Global Sustainable Athleisure Market Size Analysis Report - Market Share, Forecast Trends and Outlook (2024-2032)

Sustainable Athleisure Market Trends

Sustainable athleisure grows with eco-friendly materials, celebrity endorsements, and increased consumer demand.

• Many clothing brands are focusing on manufacturing clothes from recycled polyester and ensure minimal use of toxic chemicals, owing to increasing environmental consciousness among the consumers. Such initiatives are aiding business in strengthening their brand image and boosting the sustainable athleisure market growth.
• After the COVID-19 pandemic, the fashion industry underwent some significant changes. There was an increased acceptance of casual wear like sweatpants, jumpers, and sneakers which influenced the supply and demand of activewear. This trend is expected to grow in the future, which can create a space for sustainable athleisure, given rising consumer awareness about carbon footprint and climate crisis.
• Over the past few years, the preference for athleisure and the promotion of sustainable athleisure brands by celebrities have significantly increased. Celebrity endorsements are serving as a powerful tool for changing public perception and driving consumer demand. It is helping various fashion brands in demonstrating that sustainable athleisure can be fashionable, functional, and accessible.

Industry News

June 2021

Material science firm Pangaia launched the Pangaia Gym, a collection of sustainable activewear that represents the brand's entrance into this active lifestyle category-and it was made using the latest science and technology. It contains products developed from bio-based nylon and stretch yarns to seaweed fibre.

December 2021

Mumbai-based startup Aastey is India’s first D2C brand offering sustainable activewear made from recycled polyester. The brand features leggings, sports bras, yoga mats, tote bags, and more.

Historical Market Analysis

Previously, sustainable athleisure market barriers included difficult access to green materials, high manufacturing costs, and lack of consumer trust in the effectiveness of sustainability. Key players countered this by creating innovative recycled fabrics and sustainable production techniques that reduce costs through efficient supply chains, thus overcoming the sustainable athleisure market challenges. Brands also did more for consumer education through advertisements marketing the environmental benefits. As awareness about sustainability grew, demand surged with it, resulting in a rise in affordable, superior quality eco-friendly athleisure over earlier barriers.

Opportunities in the Sustainable Athleisure Market

Rising demand for plant-based, gluten-free, organic products, and natural sweeteners drives growth.

• Demand for sustainable athleisure is rising due to increasing consumer preference for green products.
• The need to reduce carbon footprints will consequently open an opportunity for brands that follow the call of sustainability, thus leading to sustainable athleisure market opportunities. 
• Celebrity endorsements and collaborations can provide a brand with opportunities to expand its influence and reach even more purchasing decisions.
• With the rapid increase in active lifestyles, the demand for athleisure continues to go up, especially that is both sustainable for the workout and the daily dressing.

Market Dynamics

Waterless dyeing technology reduces water consumption and chemical use, enhancing sustainability in athleisure production.

Waterless dyeing technology is gaining momentum in the sustainable athleisure industry. This technology reduces its consumption of water by 99% and eliminates using harmful chemicals that have negative effects on people's health. As an example, Patagonia and Adidas have started using this technology to reduce the environmental footprint of activewear they produce. Patagonia uses a waterless dyeing process for its clothing line, and Adidas launched its Prime Blue: an athlete's kit built from recycled materials utilising the water-saving dyeing method which also adds to reducing the footprint of the product.

Growth Drivers

Rising consumer demand for eco-friendly products drives the growth of sustainable athleisure.

A significant driver of the sustainable athleisure market is the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly and ethically produced products. As awareness of environmental issues rises, consumers are increasingly opting for activewear made from recycled materials, organic fabrics, and sustainable production processes, aiding the sustainable athleisure demand. This shift is being driven by concerns over climate change, waste, and the carbon footprint of fashion, prompting brands to adopt greener practices and meet the demand for sustainable athleisure options.

Market Restraints

High production costs, limited materials, and supply chain complexities hinder sustainable athleisure growth.

The sustainable athleisure market faces several challenges, including high production costs associated with eco-friendly materials and sustainable manufacturing processes, impeding the growth of sustainable table athleisure market. Limited availability of recycled fabrics and innovative textiles can restrict scalability for smaller brands. Consumer perception about the durability and performance of sustainable products remains a barrier, with some doubting the quality compared to traditional options. Additionally, the market is impacted by supply chain complexities, as sourcing ethical materials and ensuring fair labour practices can add logistical challenges for brands.

Sustainable Athleisure Industry Segmentation

“Sustainable Athleisure Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

On the basis of product type, the market can be divided into the following:

• Shirt
• Yoga Pant
• Shorts
• Leggings
• Others

On the basis of category, the market can be divided into the following:

• Mass
• Premium

On the basis of consumer, the market can be divided into the following:

• Men
• Women
• Children

On the basis of distribution channel, the market can be divided into the following:

• Online
• Offline

Based on region, the market can be segregated into:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

Sustainable Athleisure Market Share

By Product Type Analysis

Eco-friendly yoga pants, leggings, and shirts gain popularity for sustainable activewear choices.

The sustainable athleisure market is gaining traction on the basis of rising consumer interest in both fitness and sustainability. As per sustainable athleisure market analysis, yoga pants, leggings, and shirts are popular due to rising consumer interest in the sustainable athleisure market. Yoga pants and leggings are most in demand because of their suitability for workouts as well as casual wear. They are produced by using eco-friendly materials like recycled polyester and organic cotton. Shirts produced using sustainable fabrics are also gaining popularity, as more consumers seek comfortable, stylish, and ethically produced clothes for active lifestyles.

Market Analysis by Category

Mass category grows with affordability, while premium thrives on quality and sustainability.

