities, and status symbol appeal. Premium wear often incorporates the latest innovations in fabric technology, such as advanced moisture-wicking, temperature regulation, and compression technology, alongside eco-friendly and sustainable materials. The design aesthetics in this segment are also a significant draw, with many brands collaborating with fashion designers or celebrities to create exclusive, trend-setting collections.

Analysis by Age Group:

• 1 – 15 Years
• 16 – 30 Years
• 31 – 44 Years
• 45 – 64 Years
• More than 65 Years
   

1 – 15 years primarily focuses on children and early teenagers. This segment includes apparel and footwear designed for physical activities, sports, and general play. The key considerations for this market segment are durability, comfort, safety, and ease of maintenance, as children are typically more active and may be less careful with their clothing. The designs are often colorful, fun, and incorporate child-friendly patterns, with brands sometimes collaborating with popular children's characters or themes to appeal to this demographic.

16 – 30 years represents a significant portion of this market, often characterized by a high interest in fashion, fitness, and sports. This demographic tends to be highly influenced by social media trends, celebrity endorsements, and peer recommendations. They seek that not only serves functional purposes, such as comfort, flexibility, and performance-enhancing features but also aligns with current fashion trends. This age group is more likely to engage in a variety of fitness activities, from gym workouts to outdoor sports, driving the demand for versatile wear that can transition seamlessly from workout to casual social settings.

31 – 44 years often prioritize quality, durability, and functionality, reflecting a mature approach to fitness and health. This demographic tends to have more disposable income and is willing to invest in higher-end that offers advanced technological features, such as moisture-wicking, breathability, and ergonomic design. They often balance professional careers with family life and personal fitness, seeking that is both practical for exercise and stylish enough for casual wear.

45 – 64 years hold a notable market share, driven by an awareness about the health benefits of staying active and an interest in maintaining a youthful, energetic lifestyle. This demographic often looks for apparel that offers a combination of comfort, support, and age-appropriate styling. They tend to prefer high-quality, durable items that provide adequate support and flexibility, catering to a variety of physical activities from walking and yoga to more intense exercise regimens.

More than 65 years favor comfort, mobility, and support, emphasizing soft, flexible materials that are simple to maintain. This segment seeks characteristics that improve safety and mobility, including non-slip bottoms on shoes and breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics. There is an increase in need for products that are fashionable yet suitable for older individuals, enabling them to feel self-assured and inspired to stay active, whether engaging in light exercise, strolling, or more intense workout sessions.

Analysis by Distribution Channel:

• Online Stores
• Offline Stores
   

Offline stores hold the biggest market share due to their ability to provide personalized shopping experiences and instant product availability. They include brick-and-mortar retailers, sportswear chains, department stores, and discount stores, which play a pivotal role in user engagement. This segment benefits from the tactile shopping experience it offers, allowing buyers to physically examine products, assess their quality, try them on for fit and comfort, and make instant purchases without the wait associated with shipping. Personal interaction with store staff can also provide a value-added service through expert advice, fitting assistance, and immediate feedback, enhancing the shopping experience. Retailers in this segment often create an immersive shopping environment through in-store events, fitness classes, and interactive displays, fostering a community feel and enhancing brand loyalty. Many people prefer the tangible retail experience, especially for products where fit and comfort are essential, making offline stores a crucial component of the market. The physical presence also offers immediate brand visibility and caters to last-minute shopping needs, a significant advantage over online counterparts.

Analysis by End User:

• Men
• Women
• Kids
   

Women hold the biggest share in the market, supported by a growing emphasis on fitness and well-being. Women are increasingly engaging in different physical exercises like yoga, running, and gym sessions, which is boosting the need for top-notch, performance-focused activewear. The growing popularity of athleisure, which incorporates activewear into everyday outfits, enhances this demand, as women look for clothing that blends practicality and fashion. Producers are reacting with advancements in fabric technology, such as moisture-wicking, flexible, and breathable materials, guaranteeing comfort and improved performance. Trendy styles, bright hues, and inclusive sizing significantly contribute to addressing a variety of preferences. The impact of social media, featuring celebrity promotions and fitness influencers endorsing trendy women's activewear, is enhancing the attractiveness of this category. Additionally, the rising use of sustainable and eco-conscious materials matches women's growing inclination toward environmentally friendly products, solidifying their status as the primary user group in the market.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

North America represents the largest segment, supported by a strong fitness culture and significant user expenditure on sports and athleisure clothing. The area's emphasis on health and wellness is leading to increased involvement in fitness pursuits like gym exercises, running, and yoga, boosting the need for high-quality activewear. The athleisure trend, which involves wearing activewear outside of exercise environments, is becoming increasingly popular, especially in urban and suburban regions. People in the area value practicality and style, encouraging brands to develop cutting-edge materials that provide comfort, moisture control, and longevity. The existence of top brands, along with effective marketing tactics such as influencer promotions and celebrity endorsements, is bolstering the market growth. Moreover, the increasing variety of online and offline distribution channels in the area is improving access to a broad selection of products. In 2024, the activewear label Tala obtained a £5m investment from Pembroke VCT to aid its growth in the US market. The financing will additionally be allocated to investigate physical retail prospects and improve the brand’s infrastructure and personnel. Tala, established by Grace Beverley, seeks to transform the athleisure industry with creative, solution-oriented clothing essentials.

