Hey there, fitness pros, yoga studio owners, and activewear retailers! If you’re in the business of outfitting folks for workouts or casual vibes, you’ve probably heard this question: Are sneakers activewear? It’s a fair one, especially when your customers—gym-goers, yogis, and everyday athletes—want gear that’s functional, stylish, and versatile. As a manufacturer of custom wholesale activewear, we get it: you need to know how sneakers fit into the activewear puzzle to keep your offerings on point. In this guide, I’m diving deep into why sneakers are absolutely part of the activewear family, why they matter for your business, and how to pick the right ones for your clients. Plus, I’ll throw in some fresh ideas, like the rise of smart sneakers, to keep your brand ahead of the curve. Let’s lace up and get started!
Featured Snippet: Are Sneakers Considered Activewear?
Sneakers are indeed considered activewear. Activewear includes clothing and footwear designed for sports, exercise, and outdoor activities. Sneakers, such as running shoes or cross-trainers, provide support, cushioning, and grip, making them essential for activities like running, gym workouts, or yoga. Industry reports, like those from Market Research Future, confirm that footwear accounts for a significant chunk of the global activewear market, valued at $130 billion in 2024. For gyms, yoga studios, and retailers, offering sneakers alongside apparel meets customer demand for complete, functional, and stylish activewear solutions.
What Exactly Is Activewear?
Let’s clear the air: activewear isn’t just leggings and sports bras. It’s a broad category of clothing and footwear built for physical activities—think gym sessions, trail runs, or even a quick yoga flow. According to tasc Performance, activewear covers “clothing designed for sports, exercise, and outdoor activities,” but the modern definition stretches to include shoes and accessories like gym bags or yoga mats.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what activewear typically includes:
- Clothing: Think moisture-wicking leggings, breathable tanks, supportive sports bras, and cozy hoodies.
- Footwear: Running shoes, training sneakers, hiking boots—you name it.
- Accessories: Yoga mats, water bottles, or gym bags that scream “I’m ready to move.”
Now, you might hear terms like sportswear or athleisure thrown around, and they can muddy the waters. Sportswear is often more specific, designed for particular sports (like soccer cleats), while activewear is broader, covering both workouts and casual wear. Athleisure? That’s activewear’s trendy cousin, blending gym-ready gear with street style for coffee runs or Netflix marathons . Sneakers, though? They fit snugly into activewear and athleisure, making them a must-have for your inventory.
Why does this matter? Because your customers want a one-stop shop. Whether they’re hitting the treadmill or strolling through town, they’re looking for gear that works hard and looks good. Sneakers bridge that gap, and leaving them out of your activewear lineup could mean missing out on sales.
Are Sneakers Really Activewear?
Alright, let’s tackle the big question: Are sneakers activewear? Spoiler alert: yes, absolutely. Here’s why you should be nodding along:
- Industry Says So: The experts agree—sneakers are a core part of activewear. Wikipedia defines activewear (or sportswear) as “clothing, including footwear, worn for sport or physical exercise.” Market reports back this up, with Allied Market Research listing footwear as a key segment of the activewear market.
- Big Brands Are All In: Take a look at the heavyweights like Nike, Adidas, or Under Armour—they’ve been pairing sneakers with their activewear lines forever. Even Lululemon, the yoga apparel guru, jumped into the sneaker game in 2022 with women’s footwear and expanded to men’s in 2024 . If Lululemon’s betting on sneakers, you know they’re a big deal.
- Market Numbers Don’t Lie: The global activewear market was worth $367.9 billion in 2024, with footwear making up a hefty $130 billion of that pie, per Market Research Future. By 2035, that footwear slice is expected to hit $170 billion. Sneakers aren’t just tagging along—they’re driving growth.
Beyond the stats, sneakers are activewear because they work. They’re built to support your feet during sprints, squats, or sun salutations, while also looking cool enough to wear to brunch. For your customers, that versatility is gold. They’re not just buying shoes—they’re buying performance and style in one package.
Why Sneakers Matter for Your Activewear Business
If you’re running a gym, yoga studio, or retail shop, sneakers aren’t just an add-on—they’re a game-changer. Here’s why you should make room for them in your activewear offerings:
They Boost Performance and Safety
Sneakers are designed to keep your customers moving safely. Running shoes, for example, absorb impact to prevent shin splints or stress fractures . Cross-trainers offer stability for lateral movements in HIIT classes, while minimalist shoes give yogis the grip and flexibility they need. By stocking the right sneakers, you’re helping your clients perform better and stay injury-free, which builds trust in your brand.
They Meet Customer Expectations
Your customers want convenience. They don’t want to shop for leggings at one store and hunt for shoes somewhere else. Research shows over 85% of sneakers are worn for non-sport activities, like casual outings . That means your clients are looking for sneakers that can do double duty—gym sessions and grocery runs. Offering a full activewear package, including sneakers, makes you their go-to spot.
