Trail Running Shoes Market Dynamics: Understanding The Supply Chain

The global trail running shoes market size to be valued at USD 8.9 billion by 2025 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9% during the forecast period. The rising popularity of trail running is projected to drive product demand. The increasing popularity of outdoor sports and recreational activities is anticipated to further support market growth. Rising safety concerns during off-road running have increased the demand for shoes designed specifically for trail running.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Trail Running Shoes Market

Increasing participation in trail running is anticipated to drive the demand for shoes over the forecast period. Growing female participation is also driving the demand for trail shoes. From 2014 to 2017, female participation in running increased from 22% to 34%. According to the American Trail Running Association, the majority of trail runners are in the age group 40 to 59 years, accounting for 53% of all the participants, while the age group of 20 to 39 years accounted for 34% of the participants in 2018. Also, as per the Physical Activity Council, the participation rate in outdoor activities increased from 53.9% in 2013 to 59.2% in 2018. Increasing demand for trail running shoes among participants to maintain safety and reduce the chances of injuries and fatigue is expected to drive the market in the near future.

The growing popularity of trail running events, such as Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), is also supporting the market growth. The demand for entry in this event witnessed a 68% rise from 2016 to 2019. In 2019, the event received 26,000 applications from 10,000 places. There are around 4,300 races certified and recognized by the International Trail Running Association (ITRA), and around 10,000 events take place worldwide.

Consumers prefer trail running shoes over regular running shoes owing to the build quality and trail-specific designs. These footwears are beefier to handle the rough and rugged terrain, which reduces the chances of a sprained ankle. The rugged sole offers better traction on muddy and wet trails compared to other types of footwear. Also, the growing trend of ethical consumerism is creating more opportunities for new players in the market. Projects such as Clean Run, a cross-brand open-source platform collaboration to accelerate the development of sustainable trail running shoes, are used in increasing consumer awareness.

The growing trend of ultra-trail running is driving the demand for gadgets, clothing, safety equipment, and footwear required for trail running. Ultra-trail running witnessed an average of 14% year-on-year growth over the past 25 years. The participants belonging to this group are the core consumers of trail running shoes. They prefer this type of footwear to maintain a grip over dirt, mud, gravel, roots, and rock slabs, along with minimizing foot injuries.

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Key Companies profiled:

• VF Corporation

• New Balance Athletics, Inc.

• Wolverine World Wide Inc.

• Brooks Sports, Inc.

• Adidas AG

• Nike Inc.

• Skechers U.S.A, Inc.

• Asics Group

• Deckers Outdoor Corporation

• Amer Sports

Recent Developments

• In March 2022, New Balance stated that it will expand its green leaf product variety to include some footwear, focusing on high-volume models, including colorways from two of the brand's most popular footwear brands, Fresh Foam 1080v12 and the 574. Polyester and leather are two of New Balance's most high-volume climate-impacting materials, and this program is intended to assist the company's aim of sourcing 100% preferred leather and 50% recycled polyester.

• In March 2022, Wolverine, a 139-year-old boot and clothing brand, has announced a collaboration with 343 Industries, the creators of the popular Halo franchise, to make exclusive boot inspired by the Master Chief.

• In May 2022, ASICS launched the GEL-CUMULUS 24, a flexible running shoe that provides maximum comfort for various distance runners.