Waterproof Breathable Textiles Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Raw Material (ePTFE, Polyurethane, Polyester), By Fabric (Densely Woven, Membranes, Coated), By Application, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

Waterproof Breathable Textiles Market Trends

The global waterproof breathable textiles market size was estimated at USD 2.03 billion in 2024 and is expected to register a growth of 5.9% from 2025 to 2030. The market is expected to grow proportionally in line with the demand for comfortable and high-performance apparel over the forecast period. The usage of waterproof breathable textiles (WBT) for manufacturing sports goods is also expected to witness growth on account of increasing demand for durable and lightweight products. These fabrics provide higher performance over traditional textiles and are beneficial to consumers, particularly sports enthusiasts. Rising demand for sportswear that offers resistance to bacteria and helps reduce odor is further expected to drive the growth of waterproof breathable textiles over the forecast period.

A shift in trend toward maintaining an active lifestyle is also projected to boost the usage for waterproof breathable textiles in sportswear industry over the forecast period. Consumers are increasingly takin up fitness-related sports, such as running, walking, swimming, and cycling, owing to rise in health awareness. This has generated a high demand for sports apparel and shoes, which is expected to boost the waterproof breathable textile market over the forecast period.

Waterproof breathable textiles are designed for use in garments that provide protection from wind and rain, as well as limit the loss of body heat. Waterproof textiles completely prevents the penetration and absorption of liquid water. Furthermore, these waterproof breathable textiles are primarily used in manufacturing casual, athletic, ski, or outdoor apparel.

Outdoor recreational activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, hunting, kayaking, boating are witnessing a rising popularity in the U.S. This increasing participation rate is expected to propel the demand for protective clothing and accessories such as raincoats, windbreakers, tents, footwear in U.S. In addition, winter sports are also significant outdoor activity in the U.S. As a result, waterproof breathable textiles winter wear and protective gear such as gloves, footwear is also expected to grow at a healthy pace over the forecast period in the country.

Waterproof breathable textile membranes contain pores that are smaller than a water droplet, but larger than a water vapor molecule. As a result, these membranes prevent rain and snow from getting but allows the perspiration vapors to get out. These properties are of immense use while designing uniforms and protective gear for military and law enforcement agencies. Consequently, the growing utilization of waterproof breathable textile membranes in the production of lightweight protective gear is expected to positively influence the demand for waterproof breathable textiles in the market.

The market for waterproof breathable textiles is characterized by certain risks as it involves companies to anticipate consumer preferences. Decisions regarding product designs are often made before consumer acceptance. Manufacturers also face issues pertaining to inventory management as a result of seasonal variations in demand. Therefore, any failure to anticipate or respond to consumer preferences may have an adverse impact on waterproof breathable textile products.

Raw Material Insights

ePTFE raw material for waterproof breathable textile is expected to grow at a significant rate of 6.6% over the forecast period. A shift in consumer trend toward maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle has led to an increased demand for active sportswear. This is projected to boost the demand for textiles that assure excellent breathability, which is, in turn, projected to propel the usage for ePTFE for producing waterproof breathable textile over the forecast period. Furthermore, the growing popularity of winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating is expected to result in further segment growth.

ePTFE was the second-largest raw material in for waterproof breathable textiles market. When stretched into a thin film, PTFE can become a thin membrane with pores that are smaller than liquid water droplets. Therefore, it is impermeable to liquid water such as snow or rain. ePTFE generates a significant amount of demand from North America and Europe regions as the raw material suits specific requirement for outdoor activities in cold regions. Outdoor snow activities such as skiing and hiking under sports segment are the largest revenue generators for ePTFE.

Polyurethane material which dominated the market in 2024 with the revenue of USD 789.6 million and is further expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% over the forecast period. Polyurethane membranes & coatings are widely used to manufacture rainwear, sports garments, and accessories owing to their low cost coupled with breathable properties.

In addition, outstanding waterproofing performance and environment-friendly characteristics are the key factors driving the growth of the polyurethane segment. Growing investments in research & development, marketing, and production of polyurethane-based waterproof breathable textiles are expected to provide an additional boost to market growth.

Fabric Insights

Densely woven waterproof breathable fabrics accounted for the volume of 53.3 million square meters in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.0% on volume basis. The fabric is comprised of synthetic or cotton microfilament yarns with a compact weave structure. The fabric is highly resistant to tear and wear, on account of which the densely woven fabrics are highly preferred in heavy duty applications including industrial work wear and military.

Ventile, a popular waterproof breathable densely woven fabric originally designed in the UK, is manufactured from long staple cotton with very less inter-fiber spaces. Ventile fabrics are used in several applications including military, medical, and work wear. In the manufacturing process, combed yarns are weaved parallel to each other with no pores for water to penetrate. Furthermore, several manufacturers of breathable textiles, such as Claymore Jackets, Howies, Rainmac, Hilltrek, and Country Innovation, use Ventile in their products, thus giving growth opportunities to densely woven fabric in the market.

The membrane fabric segment in waterproof breathable textile market accounted for the revenue of USD 1.52 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a significant rate over the forecast period. Membranes are in form of thin films which are produced of polymeric material. They allow the passing of water vapor but are highly resistance to water penetration. In addition, the membrane-based textiles are highly efficient in maintaining the optimum body temperature thereby delivering superior comfort to the consumers.

Several methods are used for incorporating membrane into the textile, the method selection depends upon the processing and cost required. Furthermore, membranes are bonded to the underside of a garment's face fabric, resembling the application of wallpaper on a wall.

