A research report on Japan's activewear market has been released, summarizing market size projections and growth drivers for 2026-2035. The market, valued at approximately USD 21.8 billion as of 2025, is expected to expand to approximately USD 41.7 billion by 2035.
Japan's activewear market continues to grow, driven by rising health consciousness, the spread of athleisure and increased participation in sports in urban areas. The market is expected to post an average annual growth rate of approximately 6.7% during the 2026-2035 forecast period and expand into a lifestyle market encompassing everyday wear and fashion.
Key growth drivers include increasing demand for products that combine functionality and design, the use of flagship stores and omnichannel retailing, the adoption of sustainable materials and the expansion of the women's market. In particular, activewear is increasingly being worn as everyday clothing, and the women's market is expected to grow faster than other categories.
Online distribution is expanding markedly, with the online segment expected to post a high CAGR of 9.6% during 2026-2035 and grow faster than offline channels. At the same time, offline stores are strengthening their role as venues for brand experiences, with strategies centered on flagship stores continuing.
By region, Kanto is leading the market, with the Tokyo metropolitan area home to a large concentration of flagship stores. Sports culture and industrial foundations are also strong in regions including Kansai and Kinki, Chubu, Tohoku, and Kyushu and Okinawa, where companies are seeking to expand the market through DTC initiatives, limited-edition products and event partnerships.
While higher raw-material and logistics costs are expected to have an impact going forward, investment in recycled materials, bio-based materials and lightweighting technologies is advancing. Omnichannel strategies combining online and physical stores, limited drops and community-based events are expected to become increasingly important sales approaches.