Functional Apparel Market Expected to Reach $623.2 Billion by 2032—Allied Market Research

According to a new report published by Allied Market Research, titled, “Functional Apparel Market," The functional apparel market was valued at $345.6 billion in 2022, and is estimated to reach $623.2 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2023 to 2032.

The functional apparel market includes garments designed with specific purposes beyond fashion, focusing on performance and practicality. This includes sportswear, workwear, and specialized clothing engineered with advanced materials and features to enhance comfort, protection, and functionality. It caters to various industries and consumer needs, such as athletic performance, occupational safety, and outdoor activities, reflecting a growing functional apparel market demand for versatile and purpose-driven clothing solutions.

The rise in sustainability emphasis in the market is driven by increase in consumer awareness and eco-consciousness. As people seek environmentally responsible products, demand surges for sustainable options in various industries. This demand, in turn, encourages companies to adopt sustainable practices and materials, spurring innovation and diversification. Sustainability has evolved from a trend into a fundamental market force, reshaping consumer preferences and driving the development of more eco-friendly products and processes, surge the functional apparel market size.

Brands are now focusing more on the designs and appealing aspects of the apparel to match the changing fashion trends. Designers focus on earthy monochromatic palettes and retro designs to make their products long last with changing fashion trends. Moreover, rising trends in pickleball and other court sports in countries such as the U.S., Canada, and France, have increased demand for skirts and active dresses which are highly demanded for these sports. This includes active pants and unitards, commonly known as workout romper or playsuit, which have gained attention due to their versatility. These are used for yoga, Pilates, or barre, as functional apparel one-piece garment also supports athletes in training and other activities.

Advanced materials play a crucial role in boosting market demand for sustainability in the functional apparel industry. These materials enable the development of eco-friendly, high-performance textiles that enhance durability, comfort, and functionality of the apparel. By integrating sustainable functional apparel with cutting-edge materials such as recycled fibers and organic fabrics, long-lasting garments with a reduced ecological footprint, this synergy drives the demand for functional apparel market share.

The dominance of athleisure has a significant impact on the market demand for sustainability in the functional apparel market. As consumers increasingly seek versatile, stylish, and comfortable activewear for daily use, they are also more conscious of eco-friendly practices results in functional apparel market trends. Athleisure brands that emphasize sustainability by using eco-conscious materials and ethical production methods are gaining popularity, further driving the demand for sustainable functional apparel, as consumers align fashion choices with their environmental values.

Moreover, technology integration boosts market demand for sustainability in functional apparel. With the use of innovative technologies such as blockchain for supply chain transparency, sustainable materials are better traced and verified, instilling consumer confidence. In addition, advancements in eco-friendly manufacturing processes and recycling technologies contribute to the growth of sustainable apparel. As consumers increasingly seek eco-conscious products, technology-driven sustainability efforts meet their demands and propel functional apparel market growth.

The exponential growth of e-commerce has significantly surged the market demand for sustainability emphasis in various industries, including fashion and apparel. Online platforms allow consumers to access a wider range of sustainable and eco-friendly products, increasing awareness and accessibility. This has pushed brands to prioritize sustainable practices in response to the rise in demand for ethically and environmentally responsible products, further fueling the demand for functional apparel.

The functional apparel market analysis into product type, application, distribution channel, and region. By type, it is classified into sportswear, activewear, protective clothing, and others. By application, it is divided into sports industry, outdoor clothing, healthcare, and others. On the basis of distribution channel, the market is categorized into online and offline. Region-wise, it is analyzed across North America (the U.S., Canada, and Mexico), Europe (Germany, UK, France, Italy, and rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, and rest of Asia-Pacific), and LAMEA (Latin America, Middle East, and Africa).

By product type, the sportswear segment held the major share in the functional apparel market in 2022. Advanced materials and technologies aimed at boosting athletic performance, such as moisture-wicking fabrics and compression garments surge the market demand for the sportswear segment. Moreover, the protective clothing segment is expected to grow with the highest CAGR during the forecast period. manufacturers are adopting advanced materials like nano fabrics and smart textiles for enhanced protection, also surge in customization to cater to specific industry needs and a growing focus on sustainability with the use of eco-friendly materials surge the demand for protective clothing in the market.

On the basis of application, the sports Industry segment held the major share in the market in 2022, Functional sports clothing features a high-level of breathability and moisture/vapor transfer combined with heat insulation and/or wind-proofing, waterproofing, and UV protection. Moreover, the healthcare segment is expected to grow with the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The growing emphasis on infection control and hygiene, antimicrobial and fluid-resistant textiles surge the demand for the healthcare segment in the functional apparel market.

By distribution channel, the offline segment held the major share in the functional apparel market in 2022. In the functional apparel market, offline stores are adapting to changing consumer preferences. They offer personalized shopping experiences, expert guidance, and in-store events to engage customers. Moreover, the healthcare segment is expected to grow with the highest CAGR during the forecast period. E-commerce continues to expand, offering consumers convenience and an extensive product range. Enhanced virtual try-on experiences and augmented reality tools are gaining popularity, providing a more immersive and informative shopping experience.

North America held the major share in the functional apparel market in 2022. In North America, ongoing trend of having a fit body and healthy lifestyle are some of the major factors driving the growth of the North American region. However, Asia-Pacific is expected to grow with the highest CAGR during the forecast period. This region is a significant hub for producing and consuming functional apparel, driven by a growing middle-class population, increasing health and fitness awareness, and a surge in outdoor recreational activities.

The players in the functional apparel market have adopted acquisition, business expansion, partnership, collaboration, and product launch as their key development strategies to increase profitability and improve their position in the market. Some of the key players profiled in the market analysis include Puma SE, Adidas AG, PVH Corp., Under Armour, Inc., Columbia Sportswear Company, VF Corporation, Nike, Inc., ASICS Corporation, lululemon athletica inc., and The Gap, Inc.

Key findings of the study

• Based on produc type, the sportswear segment held the major share in the market.
• Based on application, the sports industry held the major share in the market.
• Based on distribution channel offline segment held the major share in the market.
• North America held the major share in the market.