The sportswear market in China has experienced significant growth over the past few decades, driven by the country’s increasing focus on health and fitness, rising disposable incomes, and a growing appetite for global sports and fitness trends. China, with its vast population and emerging middle class, has become a critical player in the global sportswear market.

This report provides a comprehensive overview of China’s sportswear market, including market size, growth trends, key segments, consumer behavior, major players, and the future outlook.

Overview of China’s Sportswear Market

The sportswear market in China encompasses a wide range of products, including activewear, sports shoes, sports accessories, and fitness equipment. With a burgeoning interest in health, wellness, and fitness, the demand for these products is growing, especially among younger generations and urban consumers. The market is increasingly characterized by a shift toward premium products, athleisure, and sustainability, which are reshaping how sportswear is consumed.

Market Size and Growth

In 2023, the total value of China’s sportswear market was estimated at USD 50 billion, making it one of the largest markets globally. The market has seen a steady increase in both value and volume, with projections indicating continued growth driven by rising incomes and changing consumer lifestyles.

• The sports footwear segment alone in China was valued at approximately USD 25 billion in 2023, accounting for about 50% of the total sportswear market.
• Activewear and sports apparel accounted for roughly 35% of the total market value, while sports accessories and fitness equipment contributed the remaining 15%.

The sportswear market in China is expected to continue growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8% over the next five years, fueled by increasing consumer interest in fitness and active lifestyles, as well as the influence of global sportswear brands.

Key Drivers of Growth in the Sportswear Market

Several factors are contributing to the rapid growth of the sportswear market in China. These include rising awareness of health and fitness, increasing urbanization, changing consumer preferences, and the influence of international sportswear brands.

Health and Fitness Awareness

In recent years, there has been a significant shift in consumer behavior in China, with more people focusing on fitness, wellness, and healthy living. This trend has driven an increase in demand for sportswear products designed for active lifestyles, including running shoes, gym clothing, and performance-oriented apparel.

• More than 300 million people in China are engaged in sports and fitness activities, according to the Chinese government, driving demand for sportswear products that meet the needs of athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and recreational users alike.
• With growing awareness of the importance of physical health and mental well-being, sportswear has become an essential part of daily life for many Chinese consumers, further boosting the market for these products.

This health and fitness trend is expected to continue growing, leading to further demand for functional and fashionable sportswear products.

Urbanization and Changing Lifestyles

China’s ongoing urbanization is another key driver of the growth of the sportswear market. As more people move to urban centers and the middle class expands, disposable incomes rise, enabling more consumers to invest in sportswear and fitness products.

• By 2023, over 60% of China’s population lived in urban areas, where lifestyles are increasingly centered around convenience, fitness, and recreation, contributing to the growth of both sportswear and fitness-related retail.
• Urban residents are more likely to engage in sports and fitness activities, further driving demand for sportswear designed for both performance and leisure.

The rise of urban lifestyles and the growing demand for fitness-related activities in cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou are expected to fuel further growth in China’s sportswear market.

E-commerce and Digitalization

The increasing reliance on e-commerce platforms and digital shopping is reshaping China’s sportswear market. Online shopping provides consumers with greater access to a variety of sportswear brands and products, often at competitive prices.

• In 2023, the online sportswear market in China was valued at approximately USD 20 billion, accounting for around 40% of total sportswear sales. This share is expected to grow as digital platforms become increasingly popular for product discovery and purchasing.
• Mobile applications, livestreaming sales, and social media influencers also play an important role in shaping purchasing behavior, particularly among younger Chinese consumers.

E-commerce platforms such as Tmall, JD.com, and Pinduoduo, as well as international players like Amazon and eBay, are critical to the continued expansion of China’s sportswear market. The growing trend of online shopping and digital engagement is expected to continue influencing the industry.

Changing Consumer Preferences

Chinese consumers are increasingly seeking sportswear products that combine performance and style. Athleisure, which blends activewear with casual and fashionable clothing, has become a popular trend, as more people wear sports apparel in non-athletic settings, such as workplaces, social events, and during travel.

