Table of Contents
Athleisure Market Overview
Athleisure brands, which combine athletic wear with casual attire, have experienced significant growth fueled by increasing health awareness, a shift towards comfort, and the impact of athletes and celebrities.
Key brands such as Lululemon, Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, and Puma lead the market, while trends like customization, fabric innovation, and a commitment to diversity influence consumer choices.
Moreover, despite facing challenges such as market saturation and the necessity for ongoing innovation, athleisure remains a fundamental part of everyday fashion, mirroring the heightened focus on health and wellness in consumers’ lives.
Market Drivers
The global athleisure brands market is rapidly expanding due to several key factors. Increasing health awareness has heightened demand for comfortable, functional apparel that suits workouts and everyday wear.
Lifestyle changes, particularly the move towards remote work and casual dress codes, have also boosted athleisure’s popularity.
Moreover, the influence of athletes and celebrities, along with advancements in fabric technology, enhances its appeal.
Furthermore, focusing on sustainability, customization, and diversity allows brands to attract eco-conscious consumers.
Social media significantly promotes athleisure trends, solidifying its status as a major segment in the apparel industry.
Market Size
The global athleisure market is anticipated to increase from USD 358.3 billion in 2023 to approximately USD 832.8 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 8.8% from 2024 to 2033.
List of Major Companies
These are the top 10 companies operating in the Athleisure Market:
Adidas
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1924 |
| Headquarter | Herzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany |
| Key Management | Bjørn Gulden (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 23.2 Billion (2022) |
| Headcount | ~ 58,564 (2022) |
| Website | https://www.adidas.com/ |
About Adidas
Adidas continues to solidify its presence in the athleisure brands/sector through strategic product launches and retail expansions.
Recently, the company unveiled several new products, including the “Adizero Adios Pro 4” as part of its award-winning running line and the “CRAZYQUICK Lightstrike,” its first padel shoe, underscoring its innovation in sports footwear.
Adidas has also expanded its retail footprint with two new flagship stores in Los Angeles, focusing on creativity and sustainability.
In addition, its 2024 global brand campaign, “You Got This,” seeks to reconnect with younger consumers, especially Gen Z, emphasizing the enjoyment of sports under less pressure.
Adidas’ strong financial performance in 2024, with improved sales projections, reflects its growing dominance in both sports and lifestyle apparel.
Geographical Presence
Adidas maintains a strategic global presence that boosts its market reach across key regions. In North America, the brand benefits from premium positioning and partnerships with major retailers.
Europe is its core market, emphasizing sustainability. The Asia-Pacific region offers significant growth opportunities due to rising incomes and a health-focused consumer base, prompting localized marketing efforts.
In Latin America, Adidas addresses economic challenges while fostering brand loyalty through community engagement.
The Middle East and Africa are targeted for growth, employing a blend of retail and e-commerce strategies tailored to local cultures. Overall, Adidas’s diverse approach enhances its competitiveness in the global sportswear market.
Recent Developments
- In October 2024, Adidas partnered with ParalympicsGB to provide sportswear for ParalympicsGB athletes.
- In September 2024, Adidas entered into a sponsorship partnership with Hexagon Cup.
Puma
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1948 |
| Headquarter | Herzogenaurach, Bavaria, Germany |
| Key Management | Arne Freundt (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 9.3 B (2022) |
| Headcount | ~ 18,420 (2022) |
| Website | https://eu.puma.com/ |
About Puma
Puma has been making significant strides in the athleisure brands/sector with new product launches and sustainability-focused initiatives.
In 2024, Puma introduced various innovations, such as the RE 2.0 sneaker, which continues their push towards eco-friendly products.
This launch is part of their broader sustainability goals, including a 24% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and increased use of recycled materials, as seen in their football jerseys made from textile waste.
Financially, the company’s direct-to-consumer business saw robust growth, with a 16.7% increase in sales, bolstered by both physical stores and e-commerce.
Puma also expanded its partnerships with prominent athletes, continuing to build its presence in key markets like the Americas and Asia-Pacific.
Geographical Presence
Puma SE, based in Herzogenaurach, Germany, is a prominent global sportswear and lifestyle brand operating in over 120 countries.
The company has a strong presence in Europe, especially in Germany, the UK, France, and Italy, and significant operations in North America, particularly in the U.S. and Canada.
Latin America, led by Brazil, is an emerging market, while the Asia-Pacific region, particularly China, shows rapid growth potential.
Additionally, Puma is expanding in Africa and the Middle East, focusing on South Africa. Its strategy prioritizes local relevance through targeted marketing and sponsorships, positioning the brand for ongoing growth in both established and emerging markets.
