Activewear Market

Report ID: GMI7357
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Activewear Market Size

The global activewear market size was estimated at USD 404 billion in 2024. The market is expected to grow from USD 430.3 billion in 2025 to USD 786.6 billion in 2034, at a CAGR of 6.9%.  The increasing emphasis on health and wellness, particularly among younger demographics, has significantly boosted the market. Generation Z and millennials are prioritizing fitness and well-being, leading to a surge in activities such as gym attendance and outdoor sports.

Activewear Market

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This shift is reflected in the financial performance of fitness-related companies. For instance, Life Time Group Holdings and Planet Fitness have demonstrated resilience during economic downturns, underscoring the commitment of younger consumers to maintain their fitness routines despite financial constraints.

The activewear industry faces significant challenges related to supply chain management and environmental sustainability. Major brands have reported substantial increases in manufacturing emissions. For instance, ASICS experienced a 20% rise in emissions within a single year. Such figures highlight the environmental impact of activewear production, raising concerns among consumers and regulatory bodies.

Addressing these issues requires brands to invest in sustainable practices, such as adopting eco-friendly materials and improving manufacturing processes. However, implementing these changes can be costly and complex, particularly for companies with extensive supply chains. Balancing the demand for affordable products with the need for environmental responsibility presents an ongoing challenge for the activewear industry.

Activewear Market Trends

  • ?The market is undergoing significant transformations across various dimensions, including product development, regulatory landscapes, marketing strategies, and consumer behavior. These shifts are reshaping the industry's trajectory and compelling brands to adapt proactively.?
  • In product development, there's a notable shift towards inclusivity and comfort, particularly influenced by generational preferences. Generation Z consumers are increasingly favoring loose, more comfortable gym attire over the form-fitting styles popularized by millennials. This trend is evidenced by a significant rise in searches for "baggy gym outfits," prompting brands to diversify their product lines to cater to this demand for oversized activewear. Such adaptations reflect a broader movement towards apparel that accommodates diverse body types and promotes comfort alongside functionality.
  • Regulatory pressures are intensifying, particularly concerning sustainability claims and product safety. The fashion industry faces heightened scrutiny over greenwashing practices, with regulatory bodies and consumer watchdogs demanding greater transparency and accountability in environmental claims. Additionally, legislation like the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Act imposes stringent safety standards on sportswear, ensuring that products meet rigorous compliance requirements. These regulatory dynamics compel activewear brands to invest in sustainable practices and ensure product safety, balancing compliance with innovation.
  • On the marketing front, brands are recalibrating strategies to resonate with evolving consumer expectations. Collaborations between established sportswear companies and fashion influencers or celebrities have become prevalent. For instance, Nike's partnership with Kim Kardashian's brand Skims aims to enhance its appeal among female consumers by blending functionality with contemporary aesthetics. This strategic alliance seeks to bridge gaps in Nike's women's product offerings and revitalize its market presence.
  • Simultaneously, consumers are exhibiting increased skepticism towards brand messaging, especially regarding sustainability claims. The prevalence of greenwashing has led to heightened demand for transparency and authenticity in marketing practices. Brands are now expected to substantiate their environmental initiatives and communicate them honestly to maintain credibility and consumer trust.

