Mountain Bike Apparel Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Top Wear, Bottom Wear, Accessories), By Product Price Range, By Distribution Channel, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Mountain Bike Apparel Market Size & Trends

The global mountain bike apparel market size was estimated at USD 3.63 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2024 to 2030. Mountain biking is a high-intensity sport that requires specific clothing and accessories to ensure safety, comfort, and performance. Mountain bike apparel provides protection from falls, collisions, and exposure to harsh weather conditions, while also offering comfort and flexibility for the rider.

Increasing participation in mountain biking has been a significant growth driver for the global market. For instance, according to a report published by AusCycling in March 2021 Mountain Bike Australia saw a 60% increase in membership over the last five years, reaching 17,625 members countrywide. As more people take up mountain biking as a recreational activity or a competitive sport, there is a higher demand for specialized gear and apparel designed to withstand the rigors of off-road cycling.

The rising popularity of mountain biking has made the market more diverse, with a wider range of products and styles available. This has led to an increase in competition among brands, resulting in new product innovations and a focus on quality and design. As a result, mountain bike apparel has become more appealing and accessible to a broader audience, contributing to the market growth. A growing focus on mountain biking and cycling tourism has also boosted the demand for appropriate apparel. For instance, according to a report by charitable organization Cycling UK in June 2020, tourism spending from cyclists and mountain bikers in the UK was approximately USD 574.8 million (£520 million).

Technological advancements have had a significant impact on the global market. New materials like moisture-wicking fabrics have made clothing more comfortable and functional. Breathable fabrics have also become popular as they allow air to circulate, keeping riders cool and dry. The use of technical fabrics has increased as they are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of mountain biking, such as rough terrain and extreme weather conditions. The development of specialized materials and fabrics has made it possible to design this kind of apparel that is lightweight, comfortable, and durable.

Customization is another popular trend in the global market. Riders want clothing and accessories that reflect their personality and style and enable them to stand out on the trail. Customization allows riders to create unique apparel that suits their preferences, whether it is color, design, or features. Moreover, sustainability has also strongly influenced the market. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of the products they use. This has led to the development of eco-friendly and sustainable apparel. Companies are using recycled materials, reducing waste, and promoting ethical and sustainable manufacturing practices. Consumers, too, are willing to pay more for products that align with their values.

The cost of superior-quality products can be significantly higher than regular outdoor clothing because of the use of specialized materials, such as breathable fabrics, moisture-wicking technology, and abrasion-resistant materials. This high cost could deter some riders from purchasing specialized clothing, restraining the market growth. Apart from this, the limited accessibility of such products restrains the market. These are specialized clothing items available only in specific regions where mountain biking is common and popular. This leaves out regions where the popularity of the sport is low, as well as an entire section of the population that is not engaged in the activity.

The development of new and innovative fabric technologies presents a significant market opportunity for mountain bike apparel manufacturers. Lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics can improve the comfort and performance of mountain bike apparel. Players who invest in the development of innovative fabric technologies that are durable and comfortable while also being affordable are expected to gain a significant competitive advantage in the market. Moreover, the growth of e-commerce presents a significant market opportunity for companies operating in the global market. An increasing number of consumers are turning to online shopping for their apparel needs. Players can reach a broader audience and increase their market share by creating a strong online presence with easy-to-use websites and robust online marketing strategies.

Market Concentration & Characteristics

The market is witnessing significant innovation, with companies focusing on advanced fabrics like moisture-wicking, breathable, and durable materials. Smart apparel integrating technology for tracking performance and ensuring safety, such as crash detection systems, is also emerging. Customizable apparel and eco-friendly materials are key innovation areas, driven by consumer demand for performance and sustainability.

Mergers and acquisitions in the mountain bike apparel sector are moderate, with leading brands seeking to enhance their market share and innovation capabilities. Larger apparel and outdoor companies often acquire smaller, niche brands to tap into their specialized knowledge, design expertise, and loyal customer bases. These activities also enable expansion into new geographical markets and product lines, leveraging the synergies of established brands.

Regulations concerning product safety standards, environmental sustainability, and labor practices influence the mountain bike apparel market. Eco-labeling requirements and sustainability certifications also increasingly impact the industry, driving companies to adopt environmentally responsible manufacturing processes.

Product substitutes for mountain bike apparel include general sportswear and outdoor apparel, which may offer similar functionality for casual cyclists. However, these substitutes often lack specialized features such as reinforced fabrics, abrasion resistance, and ergonomic designs tailored for mountain biking. Dedicated mountain bike apparel remains preferred by serious cyclists for its performance-enhancing and safety features.

Recent product launches in the global market have focused on lightweight, durable, and sustainable materials. Brands are introducing collections with advanced fabric technologies such as water-repellence, UV protection, and enhanced breathability. There is also a growing trend towards gender-specific designs and inclusive sizing, alongside technical innovations like integrated padding and protection for extreme riding conditions.

The market is seeing growth across regions, especially in North America and Europe due to a well-established biking culture. Expansion in emerging markets like Asia-Pacific is also notable, driven by rising outdoor activity trends and government initiatives promoting recreational cycling. Key brands are setting up distribution channels and local manufacturing to tap into these growing regions and cater to diverse consumer demands.

Product Insights

The top wear segment led the market with the largest revenue share of 45.9% in 2023. The top wear segment is further segmented into t-shirts & jerseys, jackets, and others. The t-shirts and jackets sub-segment accounted for 52.9% of the mountain bike top wear market. Mountain biking top wear encompasses a variety of garments designed to meet the needs of riders while cycling on weathered grounds. These garments are typically made with breathable and moisture-wicking materials that help keep the rider cool and dry, while also protecting from any external elements. In addition, there is a growing demand for mountain biking garments made with technologically advanced fabric that offer moisture-wicking, temperature regulation, and abrasion resistance. Developing and marketing high-quality materials can be lucrative in the mountain biking apparel market. Mountain biking top wear that can also be used for other outdoor activities, such as hiking or running, can appeal to consumers looking for versatile and multifunctional clothing options. This can be an opportunity to expand product offerings and reach a wider audience.

The accessories segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 6.3% over the forecast period. Mountain biking accessories consist of gloves, socks, and hats, among others. Mountain bikers wear gloves that are distinct from the gloves worn by road cyclists due to two main features: padding and finger coverage. While road bike grips lack padding, the padded feature is optional for mountain bike grips. Padded gloves can provide additional comfort if the riders go a long way. However, gloves without padding are lighter, cooler, and offer a better bar feel, particularly useful when navigating steep, fast, or technical descents.

Product Price Range Insights

Based on product price range, the top wear segment led the market with the largest revenue share of 46.4% in 2023. The top wear segment is further segmented into Up to USD 50, USD 51 to 100, USD 101 to 150, and Above USD 150. Mountain bike top wear ranging from USD 51 to 100 accounted for a share of 41.8% in 2023. The brand plays a critical role in determining its price, with established and well-known brands commanding higher prices due to their reputation for quality and performance. On the other hand, lesser-known or new brands offer similar products at a lower price point to attract customers. The type and quality of materials used in the construction of the top wear apparel are also important determinants of price. Technical fabrics that provide moisture-wicking, breathability, and UV protection may be more expensive than basic cotton blends. Yeti Cycles, 7mesh, and POC Sports are some brands that offer mountain bike top wear apparel in the price range of USD 51 to USD 100. These companies use dynamic pricing to attract customers. Some start-up brands that use penetration pricing to attract customers also fall under this category.

The accessories segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 6.3% over the forecast period. Gloves, socks, and hats are important mountain bike accessories that can improve a rider's comfort, grip, and protection while riding. Gloves provide a better grip on the handlebars and often come with padded palms to provide protection in case of a fall. They are generally made with breathable materials. Socks are made of moisture-wicking and cushioning materials to keep feet dry, reduce fatigue, and prevent blisters. Hats provide protection from the sun, wind, and rain, are often made with lightweight and breathable materials, and have adjustable straps and built-in visors or brims. These accessories are essential for improving a mountain biker's overall riding experience, performance, and safety.

Distribution Channel Insights

Based on distribution channel, the specialty stores segment led the market with the largest revenue share of 65.6% in 2023. Specialty stores are a widespread distribution channel for these products. These stores cater specifically to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and carry a wide range of products, including mountain biking apparel, accessories, and equipment. Mountain biking apparel brands can benefit from partnering with specialty stores to reach their target audience. However, competition for shelf space can be intense in specialty stores, and brands must be able to differentiate themselves from their competitors and offer high-quality products that meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. In addition, brands may need to work with distributors or have a robust online presence to supplement their in-store sales.

The online segment is projected at the fastest CAGR of 6.5% over the forecast period. With the rise of e-commerce, more and more consumers are choosing to shop online for their sporting goods, including mountain biking apparel. In addition, brands may need to invest in marketing and advertising to increase their visibility online and drive sales. Online distribution channels offer a variety of benefits for mountain biking apparel brands. These channels allow brands to reach a wider audience and increase sales through the convenience and ease of online shopping.

Regional Insights

The mountain bike apparel market in North America is projected to grow at a significant CAGR of 4.5% from 2024 to 2030. The market growth in North America is driven by increasing participation in outdoor and adventure sports, alongside innovations in apparel technology such as moisture-wicking, durable, and protective gear. The Outdoor Foundation reported that 15.9% of Americans and 24.6% of American youth participate in various types of biking, including mountain, road, and motocross (BMX). However, the report highlights a lack of diversity in the sport, as 74.3% of participants are Caucasian.