• In 2023, the athleisure market in China was valued at approximately USD 15 billion, accounting for 30% of the overall sportswear market.
• The preference for functional yet stylish sportswear has driven demand for high-performance fabrics, sleek designs, and versatile clothing that can be worn both during workouts and as everyday apparel.

This shift in consumer preferences toward athleisure and fashionable sportswear is expected to continue, with increasing demand for versatile, stylish products that cater to the growing interest in both fitness and fashion.

Key Segments of the Sportswear Market

China’s sportswear market can be broken down into several key product segments, each with its unique dynamics and growth drivers. These segments include sports footwear, activewear, athleisure, sports accessories, and fitness equipment.

Sports Footwear

Sports footwear remains the largest and most valuable segment of China’s sportswear market. This category includes running shoes, basketball shoes, soccer shoes, and casual sports shoes designed for both performance and fashion.

Market Size and Trends

In 2023, the sports footwear segment in China was valued at approximately USD 25 billion, accounting for about 50% of the overall sportswear market. The demand for sports footwear continues to be driven by increasing participation in sports activities, growing interest in fitness, and a rise in lifestyle-related footwear.

• Running and basketball shoes are the most popular categories, with brands like Nike, Adidas, and Anta leading the market.
• In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift toward high-performance footwear, with consumers increasingly opting for shoes that provide specialized features such as cushioning, support, and breathability.

Sports footwear is expected to remain the dominant category in China’s sportswear market, particularly as fitness and recreational sports continue to gain popularity.

Activewear and Sports Apparel

Activewear and sports apparel are the second-largest segments of China’s sportswear market. These products include clothing designed for a wide range of physical activities, including running, yoga, gym workouts, cycling, and team sports.

Market Growth

In 2023, the activewear segment in China was valued at approximately USD 18 billion, accounting for about 35% of the total market. Activewear is gaining popularity as more people engage in fitness activities, and the demand for stylish, comfortable clothing suitable for both exercise and daily wear continues to rise.

• Performance-oriented clothing, including moisture-wicking fabrics, compression gear, and breathable materials, is increasingly in demand, particularly among athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
• Yoga and running apparel are particularly popular, with brands like Lululemon, Nike, and Under Armour leading the market.

The activewear segment is expected to grow at a steady pace, driven by the rising number of Chinese consumers prioritizing health and fitness.

Athleisure

Athleisure, a subcategory of activewear, refers to clothing that combines both athletic and casual styles, allowing consumers to wear it for exercise, as well as in everyday settings. The athleisure market in China has experienced explosive growth as consumers embrace the combination of style and comfort.

Market Trends

In 2023, the athleisure market in China was valued at approximately USD 15 billion, representing a key shift in consumer preferences toward functional yet fashionable sportswear. Athleisure clothing, such as leggings, sweatshirts, and hoodies, has become mainstream in China, particularly among younger consumers.

• International brands like Nike, Adidas, and New Balance, as well as local Chinese brands like Li-Ning and Anta, are capitalizing on the growing demand for athleisure products.
• The trend is also being fueled by a growing interest in “active lifestyles” where people wear sportswear not only for workouts but also for daily activities such as going to work, shopping, or socializing.

The athleisure segment is poised to continue expanding as consumer demand for stylish, versatile sportswear increases.

Sports Accessories

Sports accessories, including items like gym bags, water bottles, yoga mats, and fitness trackers, play an important role in complementing the sportswear segment. These accessories are designed to enhance athletic performance, convenience, and fitness tracking.

Market Dynamics

In 2023, the sports accessories market in China was valued at approximately USD 3 billion, contributing to the overall growth of the sportswear market. Fitness trackers, wearable devices, and performance monitoring tools have gained significant popularity as consumers seek ways to optimize their workouts and track their fitness goals.

• Brands such as Fitbit, Garmin, and Xiaomi dominate the fitness tracker market in China, while Nike and Adidas offer a wide range of fitness accessories designed to complement their sportswear products.
• Yoga and Pilates accessories are also gaining popularity as more Chinese consumers turn to home workouts and wellness practices.

Sports accessories are expected to continue growing in line with the increasing interest in personal health and fitness.

