Athleisure Market by Type (Mass Athleisure and Premium Athleisure), Product (Yoga Apparels, Shirts, Leggings, Shorts, and Others), End-User (Men, Women, and Children), Distribution Channel (Online and Online), and Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA): Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032

Athleisure Overview

Athleisure is a fashion trend that combines elements of sportswear and casual wear into stylish and comfortable styles of clothing. This refers to clothing and accessories designed for both sporting and everyday leisure activities. It involves wearing clothing items and accessories that are designed for both athletic activities and casual, everyday wear. Athleisure garments include items like leggings, yoga pants, sweatpants, hoodies, sweatshirts, sports bras, tank tops, and sneakers, which are made from comfortable and stretchy fabrics like spandex, polyester, and cotton blends. What sets athleisure apart is its versatility and fashionable design. These garments incorporate trendy details, colors, and patterns, making them suitable for various settings beyond the gym or sports activities. People choose to wear athleisure outfits not only for workouts but also for running errands, meeting friends, or engaging in casual social activities. The athleisure trend reflects a lifestyle that values both health and fashion, promoting comfort, convenience, and an active mindset while allowing for personal style and expression.

Global Athleisure Market Analysis

The global athleisure market size was $331.70 billion in 2022 and is predicted to grow with a CAGR of 8.6%, by generating a revenue of $722.02 billion by 2032.

COVID-19 Impact on Global Athleisure Market

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the athleisure market. With people spending more time at home due to lockdowns and work-from-home arrangements, there has been a shift in consumer preferences towards comfortable clothing. Athleisure wear, known for its comfort and versatility, became famous for individuals seeking comfortable attire while working, exercising, or staying home. The closure of gyms and fitness centers led to a rise in home workouts, increasing the demand for athleisure clothing that could be worn during exercise sessions at home. Additionally, the growth of the work-from-home culture resulted in a decline in the need for formal office attire, favoring the rise of athleisure wear as a comfortable and casual option. While the athleisure market experienced increased demand during the pandemic, overall sales faced challenges due to the economic impact of COVID-19. However, athleisure brands that offered functional, stylish, and performance-oriented options saw a surge in sales. The pandemic also highlighted the importance of sustainability, leading athleisure brands to focus on eco-friendly materials and ethical practices. As consumer behavior shifted towards online shopping, brands with a robust digital presence were better positioned to meet the changing demands of consumers in the athleisure market.

Rising Health and Wellness Awareness to Drive the Market Growth

The athleisure market has witnessed remarkable growth due to various factors. Firstly, rising awareness and emphasis on health and wellness has encouraged individuals to adopt active lifestyles. Athleisure clothing provides the perfect combination of comfort, functionality, and style, appealing to those who want to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines. Secondly, athleisure wear has evolved to become fashionable, catering to consumers' fashion and style preferences. It goes beyond traditional gym attire and offers versatile casual outings, travel, and work options. Thirdly, the increasing popularity of fitness and sports activities has created a demand for clothing that supports these pursuits. Athleisure brands have capitalized on this trend by providing performance-enhancing apparel with flexibility and moisture-wicking properties. Moreover, the changing work culture, with more casual and flexible environments, has influenced clothing choices. Athleisure is a comfortable and relaxed alternative to traditional formal wear, allowing individuals to transition between work and leisure activities seamlessly.

The influence of celebrities and social media also significantly promotes athleisure fashion, driving consumer interest and sales. Furthermore, technological advancements in fabric technologies have revolutionized the athleisure market, providing functional benefits such as moisture-wicking and stretchable materials. The convenience and lifestyle appeal of athleisure apparel, which allows people to easily transition between activities, also contribute to its popularity.

Saturation to Restrain the Market Growth  

The athleisure market faces several factors that can restrain its further expansion. One of the main challenges is market saturation, as numerous brands and retailers compete for market share, leading to intense competition, price wars, and limited growth opportunities for new or smaller players. Additionally, the ever-changing fashion trends can impact the market as consumer preferences shift away from sporty and casual clothing. Concerns about the quality and durability of athleisure products also restrain the market, as customers may hesitate to purchase if they perceive issues in these areas. With athleisure products often being relatively expensive, price sensitivity among consumers can limit the market growth, as individuals seek more affordable alternatives or prioritize spending on other items. Seasonal demand fluctuations, supply chain disruptions, and ethical and sustainability concerns further hinder the growth of the athleisure market.

