Bicycle Apparels and Accessories Market

Market Overview

The global bicycle apparels and accessories market size was valued at USD 7,558 million in 2022. It is estimated to reach USD 11,979 million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5.25% during the forecast period (2023–2031).

Bicycle apparel is clothing intended to be worn while cycling and offers cyclists comfort and safety. This group comprises gloves, pants and shorts, socks, jerseys, and tees. The parts that go with a bicycle are known as accessories, including bottle cages, kickstands, mirrors, and safety gear. Bicycle wear refers to the usage of clothing or equipment to improve performance or comfort when cycling. The market for cycling gear is expanding as more individuals choose cycling as a pastime and as a more significant percentage of the population adopts better lives, which leads to increased engagement in sports and fitness activities.

Additionally, in order to improve customer loyalty toward cycling wear items, cycling wear and gear manufacturers have developed a wide selection of cycling garments and gear options. The industry has witnessed an upsurge in using high-visibility cycling jackets. For instance, a 2017 study on over 6900 bikers in Denmark found that individuals who wear high visibility jackets experience 47% fewer accidents than those who do not. These jackets help users stand up against their surroundings and become more noticeable to oncoming cars.

Market Dynamics

Market Drivers

Increasing Participation in Outdoor Activities

Outdoor activities, usually outdoor recreational activities, are carried out in a natural setting. The Outdoor Industry Association estimates that 146.1 million people in the US engaged in an outdoor activity at least once in 2017. In 2017, 49.0% more persons participated in outdoor activities than in 2016 (48.8%). Additionally, higher per capita household income, a growing young population, and the rising trend of adventure sports are anticipated to drive the global market during the forecast period.

Several other countries have also observed the same outdoor participation trend. For instance, the Office of National Statistics reports that in the UK in 2016, children aged 8 to 15 engaged in outdoor activities, sports-related activities, or cycling. Further, according to the Children’s Society, spending time outdoors and participating in physical activity has been attributed to improving a child’s short and long-term well-being due to various factors, including improvement in physical and mental health. Thus, the increasing participation in outdoor activities coupled with the growing awareness of the benefits of these activities on a child’s health is expected to drive the global market during the forecast period.

Increasing Number of Triathletes

Triathlons refer to multisport races such as swimming, cycling, and running over various distances. Rapid urbanization and increasing per capita disposable income among the youth support the growth of the global market. Athletes from all around the world have been participating in triathlons more frequently in recent years.

Additionally, according to Triathlon Australia, to promote and raise the sport’s profile, over 180,007 individuals participated in a Triathlon Australia Event across the country by the end of 2017. The rise in triathlon participation by the young and elderly is fueling market growth. Thus, the increasing number of triathletes is expected to drive the development of the global market during the forecast period.

Market Restraint

Increasing Number of Private Label Manufacturers

Retailers across the globe aim to offer bicycle apparel and accessories through their brands to increase revenue generation. According to sr analysis, retailer sales have increased by approximately 30% over the past two years, primarily due to the growing presence of private-label brands in the global market. Local manufacturers offer bicycle apparels and accessories that cater to the market needs and planned inventories of retailers. These manufacturers also sell their products in unorganized markets at comparatively lower costs, thereby limiting the growth of players in the global market.

Further, the sales of private-label products are primarily unaccounted for, which creates a gap between the production volume and the revenue generated in the global  market. Thus, the increasing number of private label manufacturers offering products at low costs is expected to hinder the growth of the established players in the market.

Market Opportunities

Positive Initiatives by Governments to Promote Cycling

Governments from various countries are taking initiatives to create awareness regarding the benefits of cycling, which is expected to increase the demand for bicycle apparel and accessories. For instance, Adventure Cycling Association, a non-profit organization in the US, is encouraging people of all ages to travel by bicycle for fun, fitness, and self-discovery. Several other government bodies, such as The Adam Little Foundation, Bike Walk Connecticut, Cadence Cycling Foundation (CCF), and The National Brotherhood of Cyclists, are also working on creating awareness regarding the benefits of cycling activity for children and young people.

