Analyzing Sports Footwear Market in India

The rise of the Sports Footwear Industry in India 

Over the past ten years, the proliferation of gymnasiums and sports centers demonstrates that Indians are becoming more health-conscious. The media played a major role in the spread of health consciousness, which has benefited Indian society. Sports shoe companies have seen a significant increase in revenue as a result of the fact that proper footwear is required to participate in sports-related activities. In India, the sportswear industry is worth between Rs 3,500 and Rs 5,000 crores. Reebok, Nike, Puma, etc. are the undisputed market leaders in terms of footwear or specifically sports shoes in India.

As of fiscal year 2020, the sports footwear market in India was worth USD 1.5 billion. This is approximately Rs. 12000 crore. 3 to 4{a0ae49ae04129c4068d784f4a35ae39a7b56de88307d03cceed9a41caec42547} of people buy sports shoes once a year.

Sports Footwear market & limitless growth

Indians of all ages, sexes, and demographics are turning to sports, outdoor, and adventure activities as the country becomes increasingly health-conscious. For current India, wellness and sports are not privileges of expert sportsperson any longer, it is a way of life. This adjustment of way of life inclinations has likewise proclaimed a lift to the athletic apparel industry in India. Products like clothing and accessories as well as a wide range of sports equipment and equipment are now at the top of shopping lists all over the country.

The “Big Five” Reebok, Adidas, Nike, Puma, and Lotto have historically dominated the athletic shoe market in India as a whole. The majority of these brands entered the country in the 1990s, and in the years that followed, a flood of local franchisees established their presence. These four global players still dominate the sportswear market as a whole today, along with others like Under Armour, Fila, Lotto, Skechers, etc.

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15 Leading Sports footwear brands in India

Nike

Did you know that Blue Ribbon Sports was the original name of this well-known brand? The slogan “Just do it” has made Nike a household name all over the world. Despite being slightly more expensive, their brand guarantees high-quality products. They are distinct from other brands due to their comfort, adaptability, and long-term durability. These stylish and long-lasting shoes can be worn for any occasion.

Adidas

Adidas is a German firm that was established in 1949. It was recently in the news for losing a lawsuit over the use of their trademarked “stripes.” Shoes from Adidas, like those from Nike, aren’t cheap, but they generally get good reviews everywhere. They offer a wide range of sports shoes with versatile design, comfort, and designs. 

Puma

Rudolf Dassler, the brother of Adolf Dassler, who founded Adidas, started PUMA! Another significant games brand, it is conspicuous for its jaguar logo. The sports shoes from Puma will uphold you in regular exercises like running and preparing. They are much more affordable related to other brands. 

Reebok

The American sportswear company Reebok was established in 1958. It turned into an auxiliary to Adidas in 2005 which went on till 2021. Additionally, there are a variety of styles that are significantly less expensive. The brand provides excellent performance and ensures customer satisfaction thanks to cutting-edge technology for traction, comfort, and durability. They have shoes for everyday comfort, as well as shoes designed specifically for CrossFit. They are even better because they are comfortable, affordable, and useful for multiple purposes.

Skechers

Skechers is an American sporting brand that was established in 1992. It is one of the more recent brands. This has developed its image name throughout the long term and is currently one of the costlier games shoes of the parcel. It is famous for their style, advancement, quality and solace. The company has grown into a very adaptable footwear company by providing excellent support and stability at reasonable prices.

Sparx

Sparx is a region of the planet of footwear possessed by Relaxo Footwears Restricted. It is a well-known brand that typically provides affordable footwear for Asian consumers.

Fila

Fila was initially established in Italy before moving to the United States and then South Korea. In 2021, singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh was named one of Fila’s brand ambassadors.

Converse

Marquis Mills Converse established the American footwear company known as Converse in 1908. You may have seen or heard of its renowned Chuck Taylor All-Star sneakers, which were first produced in 1917 and have since evolved into a fashion industry cultural icon.

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ASICS

Asics is a Japanese worldwide organization that produces footwear, clothing and athletic gear. The leading brand in running and other sports footwear and apparel was established in 1949. Asics was initially known as Onitsuka Co., Ltd. Asics shoes are well-known for their custom feel and signature cushioning, both of which contribute to an enriching experience. 

New Balance

New Balance is an American footwear organization that was established in 1906 by William J. Riley as the “New Balance Curve Backing Organization.” Today it is one of the main footwear brands on the planet.

Under Armour

Kevin Plank, a former American football player, started the company in 1996. It’s a famous brand in India for athletic apparel, wellness and way of life dress and footwear. It starts around INR 5000, which is slightly above average.

