From Friday night pickleball games to Saturday afternoon hikes, sports and outdoor recreation engagement is at an all-time high. As interest grows, so does the need for on-trend gear to support active lifestyles. It’s an exciting time to capitalize on consumers’ desire for all things sports and create memorable branded merchandise that embraces both sports and fashion. In this All for Sport guide, explore the 2025 trends shaping branded apparel and promotional products so you can attract and engage sports-savvy audiences.
Whether participating, attending, or watching events from their homes or phones, consumers have fallen in love with the allure and excitement of athletic achievement.
In 2024 alone, over 175 million Americans got outside, according to The Outdoor Industry Association (OIA). Notably, over half of American women are now participating in outdoor adventures, and LGBTQ+ individuals make up the most active population of outdoor enthusiasts.
PwC research shows fans are increasingly watching or attending women’s sports, from tennis and soccer to Olympic events. Younger, wealthier, and more tech-savvy than the average sports fan, this crowd uses social media daily and will happily buy apparel at games.
With events like the UEFA Euro 2024, the Paris Olympics, and the inaugural 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, soccer continues to be a popular sport for people of all ages. Amid the dribbling, passing, and goals, fans are likely to buy jerseys and other branded apparel.
Dubbed “racketeering” by Globetrender in its Luxury Travel Trend Watch 2025 report, the urge to pick up a racket is real and growing. The Association of Pickleball Professionals reports that over 48 million U.S. adults have played the sport at least once. Meanwhile, padel boasts 30 million amateur players globally, according to the International Padel Federation. Tour companies are even organizing racketeering vacations, with many resorts adding courts, tournaments, and clinics.
In a move toward “soft adventure,” many people participate in outdoor activities like backpacking, camping, hiking, and snowshoeing that appeal to people of all ages and skill levels. Others seek opportunities to socialize, with run clubs and hiking groups gaining popularity through Facebook groups, Meetup.com, and other digital platforms.
Growing interest in esports has fans flocking to streaming and social media platforms, including Amazon’s Twitch, Google’s YouTube Gaming, TikTok, X, and Kick. Sports Business Journal reports global viewership of esports content has topped 2.76 billion hours annually.
People will travel for sports! According to the 2025 Hilton Trends Report, the hotel brand’s revenue tripled in volume from 2019 to 2024, primarily due to youth or amateur sports. Additionally, in 2024, travelers cashed in over 4.6 million Hilton Honors Points for a luxury Las Vegas Grand Prix experience — the most redeemed for any Hilton Honors Experiences package.
Whether for style or function, people are embracing sporty looks and brands that encourage active lifestyles. Here are some key trends to know as you plan purposeful promotions in 2025.
Many boomers and casual outdoors-people are pursuing the health benefits of getting outside, from improved mental health to physical fitness. To meet their needs, equipment and apparel must be comfortable, easy to use, and inclusive of all body types. Merchandise may include starter equipment and social-focused gear, such as custom tennis shoes or run club equipment, portable packs, healthy snacks, and sports headphones.
Gear should be lightweight and versatile enough to transition from desk to date night to travel. Think hiking backpacks with laptop storage, travel-friendly carry-ons, and other on-the-go products that work well across activities.
Many “soft” adventures serve as entry points to other outdoor activities. “Starter packs” filled with safety gear, apparel, equipment, and consumables can help them get started with hiking, camping, kayaking, and other activities.
There’s a growing focus on smart wearables and AI to engage users and enhance performance. For example, Nike has added sensors to its apparel and footwear to give real-time feedback — detecting users’ movements and automatically adjusting the fit for support and comfort. The brand’s AI-powered apps also use data insights to suggest enhancements to users’ workout routines.
Popular branded apparel and merchandise in this category may include smart watches, sensors, and other high-tech gadgets and features. Additionally, for esports enthusiasts, consider gaming-friendly keyboards, chairs, and other merchandise that engages fans.
Whether participating in sports or observing from afar, consumers want to look the part. The following core aesthetics influence how people dress, move, and present themselves on social media.
Mountains and hiking trails are optional for those embracing gorpcore, which blends utilitarian, outdoorsy apparel with street styles. Popular brands include Arc'teryx, Carhartt, The North Face, and Patagonia, with looks that include high hiking socks, cargo and utility pants or bags, athletic sunglasses, earthy colors like blues and greens, and sling or drinkware bags. Additionally, consumers want ethically sourced products that incorporate sustainability features like nontoxic and biodegradable materials.
Inspired by British “blokes” (men), blokecore mixes UK football looks with streetwear and incorporates unisex styling. Defining pieces include track pants and jackets, sporty bags and drinkware, striped rugby shirts and polos, and Adidas trainers and apparel.
The equestrian aesthetic includes polished riding jackets, Carhartt barn jackets, cardigans, riding boots, belts, cable-knit sweaters, and form-fitting pants (jodhpurs). Don’t forget the cow prints and plaid!
The Sukeban Japanese women’s pro-wrestling league is a nod to the historic Japanese subculture of the same name. Fans attending live or via livestream platforms love the league’s anime-inspired costumes, including glossy bomber jackets in bright colors, faux fur, funky socks, and distressed items.
As sports, fashion, and technology intersect in 2025, now is the ideal time to leverage modern trends. The growing interest in sports — whether through social clubs, soft adventures, or traditional activities — can help inform your branded merchandise and apparel choices. With the right products, you can delight your audience with stylish, functional, innovative gear they’ll actually use.
At Boundless, we’re not just your source for all your branded merchandise needs — we’re also your partners in curating impactful promotional products that leave lasting impressions. To learn more and get started, explore our 2025 Trending Lookbook, and reach out to Boundless today for personalized guidance and recommendations in the All for Sport category.