Global Athleisure Market Size, Trades, COVID-19 Impact & Growth By Product Type (Tops, Bottoms, Footwear, Outwear, and Other Product Types), By Application (Fitness and Workouts and Streetwear Fashion), By End-User (Men, Women, and Children), By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Specialty Stores, Online Stores, and Other Distribution Channels), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2023-2032

Report Overview

The Global Athleisure Market size is expected to be worth around USD 740.7 Billion by 2032 from USD 328.39 Billion in 2022, growing at a CAGR of 8.70% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032.

Athleisure is a fashion trend that combines athletic wear with casual, everyday clothing. The term “athleisure” is a portmanteau of “athletic” and “leisure.” This style is characterized by comfortable and functional sportswear that can be worn not only during physical activities or workouts but also in non-sporting settings like casual outings, social events, or even in the workplace.

The rise of athleisure can be attributed to several major factors, including a growing emphasis on health and wellness, the desire for comfort and practicality in clothing, and the blurring of lines between traditional workwear and casual wear.

Athleisure typically includes items such as yoga pants, leggings, sweatpants, hoodies, sports bras, and sneakers. These items often feature moisture-wicking fabrics, stretchability, and ergonomic designs, making them suitable for both active and leisurely pursuits. The global athleisure market has experienced significant growth in recent years.

This athleisure market growth can be attributed to changing consumer lifestyles, increasing fitness awareness, and the influence of social media on fashion trends. Athleisure wear has gained popularity across different age groups and demographics, as people seek versatile clothing options that can seamlessly transition between various recreational activities.

Actual Numbers Might Vary in the Final Report

Driving Factors

The global athleisure market has witnessed significant growth due to several driving key factors. The increasing health and fitness consciousness among consumers has led to a growing demand for comfortable and versatile activewear that can be worn both during workouts and daily routine athletic activities and sports activities.

Furthermore, the rising adoption and demand for athleisure product launches as a fashion trend have attracted a broader consumer base, including millennials and Gen Z, who prioritize style and functionality.

Additionally, the surge in online retail channels and e-commerce platforms has made athleisure easily accessible to consumers worldwide, further fueling its popularity. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards more casual and comfortable clothing, with athleisure being a preferred choice for remote work and leisure activities.

As a result, the combination of health consciousness, fashion appeal, online retail growth, and changing lifestyle preferences has contributed to the remarkable global athleisure market expansion.

Restraining Factors

The economic fluctuations and uncertainties can impact consumer spending on non-essential items like athleisure, leading to reduced demand during periods of economic downturn. Intense competition in the industry may also result in price wars and reduced profit margins for manufacturers and retailers.

Moreover, concerns regarding the sustainability and environmental impact of fast fashion could deter environmentally conscious consumers from purchasing athleisure items.

Additionally, the athleisure market’s reliance on synthetic materials may face criticism for contributing to microplastic pollution. Furthermore, as the athleisure trend matures, consumer preferences may shift towards more traditional and timeless fashion choices, potentially affecting the demand for athleisure wear.

Growth Opportunities

The increasing focus on health and wellness has led to a rising demand for activewear that can seamlessly transition from the gym to everyday activities. Consumers are now looking for versatile clothing that not only supports their active lifestyles but also reflects their fashion preferences, giving rise to the popularity of athleisure.

Moreover, the rise of athleisure as a fashion statement has prompted collaborations between sportswear brands and high-end fashion designers, creating exclusive and trendy collections that attract a diverse customer base. The fusion of performance-oriented materials with trendy designs has widened the appeal of athleisure beyond its traditional athletic audience.

Latest Trends

Athleisure, the fusion of athletic and leisurewear, has gained immense popularity worldwide due to its versatility, comfort, and style. The rise of remote work and casual dress codes in various industries has further boosted the demand for athleisure apparel, as people prioritize comfort and adaptability in their daily wear.

The market has also seen a surge in sustainable and eco-friendly athleisure options, as environmentally-conscious consumers seek more ethical and responsible choices. With innovative designs, technological advancements in fabric materials, and continuous collaborations with celebrity influencers, the global athleisure market development is likely to maintain its upward trajectory, attracting a diverse customer base across demographics and regions.

COVID-19 Impact Analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound and mixed impact on the global athleisure market. Initially, widespread lockdowns and restrictions resulted in a sharp decline in sales as consumer demand prioritized essential items over non-essential clothing. The closure of retail stores and disruptions in supply chains further exacerbated the market’s challenges.

However, as the pandemic persisted, the athleisure market witnessed a significant shift in consumer habits and behavior. With remote work setups and stay-at-home orders becoming prevalent, the demand for comfortable and versatile athleisure wear surged. Athleisure’s ability to seamlessly transition between home activities and outdoor exercise made it a favored choice for consumers seeking both style and functionality.

Additionally, the rise of “athflow” – a combination of athletic and leisure wear – became a popular fashion trend during the pandemic, driving further interest in athleisure products. The accelerated growth of online shopping and e-commerce platforms also provided a lifeline for athleisure retailers to reach consumers during times of restricted physical retail.

Nevertheless, challenges persisted, including supply chain disruptions and manufacturing delays. As the world navigates the post-pandemic landscape, the athleisure market drivers must adapt to evolving consumer preferences and economic realities to maintain its momentum and capitalize on the newfound opportunities forged during the crisis.

Product Type Analysis

The global athleisure market can be segmented based on product types, which include Tops, Bottoms, Footwear, Outwear, and Other Product Types. Among these segments, athleisure tops and bottoms hold the largest market share.

The popularity of tops and bottoms can be attributed to their versatility, as they form the foundation of most athleisure outfits. Tops such as sports bras, tank tops, t-shirts, hoodies, and sweatshirts provide comfort and moisture-wicking properties, making them suitable for workouts and leisure activities.

Similarly, athletic leggings, joggers, shorts, and yoga pants in the bottoms category offer flexibility, support, and comfort, making them suitable for various physical activities and everyday wear. The rise of athflow fashion, which emphasizes the fusion of athletic and leisurewear, has further driven the demand for athleisure tops and bottoms.

Consumers appreciate the convenience of dressing casually without compromising on style and are drawn to the comfortable fabrics and designs that athleisure tops and bottoms offer, contributing to their prominent market share in the global athleisure market.

The athleisure footwear segment, including sneakers, trainers, and running shoes, also plays a significant role in the market. These shoes are designed for optimal performance during sports and exercise and have become a fashion statement in casual settings.

They combine style with functionality, making them attractive to consumers who seek both comfort and trendy designs. Additionally, the outerwear segment, comprising athletic jackets, vests, and performance coats, provides protection and functionality during outdoor activities and adds to the athleisure aesthetic.

Other product types, such as sports bags, headbands, socks, and athletic gear, complement the athleisure look and enhance the overall performance experience. While each segment contributes to the overall growth of the athleisure market, the popularity of tops and bottoms remains the primary driver behind the largest market share, owing to their practicality, style, and versatility.

Application Analysis

The global athleisure market can be analyzed based on its application segments, which include Fitness and Workouts, and Streetwear Fashion. These two segments represent the primary areas where athleisure wear is commonly used and have contributed significantly to the market’s growth.

Among these application segments, Streetwear Fashion currently holds the largest market share in the global athleisure market. The rapid growth of athleisure as a fashion trend and the increasing preference for comfortable and casual clothing in everyday life has driven its popularity in the streetwear category.

Athleisure’s ability to offer both style and functionality has resonated well with consumer surveys seeking fashionable and versatile outfits. The influence of celebrities and fashion influencers promoting athleisure as streetwear has further contributed to its prominence.

While Fitness and Workouts remain a significant application segment, the wider appeal of athleisure as a fashionable lifestyle choice has made Streetwear Fashion the leader in market share within the global athleisure market. As athleisure continues to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences, both application segments are expected to play crucial roles in driving market growth in the future.

End-User Analysis

The end-user accurate analysis of the athleisure market highlights three primary key segments: men, women, and children. Among these segments, the women’s athleisure market holds the largest market share. One of the key reasons for this dominance is the increasing number of women actively participating in sports and fitness activities, leading to a higher demand for athletic apparel that caters to their needs.

Additionally, the athleisure trend has gained momentum as it perfectly aligns with the modern lifestyle, where comfort and versatility are valued. Women, in particular, have embraced athleisure wear as it allows them to seamlessly transition from workouts to casual wear or even work attire.

The industry shipments have responded to this demand by offering a wide range of fashionable and functional athleisure options, further fueling its popularity among women consumers.

Distribution Channel Analysis:

The distribution channel detailed analysis for the athleisure market reveals that several avenues are utilized to reach consumers. The primary distribution channels include supermarkets/hypermarkets, specialty stores, online stores, and other distribution channels. Among these distribution channels, online stores have emerged as the leading players in terms of market share.

The rise of e-commerce platforms and the convenience they offer have facilitated the growth of online retail sales in various industries, including the fashion industry. Consumer platforms prefer the ease of browsing and purchasing athleisure brands and products from the comfort of their homes, making online stores a preferred choice. Additionally, online stores enable access to a broader range of products from various brands, facilitating comparison and informed decision-making.

Global Athleisure Market Segments include:

Based on Product Type

• Tops
• Bottoms
• Footwear
• Outwear
• Other Product Types

Based on Application

• Fitness and Workouts
• Streetwear Fashion

Based on End-User

• Men
• Women
• Children

Based on the Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
• Specialty Stores
• Online Stores
• Other Distribution Channels

Regional Analysis

The global athleisure market has seen exponential growth over the past few years, and as of the current data, North America holds the majority of the market’s largest share at 36% in 2022. This dominance can be attributed to the region’s high consumer purchasing power, a growing culture of health and fitness, and the rapid proliferation of athleisure clothing market trends among the youth and millennials.

Notable countries contributing to this market trend include the United States and Canada, where a rise in gym memberships, and outdoor activities, and a trend towards casual workplace attire have contributed to an increase in the demand for athleisure apparel.

On the other hand, Europe holds a significant share of the global athleisure market as well, driven by a strong interest in fitness and wellness, and a penchant for fashion-forward comfortable wear. The APAC region is also witnessing an impressive annual growth rate due to increasing disposable income, urbanization, and the influence of Western lifestyle habits.

Despite having a smaller market share, Latin America and MEA are showing promising potential, with a growing middle class and increased interest in health and wellness. This diverse regional performance underscores the global appeal of athleisure wear, promising a vibrant and dynamic future for this market.

Key Regions and Countries Covered in this Report:

• North America
  • The US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia & CIS
  • Rest of Europe
• APAC
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • ASEAN
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • United Arab Emirates
  • Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Market Share & Key Players Analysis

The global athleisure market is highly competitive and fragmented, with a few key players operating in the market. These players are focusing on expanding their product offerings and strengthening their market image through strategic partnerships.

Market Key Major Players:

The major market players listed below will boost the industry in the coming years:

• Nike Inc.
• Adidas AG
• Under Armour Inc.
• Lululemon Athletica Inc.
• PUMA SE
• Gap Inc.
• ASICS Corporation
• Hennes & Mauritz AB
• New Balance Athletics Inc.
• Eileen Fisher
• Wear Pact, LLC
• Ajio Company
• COLUMBIA SPORTSWEAR COMPANY
• PVH Corp.
• Esprit Retail B.V. &
• Kalaari Capital
• Patagonia, Inc.
• Lululemon Athletic
• Hanesbrands Inc.
• Other Key Players

Recent Developments:

• In March 2022, Puma introduced a new technology in its product line, Nitro Foam. This innovative foam, fabricated through nitrogen utilization, features a lightweight and reactive design. In tandem with this, Puma also unveiled a novel rubber outsole technology. Subsequently, the company rolled out five distinct models: Eternity, Deviate, Deviate Elite, Liberate, and Velocity.
• In October 2022, Metro Brands, a prominent footwear retail chain, experienced a 20% surge in share price following the signing of a share purchase agreement for the acquisition of Cravatex Brands. This strategic move aimed to broaden Metro Brands’ reach within the Indian sports and athleisure market. The acquisition entails exclusive rights to Proline, as well as comprehensive sales and distribution rights for FILA in India, spanning across diverse platforms such as airport stores, digital technology marketplaces, exclusive brand stores, multi-brand outlets, and online stores.
• In March 2021, Kohl’s launched FLX, a proprietary athleisure line, to boost its sales in athletic and casual wear from 20% to 30% of its total fashion business. Not only is FLX an inclusive brand catering to all sizes, but it also maintains an eco-friendly approach. The FLX range is available in over 300 Kohl’s outlets and can be purchased online via Kohls.com.

Report Scope: