Global Activewear Market by Product Type (Underwear, Outerwear, Bottoms, Footwear, Hosiery, Tops, Others), By End-User (Men, Women, Kids), By Distribution Channel (In-Store, Online) Region and Companies – Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends and Forecast 2024-2033

Report Overview

The Global Activewear Market size is expected to be worth around US$ 810.6 Million by 2033, from US$ 376.8 Million in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 8.11% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2033.

Activewear encompasses clothing specifically crafted for physical activities like exercise, sports, or outdoor pursuits, yet versatile enough for casual, everyday wear. These garments typically feature advanced fabrics with properties such as moisture-wicking, breathability, and flexibility.

The athleisure trend, which merges functionality with fashion, has broadened activewear’s appeal, establishing it as an essential component of contemporary wardrobes.

A notable shift toward healthier lifestyles and increased fitness activity participation is fuelling demand for comfortable and functional activewear in the country.

Health and wellness are becoming top priorities, with rising awareness of physical activity’s role in overall well-being further supporting this trend. This strong commitment to physical fitness is driving activewear demand and contributing significantly to market growth.

• Data from the Health & Fitness Association shows that over 64 million Americans have gym memberships, with 23 out of every 100 people holding memberships at multiple gyms. The average membership duration is about 4.7 years, indicating a retention rate of roughly 60%.
• According to Sports Destination Management, in 2023, approximately 242 million people in the United States—representing nearly 80% of all Americans aged 6 and older—engaged in at least one sports or fitness activity.

The athleisure trend, which merges sportswear with casual wear, has greatly expanded the appeal of activewear. Advances in fabric technology and sustainable materials are attracting environmentally conscious consumers, accelerating market growth. Demand for activewear is rising across diverse demographics, fueled by lifestyle shifts toward comfort and functionality.

The post-pandemic increase in home workouts and hybrid work setups has led consumers to favor versatile clothing that balances performance with everyday comfort. Younger generations, especially millennials and Gen Z, show strong interest in stylish, performance-driven apparel, influenced by social media and influencer marketing.

Emerging markets present significant opportunities for growth in activewear, with rising disposable incomes and health awareness. Sustainability is also a key area, as brands investing in eco-friendly materials and ethical production practices can appeal to the growing base of eco-conscious consumers.

Additionally, technological advancements, including wearable tech and smart fabrics, offer pathways for differentiation and premium positioning in this competitive market.

Key Takeaways:

• The Global Activewear Market generated a revenue of US$ 376.8 Million and is predicted to reach US$ 810.6 Million, with a CAGR of 8.11%.
• The women segment generated the most revenue for the market with a market share of 43.87%.
• The conventional segment contributed the most to the market and secured a market share of 59.2%.
• In-store dominated the market with the share of 73.8%
• The hospital laboratories led the market in 2023, with a market share of 62.8%.
• North America remained the lead contributor to the market, by claiming the highest market share, amounting to 38.40%.

By Product Type Analysis

The global activewear market includes a variety of product types such as underwear, outerwear, bottoms, footwear, hosiery, tops, and other apparel. Among these, bottom wear held the largest share, accounting for 27.03% of the market in 2023.

This segment’s dominance reflects strong consumer demand for comfortable, versatile, and functional bottom wear, such as leggings, shorts, and joggers, which can be used across a range of activities, from workouts to casual wear.

The increasing popularity of athleisure combining functionality with everyday style has driven demand for such items, as consumers look for clothing that is both practical for fitness and suitable for day-to-day use.

Additionally, advancements in fabric technology, like moisture-wicking and stretchable materials, have enhanced the appeal of active bottom wear. With shifting preferences toward fitness and wellness, this segment is expected to remain a central part of the activewear market’s growth trajectory.

By End-User

Women, men and kids are the major end users of the global activewear market. Women accounted for the largest market share in the historical years 2019-2022. Over the study period, 2023, the segment accounted to hold 43.87% of the global market share in the end-user segment.

Rising awareness among women regarding fitness, health, and wellness, fueling demand for high-quality activewear tailored to various sports and exercise routines.

The increasing popularity of activities such as yoga, Pilates, and running alongside a broader embrace of the athleisure trend has also led more women to incorporate activewear into their everyday wardrobes, blurring the line between sportswear and casual fashion.

Moreover, the activewear industry has responded to this demand with greater innovation and variety in women’s apparel, offering products that are not only functional but also stylish and comfortable.

Marketing campaigns often target women, with social media and influencer marketing playing significant roles in driving trends and engagement. These factors collectively contribute to women holding the largest share of the activewear market’s end-user segment, a trend likely to continue as fitness and lifestyle priorities evolve.

By Distribution Channel

In-store sales are projected to account for 73.8% of revenue in 2024, driven by consumers’ growing preference for purchasing high-end activewear from retail locations. Shopping in-store provides a richer experience, allowing customers to assess the size, quality, and fit of apparel in person.

Additionally, retail and company-operated stores are often perceived as offering authentic products, helping to reduce the risk of counterfeit goods. The presence of multiple brands in one location also facilitates easy product comparison in terms of price and specifications, further fueling in-store sales growth.

Consumers typically prioritize product lifecycle, price, and value when purchasing activewear, and retail stores offer the convenience of physically trying and inspecting items before making a purchase.

Knowledgeable staff at these locations, often well-versed in product details, help attract first-time buyers and support the growth of in-store sales channels in the activewear market throughout the forecast period.

Key Market Segments

By Product

• Underwear
• Outerwear
• Bottoms
• Footwear
• Hosiery
• Tops
• Others

By End-User

• Women
• Men
• Kids

By Distribution Channel

• In-Store
  • Hypermarkets/Supermarkets
  • Brand Outlets
  • Specialty Stores
  • Independent Retail Stores
• Online
  • Company Websites
  • Other E-commerce Platforms

Drivers

Rising Health and Fitness Awareness

The global activewear market is witnessing substantial growth, primarily fuelled by the rising awareness of health and fitness among consumers. This heightened focus on well-being has led to an increase in physical activity participation, including running, yoga, and gym workouts, driving demand for performance-driven apparel.

Consumers are increasingly seeking clothing that offers both support for their active routines and comfort in daily wear. As wellness becomes a top priority, individuals are incorporating regular exercise into their lifestyles, further propelling market growth.

Additionally, the integration of technology, such as wearable fitness devices and apps, has enhanced this trend. These technologies offer users real-time insights into their physical activities, motivating them to stay active and, in turn, elevating the demand for appropriate activewear.

The combination of growing health awareness and technological innovation is fostering a strong demand for activewear, positioning the market for sustained growth in the years ahead.

• According to American College of Sports Medicine, in 2023, there were 850 million fitness app downloads by nearly 370 million users.
• As per statistics, fewer than 5% of adults engage in 30 minutes of physical activity daily.

Restrains

Market Saturation and Intense Competition

While the activewear market is on a positive growth path, it faces notable challenges due to market saturation and intense competition. The abundance of brands offering similar products has created a crowded landscape, making it challenging for new players to establish a presence.

Established brands are constantly innovating and expanding their product lines, raising entry barriers for newcomers.

This saturation limits growth opportunities for emerging companies and puts pressure on existing ones to stand out through distinct value propositions, innovative designs, or exceptional quality.

Additionally, fierce competition has spurred aggressive pricing strategies, compressing profit margins across the industry.

Companies are increasingly investing in marketing and brand-building efforts to retain or expand their market share, which can place strain on financial resources. This competitive atmosphere demands ongoing innovation and strategic foresight to overcome challenges and drive sustainable growth in the activewear market.

Opportunities

Integration of Digital Health is Presenting Growth Opportunities

The integration of digital health technologies is opening new growth opportunities in the global activewear market. With the rise of wearable health devices, fitness apps, and smart clothing, consumers can now monitor their health metrics, including heart rate, steps, sleep quality, and more.

This trend is fuelling demand for activewear that not only offers comfort and functionality but also supports digital connectivity.

Brands are increasingly embedding sensors and other tracking features into activewear, enabling users to gain real-time insights into their physical activities and overall wellness. This synergy between fitness and technology enhances the appeal of activewear, particularly among tech-savvy and health-conscious consumers.

Additionally, the emphasis on personalized fitness regimes is driving demand for activewear tailored to individual health goals, creating opportunities for brands to differentiate and innovate. This digital integration thus represents a significant growth lever, meeting evolving consumer expectations and driving forward the activewear market.

Impact of Macroeconomic / Geopolitical Factors

Macroeconomic and geopolitical factors significantly influence the global activewear market. Economic conditions such as inflation, fluctuating currency rates, and shifting disposable incomes can impact consumer spending on non-essential items like activewear, particularly in price-sensitive markets.

During economic downturns, consumers may prioritize essential goods over discretionary spending, affecting activewear sales. Geopolitical events, such as trade tensions and supply chain disruptions, also play a crucial role.

For instance, tariffs or restrictions on imports from key manufacturing hubs like China or Vietnam can increase production costs for activewear brands, leading to potential price increases for consumers.

Additionally, raw material shortages or shipping delays may hinder product availability, impacting retail and e-commerce channels. These macroeconomic and geopolitical factors create uncertainties for companies in the activewear market, making it essential for brands to adopt flexible supply chains, monitor global trends closely, and consider regional diversification strategies to manage risks and maintain resilience.

Latest Trends

The global activewear market is witnessing dynamic shifts driven by evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements. One prominent trend is the rise of athleisure, where versatile clothing blurs the line between athletic and casual wear, allowing consumers to seamlessly transition from the gym to daily life.

Sustainability is also a major focus, with brands increasingly turning to eco-friendly materials and ethical production processes to attract environmentally conscious consumers.

