Bicycle Apparel Market

Market Snapshot

Bicycle apparel sales have been witnessing steady growth as the population across regions is increasingly adopting cycling as a part of their lifestyle, and thus, seek appropriate biking clothing for the same. As per detailed industry analysis by Persistence Market Research, the global bicycle apparel market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 5% and reach a valuation of US$ 6 Bn by 2031.

Currently, sales of bicycle apparel account for around 3% to 4% share in the global sports apparel market.

The market is majorly being driven by rising interest of consumers for lightweight and more comfortable bike clothing, such as biking tops, cycling shorts, and bicycle gloves that are water-resistant as well. Increasing investments toward advertising and celebrity endorsements are likely to aid bicycle apparel business growth, which is gaining noteworthy traction especially in countries such as China and South Korea.

Bicycle Apparel Sales Analysis from 2016 to 2020 Vs Market Projections for 2021 to 2031

From 2016 to 2020, bicycle apparel demand increased at steady CAGR, owing to the fact that market players are actively focusing on the promotion of cycling clothing through efficient and attractive presentations through various sales channels, which is driving the interest of customers globally.

One of the major key factors responsible for driving the sales of bicycle apparel is rising popularity of smart bicycle apparel, as customers are seeking innovative products that offer unique features, encouraging manufacturers to diversify their product lines.

• For instance, in 2019, Ford Company introduced smart cycling jackets with an in-built GPS tracking system and mobile app connectivity.

With customers becoming more aware about the various side-effects of synthetic apparel on the skin and it long-term issues, natural cycle apparel is experiencing high demand.

• Companies such as GRN Sportswear and DannyShane offer bicycle jerseys made from bamboo or recycled material, including recycled plastic bottles, reused fishing nets, and the like.

Will Rising Urban Cycling and Favorable Government Initiatives Drive Bicycle Apparel Sales?

Due to rising environmental concerns and focus on reducing carbon emissions, the concept of urban cycling is gaining popularity around the world. Furthermore, increased government funding on bicycle-friendly communities and public awareness campaigns about the health benefits of cycling are pushing individuals to buy bicycles, and thereby bicycle clothing.

In 2018, the United Nations (UN) declared June 3rd as the first official ‘World Bicycle Day’ to promote cycling in all forms, so as to make people more aware of the multiple environmental benefits of using bicycles for transport and leisure. Key companies in the bicycle apparel business leverage such opportunities to promote their bicycle apparel offerings through advertisements at such events.

Recent Market Developments

Due to constant product innovation, growth in the number of players in the industry has fueled competition among cycling wear manufacturers, which has encouraged them to provide safer and more effective cycling apparel loaded with unique features. Players emerging at local levels are further likely to play a key role in facilitating market growth for bike clothing.

For instance:

• In 2019, in order to expand its product line, LE Col launched the Hors category cycling jersey with advanced four-way stretch fabric that offers high breathability to the user.
• In 2019, Assos launched rain gloves to keep the hands warm and dry. These rain gloves feature a flat palm and subtly printed grippers for road riding, improved ergonomics, and a minimal number of seams.
• In 2019, 2XU launched knee warmers with Italian high-performance thermal and breathable fabric.

Country-wise Analysis

Will Popularity of Outdoor Recreational Activities in the U.S. Aid Bicycle Apparel Sales?

North America is a lucrative market for bicycle apparel. The market in the U.S. is projected to experience a CAGR of 3% owing to increasing preference for cycling among the population.

In addition, cycling is highly adopted by groups with low income, and also by medium- and high-income groups for personal health benefits, which is driving overall demand for bicycle apparel in the U.S.

How is Growth in Industrial Sectors Boosting Sales of Bicycle Apparel in the U.K.?

With time, various new players have emerged in the region of Europe such as in the UK, and are emphasized upon manufacturing a vast range of novel cycling apparel in order to grow drastically and gain a huge customer base, especially untapped customers. The U.K. holds 18% share in the European market for bicycle apparel.

Moreover, the players are introducing Omni-sales channel methodologies for the distribution of bicycle and bicycle apparel dealers, bicycle apparel vendors and third party distributors to further provide smooth and reliable experience to customers at a global range.

