Sports Apparel Market Research on Size, Share, Trends, Segments, Regions & Competition

Global Sports Apparel Market Trends and Insights

Significant Growth in Women Sports Participation Rate

Women's sports participation is experiencing unprecedented growth, fundamentally reshaping the sports apparel market's trajectory. The Paris 2024 Olympics achieved a historic milestone by attaining full gender parity, with equal representation of male and female athletes. This landmark event unlocked significant commercial opportunities across the value chain, signaling a transformative shift in the sports industry. Grassroots participation is also on the rise; in Canada, 63% of girls aged 6–18 participated in organized sports weekly in 2024, compared to 68% of boys, as per the Canadian Women and Sport ^{[1]Canadian Women & Sport, "Canadian Girls’ Sport Participation on the Rise but Still Lags Behind Boys, According to New Research", www.womenandsport.ca}. This represents a notable narrowing of a gap that was considerably wider just five years ago, driven by evolving societal norms and increased support for female athletes.

Research underscores the critical role of uniform design in influencing women's confidence and participation in sports. When uniforms cause discomfort—whether physical, psychological, or cultural—it often leads to disengagement or prevents participation altogether. Preferences for comfort, proper fit, and dark colors are shaping purchasing decisions, according to the Australian Sports Commission. These findings emphasize the importance of designing apparel that meets the specific needs and preferences of female athletes, encouraging brands to innovate and deliver more inclusive and supportive options.

Aggressive Marketing by Reputed Brands

Major sports apparel brands are pivoting from traditional product-centric marketing to narratives that resonate with evolving consumer values. Leading this shift, Adidas has laid out an ambitious sustainability roadmap, targeting 90% of its products to be sustainable by 2025. This commitment is evident in its 2023 achievement of 99% recycled polyester usage and initiatives like the Adidas Parley collection, which repurposes ocean-bound plastic waste. Furthermore, in a bid to bolster its environmental commitment, Adidas is partnering with firms like Infinited Fiber and Spinnova to pioneer innovative plant- and cellulose-based textiles.

Simultaneously, Nike is strategically reshaping its approach to the women's activewear segment. In a move underscoring this strategy, Nike has teamed up with Kim Kardashian's SKIMS brand, unveiling the NikeSKIMS line. Set to launch in the U.S. in spring 2025, with a global expansion in 2026, the collaboration focuses on crafting apparel, footwear, and accessories that prioritize both performance and inclusivity. This initiative not only seeks to cater to the distinct needs of female athletes but also aligns with Nike's overarching goal to bolster its appeal among women, addressing previous critiques on product design. The market has responded favorably, with Nike's stock witnessing a significant uptick post-announcement, signaling investor optimism. These maneuvers highlight a broader industry trend: established brands are not just innovating products but are also aligning with the pressing themes of sustainability and inclusivity to resonate with today's consumers.

Influence of Social Media Platforms and Celebrity Endorsements

Social media's ascent has revolutionized how sports apparel brands connect with consumers and sway their buying choices. Athletes, such as Caitlin Clark, have transitioned from simple endorsers to central figures, notably boosting participation rates among young girls. Dubbed the "Caitlin Clark Effect," this trend has not only shattered viewership records for women's basketball but also spurred a notable rise in young girls participating in sports. For example, Clark's WNBA team, the Indiana Fever, recorded an increase in average attendance from 4,067 to 17,000 fans in 2024, while jersey sales demonstrated a growth of 1,913% compared to the previous year. These developments highlight how athletes are not just sports figures but also pivotal influencers in consumer behavior, creating vast opportunities for sports apparel brands.

At the same time, the fitness sector is pivoting towards community-centric experiences, with live fitness classes taking center stage. This shift underscores a growing consumer appetite for social interaction and shared motivation in their fitness endeavors. In response, brands are weaving in social commerce features, streamlining the journey from inspiration to purchase. Platforms such as Instagram and TikTok play a crucial role, empowering influencers to spotlight products during live sessions, thus hastening consumer decisions. This blend of social engagement with commerce is reshaping conventional marketing tactics, highlighting the critical role of genuine interaction and immediate connectivity in boosting sales.

Favourable Government Initiatives to Boost Sports Culture

Government investments in sports infrastructure and participation programs are driving demand for the global sports apparel market. Under its Vision 2030 initiative, Saudi Arabia has hosted about 80 athletic events in the last four years, drawing 2.5 million attendees. These events, including the Formula One race in Jeddah, not only generated significant economic benefits and over 20,000 jobs but also heightened sports participation, fueling a growing market for sports apparel among athletes and fans alike.

In a parallel move, Canada's Community Sport for All Initiative has earmarked USD 15 million over two years (USD 5 million for 2024–25 and USD 10 million for 2025–26) to boost participation among underrepresented groups^{[2]Government of Canada, "Application period now open for the Community Sport for All Initiative", www.canada.ca}. Targeted communities include Black, Indigenous, racialized groups, persons with disabilities, low-income individuals, seniors, and newcomers. The initiative's goal is to dismantle barriers to sports participation, champion inclusivity, and carve out new consumer segments for specialized apparel.

Meanwhile, the European Union's newly adopted EU Work Plan for Sport (2024–2027) underscores the importance of integrity, socio-economic sustainability, and heightened participation, especially for vulnerable groups. The plan advocates for investments in sustainable sports infrastructures and promotes health-enhancing physical activities, further driving demand for sports apparel across varied demographics.

Proliferation of Counterfeit Products

Counterfeit operations have become increasingly sophisticated, particularly in exploiting e-commerce channels, leading to substantial revenue losses in the sports apparel market. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), counterfeit seizures occur in international mail and express environments, a trend driven by the surge in small, low-value packages associated with online shopping. In a significant crackdown, U.S. authorities seized USD 39.5 million worth of counterfeit sports merchandise ahead of Super Bowl LIX, including jerseys, hats, and memorabilia. Since its inception in 2013, Operation Team Player has resulted in the seizure of over USD 455 million in counterfeit sports gear, underscoring the scale of the issue.

In the United Kingdom, counterfeit sports apparel has also posed a significant challenge. During Euro 2024, UK authorities seized counterfeit football shirts worth approximately GBP 100,300 (USD 128,000) in a series of raids across the country^{[3]City of London Police, “Euro 2024 Counterfeit Seizures,” cityoflondon.police.uk.}. Counterfeit merchandise not only undermines legitimate businesses but also poses risks to consumers and can be linked to broader criminal activities, including money laundering and forced labor. The proliferation of counterfeit sports apparel highlights the need for continued vigilance and collaboration among law enforcement agencies, brands, and consumers to combat this pervasive issue.

Lack of Standardized Regulations Restricts Growth

Global markets face regulatory fragmentation, complicating compliance, especially for smaller brands and those eyeing expansion in emerging markets. In the United States, the Consumer Product Safety Act enforces stringent standards for sportswear manufacturers, covering product design, marketing, and safety. This creates significant barriers for companies without a robust compliance framework. Regional disparities further exacerbate these challenges. For example, Mexico recently introduced protectionist policies to support its local textile industry, implementing new tariffs that increase operational costs and disrupt the sector. Similarly, the European Commission's Memorandum of Understanding with online marketplaces aims to combat counterfeit goods, showcasing a fragmented regulatory approach. While such measures can yield localized benefits, they contribute to a more inconsistent and complex global compliance environment.

Segment Analysis

By Product Type: Tops Lead Market Share

In 2024, the tops segment captures 36.54% of the sports apparel market, owing to its adaptability for various sports and casual wear. Pioneering fabric technologies are elevating this segment's premium appeal. For instance, MIT researchers have crafted fiber computers that seamlessly integrate into clothing, offering real-time health monitoring and precise exercise recognition. Such advancements allow garments to collect detailed physiological data, enhancing health oversight for athletes and fitness buffs. Moreover, the segment's lead is bolstered by breakthroughs in compression technology, which, using synthetic fabrics like nylon 6, boost circulation and recovery. Additionally, the segment leverages innovations in nanoparticle-based antimicrobial treatments, tackling hygiene and longevity concerns by warding off infections and odors.

Outerwear is set to be the fastest-growing segment, eyeing a CAGR of 7.42% from 2025-2030. This surge is attributed to innovations in thermal regulation, with materials like graphene and phase-change substances ensuring optimal body temperatures. Brands are pivoting towards sustainable materials, emphasizing recycled and biodegradable choices, in response to the rising consumer demand for eco-friendly products. The EU's Eco-Design Legislation champions high-quality materials, bolstering product longevity and fostering customer loyalty in the outerwear domain. Furthermore, the segment is integrating UV protection into fabrics, using agents such as titanium dioxide, to counteract rising concerns about sun exposure during outdoor pursuits. Such features are especially crucial for performance outerwear, where functionality and protection drive purchases.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments will be available upon report purchase

By Sport Type: Running Dominates and Leads Growth Trajectory

In 2024, running apparel commands a leading 37.50% market share and is set to grow at a CAGR of 7.84% from 2025 to 2030, underscoring the sport's growing accessibility and ongoing innovations in the category. Under Armour bolsters this dominance with its UA Infinite Collection, tailored for endurance athletes, spotlighting models like the UA Infinite Elite and UA Infinite Pro that boost long-run performance. Further fueling this segment's expansion is Neolast, a cutting-edge fiber for performance stretch fabrics, co-developed by Under Armour and Celanese, presenting a superior alternative to elastane. Innovations like smart fabrics that track health metrics, temperature-regulating Phase-Change Materials (PCMs), and sustainable options such as recycled polyester and organic cotton from Tech Packs Co. are enhancing running apparel's appeal. Its widespread allure spans diverse demographics and fitness levels, positioning it as a focal point for leading sports apparel brands.

On Running embodies this trend, emphasizing sustainability in its high-performance gear with eco-friendly materials like sugarcane-derived EVA foam and castor bean fabrics. Their Cyclon program further underscores this commitment, enabling customers to recycle worn-out shoes. Runners' emotional ties to their gear, viewing it as an extension of their identity, further drive the segment's growth. In response, major brands are crafting purpose-driven running gear: Nike's Move to Zero initiative boasts 78% of its products made from recycled materials.

By End User: Men Dominate Market Share

In 2024, men's sports apparel commands a dominant 59.47% market share, buoyed by established buying habits and a tendency to spend more per item. Growth in this segment is fueled by advancements in performance fabrics and designs, notably technologies like compression wear that enhance circulation and recovery. Men's apparel spans a wide array of sports, with a notable emphasis on team sports. While men traditionally lead in organized sports participation, a trend is emerging where this gap is closing in several markets. Aerodynamic design innovations, which minimize drag, are especially pertinent to men's apparel, bolstered by studies linking fabric type to air resistance. Furthermore, the segment is capitalizing on tech integrations, such as performance tracking and biometric monitoring, resonating with male consumers who value these metrics.

Meanwhile, the children's segment is on a rapid ascent, projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.24% from 2025-2030. This surge is attributed to rising youth sports participation and a parental emphasis on balancing screen time with physical activity. Highlighting this trend, innovations are shaping the children's market, from Kilogear's smart wearables offering real-time performance data to eco-friendly materials sourced from recycled and organic fabrics. Additionally, there's a push for personalized training gear catering to individual athlete needs. The segment's expansion is further bolstered by private equity's growing interest in youth sports, enhancing family experiences, and a broader acceptance of prosthetics and orthotics, promoting inclusivity for children with disabilities.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments will be available upon report purchase

By Distribution Channel: Online Stores Lead Growth

In 2024, offline stores command a dominant 64.33% market share, underscoring consumers' steadfast preference for in-person shopping in the apparel sector. Offline channels excel by offering immediate product trials and personalized services, crucial for performance apparel where fit and feel take precedence. Carter's Inc., a frontrunner in North America's children's apparel market, boasts over 1,000 stores. The company highlights that roughly 70% of children's apparel purchases occur in-store, underscoring the pivotal role of physical retail in its strategy. With plans to inaugurate 40 new outlets while shuttering 30, Carter's is zeroing in on high-traffic locales and customizing offerings for varied age groups, spotlighting the strategic significance of brick-and-mortar retail in the sports apparel domain.

The online segment is poised for growth, eyeing a CAGR of 8.65% from 2025 to 2030. This surge is fueled by advancements in digital shopping and evolving consumer habits. Retailers are leveraging augmented reality for virtual try-ons, boosting customer satisfaction, and curbing return rates. Furthermore, AI-driven customization is revolutionizing online shopping, with brands harnessing AI for tailored recommendations and streamlined inventory management, crafting a more immersive shopping journey. The online arena is vital for captivating younger consumers who lean towards digital shopping and for penetrating emerging markets with sparse physical retail outlets.

Geography Analysis

In 2024, North America leads the market with a 47.68% share, buoyed by a vibrant sports culture and consumers' penchant for premium athletic wear. This dominance is underscored by Adidas, which reported a 19% growth in Europe and double-digit growth in North America in Q4 2024, with overall apparel revenues up by 6%. Government investments, like Canada's Community Sport for All Initiative's USD 15 million commitment over two years, aim to boost sports participation among underrepresented groups. The retail market demonstrates significant growth, highlighted by DICK'S Sporting Goods' USD 2.4 billion acquisition of Foot Locker in May 2025. This move not only seeks to bolster the omnichannel experience but also aims to broaden market reach, especially in children's sports apparel through Foot Locker's Kids Foot Locker brand. Additionally, the region's focus on innovation and sustainability in athletic wear is driving consumer interest, with brands increasingly adopting eco-friendly materials and practices.

Meanwhile, the Middle East & Africa region is on the rise, eyeing a CAGR of 9.25% from 2025-2030, due to proactive government initiatives and a surge in sports participation. A testament to this is Saudi Arabia's SAR 1.7 billion (USD 453 million) allocation for sports in the 2024-2025 season, highlighting the nation's strategy to harness sports as economic and social drivers. Riding this wave, in May 2025, The Apparel Group unveiled its plans to open 180 to 200 new stores in Saudi Arabia. They've inked memorandums of understanding with mall developers, strategically positioning themselves to benefit from the retail boom, with around 30 new malls slated to debut in the Kingdom over the next five years. Furthermore, the region's growing youth population and increasing disposable income are contributing to the rapid expansion of the sports apparel market, creating opportunities for both local and international players.

In Asia-Pacific, countries like China and India are experiencing surging demand due to increasing fitness club memberships and athleisure adoption, with brands like Decathlon and Lululemon expanding aggressively. Europe, a mature yet innovation-led market, is witnessing strong momentum in sustainable sportswear, with Adidas and Puma focusing on recycled materials. Meanwhile, South America, particularly Brazil, is showing significant recovery post-pandemic, supported by growing e-commerce penetration and football-driven demand. Across these regions, localized marketing strategies and digital engagement are becoming key competitive differentiators.