Innovation in Fabrics and Technology to Drive Excellent Opportunities

The athleisure market presents a range of opportunities for brands and businesses. One key opportunity is innovation in fabrics and technology. Athleisure brands can leverage advancements in fabric technology to create garments that offer enhanced performance features such as moisture-wicking, breathability, stretchability, and UV protection. Innovations like sustainable and eco-friendly fabrics are also gaining traction, catering to environmentally conscious consumers. Collaborating with fashion designers, athletes, and celebrities can generate excitement and enhance brand visibility.

Global Athleisure Market Share, by Type, 2022

The mass athleisure sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2022. Mass athleisure has achieved dominance in the athleisure market through accessibility, affordability, and a diverse product range. By offering affordable options and catering to various preferences and sizes, mass athleisure brands have made athleisure clothing accessible to a broader range of consumers. They have also capitalized on marketing strategies and influencer culture, collaborating with fitness enthusiasts and celebrities to generate buzz and drive demand. Additionally, the blend of fashion and functionality in their products and the rising popularity of athleisure as a lifestyle choice has contributed to their success. Mass athleisure brands have embraced online retail and e-commerce, providing convenience to customers and establishing a solid online presence. Furthermore, their commitment to sustainability has resonated with environmentally conscious consumers.

Global Athleisure Market Share, by Product, 2022

The shirts sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2022. Shirts sub-segment have emerged as a dominant playes in the athleisure market owing to the comfort, versatility, and aesthetic appeal of shirts. With their lightweight and breathable fabrics, shirts provide unparalleled comfort, making them suitable for athletic activities and everyday wear. Incorporating trendy patterns, colors, and modern cuts has further enhanced their appeal, aligning them with the fashion-forward nature of the athleisure market. Moreover, established sportswear and athleisure brands have capitalized on their reputation and endorsements from athletes and influencers, creating a strong association between shirts and an active, healthy lifestyle.

Global Athleisure Market Share, by End-Users, 2022

The women sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2022. Women have exerted a significant influence in the athleisure market, propelling their domination in recent years. This dominance can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, women have embraced athleisure wear as a fashion statement, seeking comfortable yet stylish clothing for everyday wear. Additionally, the rise of women in sports and fitness activities has created a demand for apparel that caters to their specific needs, further driving the growth of the athleisure market. Influencer culture has also played a pivotal role, with female influencers endorsing athleisure brands and promoting them as essential wardrobe staples.

Moreover, the emphasis on wellness and self-care among women has contributed to the popularity of athleisure, as it aligns with their desire for comfortable and functional attire for various activities. The shift towards casual work environments and the increasing acceptance of remote work arrangements have also made athleisure a preferred choice for women who seek comfortable and professional-looking outfits.

Global Athleisure Market Share, by Distribution Channel, 2022

The offline sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2022. The dominance of the offline distribution channel in the athleisure market can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, physical retail stores offer a unique in-store experience where customers can personally try athleisure apparel, assess its fit and comfort, and ensure its quality before purchasing. Secondly, knowledgeable sales staff at offline stores provide personalized support to customers, helping them find the right sportswear based on their preferences. Thirdly, physical stores serve as platforms for brand engagement, allowing sports brands to host events, product launches, and partnerships to foster community and customer loyalty. Lastly, the athleisure brands' strategic selection of store locations ensures they reach their target market effectively.

Global Athleisure Market Share, by Region, 2022

North America athleisure market generated the highest revenue in 2022. North America's domination of the athleisure market can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, the region's fitness culture has grown significantly, emphasizing active and healthy lifestyles. This change has increased the demand for comfortable and functional clothing worn during training and everyday life, making sportswear more popular. Furthermore, North America has popular sportswear brands such as Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, and Lululemon, which have helped shape its athleisure trends. Through extensive marketing campaigns and strong brand awareness, these companies have successfully conquered markets and influenced consumer preferences. Additionally, the region's influencer culture and the power of social media have significantly contributed to the growth of the athleisure market, with influencers and celebrities endorsing athleisure brands and showcasing their outfits to a broad audience.

Competitive Scenario in the Global Athleisure Market

Investment and agreement are common strategies followed by major market players. Some of the leading athleisure market players are Hanes Brands, Inc., Adidas AG, Vuori, PANGAIA, Under Armour, Inc., Outerknown, EILEEN FISHER, Patagonia, Inc., Wear Pact, LLC, and Lululemon Athletica.