Premium Outdoor Apparel Market
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The global premium outdoor apparel market size was valued at USD 8 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to register a CAGR of 6% between 2024 and 2032. The market is maturing at a breakneck pace; propelled by increased interest in outdoor pursuits such as hiking, camping, eco-friendly consumers, and advances in materials.
The outdoor recreation trend has gained considerable pace in the past few years primarily by the increase in the number of people who want new adventures and outdoor activities. Over the past 5 years, research done by SFIA indicates that the number of Americans who engage in physical activity has increased. This surge includes 91% hike in alpine and 32% in camping. Adventurous outdoor activities coupled with higher living standards enable a multitude of customers to invest in deluxe sporting apparel; this investment is particularly sought after by outdoor enthusiasts, thus enabling the premium outdoor gear market to expand.
| Report Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Year: | 2023 |
| Premium Outdoor Apparel Market Size in 2023: | USD 8 billion |
| Forecast Period: | 2024-2032 |
| Forecast Period 2023 - 2032 CAGR: | 6 |
| 2023 Value Projection: | USD 13.4 billion |
| Historical Data for: | 2021-2023 |
| No of Pages: | 80 |
| Tables, Charts & Figures: | 52 |
| Segments Covered: | By Product type, Consumer Group, Distribution Channel, Region |
| Growth Drivers: |
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| Pitfalls Challenges: |
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An increase in specific outdoor pursuits is a potential worry for the market. Traditionally, these brands targeted the primary equipment used for already popularized activities such as hiking, camping or ski. With stand up paddleboarding and gravel cycling becoming popular, brands are getting ready to meet the specific demands of these activities.
This means that substantial R&D investment is required to design practical yet stylish apparel unique to each of these activities. Furthermore, the production cost may rise because of low economies of scale regarding specialized equipment as compared to the relatively established outdoor clothing sectors. Manufacturers have to meet the needs of this new active population but also make sure they do not incur losses for the entire range of products they offer.
Several current trends are focus points of evolution in the outdoor apparel industry. One trend that stands out is the growing focus towards the adoption of business eco-sustainability strategies. This has led a great number of brands to use eco-friendly materials such as recycled polyester and organic cotton and embrace responsible sourcing practices. The OIA reveals that there is an increased demand for environmentally friendly products as sustainability has become instrumental in consumers’ preferences.
Another notable trend is the merging of fashion with function in outdoor clothing. There is an increase in the number of people who need clothing that is both beautiful and practical for outdoor wearing and is easily suitable in urban landscapes. The market is shifting towards more “athleisure” and multipurpose apparel for the outdoors to achieve more performance and aesthetic expectations. In response, manufacturers are adding some degree of most-used pieces of apparel such as moisture-wicking shirts, UV protection shirts, and dresses. These garments are aimed at a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.
Based on product type, the market is segmented into top wear, bottom wear and other accessories. The top wear segment held the maximum share in the market with revenue of USD 4.5 billion in 2023, which is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast timeframe. The top wear segment in the market is comprised of high end, multifunctional clothing aimed at providing the highest level of comfort, protection, and aesthetics during outdoor activities.
The market's top wear segment is very active in meeting the needs of consumers as it undergoes continual change driven by innovation, sustainable development, and improved performance alongside catering for outdoor and sporting enthusiasts who demand the best quality and functionality.
Based on consumer group, the premium outdoor apparel market is segmented into men, women, and kids. In 2023, the men segment emerged dominant, commanding a market share of around 52%. Outdoor enthusiasts and professionals who appreciate the best tools in the field are catered for by outdoor clothing brands such as Arc'teryx and Patagonia. These brands specialize in the manufacture of durable high-performing tools.
A brand's standing and exposure can benefit from having their products endorsed by male athletes and explorers. Companies like Fjällräven use strategic sponsorships to enhance the functional and practical utility of their goods. As more men slowly adapt to being involved in outdoor activities, there is a boom in the demand for outdoor premium garments. Those outdoor clothing brands which provide a legitimate blend of performance and lifestyle are going to benefit from this new era.