Furthermore, the Government of the UK has also introduced bike vouchers to get their bikes fixed and reduce the strain on public transport. According to Cycling Industry, the government has planned to invest USD 2.5 billion in this initiative. The government also focuses on cycling training and new protected cycle lanes for children and adults. Thus, the initiatives taken by governments to promote cycling are expected to create opportunities for the players operating in the global market during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global bicycle apparels and accessories market is divided into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and the Middle East and Africa.

Europe Dominates the Global Market

Europe is the most significant shareholder in the global market and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.49% during the forecast period. The market’s growth in France can be attributed to the country’s increasing awareness of rider safety. Several cycling events are organized annually in the region, encouraging people to participate, thus increasing the sales of bicycle apparel and accessories. The expansion of the European bicycle gear and accessory business is positively impacted by strict government restrictions regulating riders’ safety. In the European market, premiumization is a significant trend gaining ground. In addition, due to the high per capita disposable incomes, consumers in the region are inclined toward buying expensive high-quality bicycle apparel and accessories. The rising number of athletes, mainly from Germany, is creating a demand for bicycle apparel & accessories in this region. The key manufacturers are shifting focus to women, a large section of customers that still needs to be tapped.

North America is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.30% over the forecast period. The market in North America offers lucrative opportunities for manufacturers of bicycle apparel and accessories. One of the most critical growth factors of the regional market is the expanding product range of leading manufacturers with novel colors, materials, and designs of numerous product types. The regional market for cycling gear and accessories is anticipated to develop due to technological advancements like incorporating airbags and LEDs in helmets. Moreover, key manufacturers emphasize promotional activities to create strong awareness among consumers regarding new products, accelerating the growth of the North American market. Additionally, it is predicted that the US will continue to dominate the region over the forecast period. The growing trend of professional cycling and increased product launches by major companies are anticipated to fuel the US market. The popularity of triathlons in the US is also growing in demand for bicycle clothes and accessories.

In Asia-Pacific, growing awareness about safety during cycling among consumers and stringent laws by the government of countries in the region have boosted the market’s growth. Countries in Asia-Pacific have mandated regulations regarding bike helmets. For instance, in Australia, according to the center for road safety under the Transport for New South Wales by the government of New South Wales, bicycle riders are required by law to wear government-approved helmets securely fitted and fastened. A growing middle-income population and increasing sales of bicycles in emerging economies are also driving the growth of the bicycle apparel and accessories market. In addition, the organized retail sector has played a significant role in bicycle apparel and accessories sales over the last few years. Moreover, several multinational companies are investing heavily in China, Japan, and Australia to increase sales volumes. Manufacturers are also introducing new products in these countries, supporting the market’s growth.

Brazil, Colombia, and Chile are among the major contributing countries to the South American regional market growth. Most people in these countries ride their bicycles throughout the city, which has led to the development of more bicycle lanes around the city. The government has changed rules and laws over the years to increase the safety of bicycles, cars, and pedestrians. An essential rule in Chile is that all drivers of bikes, motorcycles, scooters, mopeds, and passengers must wear a helmet. In addition, among the countries in South America, Brazil holds a significant share of the bicycle apparel and accessories market. However, the Colombia market is projected to be the fastest-growing during the forecast period. Some of the largest bike brands in the world have entered the Colombian market, setting up concept stores to cater to a growing upper-middle-class clientele.

The Middle East and Africa region is anticipated to witness relatively slow growth throughout the forecast period. Limited awareness regarding bike apparel and accessories in the Middle East and African countries is a significant factor responsible for the market’s growth. Government support on safety guidelines issues during pandemics while riding is expected to boost bicycle apparel and accessories sales. For instance, under the direction of Dubai’s Supreme Committee for Crises and Disasters Management, stores that rent out bicycles have introduced “strict sterilization measures” to ensure customer safety. Those renting bikes have also been instructed to wear gloves and face masks while riding. This will upsurge the demand for bicycle apparel and accessories till the near future.