U.S. Mountain Bike Apparel Market Trends

The mountain bike apparel market in the U.S. is projected to grow at a substantial CAGR of 4.1% from 2024 to 2030. The U.S. market is driven by increasing participation in outdoor activities, with mountain biking growing as a popular recreational and fitness sport. Technological advancements in apparel, such as moisture-wicking fabrics, enhanced durability, and protective gear, are catering to the performance needs of riders.

Europe Mountain Bike Apparel Market Trends

Europe dominated the mountain bike apparel market with the revenue share of 36.0% in 2023. Cycling tourism is on the rise in Europe as more individuals become health-conscious and seek active vacation options. Mountain bike tourism has gained wide popularity among cycling enthusiasts and adventure seekers in Europe as mountain biking involves varying levels of difficulty and expertise-from beautiful routes to extreme mountain riding activities. The growing participation in mountain biking activities has increased the need for mountain biking apparel such as jerseys and jackets, waterproof trousers, gloves, and cycling socks in Europe, encouraging specialized merchants and brands to produce apparel and equipment for meeting the needs of mountain bike riders. Several companies provide a variety of high-quality items specifically developed to offer durability, breathability, and moisture-wicking capabilities.

Asia Pacific Mountain Bike Apparel Market Trends

The mountain bike apparel market in Asia Pacific is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 6.0% over the forecast period. The Asia Pacific market covers clothing and accessories designed to cater to mountain bikers in the region. This includes cycling shorts, gloves, helmets, shoes, protective gear, and jerseys. Factors such as location, terrain, weather conditions, energy exertion, and heat generation are carefully considered by designers to ensure safety and comfort. One crucial element of the design is the implementation of a layered clothing system that enables the efficient transfer of liquid sweat and water vapor from the body to the surrounding environment. This system comprises base-, mid-, and outer-shell layers, each with unique characteristics that enhance performance, durability, and comfort. Sustainable materials, construction, and garment design principles are also important considerations for apparel manufacturers. Innovation in the Asia Pacific  market can drive advancements in the industry by incorporating new technologies, fabrics, and materials to enhance performance and sustainability while ensuring apparel’s functionality and comfort. 

Key Mountain Bike Apparel Company Insights

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 & acquisitions, global expansion, and others.

Recent Developments

• In May 2024, Fox Racing launched a new lineup for mountain bike products including shoes, helmets, and riding gear. The newly launched product line includes bold and bright options along with subtle pastel colors.

• In April 2024, Outdoor Research announced the launch of mountain bike apparel lineup- the eight-piece Freewheel MTB Collection along with athlete lineup. The mountain bike apparel lineup includes shorts, long-sleeve and short-sleeve jersey, hoodie, gloves, and backpack.

• In February 2023, The SCOTT-SRAM MTB racing team announced that it will be equipped by Scott Sports. SCOTT-SRAM possesses a similar ethos to that of SCOTT, characterized by a continuous pursuit to push boundaries in innovation, technology, and design. This collaboration was aimed at providing several growth opportunities for the brand.

• In August 2022, Patagonia launched its Fall 2022 collection, which includes updated pieces from its Dirt Roamer series focused on mountain biking. The company upgraded its fabrics for better performance, adding new color options to help increase the brand’s popularity among competitors.

• In May 2022, Dakine, a well-respected brand for outdoor adventure gear, announced the launch of the Carson Storch Signature Series, a collection of two apparel and accessory items designed for male riders. In partnership with professional mountain biker and Dakine team rider, Carson Storch, the series included a long-sleeved, high-tech bike jersey and lightweight, moisture-wicking gloves specifically crafted for gravity-inspired mountain biking

Mountain Bike Apparel Market Report Scope

Global Mountain Bike Apparel Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segment from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global mountain bike apparel market report based on product, product price range, distribution channel, and region:

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Top Wear

    • T-shirts & Jerseys

    • Jackets

    • Other

  • Bottom Wear

    • Shorts

    • Liners

    • Bibs

    • Tights & Pants

  • Accessories

• Product Price Range Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Top Wear

    • Up to USD 50

    • USD 51 to 100

    • USD 101 to 150

    • Above USD 150

  • Bottom Wear

    • Up to USD 50

    • USD 51 to 100

    • USD 101 to 150

    • Above USD 150

  • Accessories

    • Up to USD 50

    • USD 51 to 100

    • USD 101 to 150

    • Above USD 150

• Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Hypermarkets & Supermarkets

  • Specialty Stores

    • Bicycle Specialty Stores

    • Others

  • Online

  • Others

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • Japan

    • India

    • Australia

  • Central & South America

    • Brazil

  • Middle East & Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • South Africa