The Fastest Growing Sport In America Is About To Get A Lot More Trendy
It’s no secret pickleball is emerging as a player in the U.S. sports scene, but what about pickleball clothing and apparel? Recent market analysis forecasts a $680 million increase in pickleball clothing and apparel market share by 2026, with 71 percent of the growth originating from North America alone.
The sports apparel market was valued at $167.7 billion in 2018 and is estimated to reach $248.1 billion by 2026 with a 5.1 percent CAGR. The pickleball clothing and apparel market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 11.78 percent during the same time period.
That doesn’t sound like a passing fad, that’s for sure.
Plus, the adjacent pickleball equipment market is poised to hit nearly $1 Billion in market value by 2028.
Adidas, Hanes Brand, and New Balance are among the notable vendors who are forging an entry into the pickleball apparel market. They offer performance shirts, hoodies, jackets, and hats, giving pickleball players the duds to stay fresh and cool on the court. But what about the more fashion-conscious pickleballers?
That’s where J. Crew comes in. The American specialty retailer has partnered with Recess, a pickleball specialist business in Austin, Texas, to give players more trendy style options.
“Pickleball is trending,” said Lisa Greenwald, chief merchandising officer of J. Crew. “We love when J. Crew customers become our inspiration and show us what they’re up to on social media. Pickleball has been trending on social media and within our audiences, and as one of the fastest-growing sports in America right now, we had to get involved. Pickleball is a fun game, and your paddle should be, too. It’s another way we can inspire people to get outside, try something new and stay spontaneous.”
The J. Crew pickleball collection, which is designed for both on and off the court, features activewear staples, including high-rise leggings, sports bras, matching sets, tennis skirts, and dresses ranging in price from $34.50 to $118. The collaboration also features six signature paddles, priced at $74 apiece.
The athleisure space took a giant step forward in both size and general acceptance during the COVID-19 lockdown and doesn’t appear to have faded since the country reopened. With pickleball emerging as a crowd favorite among several age groups, it might not be long before pickleball athleisure has its day, too.