Red Tape

A result of Mirza Worldwide Restricted, Formality is an Indian shoes and clothing brand. Due to its quality and affordability, it is quite popular in the Indian market.

Off Limits

The brand presents itself as a product of the Gurukripa Lifestyle Company, which manufactures and exports sports shoes and other apparel, on their page.

Salomon

Salomon is a French company best known for outdoor sports shoes and equipment. Adidas also owned it for a short time.

Mizuno

Mizuno is a multinational corporation based in Japan that makes sports equipment, apparel, and footwear. Rihachi Mizuno established it in 1906. It is now a well-known brand for golf, running, and other sports.

Athletic Footwear 

Shoes intended for sports and other outdoor activities are referred to as athletic footwear. People of all ages are increasingly using these as casual and fashionable footwear, as evidenced by the global consumption volume. The market offers footwear in a variety of colours, designs, and prices to meet the requirements and budgets of individual customers. The size of the athletic footwear market increased as a result of sales growth through online channels, novel product launches, and appealing marketing and promotional strategies adopted by businesses. 

There is a lot of competition in the market, with players investing a lot in brand development and marketing channels. In order to attract a larger number of customers, this highlights their presence and contributes to the value of their brand. Athletic footwear giants face stiff competition from numerous small manufacturers. Major obstacles to the expansion of the athletic footwear market include rising raw material costs and growing environmental concerns regarding synthetic rubber. 

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Key factors for the rising demand for sports footwear 

Increasing interest in eco-friendly shoes

One of the major trends that has an impact on the growth of the market is the use of environmentally friendly materials in the production of sports shoes. The increasing emphasis placed on protecting the environment is the source of the rising consumer demand for sustainable footwear. In addition, several manufacturers are making an effort to meet the requirements of their customers and continually emphasize producing shoes that are eco-friendly and sustainable. For instance, Adidas introduced its first shoes that are 100 per cent recyclable in April 2019.

Increasing youth and adolescent sports participation to boost growth

Due to the increased sports participation of children and adolescents, the global footwear market is anticipated to experience significant growth between 2021 and 2028. Nowadays, the majority of young people participate in sports to stay fit and healthy. Moreover, the interest in sports footwear is high because of the rising mindfulness about sports, and the rising inclination for wellness among kids. 

Market expansion is aided by government initiatives

The sports footwear market has expanded as consumers’ purchasing power and disposable income have increased. The willingness to pay more for certain performance characteristics like temperature control, friction regulation, and waterproof quality has increased with rising income levels. In addition, the market is anticipated to gain momentum during the forecast period thanks to the growing number of supermarkets, hypermarkets, and other retail establishments.

The increasing power of E-commerce in the sports footwear market 

Globally, there is a huge demand for e-commerce, which only involves buying and selling goods and services electronically. Online shopping is the most well-known form of e-commerce. It has worked on the buying system for shoppers by making it simpler and more helpful. Online shopping is more popular in developed nations like the United States and Japan than in developing nations like India and China. Ten years ago, the retail landscape was not the same as it is now. Because e-commerce makes shopping simpler, easier, and more convenient, there is a huge market opportunity for athletic footwear. 

The market offers footwear in a variety of colours, designs, and prices to meet the requirements and budgets of individual customers. The size of the athletic footwear market increased as a result of sales growth through online channels, novel product launches, and appealing marketing and promotional strategies adopted by businesses. There is a lot of competition in the market, with players investing a lot in brand development and marketing channels. In order to attract a larger number of customers, this highlights their presence and contributes to the value of their brand. Athletic footwear giants face stiff competition from numerous small manufacturers and are flourishing rapidly. 

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Expansion of the Sports Footwear Market 

Given how health-conscious Indians are and how aware they are of their bodies, the sports shoe industry is definitely gaining traction in recent years. This has prompted a huge number of new players, both public and worldwide, to enter the race. In order to reach the masses, primarily in smaller cities and towns, the majority of these new players rely on affordable price points. In order to enter the Indian market, these brands are relying on online retailers like Amazon India, Flipkart, Jabong, and Myntra. There is a growing demand for athletic and sports-inspired footwear in smaller cities and towns as well, and this trend will only continue. Sportswear sales increased by close to 80{a0ae49ae04129c4068d784f4a35ae39a7b56de88307d03cceed9a41caec42547} in metros, Tier II, and Tier III cities with its everlasting rise in demand.  

Moreover, Indian pop culture icons are becoming self-described spokespersons for the fitness movement that is sweeping the nation, which is pushing the sportswear trend further into the mainstream. This drive is also fueled by the proliferation of international brands where Indian athletes and Bollywood stars are seen promoting. In light of the growing trend toward physical fitness, sports-inspired footwear is also seeing growth. 

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