Activewear Market Analysis

Activewear Market Size, By Product Type, 2021 – 2034, (USD Billion)
Learn more about the key segments shaping this market
  • The market by product type is segmented into apparel, footwear, and accessories.
  • The apparel segment generated a revenue of USD 262.5 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 512.7 billion by 2034.
  • Apparel dominates the market due to its versatility, frequent purchase cycles, and broader consumer base.
  • Unlike footwear and accessories, activewear apparel spans multiple categories—ranging from leggings and joggers to sports bras and compression wear—making it a fundamental part of consumers’ daily wardrobes. This category benefits from cross-functional use, as modern consumers seek clothing that transitions seamlessly between workouts, casual outings, and even workplace settings in the era of athleisure.
  • The rise of hybrid work models and health-conscious lifestyles has accelerated the demand for performance-oriented yet stylish clothing, leading to increased spending on activewear apparel.
Activewear Market Share, By Price, (2024)
Learn more about the key segments shaping this market
  • The activewear market by price is segmented into low, mid, and high.
  • The mid segment was the leading segment in this market in 2024 with a revenue of USD 201.9 billion and has a market share of around 50%.
  • The medium-price segment dominates the market due to its balance between affordability, quality, and brand appeal. Consumers in this category seek performance-oriented apparel with durability and style but at a price point that remains accessible. Unlike the low-price segment, which often compromises on material quality and brand recognition, or the high-price segment, which caters to a niche luxury audience, the mid-tier segment meets the expectations of both casual and performance-driven buyers. Brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Lululemon’s entry-level lines capitalize on this demand by offering technologically advanced fabrics, ergonomic designs, and trend-driven styles without the premium cost of luxury sportswear.  
U.S. Activewear Market Size, 2021 – 2034, (USD Billion)
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  • The U.S. activewear market was valued at around USD 135.1 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to register a CAGR of 6.8% between 2025 and 2034.
  • The U.S. leads the North America market due to its strong fitness culture, high disposable income, and the presence of major global activewear brands. The country has a deeply ingrained fitness and wellness industry, with millions of Americans actively participating in sports, gym workouts, outdoor activities, and wellness-focused lifestyles.
  • This trend is further fueled by a growing emphasis on health-conscious living, particularly among millennials and Gen Z, who prioritize physical activity as part of their daily routines.
  • Europe: Europe witnessed promising demand in the activewear market with a share of around 30% in 2024 and is expected to grow at a robust CAGR of 7% during the forecast period. ?The Europe market is experiencing significant growth, driven by several key factors that reflect evolving consumer behaviors and preferences.? A primary driver is the increasing health consciousness among European consumers. More individuals are engaging in regular physical activities such as jogging, cycling, and gym workouts, leading to a heightened demand for activewear that supports these pursuits. This trend is further amplified by a growing awareness of preventive healthcare, encouraging lifestyles that incorporate regular exercise.
  • The athleisure trend has also gained substantial traction in Europe. Consumers are increasingly seeking apparel that seamlessly blends style and functionality, allowing them to transition effortlessly from workouts to casual settings. This fusion of fashion and sportswear has led to the integration of athletic clothing into everyday wardrobes, reflecting a broader cultural shift towards versatile and comfortable attire.
  • Asia Pacific: In 2024, the activewear market revenue for the Asia Pacific was around USD 80.8 billion and is expected to reach USD 158 billion by 2034. ?The Asia-Pacific market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing health consciousness, the rise of athleisure fashion, and the expansion of e-commerce platforms. Consumers in countries like China and India are increasingly adopting active lifestyles, leading to a higher demand for sports apparel and accessories.
  • In China, brands like Lululemon have reported substantial sales increases, attributed to the growing popularity of activities such as yoga and gym workouts. Similarly, in India, companies like Page Industries, the licensee for Jockey and Speedo, have seen profit surges due to robust athleisure demand, reflecting a broader shift towards fitness and wellness among consumers. The athleisure trend has gained momentum in the region, with consumers seeking versatile clothing that combines functionality with style. This shift has prompted both international and local brands to expand their activewear offerings.
  • For instance, Decathlon, a French sporting goods retailer, has rapidly expanded its footprint in India, operating 129 stores and planning further growth to meet the rising demand for affordable sports apparel and equipment. The proliferation of online retail channels has also made activewear more accessible, allowing consumers to explore a wide range of products and brands, thereby fueling market growth across the Asia-Pacific region.

Activewear Market Share

  • The top 5 companies in the market, such as NIKE, Adidas AG, PUMA SE, VF Corporation, and Columbia Sportswear Company hold a market share of 20-25%
  • Nike has faced challenges with a notable decline in quarterly sales, marking its most significant drop since the pandemic. This downturn has prompted the company to focus on increasing sportswear sales to everyday runners and to re-evaluate its market strategies. The return of veteran Elliott Hill as CEO is part of Nike's efforts to reset its strategy for the upcoming fiscal years.
  • Adidas AG has experienced a decrease in market share, losing approximately 20% over the past three years. This decline is partly due to the rise of competitors like On and Hoka, which have gained popularity among consumers. Adidas's strategic decisions during the pandemic, including a shift towards online sales and reduced presence in physical stores, have influenced its current market position.
  • PUMA SE reported strong sales growth in 2024, with a currency-adjusted increase of 9.8% in the fourth quarter. The company initiated the "nextlevel" program aimed at enhancing profitability through cost optimization and operational improvements. PUMA's focus on brand elevation and strategic investments positions it for sustainable growth in the coming years.
  • VF Corporation, the parent company of brands like Vans and The North Face, introduced medium-term financial targets as part of its transformation program, "Reinvent." The company aims to achieve an adjusted operating margin of at least 10% and net leverage of 2.5x or below by fiscal year 2028. VF's strategy includes investing in scalable capabilities and optimizing its brand portfolio for long-term growth.
  • Columbia Sportswear Company has been expanding its presence in India, with plans to open 50 stores across the nation by the end of 2024. This expansion aligns with Columbia's strategy to tap into the growing outdoor and adventure market in India, offering a wide range of products, including accessories, footwear, and apparel.

