Understanding the evolving product opportunities in the active space, Sportstex are utilizing their capabilities and technical know-how to cater to the ever-growing Athleisure market.
Sportstex is a manufacturer rooted in cycling, having worked with world leading brands. As interest and opportunity in the active space evolve, we explore how they are pivoting their capabilities to a wider range of product opportunities.
In recent years, cycling and outdoor activities have experienced increased growth, both globally and throughout Europe. Driven in part by a heightened interest in health, sustainability, and a focus on engaging more with nature, governments and leaders have responded with significant investments in cycling infrastructure, expanding bike lanes, and promoting active transport initiatives, all while encouraging citizens to become more active.
While cycling has long been ingrained in countries like the Netherlands and Denmark, countries such as France, Spain, and the UK are seeing increased participation, fueled by urban commuters, adventure seekers, and eco-conscious travelers. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend, as people sought socially distanced outdoor activities, leading to a surge in cycling participation and outdoor recreation such as hiking and camping. The rise of e-bikes has further democratized cycling, making it accessible to a broader audience, while hiking, trail running, and camping have continued to gain popularity as more people embrace nature-centric lifestyles.
This surge in cycling and outdoor pursuits has boosted demand for specialized clothing and gear. Consumers are seeking high-performance apparel that balances functionality with comfort; from breathable cycling jerseys and commuter wear, to weather-resistant outdoor layers. Innovations in technical fabrics, such as moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating materials, have become standard, while sustainability is increasingly becoming a key purchasing factor for conscientious consumers. As brands increasingly cater to cyclists, there is a focus on aerodynamics, ergonomic fits, and high-visibility, while outdoor brands are increasingly prioritising layering systems, UV protection, and weather-resistant coatings. The rise of active pursuits has also led to increased interest in hybrid apparel that transitions seamlessly from urban commuting, to off-road adventures.
Parallel to this active boom is the continued rapid rise of athleisure, with consumers increasingly prioritizing comfort and versatility, leading to a demand for stylish yet functional apparel that transitions from workouts to daily life. The shift to remote work and a growing wellness culture have only reinforced the appeal of athleisure, with brands incorporating high-performance materials and ingrained function into their designs.
Product Opportunities beyond Performance
As cycling, outdoor activities, and athleisure continue to gain traction, the market for performance-driven, stylish, and sustainable apparel is poised for sustained growth, reflecting a long-term shift toward active, health-conscious lifestyles. Sportstex are one such manufacturer who have taken note of the opportunity of athleisure, already working with globally recognized sports and outdoor brands, the company have developed specialized teams and machinery, which they are now pivoting to use in a wider athleisure market.
While cycling and outdoor sports remains their focus, their entry into the athleisure market was a natural progression, with industry partners recognising the company's potential as a supplier beyond the performance sports markets. Offering extensive experience in creating technical cycling apparel, an area that demands intricate manufacturing techniques and high-performance fabrics, Sportstex quickly realized that they were able to leverage their existing technical capabilities and equipment to thrive in the athleisure sector, and tap into the growing market segment.
To strengthen their position in the evolving athleisure industry, and to on-board more brands, Sportstex made the strategic decision to hire a dedicated specialist to focus exclusively on athleisure. This investment in the sector offers clients and brand partners a more personalized experience and understanding of trend driven development opportunities, along with tailored support. The development process for athleisure can be as complex as performance products with brands often requiring multiple prototypes, sometimes up to 10, despite this the sector still presents lucrative opportunities, with brands seeking continually innovative, stylish and functional products.
Sportstex has capitalized on its ability to blend technical expertise with fashion-forward designs, using premium materials to create high-end products. Its expansion into athleisure has also led to high-profile collaborations, including outfitting one of Italy’s top Serie A football teams. As Francesco Fioravanti, Athleisure Sales Director, notes, “fashion brands increasingly integrate sportswear into their collections through dedicated lines, collaborations, and hybrid pieces. With high fashion facing pricing challenges, athleisure offers a compelling alternative—functional yet stylish apparel that meets modern consumer demands.”
By embracing the fast-paced and ever-evolving nature of athleisure, Sportstex has positioned themselves as a key player in this thriving industry, securing long-term client relationships and driving innovation in performance-based fashion, while retaining their focus and capabilities in the cycling and outdoor markets.
