The Rise of Pickleball Fashion: Pickleball is driving a surge in the athleisure market, with product availability skyrocketing by 645% year-over-year in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to a Centric Market Intelligence report. The rising popularity of sport-specific apparel, particularly in pickleball, has fueled the development of racquet wear that blends performance with casual style.
Sports Apparel Trends: Winners and Losers
While pickleball, running, and tennis apparel saw significant growth, other sports like golf and snow sports experienced a decline in product availability. The increasing demand for specialized activewear is pushing brands to create apparel that suits both on-court play and everyday wear.
Luxury and Mass Market Brands Compete for Consumers
Luxury fashion houses such as Gucci and Hugo Boss have launched tennis-inspired collections, extending athletic apparel beyond the sports world. The premium activewear sector witnessed an 11% year-over-year price hike, though higher price points are struggling with demand. Meanwhile, mass-market retailers reported strong sell-through rates, largely due to effective discounting strategies.
Top-Selling Brands in Women’s Activewear
In women’s athleisure, Old Navy, Nike, Under Armour, and Lululemon led the market for sold-out pants and leggings. For shirts and tops, Nike, Adidas, and Athleta dominated sales.
Online searches showed high consumer interest in Lululemon tennis skirts, Hollister and Aritzia sweatpants, and Under Armour compression shirts.
Emerging Brands Shape the Future of Activewear
Newer brands like Varley, Vuori, and Rhone are gaining momentum by offering performance-driven and sustainable apparel. Additionally, niche brands such as Bandit Running and Staud Sport are attracting attention with fashion-forward and community-focused designs.
Growing Influence of Pickleball in Fashion
As pickleball continues to grow, its impact on the athleisure industry is becoming more evident. More brands are expected to launch specialized collections catering to performance needs and everyday fashion, reinforcing the sport’s influence on the broader apparel market.
News in Brief: The Rise of Pickleball Fashion
Pickleball is driving a 645% increase in athleisure product availability, according to a report. Luxury brands are launching tennis-inspired collections, while mass retailers benefit from discounting.
Top-selling women’s activewear brands include Nike, Adidas, and Lululemon. Emerging brands like Vuori and Rhone are also making an impact with performance-driven and sustainable apparel.
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