Activewear sales account for 16 percent of the US apparels market and recorded a one percent growth in sales in the 12 months to June 2014, period.
Activewear sales rose one percent and accounted for $33.7 billion or 16 percent of total US garment sales which amounted to $206.3 billion between July 2013 and June 2014.
Activewear have played a significant role in the overall success of the total apparel market over the last two years, says a report of NPD Group
The top three primary uses for activewear are casual/every day use, athletic/sport/exercise, and school.
While use of activewear in athletic/sport/exercise declined during the 12 months to June 2014, school use experienced growth, the report notes.
"Activewear is booming, with sales growth exceeding that of the overall apparel market, as other than in the gym, consumers are also wearing activewear as causalwear", the report reveals.
The report adds, "Consumers are drawn to its comfort and versatility, and the fact that it also makes a fashion statement".
The activewear industry has experienced growth across all sales channels, demonstrating that its sales are not limited to athletic retailers.
"Retailers and manufacturers across the board know that activewear is active, and they all want a piece of the action," Marshal Cohen at NPD Group says.
"To truly capitalize on this ongoing trend, they need to unveil products that are colorful and unique, and fuel the activewear demand not with repetition, but with innovation and creativity", he observes.