Recent Developments
- In July 2024, Puma extended its agreement with Palmeiras to provide sporting equipment to the team.
- In July 2024, Puma, in collaboration with Lemlem, launched a collection in Argentina.
Nike
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1964 |
| Headquarter | Beaverton, Oregon, U.S. |
| Key Management | John Donahoe (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 51.3 Billion (2024) |
| Headcount | ~ 79,400 (2024) |
| Website | https://www.nike.com/ |
About Nike
Nike continues to dominate the athleisure brands/sector with a focus on innovation and sustainable practices. In 2024.
Nike launched a new multi-year innovation cycle, introducing products such as the Air Max Dn and new versions of the Air Zoom line, which offer enhanced energy return and cushioning aimed at athletes across various sports.
Nike also expanded its Athlete Imagined Revolution (A.I.R.) project, utilizing AI and data from its Sports Research Lab to create cutting-edge, athlete-driven designs.
Financially, Nike reported revenues of $51.4 billion for the fiscal year 2024, showing resilience despite global market challenges.
Moreover, the company is investing heavily in digital innovation and sustainability, with efforts such as reducing inventories by 11% and enhancing its digital sales strategies.
Geographical Presence
Nike, Inc. is a prominent global brand in athletic footwear and apparel, leveraging a strategic geographical presence to enhance its market position.
North America is its largest market, accounting for nearly 40% of sales via direct-to-consumer channels and retail partnerships.
In the EMEA region, especially in Germany, France, and the UK, Nike prioritizes sustainability and community engagement.
The Asia-Pacific market, particularly China, is rapidly expanding due to increasing incomes and health awareness, with Nike employing both physical and digital sales methods.
Operating manufacturing facilities in Vietnam and Indonesia, the company focuses on sustainability and production agility, ensuring continued growth and a strong global presence.
Recent Development
- In August 2024, Nike opened a new store in Indore, M.P., India.
- In August 2024, Nike opened a new retail outlet in Quebec, Canada.
ASICS
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1949 |
| Headquarter | Kobe, Japan |
| Key Management | Motoi Oyama (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 3.9 Billion (2022) |
| Headcount | ~ 8,927 (2022) |
| Website | https://www.asics.com/ |
About ASICS
ASICS Corporation has been actively expanding its footprint in the athleisure brands/sector with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
In 2024, the company launched the METAFUJI™ Trail Shoes, designed for speed and stability in trail running, using advanced technologies like a full-length carbon plate and ASICSGRIP™ for superior traction.
ASICS also ventured into virtual sports with the introduction of “DISC,” a mixed-reality experience aimed at engaging new audiences through digital sports. In terms of corporate strategy.
ASICS Ventures continues to invest in startups to drive innovation, aligning with its long-term “Vision 2030” plan that promotes both physical and mental well-being through sports.
Geographical Presence
ASICS Corporation, a leading Japanese multinational, is renowned for its high-quality athletic footwear and apparel.
The company’s primary market is Japan, with increasing investments in China and Southeast Asia driven by rising fitness trends.
In North America, especially the U.S. and Canada, ASICS utilizes a multi-channel strategy, including e-commerce and local partnerships, to boost brand visibility.
In Europe, it targets key markets like the UK, Germany, and France while also expanding into Latin America, particularly Brazil and Mexico.
With a focus on sustainability and innovation, ASICS is well-positioned to benefit from global health and fitness trends.
Recent Development
- In September 2024, ASICS launched “DISC,” a virtual sport tailored for virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR), aiming to redefine sports and inspire a new generation of athletes worldwide.
- In August 2024, ASICS Corporation launched METAFUJI TRAIL shoes.
Lululemon
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1998 |
| Headquarter | Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada |
| Key Management | Calvin McDonald (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 9.6 B (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 38,000 (2024) |
| Website | https://shop.lululemon.com/ |
About Lululemon
Lululemon has been enhancing its presence in the athleisure brands market through product innovation and strategic acquisitions.
In 2024, the company introduced a new lineup of footwear, including its first-ever men’s casual sneaker, “Cityverse,” and new performance running shoes like “Beyondfeel,” catering to both men and women.
These launches reflect Lululemon’s focus on creating products designed with comfort and performance in mind.
Additionally, the company is expanding internationally, as evidenced by its acquisition of the operations and retail locations of its Mexican franchise partner, marking a significant move to increase its presence in the growing Mexican market.
This acquisition is part of Lululemon’s broader strategy to capitalize on international growth while maintaining strong sales momentum globally.