They Open New Revenue Streams
Sneakers can be a profit booster. Gyms can set up retail corners to sell branded sneakers, while yoga studios can partner with activewear brands to offer exclusive styles. Retailers? You’re already in the game—adding sneakers to your racks is a no-brainer. Lululemon’s sneaker launch boosted their market share, proving that footwear can elevate your brand’s appeal . Don’t sleep on this opportunity.
Top Sneaker Trends to Watch in 2025
The activewear world moves fast, and sneakers are no exception. Here are the trends you should be ready to capitalize on in 2025:
- Eco-Friendly Kicks: Sustainability is huge. Customers want sneakers made from recycled polyester, organic cotton, or other green materials. Puma’s SEASONS line, for instance, uses 100% recyclable materials, setting the bar high . Stocking sustainable sneakers shows your clients you care about the planet.
- Smart Sneakers: Tech is sneaking into sneakers (pun intended). Think shoes with sensors that track steps, distance, or even gait. Nike’s Adapt BB with auto-lacing tech is a prime example . These high-tech kicks appeal to fitness buffs and gadget geeks alike.
- Fashion-Forward Designs: Sneakers are as much about style as function. Expect bold colors, funky patterns, and collabs with fashion houses in 2025 . Versatile sneakers that pair with leggings or jeans will fly off your shelves.
| Trend | What’s Hot | Brands to Watch |
|---|---|---|
| Eco-Friendly Kicks | Recycled materials, low-impact production | Puma, Adidas |
| Smart Sneakers | Sensors, auto-lacing, health tracking | Nike, Under Armour |
| Fashion-Forward | Bold colors, unique patterns, designer collabs | Lululemon, Adidas |
How to Pick the Perfect Sneakers for Your Customers
Not all sneakers are created equal, so let’s talk about how to choose the right ones for your clients’ needs. Here’s a quick guide:
- For Running: Go for running shoes with solid cushioning and support tailored to foot type (overpronator, neutral, etc.). Lightweight designs with good traction prevent injuries like shin splints . Think Nike Pegasus or Brooks Ghost.
- For Gym Workouts: Cross-training shoes are your best bet. They’re stable for lateral moves, durable for lifting, and versatile for cardio. Adidas Trainers or Reebok Nanos are solid picks .
- For Yoga or Pilates: Minimalist or barefoot-style shoes offer grip and flexibility for poses. Vibram FiveFingers or Lululemon’s Cityverse work great here.
- For Everyday Wear: Fashion sneakers that pair with activewear or casual outfits are a hit. Look for comfy, stylish options like Adidas Stan Smiths or Lululemon’s casual kicks.
| Activity | Best Sneaker Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Running | Running Shoes (e.g., Nike Pegasus) | Cushioning, support, traction |
| Gym Workouts | Cross-Trainers (e.g., Adidas Trainer) | Stability, durability, versatility |
| Yoga/Pilates | Minimalist (e.g., Vibram FiveFingers) | Grip, flexibility, lightweight |
| Everyday Wear | Fashion Sneakers (e.g., Lululemon Cityverse) | Comfort, style, versatility |
Pro tip: Stock a range of sneakers to cover all bases. Your customers will thank you for the variety, and you’ll keep them coming back.
The Future of Activewear: Why Smart Sneakers Are the Next Big Thing
Here’s where things get exciting. The future of activewear is all about tech, and smart sneakers are leading the charge. These aren’t your average kicks—they’re packed with sensors, gyroscopes, and Bluetooth to track everything from steps to stride patterns. Startups like FeetMe are making waves with smart shoes for sports and health monitoring . Imagine offering your gym clients sneakers that sync with an app to analyze their workouts or suggest form tweaks. That’s next-level engagement.
On top of that, 3D printing is revolutionizing sneaker production. Adidas’ FutureCraft 4D, made with 3D-printed midsoles, offers custom comfort and performance . For your business, stocking or customizing smart sneakers could set you apart. You could even partner with tech brands to create exclusive designs for your gym or studio. It’s a bold move, but it’s the kind of innovation that keeps customers buzzing.
Wrapping It Up
So, are sneakers activewear? You bet they are. From supporting sweaty gym sessions to turning heads on the street, sneakers are a cornerstone of the activewear world. For your business—whether you’re running a gym, yoga studio, or retail shop—offering sneakers alongside your apparel is a smart play. They boost performance, meet customer demands, and open new revenue streams. Plus, with trends like sustainable materials, smart tech, and fashion-forward designs heating up, now’s the time to double down on sneakers.
As a custom activewear manufacturer, we’re here to help you build a killer lineup. Think high-quality sneakers and apparel that scream performance and style, all tailored to your brand. Ready to level up? Let’s talk about creating a collection that keeps your customers moving and your business thriving.