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Activewear Market Analysis

Growing interest in wellness and fitness among individual supports the US activewear market. Over a fifth of the population in the United States was a member of at least one health club or studio in 2019, which fuels the growing need for fashionable yet practical sportswear. As of a Health and Fitness Association report, the United States dominates the health club industry in terms of facilities, with 41,370, memberships with 64.2 Million, and revenue of USD 35 Billion, as indicated in industry reports. The top brands dominating this market include giants such as Nike and Lululemon. Another major driver is the shift to eco-friendly products. Sportswear made from recycled materials has gained increased popularity because most people in American are willing to pay for sustainable clothing. According to business analysts, more than 30% of all sales of sportswear in the US will be online by 2023, thus e-commerce will be an essential channel for growth. Celebrity and brand partnerships also play a very significant role in terms of market reach and expansion.

Europe Activewear Market Analysis

The growing interest in fitness and outdoor activities within the region should be positive for the European activewear market. The market for high-performance clothing tends to increase because nearly half of Europeans are involved in any sport or physical exercise in a given week. Athleisure has particularly been in higher demand in countries such as Germany and the UK, while the European athleisure market is expected to surge further. Since 65% of the European shoppers prefer eco-friendly options for apparel, it acts as a key driver through sustainability activities, as can be seen in industry reports.

To cater to the demands, Adidas and Puma have highly invested in the creation of eco-friendly sportswear collection. Nike and other companies dealing with sportswear are trying their best for increasing online sales. Their revenues, from USD 2.5 Billion in 2010 to USD 16.4 Billion in 2021, grew over this period. The initiatives undertaken by the government that favor physical activity and wellness also facilitate growth like the Healthy Lifestyle for All EU initiative. Smart sportswear products demand has been driven by wearable technologies uptake.

Asia Pacific Activewear Market Analysis

Asia-Pacific market for activewear is growing at a fast pace thanks to high urbanization and health awareness. Gym membership has increased in China and India in 2022. In 2019, nearly 3.5 million individuals were gym members in India, according to the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) report. Younger demographics that put a premium on both functionality and fashion are driving the athleisure market in this region to grow at 9% compound annual growth. Sportswear sales rise because of social media and fitness influencer marketing, especially within Gen Z and millennials. The low-cost brands, especially Decathlon, are establishing themselves in developing regions because they offer high-quality at relatively affordable prices. In addition, government initiatives such as China's "National Fitness Program" and India's "Fit India Movement" encourage physical fitness activities that increase the demand for sportswear across the region.

Latin America Activewear Market Analysis

Latin America is witnessing a growing middle-class and increasing fitness awareness, which is supporting the sportswear market. Mexico and Brazil are the key markets; as per industry reports, in 2022, the Brazilian fitness market was over USD 40 Million. The demand for comfortable, moisture-wicking active sportswear has increased, largely because of yoga and Zumba. While global companies like Nike and Adidas expand their footprint, local firms are also gathering strength by offering sportswear competitively priced to sit well with local palates. The influence of exercise culture on social media platforms and the increasing use of e-commerce, which will account for 15% of activewear sales in 2022, both contribute to the market's expansion.

Middle East and Africa Activewear Market Analysis

Growing health consciousness and societal trends towards more casual attire are driving the activewear market in the Middle East and Africa. Gym memberships have skyrocketed in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations; in 2022, the UAE's fitness sector was estimated to be more than USD 1 Billion, as per industry reports. The need for modest sportswear is rising as more women engage in physical activities. While local firms are taking advantage of the modest athleisure trend, international manufacturers are customizing their products to suit local tastes. This e-commerce market in the Middle East is also set to expand significantly; by 2025, the industry will have reached USD 50 Billion, according to reports on this industry.

List of Key Activewear Companies:

Major participants in the market are actively involved in different strategic efforts to sustain and enhance their market presence. They are making significant investments in research and development (R&D) to innovate and integrate advanced technologies into their products, concentrating on sustainability, performance-boosting features, and comfort. These firms are also utilizing partnerships with fashion designers, celebrities, and athletes to expand their attraction and connect with various user groups. Marketing approaches are becoming more centered on digital channels, leveraging social media sites and influencer collaborations to engage with buyers. Moreover, there is a notable drive for sustainability, as brands are utilizing eco-conscious materials and methods to satisfy the increasing user demand for eco-friendly products. In 2024, Princess Polly launched its sustainable activewear line, Princess Polly Active, featuring inclusive sizing (US 0-20) and eco-friendly materials. The collection includes versatile pieces like jumpsuits, dresses, and leggings in latte, grey, and black, blending fashion, comfort, and functionality.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the activewear market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Adidas AG
• ASICS Corporation
• Columbia Sportswear Company
• DICK's Sporting Goods Inc.
• Forever 21
• Gap Inc.
• Nike Inc.
• Puma SE
• PVH Corp.
• Skechers USA Inc.
• The North Face (VF Corporation)
• Under Armour Inc.
   

Latest News and Developments:

• July 2024: 'Active,' the inaugural activewear collection from Garage, has launched as the Canadian women's fashion label expands its 'Off-Duty' range. Featuring a four-way stretch and breathable material, the inaugural activewear collection comprises 15 fresh styles perfect for exercise.  Items from the new 'Active' collection include exercise shorts, flare leggings with built-in pockets in sizes XXS to XL, and a contour zip-up jacket.
• March 2024: The Adidas Foundation is launched to enhance the brand's community impact, focusing on "People" (anti-discrimination, sport development, inclusive access), "Planet" (preserving sport spaces, promoting sustainability), and "Relief" (aid during crises).
• February 2024: Athleta, part of Gap Inc., launches its high-performance Train Collection, developed over three years with feedback from professional athletes to everyday users, and validated through extensive lab testing. The 8-piece set is crafted to enhance rigorous workouts, focusing on fit, resilience, and comfort, empowering women on their fitness paths.

Activewear Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the activewear market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global activewear market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest growing, markets in the region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the activewear industry and its attractiveness.
• The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.