North America held the largest premium outdoor apparel market share of around 41% in 2023 and is estimated to register a CAGR of around 6.3% between 2024 & 2032. Consumer demand for outdoor clothing, produced ethically and with ecological responsibility, is on the rise. Prana and Patagonia are the companies that lead the charge for these new brands due to their extensive use of recycled materials and transparent supply chains. Also, the development of technology is assisting in the creation of outdoor garments geared towards more demanding conditions. The application of improvements such as effective waterproofing, breathable membranes, and smart fabrics is gaining ground.
North America: By country, the United States led the premium outdoor apparel segment with revenue of approximately USD 2.5 billion in 2023 and expected that the market will grow at CAGR of 6.4% over the rest of the forecast period. The market has ardently outdoor recreation and industry infrastructure as its support. According to the OIA’s 2024 report, 160 million Americans take part in outdoor recreation, which includes a constant need for quality gear.
This demand has stimulated the growth of entrench American companies like VF Corporation (The North Face, Patagonia) and Columbia Sportswear, who are world leaders in innovation and performance. In addition, the U.S. has a well-established system of outdoor specialty brick and mortar and online retailers that provide consumers with the newest gear, which in itself fuels additional expansion of the market. This combination of factors creates a thriving ecosystem for outdoor apparel and accessories in the United States that underscores the nation’s leadership role in North America.
Europe: The premium outdoor apparel market clocked a CAGR of approximately 5.9% in the region during the given period. With regards to specific countries, German well-known outdoor brands like Jack Wolfskin and Schoffel are innovators in the field and maintain focus on quality. These brands primarily serve the European outdoor apparel market and pay special attention to weather protection and breathing capabilities of garments relevant to the local geography.
More so, a report released by the European Outdoor Group (EOG) in 2024 showed that Germany was among the countries in Europe with the highest levels of outdoor activities participation. The great interest in hiking, camping and other outdoor activities indicates the high demand for functional and fashionable outdoor clothing.
Asia Pacific: In 2024, COIA’s report revealed a striking surge in the number of people interested in outdoor recreation like hiking, camping, and trail running, especially among the youth. This rise greatly benefits the domestic market of outdoor apparel as China possess an impressive manufacturing infrastructure for outdoor clothing. Due to over USD 33.1% of the total share in the Asia Pacific region, China greatly impacted the outdoor market in the Asia Pacific region in Nepal & Bhutan, allowing for outdoor brands to sell at a low price point due to the domestic supply in the China.
The market is comprised of several regional players with global presence, and it is thus quite fragmented. These companies put together own 20% to 25% of the entire market. The leaders in the market in 2023 were Adidas, Puma, Columbia Sportswear, Amer Sports and Mammut Sports Group AG. These companies actively pursue mergers, acquisitions, partnerships, expansions, and even geographical explorations to achieve growth targets such as gaining more customers, growing product lines, and earning a stronger market position.
Major companies operating in the premium outdoor apparel industry include:
Market, By Product Type, 2021 – 2032
Market, By Consumer Group, 2021 – 2032
Market, By Distribution Channel, 2021 – 2032
The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:
Adidas, Amer Sports, Anta Sports Products Ltd., Black Diamond Equipment, Canadian Tire Corporation, Columbia Sportswear, Equip Outdoor Technologies, Fenix Outdoor International AG, Hagl
North America premium outdoor apparel industry held 41% share in 2023, propelled by well-established outdoor culture and high consumer spending on recreational activities.
The top wear segment captured USD 4.5 billion in 2023, primarily due to its essential role in outdoor activities, providing protection, comfort, and versatility.
Premium outdoor apparel industry size was USD 8 billion in 2023 and will grow at 6% CAGR between 2024 and 2032, driven by increasing consumer interest in outdoor activities, rising disposable incomes, and the growing emphasis on high-performance and sustainable materials.