Athletic Socks Market Size - By Product Type (Ankle Socks, Crew Socks, Knee-high Socks), By Material (Cotton, Fleece, Wool, Synthetic, Others), By Price (Low, Medium, High), By Consumer Group (Men, Women, Kids), By Distribution Channel & Forecast, 2024 – 2032

Athletic Socks Market Size

Athletic Socks Market size was valued at USD 6 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to register a CAGR of over 5.7% between 2024 and 2032. The market growth is due to growing emphasis on fitness and sports-related activities in contemporary lifestyles. As more individuals engage in various forms of physical exercise, the demand for specialized athletic socks is increasing. These socks are designed to provide optimal performance, comfort, and support during intense workouts, running, & other athletic endeavors.
 

Rising sport activities globally is significantly increasing the demand for specialized athletic socks. As more individuals engage in diverse sports and physical activities, the need for performance-enhancing and comfortable sportswear, including socks, has surged. The growing popularity of the athleisure trend has also been a major growth driver for the market. 
 

The shift toward more casual and versatile sport-inspired apparel has elevated the importance of stylish yet functional athletic socks as essential components of everyday wear. There has been a substantial increase in health and fitness awareness, with consumers adopting active lifestyles and prioritizing physical well-being. This heightened consciousness has increased the demand for athletic socks that offer features such as moisture-wicking, breathability, and ergonomic designs to support individuals during their fitness routines.
 

The market faces challenges related to high competition among established and emerging brands, leading to pricing pressures and the need for continuous innovations. The changing fashion trends and consumer preferences create uncertainty for manufacturers trying to anticipate and meet the evolving demands.
 

Athletic Socks Market Trends

Athletes are demanding socks that offer comfort and superior functionalities such as moisture wicking materials, arch support, cushioning, and seamless construction. For instance, in September 2023, PAKA a specialist in alpaca fiber apparel, launched the ‘Performance ¾ Crew Sock’ multisport sock. This sock features a snug rib-knit design to eliminate shifting and friction, a breathable mobility mesh at the ankle-to-foot junction for enhanced ventilation, compressive arch support, and targeted extended heel padding for high-impact areas.

The increasing consumer awareness about environmental issues is driving the demand for athletic socks made from eco-friendly and sustainable materials. For instance, in 2021, Nike launched its first sustainable sock collection made form 100% recycled polyester, a move toward its goal of using only sustainable materials by 2030.
 

Athletic Socks Market Analysis

Based on product type, the market is divided into ankle socks, crew socks, and knee-high socks, catering to diverse consumer preferences and performance needs. In 2023, the ankle socks segment emerged as the dominant category, holding the largest market share at 46%, with a total revenue of USD 2.6 billion. The substantial market share can be attributed to the versatility of ankle socks, offering a balance between comfort and support for sports and fitness activities. Ankle socks are preferred for their breathable designs, which makes them suitable for intense workouts and casual wear.
 

Based on material, the synthetic segment accounted for 52% of the athletic socks market share in 2023, attributed to the extensive adoption of synthetic materials such as polyester and nylon. These materials, offer superior moisture-wicking properties, durability, and low weight, which makes them ideal for athletic activities. However, the cotton segment is anticipated to showcase the fastest growth at a CAGR of 6.2%. This surge is propelled by the increasing demand for sustainable and natural fibers in athletic wear. Cotton's breathability, comfort, and eco-friendliness are appealing to consumers, aligning with the rising preference for sustainable and comfortable sportswear.  
 

Based on the consumer group, the market is segmented into men, women, and kids. The men's segment held over 53% of the athletic socks market share in 2023, with a revenue generation of USD 3 billion. Firstly, the growing trend of sports and fitness activities among men has led to an increased demand for specialized athletic socks designed for performance and comfort. The rise of athleisure as a dominant fashion trend is further fueling the demand for stylish and functional athletic socks among men.
 

Based on price, the athletic socks market is segmented into low, medium, and high, each catering to distinct consumer preferences and budget considerations. As of 2023, the medium-priced segment emerged as the dominant force, holding the market share at 57%. This segment's popularity can be attributed to a balance between quality and cost-effectiveness, appealing to a broad spectrum of consumers seeking performance and cost-effective products.
 

Based on distribution channel, the athletic socks market is separated into online and offline. The offline channel segment, encompassing physical retail outlets and specialty stores, held 66% of the market share in 2023. This dominance is attributed to the tradition of consumers physically trying and assessing products before making a purchase, providing an interactive & tangible shopping experience. However, the online channel segment is set to exhibit the highest CAGR of 7.4% during the forecast period. This surge in online sales can be attributed to the convenience and accessibility offered by e-commerce platforms, allowing consumers to explore a wide array of options, read reviews, and make purchases from the comfort of their homes.
 

North America athletic socks market recorded 34% of the revenue share in 2023. The region has a robust sports culture with a large population actively participating in athletic activities and sports. The emphasis on fitness and wellness, coupled with a high disposable income, is fueling the demand for specialized athletic socks. The region witnesses a strong presence of leading sportswear brands and a well-established retail infrastructure, which increases the availability and accessibility of athletic socks. The growing trend of athleisure in North America has increased the inclination towards sport-inspired fashion, driving the demand for stylish and performance-oriented athletic socks.
 

Athletic Socks Market Share

In 2023, dominant market players, including Nike, Adidas AG, Under Armour, Inc., New Balance, Stance, and Asics Corporation collectively held approximately 30-35% revenue share. The athletic socks industry is highly fragmented, with a few major players holding a significant portion of the overall market. These prominent players are proactively involved in strategic endeavors such as mergers & acquisitions, facility expansions, and collaborations to expand their product portfolios, extend their reach to a broader customer base, and strengthen their market position.
 

Athletic Socks Market Companies

Major companies operating in the athletic socks industry include:

• Adidas AG
• ASICS Corporation
• Balega International
• Darn Tough Vermont
• Feetures, LLC
• New Balance Athletics, Inc.
• Nike, Inc.
• PUMA SE
• Reebok International Limited
• SockGuy, Inc.
• Stance Inc.
• Swiftwick LLC
• Thorlos, Inc.
• Under Armour, Inc.
• Wigwam Mills Inc.
   

Athletic Socks Industry News

• Busi and Gordini partner to introduce unique twin layer socks for the technical ski and outdoor market. The Twin Layer knitting technology has allowed Burlington to map isolated yarn layers in socks for functional performance throughout the foot and enhance thermal retention through dual layer quilting. The sock interior feels soft and cozy next-to-skin but is robust and designed for wear and durability on the outside.
   
• In July 2023, running industry veterans Tanya and Bert Pictor and Luke Rowe introduced the Jogology running sock brand, to be sold exclusively at Run Specialty stores. Jogology socks are designed to mirror how running shoes are made – to lock in the heel and midfoot to minimize in-shoe movement and leave your toes free to flex.
   
• In February 2023, Indy running apparel brands Oiselle and Janji announced merger. Each company plans to retain its focus on apparel made for runners of all types. They’ll also continue to grow their established global communities.
   

The athletic socks market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry, with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Billion) and volume (Million Units) from 2018 to 2032, for the following segments:

Click here to Buy Section of this Report

Market, By Product Type

• Ankle socks
• Crew socks
• Knee-high socks

Market, By Material

• Cotton
• Fleece
• Wool
• Synthetic
• Others (Rayon, etc.)

Market, By Price

• Low
• Medium
• High

Market, By Consumer Group

• Men
• Women
• Kids

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Online channels
• Offline channels

The above information has been provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Malaysia
  • Indonesia
  • Rest of Asia Pacific 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America 
• MEA
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA