Women’s Activewear Market

Market Overview:

The global women’s activewear market size reached US$ 192 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 311 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 5.45% during 2024-2032. The rising prevalence of obesity among women and their participation in yoga, Pilates, and HIIT workouts, easy availability via online distribution channels, and the growing use of eco-friendly materials and techniques in producing activewear are some of the major factors propelling the market.

Women's activewear refers to a category of clothing designed for women to wear while performing physical activities, such as sports, workouts, and exercises like weightlifting, aerobics, and yoga. It is also worn in other casual and social situations due to its comfort and style. It is made from materials that draw sweat away from the body, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable. It is designed to stretch, which allows a full range of motion during workouts. It helps support muscles and improve circulation during and after physical activity. Besides this, outdoor activewear provides ultraviolet (UV) protection to protect the skin from the harmful rays of the sun. It is also used in dance classes, including Zumba, salsa, and ballet.

The increasing income level of individuals is allowing them to spend more on fitness and wellness. This is catalyzing the demand for women’s activewear across the globe. Additionally, the rising prevalence of obesity among women and their increasing enrolment in gyms, yoga centers, and aerobics classes are offering lucrative opportunities to manufacturers. Furthermore, the easy availability of activewear across online distribution channels, offering exciting deals and discounts, home delivery services, return and exchange policies, and secure online payment methods is creating a positive market outlook. Moreover, many leading companies are focusing on strategic collaborations with e-commerce channels to expand their consumer base. They are also investing in promotional activities, such as celebrity endorsement and social media advertisements.

Women’s Activewear Market Trends/Drivers:

A rise of fitness culture and consequently increasing sales of athleisure

The growing global fitness trend and a rise in the sales of athleisure represent one of the key factors catalyzing the demand for women’s activewear. Additionally, the rising awareness among the female population about the benefits of fitness activities to maintain health and well-being is contributing to the market growth. Apart from this, activewear offers a unique blend of function and fashion that appeals to the modern woman's desire for versatility in her wardrobe. Moreover, the increasing popularity of yoga, Pilates, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and other fitness activities is favoring market growth. Activewear, with its features like stretchability, moisture-wicking, breathability, and chic styling, ensures comfort during workout routines and a fashionable appearance for casual and social occasions.

Technological innovations in the fabric and apparel industry

The technological evolution in the fabric and apparel industry is another significant driver for the market growth. Continuous developments in fabric technology are leading to the creation of advanced materials that wick moisture away from the body, regulate temperature, resist odors, and offer UV protection. These features are designed to enhance the wearer's comfort and performance during physical activities. Furthermore, the integration of wearable technology into activewear to introduce smart clothing that monitors heart rate, counts steps, and tracks the location of users is attracting a wider consumer base. Such innovations allow for real-time tracking of workout performance and health metrics, adding value to activewear and making it more appealing to consumers.

The rising focus on sustainable and ethical fashion

The growing awareness among individuals about environmental issues and ethical labor practices and shifting consumer behavior and market trends across various industries, including fashion and apparel, is favoring market growth. Additionally, leading market players are focusing on the adoption of more sustainable and ethical practices in their production processes. They are increasingly utilizing eco-friendly materials, such as organic cotton and recycled polyester on account of their low environmental impact. Apart from this, many leading companies are promoting the use of water-saving dye methods, which is offering a favorable market outlook. Additionally, they are offering fair wages and a favorable working environment for their workers.

Women’s Activewear Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global women’s activewear market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels for 2024-2032. Our report has categorized the market based on product type, fabric, and distribution channel.

Breakup by Product Type:

• Top
• Bottom
• Sweatpants
• Shorts
• Skirts and Skorts
• Yoga Pants and Leggings
• Outerwear
• Jackets
• Hoodies and Sweatshirts
• Innerwear and Swimwear
• Others
   

Bottom dominates the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product type. This includes top, bottom, sweatpants, shorts, skirts and skorts, yoga pants and leggings, outerwear, jackets, hoodies and sweatshirts, innerwear and swimwear, and others. According to the report, bottom represented the largest segment. Bottoms encompass numerous products, such as trousers and loose-fitting pants. They are typically designed for activities that require comfort, functionality, and the elasticity of leggings or yoga pants.

Tops in the activewear segment include tank tops, t-shirts, and long-sleeved options. They are designed to provide comfort during physical activities. They are made using materials that are breathable, moisture-wicking, and stretchable to allow ease of movement.

Sweatpants are a casual variety of trousers intended for comfort and athletic purposes. They are usually made from cotton or polyester, often of a heavy knit. They offer comfort and warmth and are commonly used for lounging or workouts during cooler months.

Shorts are designed for activities in warmer conditions and those requiring a lot of leg movement, like running. They come in various lengths and materials, providing options based on comfort and activity level of users.

Skirts and skorts are popular in sports like tennis and golf. Skorts offer the appearance of a skirt with the comfort and coverage of shorts underneath. The expansion of offline distribution channels is contributing to its increasing sales.

Yoga and Pilate pants are fitted, stretchable trousers designed for activities that require flexibility. Their snug fit and flexibility have also made them a popular choice for everyday wear.

The rising participation of youngsters in trekking, mountain climbing, and other adventurous activities is driving the demand for outerwear to protect them from external elements. They are designed to be water-resistant, windproof, and insulated for activities in colder environments.

Sports jackets are generally lightweight, offer versatility, are made with warm material, and are worn by athletes during mild chill for colder temperatures. They are usually designed with functional elements like pockets, zippers, and hoods.

Hoodies and sweatshirts are made from soft and warm materials. They can be worn before or after workouts, providing warmth and a relaxed fit. The easy availability of these products across online shopping channels is increasing their sales.

Innerwear includes sports bras and other supportive undergarments that are required for physical activities. Swimwear, on the other hand, is designed specifically for water activities, made from materials that dry quickly and offer durability in chlorinated or saltwater. The increasing participation of women in sports activities is offering a favorable market outlook.

Breakup by Fabric:

• Polyester
• Nylon
• Neoprene
• Polypropylene
• Spandex
• Cotton
• Others
   

Polyester holds the largest share in the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the fabric has also been provided in the report. This includes polyester, nylon, neoprene, polypropylene, spandex, cotton, and others. According to the report, polyester accounted for the largest market share. It is used in the production of women’s activewear due to its ability to retain shape, resist wrinkles, and dry quickly. Besides this, as a synthetic fiber, it can be engineered for various performance characteristics, such as ultraviolet (UV) resistance and moisture management. Its versatile nature allows it to be used in a variety of activewear, from tops to outerwear.

Nylon is another synthetic fabric widely used in the activewear market strength and abrasion resistance, making it a preferred choice for garments that require elasticity, such as swimwear and running apparel. It offers excellent comfort during physical activities due to its lightweight nature and quick-drying properties. It finds use in high-performance gear due to its adaptability and resilience, which makes it an asset in the market.

Neoprene is generally used in making water sports garments like wetsuits, on account of its insulating and water resistance properties. It also offers support and cushioning in fitness accessories like knee braces and weightlifting belts.

Polypropylene is a hydrophobic fabric that repels water, making it an excellent choice for base layers that keep moisture away from the body. Additionally, it helps maintain warmth while staying dry making it suitable for winter sports and outdoor activities.

Spandex, also known as Lycra or elastane, ensures a comfortable and supportive fit and is used in fitted garments like yoga pants and performance leggings. It also helps in proving muscle compression and supporting during workouts.

Cotton exhibits hypoallergenic properties, which makes it a preferred choice for those with sensitive skin. Additionally, the rising trend of mixing cotton with synthetic fibers like polyester is offering a favorable market outlook.

Breakup by Distribution Channel:

• Online
• Offline
   

Offline accounts for the largest market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the distribution channel. This includes online and offline. According to the repot, offline holds the largest market share. Online shopping provides consumers the comfort of purchasing from their homes at any time and eliminates the need to visit physical stores and wait in lines. Additionally, online platforms provide various payment methods, including digital wallets, credit/debit cards, and buy-now-pay-later options, and enhance convenience. Apart from this, the online channel facilitates immediate feedback from customers and helps others in their decision-making and businesses in their product improvement.

Offline stores provide face-to-face customer service, wherein they can ask questions, get recommendations, and address concerns directly with store associates. Additionally, purchasing directly from a physical store often reduces concerns regarding counterfeit or substandard products. Apart from this, offline shopping eliminates shipping costs, which might sometimes deter online purchases.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Others
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

North America exhibits a clear dominance, accounting for the largest women’s activewear market share

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and others); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, North America accounted for the largest market share. It is home to some of the leading activewear brands in the world. These brands are investing heavily in research and development (R&D), constantly introducing innovative products that cater to the evolving needs of consumers. Additionally, the region has a vast number of gyms, fitness centers, and wellness hubs, coupled with a broad media reach that emphasizes the importance of fitness, further bolstering the market growth. Apart from this, the region has a culture that values fitness and active lifestyles, and activities like yoga, jogging, and gym workouts are ingrained in daily routines, which is catalyzing the demand for activewear.

Competitive Landscape:

Companies are increasingly recognizing the need for size inclusivity and diversity in their product ranges. They are offering a broader range of sizes and adapting designs to suit different body shapes and sizes. Many companies are focusing on sustainable practices in response to the growing consumer awareness and demand for environment friendly products. This includes using recycled or organic materials, reducing water and energy consumption in production, and implementing ethical labor practices. Apart from this, various companies are expanding their online presence to reach a broader market. They are utilizing social media, influencer partnerships, and digital marketing strategies to engage with their customers.

The report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• 2XU
• Adidas AG
• ASICS Corporation
• Columbia Sportswear Company
• F21 IPCo LLC.
• Hanesbrands Inc
• Jockey
• Lululemon Athletica
• Marmot Mountain LLC
• Nike Inc.
• Nordstrom Inc
• PUMA SE
• Ralph Lauren Media LLC
• Spanx LLC. (Blackstone Group)
• Under Armour Inc.

Women’s Activewear Market Report Scope:

Key Questions Answered in This Report:

• How has the global women’s activewear market performed so far, and how will it perform in the coming years?
• What are the drivers, restraints, and opportunities in the global women’s activewear market?
• What is the impact of each driver, restraint, and opportunity on the global women’s activewear market?
• What are the key regional markets?
• Which countries represent the most attractive women’s activewear market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the product type?
• Which is the most attractive product type in the women’s activewear market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the fabric?
• Which is the most attractive fabric in the women’s activewear market?
• What is the breakup of the market based on the distribution channel?
• Which is the most attractive distribution channel in the women’s activewear market?
• What is the competitive structure of the global women’s activewear market?
• Who are the key players/companies in the global women’s activewear market?

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the women’s activewear market from 2018-2032.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global women’s activewear market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the women’s activewear industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.