Geographical Presence
Lululemon Athletica Inc. has a significant geographical presence, particularly in North America, where it operates over 400 stores in the U.S. and maintains a strong presence in Canada.
The company is expanding internationally, focusing on markets in Europe, such as the UK and Germany, and in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly China and Australia, leveraging digital platforms for broader reach.
Lululemon emphasizes e-commerce, community engagement, and sustainability initiatives to enhance brand visibility and consumer loyalty.
Through strategic collaborations and localized marketing, the company aims to navigate competitive landscapes and meet evolving consumer demands in the global athletic apparel market.
Recent Developments
- In August 2024, Lululemon sold its 81,009 shares to Vanguard Group Inc.
- In June 2024, Lululemon announced its plans to relocate and expand its flagship store in London, the UK.
Under-Armour
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1996 |
| Headquarter | Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. |
| Key Management | Colin Browne (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 5.7 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 6,800 (2023) |
| Website | http://www.underarmour.com/ |
About Under Armour
Under Armour has recently made significant moves in the athleisure brands/sector, focusing on restructuring and expanding its brand presence.
In 2024, the company completed the acquisition of Unless Collective, a sustainable fashion brand that aligns with Under Armour’s push towards eco-friendly materials and regenerative fashion.
This move highlights its growing commitment to sustainability. Additionally, Under Armour sold its MapMyFitness suite of fitness tracking apps.
Including MapMyRun and MapMyRide, to Outside Interactive, Inc., enhancing Outside’s outdoor fitness platform while allowing Under Armour to streamline its digital offerings.
These steps, combined with leadership changes and a renewed focus on core business operations, underscore Under Armour’s strategy to boost growth and efficiency.
Geographical Presence
Under Armour Inc. company operates globally, with major markets in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa (EMEA), Asia-Pacific (APAC), and Latin America.
North America is its largest market, and it is noted for its strong brand recognition and diverse retail channels.
In EMEA, Under Armour is working to enhance brand visibility amid stiff competition, while in APAC, it aims for growth through localized products and e-commerce initiatives.
The brand is also expanding into Latin America, tackling market penetration challenges. Committed to innovation and strategic partnerships, Under Armour seeks to leverage global health and fitness trends for ongoing growth in the competitive sportswear sector.
Recent Developments
- In August 2024, Outside Interactive, Inc. acquired MapMyFitness from Under Armour, Inc. MapMyFitness is a fitness-tracking app that uses GPS to help users monitor their activities.
- In August 2024, Under Armour announced its plans to acquire UNLESS COLLECTIVE.
Gap
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1969 |
| Headquarter | San Francisco, California, U.S. |
| Key Management | Richard Dickson (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 14.9 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 85,000 (2023) |
| Website | http://www.gapinc.com/ |
About Gap
Gap has been working to revitalize its presence in the athleisure brands/sector, especially through its Athleta brand.
Athleta focused on women’s activewear, has shown steady improvement with a 2% sales increase in early 2024, following a successful brand refresh and new product launches.
However, the brand faced challenges from heavy discounting in the previous year, leading to a more cautious approach in the current fiscal year.
Gap Inc. also expanded Athleta internationally, with its first company-owned stores in Canada and continued growth in digital sales.
In addition to expanding Athleta, Gap Inc. is enhancing consumer engagement through strategic partnerships, such as collaborations with brands like DÔEN and Madhappy, further supporting its brand revitalization.
Geographical Presence
Gap Inc. is a prominent American apparel company with a diverse global presence, featuring brands like Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Athleta, and Intermix.
In North America, it operates extensively in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, with numerous retail stores and a growing online platform.
In Europe, Gap Inc. has stores in the UK, France, Germany, and Italy, primarily in major cities. Key markets in Asia include China and Japan, where e-commerce is a focus.
The company is also expanding in Latin America, particularly Brazil, and has a presence in the UAE and South Africa.
By emphasizing omnichannel retailing, Gap Inc. integrates online and offline experiences to enhance customer engagement and sustain its competitive edge in the global apparel market.
Recent Developments
- In July 2024, Gap collaborated with Madhappy to launch a limited-edition collection featuring apparel and accessories for men, women, and children.
- In May 2024, Gap collaborated with DOEN to launch a collection of women’s and kids’ apparel and accessories.
FILA
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1911 |
| Headquarter | Seoul, South Korea |
| Key Management | Gene Yoon (Chairman) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 30.9 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 11,800 (2023) |
| Website | https://www.fila.com/regionselector |
About FILA
FILA has been active in the athleisure brands market, focusing on both innovation and sustainability. In 2024, the company launched FILA+, a new line that blends its classic sportswear with a contemporary streetwear edge, developed in collaboration with Palace founder Lev Tanju.