Activewear Market Companies

Adidas, one of the leading players in the sustainable clothing market, reported an annual revenue of USD 24.7 billion in 2024. Adidas is actively advancing circularity within its product lifecycle through a series of strategic initiatives aimed at minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency. One of its key programs is the Made To Be Remade (MTBR) initiative, which was first introduced with the FUTURECRAFT.LOOP shoe in 2019. In addition to product design, Adidas has introduced the Wear Longer program, which encourages consumers to extend their lifespan of their products.

Patagonia has been a pioneer in the sustainable clothing market, continuously pushing the boundaries of eco-friendly fashion through innovation, activism, and ethical business practices. One of its most significant developments is the Worn Wear program, which promotes circularity by encouraging customers to repair, reuse, and resell Patagonia products.

In addition to circular fashion, Patagonia has made substantial strides in sustainable material innovation. It has fully transitioned to using 100% organic cotton while also investing in regenerative agriculture practices to improve soil health and biodiversity. Beyond material sourcing, Patagonia has actively advocated for systemic change in the fashion industry. The brand has committed to becoming carbon neutral across its entire supply chain by 2040 and has significantly reduced emissions by integrating renewable energy into its operations.

Major players operating in the activewear market are:
  • Adidas AG
  • ASICS Corporation
  • ASOA PLC
  • Champion
  • Columbia Sportswear Company
  • Fila Holdings Corporation
  • Gymshark
  • Lululemon Athletica Inc.
  • New Balance
  • NIKE
  • Patagonia
  • PUMA SE
  • Skechers
  • Squat Wolf
  • Under Armour Inc.
  • VF Corporation

Activewear Industry News

  • In February 2025, Nike and SKIMS launched NikeSKIMS, a new brand offering an extensive line of training apparel, footwear, and accessories designed to meet the unique needs of women athletes worldwide. This collaboration aims to set a new standard in the global fitness and activewear industry by combining functionality with flattering designs.
  • In March 2023, Puma SE established Puma Nitro lab athlete testing facility in Frankfurt, Germany, developed in partnership with Hartmann Orthopedics & Sports. This will enable the company to develop customized products for its customers.
  • In January 2023, Adidas AG opened its concept store in Bengaluru, India. With this expansion it will strengthen its retail presence in the country.

The activewear market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry, with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue (USD Billion) and volume (Million Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

Market, By Product Type, 2021 – 2034

  • Apparel
    • Top
      • T-shirts
      • Tank tops
      • Sports bras
      • Jackets
      • Sweatshirts
      • Others (track suits, swimmer suits)
    • Bottom
      • Leggings
      • Shorts
      • Sweatpants
      • Track pants
      • Others (yoga pants, skirts) 
  • Footwear
  • Accessories
  • Headwear
  • Gloves
  • Others (wrist bands, waist band) 

 Market, By Usage, 2021 – 2034

  • Running
  • Outdoor sports
  • Yoga & pilates
  • Gym & fitness training
  • Recreational activities
  • Others

Market, By Consumer Group, 2021 – 2034

  • Male
  • Female
  • Kids

Market, By Price, 2021 – 2034

  • Low
  • Medium
  • High

Market, By Distribution Channel, 2021 – 2034

  • Online
    • E-commerce website
    • Company website 
  • Offline
    • Specialty stores
    • Mega retails stores
    • Others (individual stores, departmental stores)

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada 
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • U.K.
    • France
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • Russia
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • Japan
    • India
    • South Korea
    • Australia 
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Mexico
    • Argentina 
  • MEA
    • UAE
    • Saudi Arabia
    • South Africa

 

Author: Avinash Singh , Sunita Singh
Frequently Asked Question(FAQ) :

Major players in the market include Adidas AG, ASICS Corporation, ASOA PLC, Champion, Columbia Sportswear Company, Fila Holdings Corporation, Gymshark, Lululemon Athletica Inc., New Balance, NIKE, Patagonia, PUMA SE, Skechers, Squat Wolf, Under Armour Inc., and VF Corporation.

The U.S. market was valued at around USD 135.1 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to register a CAGR of 6.8% between 2025 and 2034.

The global market size for activewear was estimated at USD 404 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 786.6 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 6.9%.

The apparel segment generated a revenue of USD 262.5 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 512.7 billion by 2034.

Activewear Market Scope

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