Fitness Equipment

Fitness equipment, including gym equipment, weights, resistance bands, and home fitness machines, is a growing segment in China. This market has seen significant growth due to the rising popularity of home workouts, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Market Trends

In 2023, the fitness equipment market in China was valued at approximately USD 5 billion, and the demand for home fitness equipment continues to grow, particularly in urban areas.

• The growing popularity of fitness apps and online workout platforms has further driven demand for home gym equipment, as consumers invest in equipment for home-based exercise routines.
• Brands like Peloton, Xiaomi, and local Chinese brands like Keep and Freetrain have seen significant success in the fitness equipment market by providing high-quality, affordable products for consumers.

The fitness equipment segment is expected to continue expanding, driven by consumer interest in staying fit at home and the increasing availability of digital fitness content.

Major Players in China’s Sportswear Market

China’s sportswear market is highly competitive, with both domestic and international brands fighting for market share. Leading players include large global brands that have established a strong presence in China, as well as rapidly growing local brands that understand the unique demands of Chinese consumers.

Nike

Nike is one of the leading global sportswear brands and has a significant presence in China. The company’s wide range of sportswear products, including footwear, apparel, and accessories, have made it one of the most recognizable brands in the Chinese market.

• In 2023, Nike’s revenue from the Chinese market was estimated at approximately USD 6 billion, with sports footwear and activewear products being the primary drivers of sales.
• Nike continues to dominate the premium sportswear segment, appealing to young, fashion-conscious consumers in China’s major urban centers.

Nike’s strong brand recognition, high-quality products, and extensive marketing campaigns ensure its continued success in China’s competitive sportswear market.

Adidas

Adidas, another leading global sportswear brand, has a strong presence in China. The company’s product offerings, including footwear, apparel, and accessories, are highly popular among Chinese consumers, particularly in the areas of running, soccer, and basketball.

• In 2023, Adidas’s revenue from China was estimated at approximately USD 4.5 billion, with strong growth in the premium sportswear segment.
• Adidas has increasingly focused on sustainability and innovation, appealing to eco-conscious consumers in China’s growing middle class.

Adidas continues to expand its footprint in China through collaborations with celebrities and partnerships with major sports events and organizations.

Anta

Anta is one of China’s largest domestic sportswear brands, known for its strong performance in both the mass-market and premium segments. The brand has built a reputation for offering high-quality, affordable sportswear products and is increasingly targeting younger consumers through marketing and innovation.

• In 2023, Anta’s total revenue reached approximately USD 8 billion, with significant contributions from sports footwear and activewear products.
• Anta has expanded its presence through acquisitions, including the purchase of the Finnish brand Amer Sports, which owns brands such as Salomon and Wilson.

Anta’s ability to leverage local knowledge and consumer preferences has made it one of the most successful domestic sportswear brands in China.

Li-Ning

Li-Ning is another major Chinese sportswear brand, named after the former Olympic gymnast who founded the company. The brand offers a wide range of products, including footwear, apparel, and accessories, and has successfully capitalized on China’s growing sports culture.

• In 2023, Li-Ning’s revenue was approximately USD 3.5 billion, with the brand gaining significant popularity in both the domestic and international markets.
• Li-Ning has focused on offering stylish and performance-driven sportswear products and has recently entered the international market with increasing success.

Li-Ning continues to grow rapidly, with its emphasis on innovation and fashion positioning it as a competitor to both local and global sportswear brands in China.

Future Outlook for China’s Sportswear Market

The future of China’s sportswear market looks promising, with continued growth driven by rising disposable incomes, changing consumer preferences, and the increasing popularity of sports and fitness. The market will continue to evolve as consumers demand more personalized, high-quality, and sustainable products.

• The demand for athleisure, premium sportswear, and eco-friendly products will continue to grow as younger consumers become the primary drivers of market trends.
• Digital platforms, e-commerce, and online shopping will remain key to reaching consumers, with social media, influencer marketing, and livestreaming playing an increasingly important role in driving sales.

With its expanding middle class, growing interest in fitness, and the continued rise of e-commerce, China’s sportswear market is expected to continue its upward trajectory, making it a key player in the global sportswear industry.