India Sportswear Market

India Sportswear Market Overview

• The India Sportswear Market is valued at INR 6000 Cr, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by increasing health consciousness, a rise in fitness activities, the influence of social media, and the growing popularity of sports and athleisure among the youth. The market has seen a significant uptick in demand for both athletic footwear and sports apparel, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences towards active lifestyles and functional fashion .
• Key cities dominating the market include Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Kolkata. These urban centers are characterized by a high concentration of fitness enthusiasts, sports events, and retail outlets, making them pivotal for sportswear sales. The presence of major sports events, a growing middle-class population with rising disposable income, and the expansion of e-commerce platforms further contribute to the market's strength in these regions .
• The National Sports Policy, 2023, issued by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, aims to promote sports and physical fitness across the country. This policy includes initiatives for infrastructure development, financial support for athletes, and incentives for sportswear manufacturers to enhance local production, thereby boosting the overall sportswear market. The policy mandates compliance with quality standards for sports equipment and apparel, and provides tax incentives for domestic manufacturers .

India Sportswear Market Segmentation

By Product Type:The product type segmentation illustrates the diverse composition of India’s sportswear market, encompassing activewear, footwear, equipment, and accessories. Activewear continues to dominate as consumers prioritize comfort and performance for both fitness and casual use. Footwear is witnessing robust growth, supported by the rising popularity of running, gym workouts, and organized sports. Meanwhile, equipment and accessories are emerging as complementary categories, enhancing overall athletic performance and lifestyle appeal.

By Nature of Sale:The distribution channel segmentation shows a growing shift toward digital retail in India’s sportswear market. While offline stores continue to hold prominence, online platforms are rapidly gaining relevance. The surge of D2C brands, digital adoption, and influencer-driven marketing are accelerating this transformation. The year marks a crucial step toward a more connected and digitally focused retail landscape.

India Sportswear Market Competitive Landscape

The India Sportswear Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Nike India Private Limited, Adidas India Marketing Private Limited, Puma Sports India Private Limited, Reebok India Company, Under Armour India Trading Private Limited, Decathlon Sports India Private Limited, ASICS India Private Limited, New Balance Athletics India Private Limited, Skechers Retail India Private Limited, Wildcraft India Private Limited, Campus Activewear Limited, Shiv-Naresh Sports Private Limited, Nivia Sports (Freewill Sports Pvt. Ltd.), HRX (Exceed Entertainment Pvt. Ltd.), Fila India (Cravatex Brands Limited), Alcis Sports (Paragon Apparels Pvt. Ltd.), Tyka Sports (TK Sports Private Limited), Sareen Sports Industries (SS), Cosco (India) Limited, Kookaburra Sports India Private Limited contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

India Sportswear Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Growth of E-commerce Platforms:E-commerce sales in the Indian sportswear sector have surged, with online sales accounting for 35% of total sportswear sales in future, up from 25% in 2022. This growth is driven by increased internet penetration, which reached 700 million users, and the convenience of online shopping. Major platforms like Amazon and Flipkart are expanding their sportswear offerings, making it easier for consumers to access a wide range of products, thus fueling market growth.
• Rise in Fitness Activities:The number of fitness centers in India has increased by 20% from 2022 to in future, reaching approximately 25,000 facilities nationwide. This growth is indicative of a broader trend where more individuals are participating in fitness activities, including yoga, running, and gym workouts. As a result, the demand for specialized sportswear is rising, with consumers seeking high-performance apparel that enhances their workout experiences and supports their fitness goals.

Market Challenges

• Branding & Market Positioning Limitations:The brand faces a strong recall as a swimwear-only label, leading to a narrow consumer perception. This limited brand association makes it challenging to reposition from a “niche aquatic” image to a “holistic performance brand.” Additionally, the overall lack of consumer awareness about swimming as a mainstream performance sport in India restricts market expansion and consumer engagement opportunities beyond its traditional segment.
• Financial & Pricing Barriers:A heavy reliance on import-driven supply chains results in higher end-consumer prices, reducing competitiveness in a price-sensitive market. Swimwear is often perceived as aseasonal and discretionarypurchase, leading to inconsistent demand and limited repeat purchases. Moreover, the absence of a clearly defined pricing ladder that appeals to diverse consumer segments makes it difficult for the brand to attract and retain customers across income levels, constraining scalability and long-term profitability.

India Sportswear Market Future Outlook

The future of the India sportswear market appears promising, driven by evolving consumer preferences and lifestyle changes. As health consciousness continues to rise, the demand for innovative and functional sportswear is expected to grow. Additionally, the increasing penetration of digital platforms will facilitate greater access to diverse product offerings. Brands that adapt to these trends, focusing on sustainability and technological advancements, will likely capture significant market share and drive future growth in this dynamic sector.

Market Opportunities

• Increasing Demand for Sustainable Products:With 65% of consumers expressing a preference for eco-friendly products, the demand for sustainable sportswear is on the rise. Brands that incorporate recycled materials and sustainable practices into their production processes can tap into this growing market segment, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and enhancing brand loyalty.
• Growth in Women's Sportswear Segment:The women's sportswear segment is projected to grow by 30% in future, driven by increasing participation in sports and fitness activities among women. Brands that focus on designing stylish, functional, and size-inclusive apparel can capitalize on this trend, catering to the unique needs of female consumers and expanding their market reach.