Football Equipment Market Size, Share, and Growth Forecast for 2024 - 2031

Football Equipment Market Size and Share Analysis

The global football equipment market is estimated to reach a size of US$ 18.05 Bn in 2024. It is predicted to rise at a CAGR of 3.5% through the assessment period to attain a value of US$ 22.98 Bn by 2031.

Sales of football equipment reached high levels worldwide in 2023, with Europe accounting for the greatest proportion because of its strong football culture and active fan base. With leading brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma investing in cutting-edge technology like linked balls, the market is anticipated to rise as consumers seek individualized and upgraded products.

According to the research, in 2024, men accounted for 55% of market share, and the brands are focused on creating innovative products to cater to the demand from this demographic. 

Nike and Football Australia's long-term collaborations emphasize the importance of innovative equipment and customized gear. Social media and online platforms are crucial for extending the field of football, making it easier for fans to access and purchase official merchandise.

The sport's visibility is further boosted by celebrity endorsements and international events such as the Olympic Games, FIFA, the Carabao Cup, and the Champions League, which attracts millions of viewers. Consumers' growing awareness of environmental sustainability is driving market expansion through eco-friendly packaging techniques. Key brands like Nike and Adidas have introduced sustainable materials in their football gear in 2023, catering to the surging demand for environmentally responsible products.

Key Highlights of the Market

• The global popularity of football is increasing, leading to a rising demand for high-quality equipment.
• Need for equipment has increased because of the growing number of football leagues and tournaments throughout the globe.
• Focus on player safety has led to a skyrocketing demand for protective gear.
• In 2024, football shoes are estimated to attain a market share of 58.6% due to requirement for superior comfort and functionality.
• Based on sales channel, the online segment is projected to account for a market share of 68% in 2024 owing to the availability of huge discounts.
• Owing to the presence of various clubs and leagues, Europe is anticipated to hold a market share of 42% in 2024. 
• Asia Pacific is anticipated to hold a market share of 35% in 2024 with developments in sports programs.

Market Attributes	Key Insights
Market Size (2024E)	US$ 18.05 Bn
Projected Market Value (2031F)	US$ 22.98 Bn
Global Market Growth Rate (CAGR 2024 to 2031)	3.5%
Historical Market Growth Rate (CAGR 2019 to 2023)	3.1%

Presence of Various Football Clubs across Europe Skyrockets Demand

The football equipment market is greatly impacted by Europe, which is known for its UEFA Champions League and strong football culture.

• Over 450 million people watched the 2023 final, which increased demand for associated gear and items in Europe, especially in the U.K.

Football teams in the U.K., such as Manchester United, Liverpool, and Arsenal, are well known for their involvement in the sport and close relationships with the community.

• The economic importance of football in the U.K. was demonstrated in 2023 when local football fans spent over US$ 3.17 Bn on gear, clothing, and goods.

Football has become immensely popular in Europe because of grassroots programs like the UEFA Grassroots Program, which encourages amateur and youngster involvement. With eco-friendly materials being utilized in football gear, Europe is likewise at the forefront of innovation, reflecting customer desire for sustainability. 

Growing Football Fever in Asia Pacific Cultivates Demand for Sports Gear

The football equipment market is growing at a rapid rate in Asia Pacific, with leading contributions from nations like China, Japan, Australia, India, and South Korea. Due to the international competitions held in these countries, football gear is becoming immensely popular. Football fans in India and China are predicted to have more disposable funds, which will likely raise demand for novel equipment.

• The FIFA World Cup 2018 under-17 competitions was held in India. The market is also being influenced by government programs and rising participation rates.
• Football is becoming increasingly popular, as evidenced by the All-India Football Federation's (AIFF) sharp rise in revenue from sponsorship, commercial rights, and football assessment fees.

Market expansion is further anticipated to be accelerated by the tendency of young people in Asia Pacific to play football.

Demand for Lightweight and Breathable Football Shoes to Surge Globally

Football shoes, with a global market share of 58.6% in 2024, are popular among professional and amateur players due to their ability to prevent injuries and offer comfort and grip. Recent developments in material technology, such as lightweight and breathable synthetics, have further enhanced their functionality.

Football shoes now appeal to more than just professional players. Amateurs and recreational players are also interested in them. In early 2024, key brands like Adidas and Nike introduced eco-friendly football boots. This move meets the growing demand for sustainable products and raises market interest. For example,

• Adidas launched the Predator Accuracy series in February 2024. These boots feature novel grip technology and use recycled materials, showing a shift toward performance and sustainability in the industry.
• The global popularity of football, fueled by international tournaments like the FIFA World Cup and regional leagues, has led to a surging demand for football shoes, with the U.S. experiencing a 15% increase in sales in 2023.