Technological integration is enhancing product functionality, with features like moisture-wicking fabrics, UV protection, and even embedded sensors for health monitoring. Customization has become another key trend, as consumers seek personalized options tailored to fit and style preferences.

Additionally, social media platforms and influencer partnerships are shaping purchasing decisions, amplifying the impact of fitness and fashion influencers on brand visibility and consumer choices. These trends are redefining activewear, positioning it as both a lifestyle statement and a performance-driven necessity.

Regional Analysis

North America Dominates the Global Activewear Market

In 2023, North America solidified its position as the leading region in the global activewear market, capturing a significant 38.40% market share, which translates to approximately US$ 144.69 Million in revenue. This dominance is underpinned by the region’s deep-rooted fitness culture, where physical activity and wellness are strongly prioritized.

Additionally, high disposable incomes in North America enable consumers to invest in premium activewear, driving demand for both high-performance and lifestyle-oriented products.

The presence of leading activewear brands in the region also contributes to market growth, as these companies continuously innovate in both style and functionality to meet evolving consumer preferences.

North American consumers display a strong preference for athleisure wear versatile, comfortable apparel that transitions easily from gym to casual settings—highlighting the integration of activewear into everyday fashion.

This athleisure trend has become a lifestyle choice, further fueling the demand for stylish, multipurpose activewear across various demographic groups and age ranges in North America.

Key Regions and Countries

North America

• US
• Canada

Europe

• Germany
• France
• The UK
• Spain
• Italy
• Russia
• Netherland
• Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

• China
• Japan
• South Korea
• India
• New Zealand
• Singapore
• Thailand
• Vietnam
• Rest of APAC

Latin America

• Brazil
• Mexico
• Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

The global activewear market in 2023 is shaped by a competitive landscape where key players drive growth through innovation, brand strength, and strategic positioning. Industry leaders Nike Inc. and Adidas AG continue to dominate, propelled by broad product ranges, robust marketing, and widespread reach across developed and emerging markets.

Nike’s investments in digital transformation and direct-to-consumer (DTC) channels, paired with Adidas’ emphasis on sustainability and collaborations, solidify their leadership.

PUMA SE and Under Armour, Inc. are attracting younger consumers by focusing on performance innovation and athlete endorsements, aligning with demand for advanced technology and style.

ASICS Corporation, known for its specialized running and training products, remains popular among dedicated sports enthusiasts, while Skechers U.S.A., Inc. expands its market presence with affordable, functional activewear.

Columbia Sportswear Company and VF Corporation (parent to The North Face) leverage their expertise in technical materials and versatile designs for the outdoor and lifestyle sectors.

Meanwhile, PVH Corp., through brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein, incorporates activewear into its larger fashion portfolio, capitalizing on the athleisure trend. Hanesbrands Inc.

strengthens the market with affordable and comfortable innerwear and basics. Together, these brands are advancing innovation, sustainability, and consumer engagement, setting the course for the activewear market’s future.

Top Key Players in the Market

• Adidas AG
• Nike Inc.
• PUMA SE
• The Columbia Sportswear Company
• VF Corporation
• PVH Corp.
• ASICS Corporation
• Skechers U.S.A., Inc.
• Under Armour, Inc.
• Hanesbrands Inc.

Recent Developments

• In June 2024, PUMA announced a global partnership with HYROX, becoming the official apparel and footwear partner for HYROX races from 2024 to 2027. This partnership will include a new HYROX clothing line incorporating PUMA’s advanced Cloudspun technology with dryCELL moisture-wicking features. Additionally, PUMA will release customized versions of its popular footwear models—Velocity NITRO 3, Deviate NITRO Elite 3, and Deviate NITRO 3—featuring special HYROX colorways to enhance athlete performance at HYROX events.
• In April 2024, Nike launched a new wearable collection designed with active mothers in mind. This includes a pump-compatible sports bra and the EasyOn shoe, both offering enhanced support and convenience, meeting the dual demands of functionality and comfort in athletic wear.
• In March 2024, Columbia Sportswear Company, a U.S.-based producer and distributor of outdoor gear including footwear, athletic wear, ski apparel, and camping equipment, announced the opening of a new store in Ahmedabad, India.
• In September 2023, New Balance, a U.S.-based global athletic performance brand, launched the latest model in its Fresh Foam X series, the Fresh Foam X 1080 v13 shoes.
• In October 2022, Under Armour, Inc., an American brand specializing in athletic performance wear, introduced its UA HOVR Phantom 3 running shoes, catering to athletes and trainers.
• That same month, PUMA SE, a German company known for athletic and casual footwear, opened one of its largest stores in Mumbai, India. The experiential store features dedicated sections for women, men, and children, along with a customization studio for personalizing accessories and sneakers.
• In January 2022, Under Armour launched two unique running shoes, Flow Like the Wind and Next Level Speed, featuring UA HOVR technology designed to provide a “zero gravity feel.”

Report Scope