The mass category in sustainable athleisure is gaining traction due to increased affordability and accessibility, appealing to price-sensitive consumers. Brands such as H&M and Uniqlo are providing sustainable solutions at a lower price. As per sustainable athleisure industry analysis, the premium category is thriving as affluent consumers seek high-quality, eco-conscious products, with brands like Stella McCartney and Patagonia leading the charge. Such premium offerings do come packed with innovative, sustainable fabrics, and conversations around their ethical productions keep the consumers wanting to spend a little extra for sustainability.

Consumer Insights

Sustainable athleisure demand rises across men, women, and children, with eco-conscious brands expanding.

Demand for sustainable athleisure is rising across men, women, and children as eco-consciousness grows. Sustainable brand preference is increasingly seen as preferred female choice like Girlfriend Collective and Ryderwear that achieves style and environs responsibility. The same trend is also observed among males for athleisure who opt for sustainable collections from brands like Puma and Reebok. To provide to kids durable, eco-friendly, and comfortable clothing parents have started preferring their kids wear children's athleisure wear from brands like Burt's Bees Baby and H&M Kids.

Distribution Channel Analysis

Sustainable athleisure thrives through online direct-to-consumer sales and offline retail experiences.

Both online and offline channels are contributing to the demand of the sustainable athleisure market. Online sales are picking pace owing to convenience, wider reaches, and the emergent trend of such direct-to-consumer brands as Girlfriend Collective and Allbirds launching separate collections. The offline channel is being chosen by customers equally because athletic wear consumers seek more comfort and style in stores like Lululemon and Patagonia where they can feel with their senses the quality of fabric and sustainability credentials.

Sustainable Athleisure Market Regional Insights

North America Sustainable Athleisure Market Opportunities

The North America market for sustainable athleisure is expanding as consumers increasingly seek eco-friendly products. With a growing focus on health and wellness, brands like Lululemon and Nike are capitalising on the demand for high-performance, sustainable activewear made from recycled and organic materials. Additionally, government initiatives promoting sustainability and green production practices are creating favourable conditions for growth. As environmental awareness rises, opportunities in eco-conscious fashion and athletic wear continue to increase.

Europe Sustainable Athleisure Market Dynamics

The Europe sustainable athleisure market is evolving due to growing consumer demand for eco-conscious products and government support for sustainability. Countries like Germany and the United Kingdom are seeing an increase in consumers prioritising sustainable fashion, with brands such as Patagonia and Stella McCartney leading the way. EU regulations promoting sustainable production, such as the EU Green Deal, further drive brands to adopt ethical sourcing and environmentally friendly materials in their athleisure collections.

Asia Pacific Sustainable Athleisure Market Trends

The Asia Pacific region is witnessing rapid growth in sustainable athleisure, fueled by population growth and rising living standards. Key markets like India and China are seeing increased demand for eco-friendly athletic wear, driven by health-conscious consumers. The recent Olympic Games in Japan and China have further boosted the market by highlighting sustainable practices and innovation in sportswear. This growing focus on sustainability is attracting both global and local brands, accelerating market expansion.

Latin America Sustainable Athleisure Market Insights

The Latin America sustainable athleisure market is experiencing growth driven by increasing awareness of environmental issues and a shift towards eco-friendly fashion. According to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), there is a growing interest in sustainable consumer behavior, particularly in urban centres. The government is also promoting sustainability through initiatives like National Solid Waste Policy, encouraging brands to adopt recycled and organic materials. Companies like C&A and Reserva are responding by launching eco-friendly athleisure lines.

Middle East and Africa Sustainable Athleisure Market Drivers

The Middle East and Africa market for sustainable athleisure is driven by increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly products and a growing focus on health and fitness. As more consumers opt for environmentally conscious options, brands like Lorna Jane and Adidas are leading the way with their sustainable activewear lines in the region. Additionally, rising disposable incomes, urbanisation, and the popularity of fitness culture in countries like the UAE and South Africa are fueling market growth. Increasing government support for sustainability also boosts demand.

Competitive Landscape

Sustainable athleisure market players focus on innovative, eco-friendly materials such as recyclable fabrics and organic cotton to target conscious consumers. This would therefore be a chance for them to generate profits with the surging demand for sustainable apparel and products that work while being sustainable. Furthermore, sustainable athleisure companies use functional design strategies according to customer needs for rapid drying and durability, as well as reaching customers directly with direct-to-consumer platforms online.

Key Market Players

Key industry leaders in this market are:

Nike, Inc. was founded in 1964 and is headquartered in Oregon, United States. It is a multinational association that is one of the world’s largest suppliers of clothing and apparel brands. It is involved in the design, development, manufacturing, and worldwide marketing and sale of clothes, footwear, and sports equipment and services.

Adidas AG was founded in 1920 and is headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany. It engages in the design, distribution, and manufacture of athletic and sporting lifestyle products. It operates through multiple business segments, which includes Russia/CIS, Adidas Golf, and Runtasctic, among other businesses. It is one of the most popular apparel and footwear brands in the world.

PUMA SE was founded in 1948 and is headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany. It engages in the development of sports and sports lifestyle products which includes footwear, apparel, and accessories. Its key business segments are located in Europe, America, the Asia Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East and Africa. Some of its most famous brands include Puma and Cobra Golf, which are known for their comfort and style worldwide.

Other key players in the sustainable athleisure market include Under Armour®, Inc., Hanesbrands Inc., Pangaia Group, Vuori, Inc., Wear Pact, LLC, Outerknown, LLC, and MATE the Label, among others.

Recent Developments

June 2023

Good Indian launched a sustainable activewear line designed for monsoons, featuring innovative quick-drying and durable fabrics made from recycled and organic materials.

October 2023

Rita Ora, the singer-songwriter, has unveiled her new activewear brand, Humans Being. According to the description, the brand brings "fashion-forward thinkers, sustainable and stylish activewear".