Tennis Shoes Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends And Forecast (2025 - 2030)

Global Tennis Shoes Market Trends and Insights

Pandemic-era surge in new and returning players

In 2025, the U.S. saw a surge in participants, reaching 25.7 million, marking an 8% increase and continuing a five-year growth trend^{[2]Source: United States Tennis Association,"U.S. tennis participation surges to new high of 25.7 million players following five consecutive years of growth", www.usta.com}. This consistent rise highlights the growing popularity and sustained interest in the activity, driven by increased accessibility and engagement across various demographics. Core players, defined as those who engage more frequently, rose to 13 million, reflecting a deepening commitment among enthusiasts and a growing base of dedicated participants. Total annual play sessions reached 575 million, which not only underscores the activity's widespread appeal but also contributed to more frequent footwear replacements, benefiting the associated product market and driving sales across multiple categories. The demographic landscape also expanded: 40% of U.S. participants identified as people of color, indicating a broader appeal that fuels volume growth across various price tiers. This diversification demonstrates the activity's ability to attract participants from different backgrounds, further driving market expansion and solidifying its position as a key driver of growth in the industry.

Shift toward athleisure and everyday wear of tennis silhouettes

Footwear, once confined to the court, now struts confidently on city streets. Nike's "Athlete Imagined Revolution" initiative harnessed AI to craft a dragon-patterned hard-court shoe in collaboration with pro player Zheng Qinwen, merging cultural narratives with technical precision. This innovative approach not only highlights the fusion of advanced technology and athlete insights but also underscores the growing trend of integrating performance-oriented designs with lifestyle appeal. By blending cultural storytelling with cutting-edge functionality, Nike has successfully created a product that resonates with both athletes and fashion-conscious consumers. Such lifestyle partnerships not only broaden the appeal beyond just active athletes but also elevate average selling prices in fashion-centric markets, catering to a wider consumer base seeking both functionality and style. Additionally, these collaborations help brands tap into new demographics, driving growth in both the performance and lifestyle footwear segments. The ability to seamlessly transition from sports performance to everyday fashion has positioned Nike to capitalize on the increasing demand for versatile footwear, further strengthening its market presence and competitive edge.

Rising participation of women and juniors in licensed competitions

The ITF allocated USD 35.3 million for its 2025 World Tennis Tour, designating USD 20.7 million specifically for women's events and ensuring hospitality support at pivotal tournaments to enhance player experience, improve tournament standards, and attract higher participation. This strategic investment aims to strengthen the global tennis ecosystem by fostering inclusivity, competitiveness, and greater opportunities for female athletes. By mandating hospitality support, the ITF seeks to create a more professional and appealing environment for players, which could lead to higher retention and performance levels. The WTA's introduction of new events and increased prize money led to a 15% surge in attendance in 2024, with the global audience surpassing 1 billion viewers. This significant growth in visibility is not only enhancing the sport's global appeal but also driving increased spending on equipment, particularly among female and youth demographics. These groups are increasingly engaging with tennis, both recreationally and professionally, as the sport becomes more accessible and aspirational. The growing interest in tennis among these segments is expected to contribute to the sport's long-term growth and sustainability. Additionally, this trend is encouraging brands and manufacturers to innovate and cater to the evolving needs of these emerging consumer groups. The combination of strategic investments by governing bodies and the rising popularity of tennis among diverse demographics is likely to create a ripple effect, boosting participation rates, viewership, and associated markets such as sports equipment and apparel.

Hard-court surface dominance in new facility construction

Facility planners are increasingly opting for acrylic hard courts due to their efficient drainage capabilities, lower maintenance costs, and ability to provide consistent playing conditions compared to grass or clay surfaces. These courts are highly durable and require less upkeep, making them a cost-effective and practical choice for sports facilities. Technical guidelines provided by Tennis Queensland emphasize the necessity of compliance with ITF standards, ensuring that these courts meet international quality and performance benchmarks. Furthermore, the ability of acrylic hard courts to support year-round play enhances their attractiveness, as they can withstand varying weather conditions without compromising functionality. This growing preference has also driven the demand for abrasion-resistant outsoles and advanced lateral-support technologies, which are critical for ensuring player safety, comfort, and optimal performance on such surfaces.

Price-sensitive consumers trading down amid inflation

Rising logistics costs and a surge in U.S. import duties on footwear, which leapt from 14.5% to 30.6%, are significantly squeezing brand margins. This challenge is exacerbated by the fact that 99% of tennis shoes are manufactured overseas, making brands heavily reliant on imports. Surveys indicate that 58% of consumers would pivot to more affordable alternatives if retail prices were to increase by 10-20%. This consumer behavior trend forces brands to carefully navigate the trade-off between introducing premium innovations and expanding value-oriented product lines to maintain competitiveness and market share. Additionally, the increased costs and shifting consumer preferences are compelling brands to reassess their supply chain strategies, explore cost optimization measures, and invest in localized production capabilities to mitigate risks associated with import dependency. Brands are also focusing on leveraging advanced technologies, such as automation and digital tools, to streamline operations and reduce production costs. Furthermore, they are exploring partnerships with regional suppliers to diversify sourcing and minimize the impact of fluctuating import duties. These strategic adjustments are becoming critical for sustaining profitability and meeting evolving consumer demands in a highly competitive market.

