December 02, 2024
Cycling is one of the most popular and accessible forms of exercise, and transport, offering individuals the opportunity to explore further afield while staying fit. It’s estimated that globally there are over 1billion bicycles in the world, with 42% of households owning at least one, covering everything from commuting to mountain biking.
Having gained ground beyond a form of transport for the past decade, the onset of the pandemic saw a surge in bike sales, as people pushed beyond road and commuter cycling to explore more adventurous off road options and virtual opportunities. After a short term cooling in bike demand, interest in the market has returned, with growth of 10.6% expected by 2032, showing there is plenty of room for investment and innovation in the space. In an effort to put cycling front and centre, local governments are making efforts to create more livable cities, combating congestion and climate change through cycling infrastructure, and bike sharing opportunities.
For many cycling enthusiasts, the sport offers more than just a mode of transport, bringing with it a sense of community, fitness and an environmental lifestyle preference. Below, we explore the current status of the sport, looking at the key segments which define the cycling market, and the potential for what might come next.
One of the original and best known forms of the sport, road cycling has set the foundations for the cycling boom. With a rise in brands such as RAPHA RACING LTD defining the sport as a lifestyle, offering cafe culture, community and retail experiences that bring it to a wider audience. With the professional level dominated by grand tours such as the Tour de France, there has been a steady rise in weekend group riding, while the emergence of e-bikes has made the sport more accessible. Road cycling remains dominated by speed and distance, with brands needing to pay attention to weight and performance, creating garments that are both streamlined and easily stowable.
Image: Courtesy of Sportstex
Despite not being an option in many regions, cycling to work has continued to gain momentum globally, particularly post-pandemic with individuals hesitant to use public transport. Europe in particular leads the way with bike usage, in Denmark alone 9 in 10 residents own a bike, in comparison to 4 in 10 owning a car, while in the Netherlands a quarter of all trips are done by bike. Cycling to work purchase schemes have also bolstered commuter cycling, while bike subscription schemes such as those by Brompton offer an affordable way to get into cycle commuting. Understanding the needs of commuters is essential when it comes to apparel design, with products required to enhance safety and visibility while being both versatile and stylish enough to carry wearers to both work and social events.
More prevalent in rural areas, mountain biking involves going off road, riding hills with added suspension on the bike, which offers more comfort offroad. Covering everything from cyclo-cross and downhill, to cross country races, numerous mountain towns across Europe pivot towards mountain biking in the summer months, with ski-resorts pivoting and consumers utilising chairlifts to focus on the downhill journey. Growth in the sport is expected to grow 10% between 2020-2027, with the introduction of e bikes also working to shift the market and make it more accessible. For brands in the space, it’s important to pay consideration to the strong environmental drive from a sport surrounded and immersed in nature, making considered choices, while also noting the seasonal focus on the sport with breathable and UV protective materials.
Image: Courtesy of Sportstex
Sitting halfway between road cycling and mountain biking, gravel cycling has gained momentum over the last five years as consumers seek out a hybrid approach that takes them away from busy roads. Riding on gravel usually requires a thicker tyre added onto a road bike frame, allowing for more grip on rougher terrain, creating an option that allows riders to cover more ground, while mixing it up enough to get some respite from the dirt or the road. Understanding the hybrid nature of gravel cycling is key from brands exploring the space, as consumers seek out a more versatile and casual approach to cycling gear that transcends terrains. Breathable styles with plenty of pockets allow for consumers to stay equipped for the ride, while classic cycling jerseys take on a looser, more relaxed fit, being replaced by crew neck styles.
With cycling becoming increasingly popular, and more diverse, there is plenty of opportunity for investment. From cycle tourism, to bikepacking and more inclusive and accessible options, whether brands are new to cycling or diversifying through cross category expansion, the market is continuing to expand with widening consumer interest. Partnering with the right manufacturer is key to staying ahead of consumer demand, SportsTex have been working across the active markets for decades, with a strong understanding of the rapidly evolving cycling opportunities, and how to cater to the demands of these emerging consumers.
SPORTSTEX (TEXmarket srl - Cottontex srl) (umbrella company of TEXmarket & Cottontex), founded in 1993 are an European manufacturer specialized in development and production of cycling, athleisure, running, triathlon, winter, active wear and team sports wear.In 2024, TEXmarket decided to create a single company name that would include both the sales side of TEXmarket, and the production side of Cottontex under one name - Sportstex
Please contact Serena Grosselli at serena.grosselli@sportstex.eu if you have any questions.
Alex is the owner of byingildsen and member of the advisory boards or advisor for fourteen unique premium garment manufacturers and printing providers, including Sportstex.