Segmental Analysis

The global  market is segmented by type, category, and distribution channel.

Based on type, the global market is divided into helmets, jerseys and tees, gloves, pants and shorts, shoes, goggles and glasses, protection gear, socks, and others.

The jerseys and tees segment is responsible for the largest market share and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.38% over the forecast period. The jerseys and tees are widely used apparel by professional cyclists. Synthetic and merino wool are the most commonly used fabrics for jerseys and tees. Technological innovation has led to the introduction of bamboo jerseys made from bamboo extracts that are sometimes mixed with cotton, Lycra, and merino wool. It is a preferred choice for people with sensitive skin and wool irritation.

Protection gears include knee protectors, elbow protectors, arm sleeves, mouth guards, and jackets. The demand for the protective gear is increasing among the participants in sports. Rising incidents of bicycle accidents are likely to upsurge the growth of protection gears. Mouth guards stabilize the jaw by engaging both the upper and lower teeth. Moreover, jackets protect the rider’s body from heat, cold, and rain. Jackets offer dual protection. They enhance visibility through reflective thin strips or piping, ensuring the rider is visible even in the dark. These jackets also act as armor, protecting the rider from sharp objects.

Based on category, the global  market is segmented into mountain bikes, road bikes, city bikes, and others.

The road bikes segment owns the highest market share and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.15% over the forecast period. The popularity of road bikes is exceptional among bike riders. Bicycle has become a popular activity in several countries. Increasing health consciousness among consumers is anticipated to increase cycling activities over the last few years. In addition, cycling is an effective method for weight control and loss since it raises metabolic rate, builds muscle, and lowers body fat. Type-2 diabetes patients are surging in several countries due to a lack of physical activity. Many doctors prescribe bicycle riding instead of a motorcycle to stay fit.

The mountain bike is a type of bicycle used for recreation purposes that is flexible and suitable for off-road races. The mountain bike is durable transport that survives the most challenging terrain and mountainous surfaces. It tolerates intense friction while moving over incline terrain and comes with disk brakes. In addition, the growing trend of mountain biking among the youth in the developed economies of North America and Europe is anticipated to stimulate the demand for mountain bicycle shoes. Mountain biking sports used to be predominantly male-dominated. However, in recent years, the popularity of mountain biking has been surging among female participants.

Based on the distribution channel, the global bicycle apparels and accessories market is segmented into store-based and non-store-based.

The store-based segment is the highest contributor to the market and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.05% over the forecast period. The store-based segment has been divided into supermarkets and hypermarkets, specialty stores, and others. The supermarkets and hypermarkets sub-segment is expected to be the largest, as these channels account for the maximum sale of bicycle apparel and accessories. Furthermore, specialty stores play a significant role in distributing bicycle apparel and accessories.

The non-store-based segment includes e-commerce, wherein manufacturers distribute bicycle apparel and accessories through various online shopping sites and websites. Companies need help in reaching consumers in different regions through brick-and-mortar stores. Thus, e-commerce channels enable companies to cater to the consumers’ needs and improve their brand presence. Additionally, this mode of distribution helps vendors create brand awareness.

Recent Developments

• December 2022- Giant Bicycles’ flagship road shoe, the Surge Pro, was selected by both BikeRadar and BikeRumor.com as a “gear of the year” winner. Tested and proven by WorldTour pros, including grand tour winner Simon Yates, the Surge Pro is the lightest, most efficient road shoe ever from Giant.
• January 2023- POC, the Swedish cycling apparel and accessories brand, launched Propel, a pair of cycling glasses that the brand states are “designed to enhance aerodynamics and performance" by eliminating the rider's ears causing turbulence.