Application Insights

The general clothing and accessories application segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% over the forecast period. Clothing’s made from waterproof breathable textiles include jackets, t-shirts, trousers, shorts, and waders. The growing usage for waterproof breathable textile in footwear and clothing segments is projected to drive the market over the forecast period.

Rising disposable income of consumers and breathability properties offered by waterproof breathable textile are factors expected to contribute to the increasing preference for WBT in clothing and accessories over the forecast period. In addition, the growth can be attributed to lightweight, high-strength, and insulating properties of these fabrics.

The sports goods application segment dominated the market in 2024 with the revenue of USD 1.14 billion. The market is further expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% over the forecast period on account of rising awareness of various fitness activities such as cycling, aerobics and yoga among customers. Waterproof breathable textiles are highly used in production of various sports goods as they are durable and lightweight. The material also aids in managing sweat. Furthermore, the product is used in various sports goods and active wears such as trekking boots, sports jackets, running shoes, gloves and joggers.

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific waterproof breathable textiles market dominated in 2024 with the revenue of USD 870.9 million and is expected to grow at a highest CAGR of 6.6% over the forecast period. The rising popularity of indoor and outdoor sports in the region is creating huge demand for sports apparel and goods, which in turn is increasing the demand for waterproof breathable textiles in Asia Pacific.

China Waterproof Breathable Textiles Market Trends

China holds the largest revenue share in Asia Pacific for waterproof breathable textiles owing to the presence of large population coupled with rising per capita income of consumers. In addition, the country is witnessing increased demand for sports products on account of rising health concerns, is expected to boost the sports products production thus resulting in growth of the product demand in the country.

Europe Waterproof Breathable Textiles Market Trends

Europe experiences a wide range of weather conditions, from the consistently wet and cold climates of northern Europe to the milder, temperate zones in the south. These varied climates drive demand for clothing that can handle rain, snow, and fluctuating temperatures while remaining comfortable to wear. Waterproof breathable textiles are especially valued in Europe because they provide both moisture protection and breathability, making them ideal for outdoor activities, from hiking to winter sports. As a result, these textiles are widely used in jackets, trousers, footwear, and even accessories like gloves and hats designed to withstand unpredictable weather.

North America Waterproof Breathable Textiles Market Trends

North America waterproof breathable textiles market is expected to grow at a significant rate of 6.0% over the forecast period. Growing demand for the protective gear for military and law enforcement agencies is projected to boost the WBT market in the North America region. In addition, there are significant number of recreational boats and boating clubs in the region resulting in huge usage of high performance, waterproof, and breathable protective apparel and shoes. Therefore, the waterproof breathable textile shoes and protective apparel are expected to witness higher demand over the forecast period in the region.

U.S. waterproof breathable textiles market accounted for the highest revenue share of 72.8% in North America WBT market in 2024. Outdoor recreational activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, hunting, kayaking, boating are witnessing a rising popularity popular in the U.S. This increasing participation rate is expected to propel the demand for protective clothing and accessories such as raincoats, windbreakers, tents, footwear. Thus, resulting in increased demand for waterproof breathable textile in the country.

Key Waterproof Breathable Textiles Company Insights

The key players operating in the global waterproof breathable textiles market include

• eVent Fabrics, a U.S.-based company, specializes in waterproof breathable technology and is known for its unique air-permeable membranes. The company is a leader in producing high-performance fabrics that provide exceptional moisture management and breathability, making its textiles highly popular in outdoor, sports, and protective wear. eVent’s proprietary Direct Venting technology sets it apart in the market by enabling immediate breathability while keeping water out, ensuring wearers stay comfortable in all weather conditions.

• Based in Norway, Helly Hansen is a well-established brand in waterproof and outdoor apparel, recognized globally for its expertise in high-performance textiles. Founded in 1877, Helly Hansen has a longstanding history of providing durable, waterproof gear, particularly for maritime and alpine environments. The brand’s innovation, particularly in creating waterproof breathable fabrics, has made it a staple among professionals and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

HeiQ Materials AG are some of the emerging market participants in the market.

• HeiQ Materials AG, headquartered in Switzerland, is an emerging player focused on textile technology innovation, particularly in performance fabrics. Founded in 2005, HeiQ has quickly gained attention for its proprietary textile treatments that improve waterproofing, breathability, and durability. Known for its strong research foundation, HeiQ collaborates with universities and industry leaders to develop cutting-edge technologies for activewear, outdoor gear, and everyday clothing.

Recent Developments

• In September 2021, Pertex launched Pertex Shield Resolve, a more sustainable and technical waterproof breathable material. The company aims to minimize its environmental impact through responsible product and business practices while pushing the boundaries of performance fabrics. Pertex Shield Resolve Fabrics are much easier to recycle at the end of a garment’s life and can reduce the overall environmental impact of the fabric. These can also minimize the wastage of resources.

Waterproof Breathable Textile Market Report Scope

Global Waterproof Breathable Textiles Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional & country levels and provides an analysis on the industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For the purpose of this study, Grand View Research has segmented the waterproof breathable textile market on the basis of raw materials, fabric, application and region:

• Raw Material Outlook (Volume, Million Square Meters; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • ePTFE

  • Polyurethane

  • Polyester

  • Others

• Fabric Outlook (Volume, Million Square Meters; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Densely Woven

  • Membrane

  • Coated

• Application Outlook (Volume, Million Square Meters; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • General Clothing & Accessories

  • Sports Goods

  • Protective Clothing

  • Others

• Regional Outlook (Volume, Million Square Meters; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • U.K.

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

  • Asia Pacific

    • China

    • India

    • Japan

    • South Korea

    • Bangladesh

    • Vietnam

  • Central & South America

    • Brazil

  • Middle East & Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • South Africa