This move aims to attract a younger, style-conscious audience. FILA also continues its commitment to sustainability, as seen in its recent sustainability report, which highlights efforts like upcycling and product circularity.
Additionally, FILA completed a share buyback program in mid-2024, reinforcing its financial strategy and commitment to increasing shareholder value.
These initiatives, combined with a reorganization of their global teams to boost design and innovation, position FILA as a competitive player in the evolving athleisure landscape.
Geographical Presence
FILA Holdings Corp., originally founded in Italy and now based in South Korea, has developed a significant global presence.
The brand is well-recognized in South Korea and is rapidly expanding in China and Southeast Asia. In North America, especially the U.S. and Canada, FILA is revitalizing its image through partnerships with athletes and influencers.
In Europe, it strengthens its roots in Italy while expanding in Germany and the UK. Brazil is a crucial market in Latin America, and FILA is also advancing in the Middle East and Africa.
Key strategies include local product adaptations, enhanced e-commerce, and sustainability initiatives, enabling FILA to seize new opportunities worldwide.
Recent Development
- In September 2024, FILA expanded its sneaker lineup in India with the launch of the ‘Bellissimo’ collection in collaboration with Metro Brands Limited.
H-n-M
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1947 |
| Headquarter | Stockholm, Sweden |
| Key Management | Daniel Erver (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 23.3 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 101,103 (2023) |
| Website | http://hmgroup.com/ |
About Hennes & Mauritz
Hennes & Mauritz AB (H&M) continues to strengthen its position in the athleisure brands market by expanding its product offerings and focusing on new collaborations.
In 2024, H&M launched a new men’s athleisure collection, which combines style and comfort aimed at the modern consumer.
This collection, available globally both online and in stores, is part of their strategy to tap into the growing demand for functional yet fashionable athletic wear.
Additionally, H&M has been actively involved in sustainability initiatives, with efforts to enhance circular fashion models, including upcycling and recycling processes across its product lines.
The company also implemented a share buyback program in 2024, aiming to boost shareholder value and reinforce its financial stability.
Geographical Presence
Hennes & Mauritz AB (H&M), a leading global fashion retailer based in Sweden, operates a vast network of stores and online platforms across Europe, Asia, North America, Latin America, and Africa.
Key markets include Sweden, Germany, the United Kingdom, and France in Europe; China and Japan in Asia; the United States and Canada in North America; Mexico and Colombia in Latin America; and South Africa in Africa.
H&M employs a multi-channel distribution strategy, combining physical retail with robust e-commerce to enhance customer accessibility and convenience.
This strategic expansion, particularly in emerging markets, reflects the company’s commitment to growth and adaptation to evolving consumer preferences.
Recent Development
- In October 2024, H&M launched H&M Adorables, a baby and kidswear label.
- In February 2020, H&M launched a new men’s athleisure collection for the global market.
New-Balance
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1906 |
| Headquarter | Boston, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Key Management | Joe Preston (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 6.5 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 8,000 (2024) |
| Website | http://newbalance.com/ |
About New Balance
New Balance Athletics, Inc. has made significant strides in the athleisure brands/sector, focusing on both product innovation and sustainability.
In 2024, the company launched its Reconsidered resale platform, allowing customers to buy pre-owned and refurbished footwear as part of its effort to reduce waste and promote circular fashion.
New Balance has also continued expanding its popular “We Got Now” campaign, featuring top athletes like Coco Gauff and Bukayo Saka, to strengthen its global brand presence.
Additionally, the brand collaborated with ’47 to introduce a new range of headwear and knits, aligning with their push to blend performance with lifestyle apparel. These initiatives reflect New Balance’s focus on expanding both its product line and sustainability efforts.
Geographical Presence
New Balance Athletics, Inc., based in Boston, Massachusetts, has established a strong global presence. In North America, it commands a significant market share with numerous retail outlets and a robust online platform.
The brand has expanded in Europe, particularly in the UK and Germany, with flagship stores and sustainability efforts.
The Asia-Pacific region, especially Japan and China, is a key growth area focused on local manufacturing and tailored products.
Additionally, New Balance is expanding in Latin America, especially Brazil and Mexico, and is entering the Middle East and Africa through local partnerships.
Overall, the company emphasizes market adaptation, sustainability, and a solid retail network, solidifying its status as a leading global athletic brand.
Recent Developments
- In February 2024, New Balance Athletics opened a new store in Hyderabad, India.
- In February 2024, New Balance Athletics launched “Reconsidered,” a resale program where consumers can shop for cleaned, pre-owned shoes on its website.
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