Rugby Apparel Market (2024 - 2030)

Report Overview

The global rugby apparel market size was valued at USD 1,112.4 million in 2023 and is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.9% from 2024 to 2030. The increasing popularity and importance of rugby in both developed and developing countries are expected to drive the overall expansion of the market. Moreover, the growing demand for new and innovative designs for rugby apparel among players is further driving the market size. In addition, the increasing number of female population around the globe playing rugby and taking part in rugby games is another primary factor driving the market. The rising interest of a huge population across the globe in rugby games coupled with an increasing number of rugby players is expected to propel market growth in the coming years. This population includes both players who play rugby professionally as well as those who adopt it as a leisure activity.

Children starting to learn any game from a very young age have an interest in that particular game for a long period and are likely to choose the game as a career. Thus, children playing any game such as rugby increases the demand for rugby apparel as these games need suitable apparel which is expected to surge the demand for the product eventually, thus boosting the market growth.

With the growing number of rugby events, the adoption of rugby apparel has been increasing across the globe thus driving the overall market. Moreover, rising the number of events and games coupled with rising sponsorship and partnership for rugby apparel to be worn in the game is another factor propelling market growth over the forecast period. The rising focus of consumers on materials that are environment friendly to ensure the comfort of the wearer along with their increasing shift towards sustainable rugby clothing is further driving the demand for products and hence driving the market expansion.

Rugby apparel provides ease of movement and comfort along with moisture management which is increasing their usage thus fueling market growth. Moreover, the increasing number of educational institutions such as schools and colleges providing rugby as a key activity for students to participate in is further expected to drive the growth of the market. However, rugby is not a mainstream sport making it niche for a large population which is expected to hinder market growth over the forecast period. In addition, narrow commercial exposure for products is further expected to hinder market growth in the coming years. In contrast, increasing investments in tis sport along with innovation in apparel is expected to present lucrative opportunities for the market over the forecast period.

The association of various features with rugby apparel including quick-drying, lightweight, and others has resulted in its increased adoption among the players which is boosting market growth. Moreover, the rising disposable income of the targeted population mainly in the developing countries is resulting in the adoption of rugby apparel thus surging market growth. However, the price of materials used for manufacturing rugby apparel is fluctuating in nature which is expected to restrain market growth over the forecast period. The increasing investment by various players in cutting-edge technology is expected to create key opportunities for market growth.

The COVID-19 pandemic had heavily impacted various industries across the globe and the market was also a part of it. The apparel manufacturing industries across the globe were shut down as well as the distribution channels were also disrupted which halted the supply and distribution of rugby apparels. Moreover, all the sports events were canceled across the globe due to government guidelines and restrictions to stop the further spread of COVID and to ensure the safety of the population. However, with the upliftment of such restrictions, sports events started to resume which begin again the buying of such products. Thus, with the increasing popularity, the market is expected to grow over the forecast period.

Type Insights

The upper wear segment dominated the market and held the largest revenue share of over 50.0% in 2021. The segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 11.9% over the forecast period. The growth and dominance of the segment are attributed to the high usage of rugby upper wear clothes including shirts, jerseys, and others as they are comfortable and can be worn in any situation. The availability of upper wear that provides a lighter feel helps in sweat management, and aerodynamic is high in demand which is further contributing to market growth over the forecast period. While playing, rugby players need apparel that reduces the loss of fluid while sweating and promote cooling thus driving the usage of such clothes. Moreover, the availability and high demand and usage of high-performance rugby upper wear clothing that are strong and durable as rugby is a rough game is expected to contribute to the segment growth in the coming years.

The bottom wear segment is expected to witness a significant CAGR of 11.3% over the forecast period due to its growing use among the players. The rugby bottom wear is manufactured in such a manner that can withstand the wear and tear associated with the rough game of rugby as they are durable and are less stretchy as compared to other types of bottom wear. Rugby bottom wear provides better agility and mobility that enables the players to move quickly while playing the game and get the ball into the space. These bottom wear also helps the players to keep cool during hot weather and allows them to breathe better. Moreover, bottom wear such as shorts doesn't obstruct the view of other players and prevents them from injuries. Due to the aforementioned factors, the use of bottom wear is increasing thus contributing to segment growth.

Regional Insights

Europe dominated the global rugby apparel market and accounted for the largest revenue share of over 40.0% in 2021. The region is expected to witness the highest CAGR of 12.0% over the forecast period. The growth of the region is attributed to the immense popularity of rugby in the major countries including the U.K., France, Spain, and others coupled with the high participation from the region in sports. In addition, the increasing participation of female rugby professionals is further contributing to the growth of the market. Moreover, the presence of a high number of key players operating in the region is also contributing to market growth.

In Asia Pacific, the market is expected to witness a significant CAGR over the forecast period from 2022 to 2030. The growth of the segment is attributed to the increasing fan base of rugby in the region majorly in countries such as China and India. The shorter form of the game is further attracting new and young fans across the globe resulting in the increasing use and adoption of rugby apparel. The popularity of rugby has further increased in the region due to the recently held rugby world cup in 2019 which was hosted in Japan generating high interest in rugby eventually driving the industry growth.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

The market is highly fragmented and competitive with global players engaging in product innovation strategies. Key players operating in the market are adopting various steps to increase their presence in the market. These steps include strategies such as partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, development and launch of new products, global expansion, and others. For instance, in October 2020, the official kit partner of Irish Rugby, Canterbury launched the new home jersey for Spain Women's Rugby team that will be worn in the overall season of 2022/21. Some of the prominent players in the global rugby apparel market include:

• Adidas AG

• BADGER RUGBY LTD.

• Nike Inc.

• Canterbury

• Decathlon SA

• Gilburt Rugby

• KOOGA

• MACRON SPA

• Olympus Rugby

• O’Neills Irish International Sports Co. Ltd.

Rugby Apparel Market