The pandemic was not a happy period for the clothing industry in general with the exception of activewear. The fact that it is projected to becoming USD 276.61 billion in the next six years is the proof of its popularity and staying power. UK-based research agency Technavio presented a report titled Activewear Apparel Market by Distribution Channel and Geography - Forecast Analysis 2022-2026 – it stated that the growth momentum is anticipated to accelerate at a CAGR of 11.24% during the forecast period. The report attributed this growth due to innovative use of fabrics and styles as well as creating an activewear line that is premium and on trend.

Did the pandemic create this genre?

Active lifestyles are influencing the market positively thanks to the increase in people turning towards them. One among the key factors contributing to the growth of the active wear market is the unique benefits offered by active wear, like quick-drying, thermal resistance, breathability, chemical resistance, and static resistance. However, the rise in the number of fake and counterfeit products adversely impacts the growth of the global active wear market.

As a results of volatile raw material costs and high designing costs, the active wear market is probably going to face challenges related to a declining number of price-sensitive consumers in the forecast period of 2022-2032. By providing suitable fitting and proper support, activewear can prevent muscle sprains and other ligament and muscle injuries. This has led to the rapid climb of the global active wear market. These activewear products offer many advantages, including quick-drying properties. Sedentary lifestyles have made consumers more aware of their health, which further boosts the active wear market ahead. Women and men are adopting activewear outside the gym to wear as casual clothing because it gives the wearer a dry and comfortable feel. Cotton-based activewear is particularly popular in the summer because it keeps the wearer dry and also prevents irritation of the skin. It should be noted that Cristiano Ronaldo and Serena Williams are athletes who are social influencers beyond football and tennis as they have a huge following for their healthy and active lifestyles and have played significant roles in making activewear so popular.

Fashionably fun?

The single-most important driver to this segment’s growth is that sports and lifestyle brands are making activewear serious fashion statements. Nike, Reebok, Puma, Lululemon, Fila, New Balance and Gymshark are perfect examples of how reputable sports and activity-based brands have made activewear fun and fashionable. These brands are driving the sustainability factor as well with sustainable, durable and premium-quality fabrics that are innovatively designed to fill the fashion gap that previously sportswear couldn’t. Another winning element for activewear is that it has been able to ride on the wave of diversity and inclusivity by offering gender-neutral fashion and is able to cater to all body types.

Luxury brands have realised its potential and be it Gucci or Stella McCartney, they are all busy creating exclusive activewear lines.

Retail outlets and e-commerce are level pegging

When it comes to accessibility of activewear, both platforms are doing well. Retail stores are gaining popularity as more activewear and sportswear brands are launching more brick-and-mortar shopping experiences that visualize their brand stories in person. Additionally, fittings and on-time deliveries or lack of it is driving the popularity of in-shop purchases as people return to post-pandemic normalcy. The popularity of e-commerce that exploded during the pandemic, remains another popular channel for purchase.

By Fashionating World
https://www.fashionatingworld.com/new1-2/why-activewear-is-the-new-buzz-in-clothing