How Big Is the Activewear Market in the US?

The activewear market in the United States has seen remarkable growth over the past decade, fueled by the rise of athleisure¹, an increased focus on health and fitness, and a shift toward more casual lifestyles. Americans are investing heavily in performance apparel that is versatile, comfortable, and stylish, blurring the lines between athletic wear and everyday clothing. But just how large is this market, and what are the factors driving its expansion?

The activewear market in the US is valued at over $100 billion in 2024², accounting for a significant share of the global activewear industry. It is expected to grow further due to increasing consumer demand for multifunctional apparel.

This article dives deep into the size of the activewear market in the US, its growth trajectory, and what drives the demand for activewear in the country.

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How Big Is the Activewear Market in the US?

Market Size and Growth

The activewear market in the US has grown exponentially and continues to expand at a steady rate.

• Market Value:

  • As of 2024, the US activewear market is valued at approximately $108 billion², making it one of the largest in the world.

• Growth Rate:

  • The market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5%³ from 2023 to 2030.

• Market Share:

  • The US accounts for nearly 35% of the global activewear market⁴, highlighting its dominance in the industry.

Year	Market Size (USD)	CAGR
2024	$108 billion	6.5%
2030 (Projected)	$158 billion

Major Segments

The activewear market in the US is divided into several categories, each contributing to its overall size:

1. Athleisure:

   • The largest and fastest-growing segment, blending activewear with casual fashion.
   • Consumers wear athleisure apparel for workouts, work-from-home settings, and even social outings.

2. Performance Apparel:

   • Includes high-performance clothing designed for sports and fitness activities.
   • Popular items: compression wear, running shorts, and moisture-wicking tops.

3. Footwear and Accessories:

   • Athletic footwear is a significant contributor, led by brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour.
   • Accessories such as gym bags, headbands, and fitness trackers are also gaining traction.

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Key Drivers of Growth

Several factors contribute to the massive size and continuous growth of the activewear market in the US:

1. Rise of Fitness Culture:

   • Over 60 million Americans have gym memberships⁵, and many more engage in activities like running, yoga, and home workouts. This fitness-first mentality drives the demand for high-quality activewear.

2. Shift to Casual Lifestyles:

   • The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift to work-from-home setups, making comfortable clothing a priority. Activewear became a go-to option for both productivity and leisure.

3. Sustainability Trends:

   • Consumers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly options, and brands are responding with sustainable activewear lines.

4. Social Media and Influencers:

   • Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have popularized activewear through influencer collaborations and fitness challenges.

5. Technological Innovations:

   • Advanced fabrics with moisture-wicking, odor-resistant, and temperature-regulating properties are driving consumer interest in performance apparel.

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What Is the Demand for Activewear?

Demand for activewear in the US is driven by both functional and fashion-forward needs.

Changing Consumer Preferences

1. Comfort and Versatility:

   • Consumers are increasingly favoring clothing that transitions seamlessly from workouts to everyday wear.
   • Leggings, joggers, and performance tees have become wardrobe staples.

2. Focus on Health and Fitness:

   • A growing emphasis on fitness and wellness has led more people to adopt activewear as part of their lifestyle.

3. Inclusivity:

   • Brands are now offering extended sizing and more inclusive designs, broadening their appeal to a diverse customer base.

Consumer Need	How Activewear Meets It
Comfort	Soft, stretchable fabrics
Performance	Moisture-wicking, breathable materials
Style	Trendy cuts and colors

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Top Consumer Demographics

Understanding the demographics of activewear consumers helps explain why demand is so high in the US.

1. Age Groups:

   • Gen Z and Millennials:
     • These groups drive the bulk of demand, as they are most influenced by fitness trends and social media.
   • Gen X and Boomers:
     • Older generations are also purchasing activewear for activities like yoga, walking, and casual wear.

2. Gender Trends:

   • Women:
     • Women’s activewear accounts for a larger share of sales, with leggings, sports bras, and tank tops leading the market.
   • Men:
     • Demand for men’s activewear is rising, particularly in categories like compression wear and performance shorts.

The Role of Brands

Leading activewear brands dominate the market by catering to demand through innovative products and targeted marketing campaigns.

1. Nike:

   • The largest player in the US activewear market, known for its performance-driven designs and collaborations with athletes.

2. Lululemon:

   • A leader in premium activewear, focusing on yoga-inspired apparel with a stylish edge.

3. Athleta:

   • Offers sustainable and inclusive options, appealing to women seeking functional yet fashionable designs.

4. Adidas:

   • Combines performance and streetwear aesthetics, making it a favorite among younger audiences.

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Conclusion

The activewear market in the US is a thriving industry, valued at over $100 billion and growing steadily². Its success is driven by factors such as the rise of athleisure, a strong fitness culture, and evolving consumer preferences for versatile, stylish apparel. With major brands like Nike, Lululemon, and Adidas leading the charge, the market shows no signs of slowing down.

Demand for activewear continues to grow as Americans prioritize comfort, health, and sustainability. Understanding the dynamics of this booming market is essential for brands looking to compete in one of the fastest-growing sectors in fashion.

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