Leggings Market Size, Share, and Industry Analysis, By Material (Cotton, Nylon, Spandex, and Others), By End-user (Male and Female), By Distribution Channel (Online and Offline), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032

Leggings are usually produced from soft, stretchy fabrics, such as nylon, spandex, and polyester, which are ideal for physical activities, such as yoga, workouts, or everyday attire. They can be paired with sweaters, tops, t-shirts, dresses, and others, making them suitable for both casual and semi-formal occasions. Moreover, the rising trend for athleisure has, in turn, promoted the demand for activewear designed for both exercise and everyday wear, triggering the demand for leggings. Furthermore, increasing health awareness among individuals has led to a rise in gym memberships, fitness classes, and outdoor activities. Therefore, consumers often prefer leggings as their comforting activewear during physical activities, thereby fostering the growth of the market. Moreover, advancements in fabric technology, including moisture-wicking, stretchable, and breathable materials, have improved the performance and comfort of leggings, which has also propelled the market enhancement.

• In August 2021, Adidas, an internationally recognized sportswear company, introduced 'TechFit Period Proof' leggings tailored for female athletes. These tights include an absorbent layer designed to provide additional protection against leaks when paired with a tampon or pad.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed a negative influence on the growth of the leggings market during 2020. Disruptions in the global distribution channel caused by the pandemic, including factory closings and shipping delays, affected the availability of innovative leggings styles and designs. Several brands faced challenges in sourcing materials and manufacturing products, leading to inventory shortages and delays in product launches.

For instance, according to a paper published by the International Labour Organization, in October 2020, garment imports to the U.S. experienced a 26% decrease from January to June compared to the corresponding period in 2019. 

Segmentation

Key Insights

The report covers the following key insights:

• Parent/Related Market Overview
• Supply Chain Analysis
• Industry SWOT Analysis
• Porter’s Five Forces Analysis
• Recent Technological Advancements

Analysis by Material

By material, the market is divided into cotton, nylon, spandex, and others. The nylon segment is expected to dominate the leggings market during the forecast period. Nylon fibers are strong and resistant to abrasion, ensuring that nylon-based leggings maintain their shape and integrity even after repeated wear and washing. Also, many nylon-based leggings are designed with moisture-wicking properties that help draw sweat and evaporate it quickly, keeping consumers comfortable during physical activities. This feature enhances the performance of nylon, thus fostering the segment's growth.

Analysis By End-user

By end-user, the market is divided into male and female. The female segment is estimated to acquire the largest share of the market under end-users. Leggings are incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit different occasions and personal preferences. Women can pair leggings with t-shirts, tunics, dresses, or skirts, making them appropriate for a wide range of activities and settings. Besides, women often pursue flexible clothing preferences that can be altered effortlessly from the gym to everyday activities, thus augmenting the segment's demand.

Analysis By Distribution Channel

By distribution channel, the market is divided into online and offline. The offline segment is forecasted to lead the global leggings market during 2024-2032. Physical stores provide the opportunity for personalized assistance from sales associates. Staff can offer advice on sizing, fit, and styling, helping customers choose the perfect pair of leggings that suit their needs and preferences. Offline stores often offer convenient return and exchange policies, allowing customers to return or exchange leggings without any difficulties, amplifying the segment's demand.

Regional Analysis

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The global market is geographically segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Asia Pacific is expected to hold the highest share of the global leggings market. Economic growth in many Asia Pacific countries has led to an increase in disposable income levels among consumers. As a result, people have more spending power to invest in clothing and fashion items, including leggings. Moreover, the region also benefits from a well-established supply chain network and production infrastructure, allowing for efficient manufacturing and distribution of leggings to domestic and international markets at competitive prices.

Key Players Covered

The report includes key players, such as Adidas AG, Puma SE, Ralph Lauren, H & M Hennes & Mauritz AB, Prada, and Louis Vuitton, Inc.

Key Industry Developments

• In August 2023, Lyra, an Indian leggings brand, collaborated with Janvi Kapoor, an Indian actress, as its brand ambassador. Through this partnership, the company aims to diversify its product portfolio in terms of women’s outerwear and innerwear, including leggings.
• In February 2023, Nike Inc., a multinational sports apparel and accessories brand, launched a new range of Nike Zenvy and Nike Go leggings for women in the Chinese market.