How is Technology and Evolving Preferences of Customers in India Likely to Benefit Bicycle Apparel Manufacturers?

India is likely to project high sales of bicycle apparel in the South Asian market, owing to fact that the country is observing increasing purchasing power. Moreover, increasing availability and demand for smart technology products in all sectors is further fueling demand for smart bicycle apparel in the country.

In addition, rise in number of various outdoor recreational sport activities are promoting the use of comfortable, lightweight, and affordable bicycle apparel that does not affect the performance of an individual.

In 2019, the Cycling Federation of India hosted the Track Asia Cup 2019 from 9th to 11th September in Delhi. This event was the qualification level for the World Cup, World Championships, and Tokyo Olympics in 2020. Such efforts on the part of promoting the use of bicycles are likely to play a key role in facilitating bike apparel market growth.

Will Rising Demand for Sustainable and Eco-responsible Transport in China Promote Sales of Bicycle Apparel?

In recent years, China has observed growth in the industrial sector, and with the evolution of its industries and the country being a global distributor of high-tech products, the bicycle apparel industry has a huge growth opportunity in the country.

Further, rising awareness among customers will propel the use of sustainable and eco-responsible transport mediums, therefore, creating a lucrative pocket for the bicycle apparel industry.

Category-wise Insights

Which Bicycle Apparel Category Dominates the Market?

In terms of product type, cycling jerseys, under tops, is the leading category as they provide high insulation as an apparel, helping the cyclist to perform better at events, especially when humidity is low. Moreover, these protect the cycler from any minor scratches or accident, and are manufactured with unique designs to enable high efficiency.

The tops segment enjoys a high 60% share in the global market for cycling apparel.

Will Men’s Bicycle Apparel Continue Registering Higher Sales?

In terms of end use, men’s bicycle apparel is likely to dominate the market with a notable share of 45%. Growth of online sales channels has led men to drastically incline toward online shopping and purchase their desired bicycle apparel products.

In addition, rise in number of national and international cycling events, which helps create awareness about fitness or are fundraising events, has led to a rise in the number of participation of men in such events, as such, growing the overall bicycle apparel industry.

Why are Multi-brand Stores Accounting for High Sales of Bicycle Apparel?

As per the market study, in terms of sales channels, multi-brand stores hold a notable share of 28% in the sales of bicycle apparel as customers prefer to test the quality and comfortability of the apparel before purchasing it.

Especially those who include cycling in their daily lifestyle consider quality over price. However, rise in the adoption of smartphones and various e-Commerce platforms that help customers compare different products is expected to drive bike clothing online sales substantially.

COVID-19 Impact on Industry

The outbreak of COVID-19 had a severe impact on the overall apparel industry, especially the outdoor recreational apparel industry. Changing preferences of individuals due to social distancing laws disrupted demand and bicycle apparel production as unnecessary movement outside residential areas was restricted.

However, rising awareness about fitness and consumers adopting new sports and outdoor recreational activities in their lifestyle are likely to create new growth opportunities for the bicycle apparel industry. Moreover, market players implementing new distribution strategies that adhere to safety laws is likely to help them expand their customer base for cycle apparel.

Competition Landscape

Bike apparel brands are finding new ways to expand their product portfolios across regions. Further, market players are focusing on innovative advertisements through celebrity endorsements, as customers are highly attracted to the same.

Bicycle Apparel Industry Report Scope

Bicycle Apparel Industry Survey by Category

By Product Type

• Cycling Tops
  • Jerseys
  • Jackets
  • T-shirts
  • Body Insulators/ Warmers
• Cycling Bottoms
  • Big Shorts
  • Tights and Pants
• Cycling Gloves
• Cycling Accessories

By End Use

• Bicycle Apparel for Men
• Bicycle Apparel for Women
• Bicycle Apparel for Kids

By Sales Channel

• Bicycle Apparels Sold by Wholesalers/ Distributors
• Bicycle Apparels Sold at Supermarkets/ Hypermarkets
• Bicycle Apparels Sold at Specialty Stores
• Bicycle Apparels Sold at Multi-brand Stores
• Bicycle Apparels Sold by Online Retailers
• Other Sales Channels
• Middle East and Africa (MEA)
• Oceania