A FOOT FORWARD: The Landscape and Future of the Indian Sportswear Market

Today, sportswear has transcended its athletic origins to become a fashion statement embraced by people from all walks of life. Several factors have stimulated this growth. The emergence of health and wellness trends, an increase in sporting events, rise of sports celebrities, higher disposable incomes, and a shift in lifestyle patterns towards fitness activities are some of the driving forces.

- Ankur Rastogi

The remarkable convergence of fashion and fitness in T the sportswear market is a testament to the evolving lifestyle of Indians. With a growing emphasis on an active and health-conscious lifestyle, consumers are seeking high-performance sportswear that can double up as a versatile all-day style choice. This trend has catapulted the Indian sportswear market into a period of rapid growth, where fashion meets function.

India, with its bounty of a youthful population, has become a hotbed for sportswear, particularly in the realm of footwear. Presently, the Indian sportswear footwear market is characterized by swift growth, diverse product offerings, and a strong emphasis on quality and performance.

According to the latest industry reports, the market value has grown from a moderate size to a multi-billion dollar industry, an attestation to the seismic shift in consumer preference towards athletic footwear for both sports and casual purposes.

Fueling factors

Today, sportswear has transcended its athletic origins to become a fashion statement embraced by people from all walks of life. Several factors have stimulated this growth. The emergence of health and wellness trends, an increase in sporting events, rise of sports celebrities, higher disposable incomes, and a shift in lifestyle patterns towards fitness activities are some of the driving forces. Additionally, the rise of digital India, characterized by an increase in e-commerce platforms and social media influence, has played a significant role in augmenting this trend. Consumers particularly millennials and Gen Z, now value comfort and style, often seeking footwear that combines these elements.