Football jerseys, on the other hand, are anticipated to hold a share of 54.2% in 2024. Football jerseys are now fashion statements rather than just clothing. To pique the interest of non-sports audiences, celebrities and influencers frequently don jerseys as part of streetwear or casual ensembles. Football teams and fashion labels working together, like Paris Saint-Germain and Jordan Brand, blur the boundaries between sports and lifestyle wear and draw in a wide clientele.

Sales of Football Equipment to Rise across Online Platforms

Online sales channels have become a key aspect of retail, offering convenience and variety to consumers. Platforms like Amazon, Zalando, and Flipkart have seen steady growth in sports footwear sales. North America's online sportswear sales grew by 18% in 2023, indicating a rising preference for digital platforms among consumers.

E-commerce cannot replace in-person shopping, especially in footwear where fit and comfort are crucial. For example,

• A survey in mid-2023 revealed that 54% of consumers prefer in-store fitting. Brands are integrating AR technologies like Nike's Virtual Try-On feature to bridge this gap, allowing consumers to visualize fit and style from home.

Hybrid shopping models, like ‘click-and-collect’ services by retailers like Adidas, enable customers to order online and try products in-store before making a purchase. It helps in balancing e-commerce variety and price with in-store shopping for personalized experience and product satisfaction.

Market Introduction and Trend Analysis

Football is a popular sport for burning calories, losing body fat, and improving body composition. Demand for football equipment is on the rise due to sports activities, health and wellness trends, social media influence, celebrity endorsements, and international events.

The market is also being driven by frequent sports tournaments as well as national and international football leagues. Environmentally friendly packaging solutions are reducing their impact and appealing to environmentally conscious buyers.

Manufacturers are also focusing on mental health in football equipment, adding features that cater to athletes and consumers who prioritize mental well-being. Customized injury prevention gear is further shaping the industry. Developments in technology and integration of smart sensors into football equipment are enhancing player performance and safety, driving consumer interest and surging the market.

Historical Growth and Course Ahead

The global football equipment market recorded a decent CAGR of 3.1% in the historical period from 2019 to 2023. The need for football equipment rose globally because of growing interest in outdoor sports, especially football. Brands developed novel programs to cater to the global demand. For instance,

• In January 2021, the International Blind Football Foundation launched the ‘Let's Play! Grant Program.’ It provides free blind football and eye masks to teams, national federations, and organizations. It focuses on youth development and women's blind football.

Sports are well-liked across the world, and schools promote it to help children develop physically. Footballs, shoes, accessories, and protective gear are among the items on the market that can be purchased from physical and virtual retail establishments. Demand for football equipment is estimated to record a considerable CAGR of 3.5% during the forecast period between 2024 and 2031.

Market Growth Drivers

Rising Number of Tournaments and Leagues to Push Demand

The global football equipment market is experiencing a surging demand due to the rise in tournaments and leagues worldwide. The popularity of professional and amateur football has fueled this growth, with more players and fans participating at various levels.

• The Baller League, a six-a-side football league, is set to launch in the U.K. and the U.S. in March 2025.
• The United Football League (UFL) launched its first expansion process in November 2024, seeking proposals from potential markets to bring spring football to their communities.

Growing influence of international tournaments like the FIFA World Cup and regional leagues like the UEFA Champions League as well as the CONCACAF Gold Cup has bolstered demand for high-quality football gear. The 2023 Women's World Cup has also boosted the visibility of women's football, leading to high demand for women's-specific football equipment. Increased media coverage and sponsorships in football further influence consumer purchases of football gear.

Technological Developments to Bolster Innovation in Sports Sector

Innovations in football equipment manufacturing are redefining player performance and safety standards. Novel materials, such as lightweight carbon fibers, are improving protective gear like helmets and pads, ensuring enhanced safety without compromising mobility. Companies are incorporating sensor technology into helmets to monitor impact levels, reducing concussion risks. For example,

• In November 2023, Adidas launched Predator Accuracy boots with rubberized precision zones, enhancing ball control.
• Wilson Sporting Goods was the first to offer grip technology that improved football play.

Such developments show a dedication to satisfying changing athlete demands while giving safety and performance priority in contemporary football equipment.

Market Restraining Factors

Availability of Counterfeits to Hinder Growth

Growing availability of counterfeit and imitation football merchandise poses a challenge to the market, threatening to overshadow authentic products and undermine sales of reputable manufacturers. These knockoff items not only dilute the brand's integrity but also create confusion among consumers. They may struggle to discern genuine merchandise from subpar alternatives.

Alternative sports and hobbies might draw focus away from conventional football. These include the growing popularity of esports, which appeals to a younger demographic, and fitness fads that prioritize personal well-being. The legitimacy and commercial potential of well-known football brands may eventually be threatened by this change in interest, which can result in fewer devoted supporters and buyers.

Key Market Opportunities

Rising Focus on Player Safety to Foster Growth Avenues

Increasing focus on player safety in football is driving demand for protective gear. It is also being pushed by rising awareness of the long-term effects of injuries, particularly concussions and musculoskeletal damage.

Youth sports programs like USA Football's Heads Up Football emphasize the importance of protective gear. It is leading to increased demand for padded gloves, reinforced shin guards, and custom-fit shoulder pads.

• A 2023 survey by the Sports and Fitness Industry Association revealed that 74% of parents prioritize safety features over price.

Technological developments are further shaping the market. For instance,

• In February 2024, Riddell launched its Axiom helmet with built-in sensors to track and reduce head impact exposure, appealing to both amateur and professional players.

Football protective gear is becoming a growing trend worldwide because of increased awareness, shifting regulations, and technical developments.

Customization Trend in Sports to Create Opportunities

Demand for personalized football equipment is on the rise, with younger generations prioritizing individuality and functionality.

• Custom sports gear, including football boots, accounted for over 15% of total sports merchandise sales in 2023, according to a recent study. This trend is driven by the preference for unique designs and names among professional and recreational athletes.

Technological developments like 3D printing are making it easier and cheaper to customize products.

• In March 2024, Adidas launched MiAdidas, a service that lets customers design their football shoes online. These shoes are then made using modern printing techniques.
• Nike saw success with its By You platform, which had a 22% increase in user engagement in 2023. This shows how much people enjoy customizing their products.

The safety and performance advantages of custom-fit gear, including helmets and pads, are making them popular. The sports business is seeing innovation and market development due to the increased emphasis on inclusion, which enables companies to meet the varied demands of their clientele.

Competitive Landscape for the Football Equipment Market

As competition in the market intensifies, businesses are increasingly driven to adopt a variety of expansion strategies. These strategies include launching promotional initiatives and increasing advertising budgets to enhance public awareness of their product offerings.

Companies are actively engaging with potential customers through creative marketing campaigns and targeted promotions. They aim to capture attention and differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace.

Recent Industry Developments

• In September 2024, U.S.-based Mitre and Hasbro launched a limited-edition tabletop football game called SUBBUTEO. It will include full-size and small balls, an 18-panel ball with thermally bonded seams, and Mitre as the Official Ball Provider.
• In September 2024, Germany-based Adidas introduced the Football Icons Collection, featuring replica designs from top clubs like Ajax, Arsenal, Boca Juniors, Juventus, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and River Plate.
• In July 2024, Germany-based PUMA introduced the 'Formula Pack', featuring the Ultra 5, Future 7, and King in new colorways, showcasing the brand's connection to Formula One. The Ultra 5 Carbon Edition features a carbon fiber soleplate.
• In March 2024, Adidas released a limited edition 'Roteiro' pack, marking 20 years since the iconic Roteiro OMB and Predator Pulse boots were worn at EURO 2004. The pack features a new Predator 24, a modernized Roteiro match ball, as well as players like Giacomo Raspadori and Jude Bellingham.

Football Equipment Market Report Scope

Attributes	Details
Forecast Period	2024 to 2031
Historical Data Available for	2019 to 2023
Market Analysis	US$ Billion for Value
Key Regions Covered	North America Europe East Asia South Asia and Oceania Middle East and Africa Latin America
Key Market Segments Covered	Product Type End User Sales Channel Region
Key Companies Profiled in the Report	Adidas AG Nike Inc. Under Armour, Inc. New Balance, Inc ASICS Corporation MIZUNO Corporation Lotto SpA Hummel BasicNet PUMA SE Baden Sports Inc. Diadora Spa Adams JOMA SPORT SA Lotto sport Italia Spa Schutt Sports
Report Coverage	Market Forecast and Trends Company Share Analysis Competitive Intelligence DROT Analysis Market Dynamics and Challenges Strategic Growth Initiatives
Customization and Pricing	Available upon request

Football Equipment Market Segmentation

By Product Type

• Football Shoes
• Football Jerseys
• Shorts
• Shins
• Socks
• Cleats
• Soccer Balls

By End User 

• Men
• Women
• Kids  

By Sales Channel

• Online
• Offline
  • Specialty Stores
  • Sports Shops
  • Departmental Stores
  • Discounted Stores
  • Hypermarkets/Supermarket

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• East Asia
• South Asia and Oceania
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

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