Intense competition from running and lifestyle sneakers

Fashion-forward shoppers are being lured away from traditional court silhouettes by running specialists. In 2024, On Holding, capitalizing on its Roger-branded series that seamlessly melds performance with lifestyle, reported a revenue of USD 2.5 billion, marking a notable 30% growth. The Roger series has successfully positioned itself as a versatile product line, appealing to both athletes and casual consumers by combining cutting-edge technology with stylish designs. This growth highlights the increasing consumer demand for products that offer both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The success of On Holding underscores the importance of aligning product innovation with evolving consumer preferences, particularly in bridging the gap between performance and lifestyle. In light of this, tennis brands are urged to pivot, emphasizing more pronounced court-specific advantages, integrating advanced performance features, and rejuvenating their styling to remain competitive in the evolving market landscape.

Segment Analysis

By Product Type: Hard-court designs steer innovation

In 2024, hard court tennis shoes command a dominant 49.51% share of the global tennis shoe market, underscoring the widespread adoption of hard court surfaces in both professional and recreational arenas. The year-round playability and relatively low maintenance of hard courts have made them the top choice for both facility managers and players. Guidelines from organizations like Tennis Queensland emphasize these advantages, solidifying hard courts' status as the preferred option for tennis venues. In response, brands have rolled out advanced, surface-specific footwear, harnessing innovations such as Nike’s Athlete Imagined Revolution project. Notably, star players like Zheng Qinwen have teamed up with designers to prototype her hard-court shoe, featuring dragon scale patterns for enhanced stability and grip. As skill levels and competitive intensity rise, both elite and recreational players increasingly prioritize these targeted performance features. This continuous refinement of hard-court shoes not only solidifies brands' market dominance but also aligns with the evolving demands of global consumers.

While hard-court shoes lead the market, grass-court tennis shoes are rapidly gaining ground, with projections indicating a robust 6.64% CAGR expansion through 2030. This surge is largely attributed to the historical prestige of tournaments like Wimbledon, which continue to set the benchmark for grass court play. Brands position their grass court shoes as premium, high-performance products, allowing them to command a premium price. The allure of renowned grass court events draws in a segment of players eager to emulate professional standards. Coupled with the shoes’ specialized technology, this allure enables brands to enjoy higher profit margins. Furthermore, driven by initiatives like Nike’s AI-centric design approach, advancements in material science, and customization are accelerating the evolution of grass court shoes to cater to elite athletes' specific performance needs. The aspirational allure of grass court play, paired with continuous product innovation, propels this footwear segment's steady growth. As brands increasingly focus on customization and performance differentiation, those addressing the unique challenges of grass surfaces stand poised to reap significant rewards in this burgeoning market.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By End-User: Women's Segment Accelerates Growth

In 2024, men dominate the tennis shoe market, making up 52.54% of total sales. This trend is bolstered by long-standing participation patterns and brand strategies tailored to male players. Manufacturers emphasize performance innovations and diverse collections that resonate with men's preferences, driving strong demand from both casual and competitive players. Men's tennis maintains a prominent position in the global sports arena, with major tournaments and sponsorships sustaining consumer interest. While men currently lead in market share, their entrenched enthusiasm and structural advantages solidify this dominance. Furthermore, the men's segment offers brands a dependable sales avenue and consistent consumer engagement with new product launches.

On the other hand, the women's segment is emerging as the fastest-growing, with an anticipated CAGR of 6.34% through 2030. This surge is fueled by pivotal shifts in women's tennis, highlighted by the WTA's landmark 2025 season, boasting 51 tournaments in 26 countries and rising prize money. The ITF's strategic USD 35.3 million investment, with a notable USD 20.7 million earmarked for women's events, is paving the way for increased participation and a surge in equipment sales, from grassroots to elite levels. Programs like the USTA Billie Jean King Girls' Championships are enhancing junior pathways to professional play, boosting equipment demand among young female athletes. Brands such as Adidas are capitalizing on this momentum, collaborating with female student-athletes through NIL agreements. This not only provides authentic role models but also amplifies tennis's appeal to women through representation and mentorship. Recognizing women's growing interest in tennis, their direct participation, and their significant influence on household purchasing decisions, the women's market segment is set for remarkable growth, unveiling vast opportunities for brands and stakeholders.

By Category: Premium propositions gain share

In 2024, mass-market tennis footwear lines dominated the revenue landscape, seizing a commanding 67.51% share. Their widespread accessibility resonates with a diverse player base, from casual enthusiasts to dedicated recreational players. These lines prioritize everyday needs, delivering reliable performance without the premium price tag. Their omnipresence across retail channels bolsters strong volume sales, solidifying their role as the backbone of the tennis shoe market. By emphasizing comfort, durability, and general performance, these offerings cater to consumers who value versatility over niche features. As a result, mass-market products not only stabilize the market but also bolster the sport's growing global player base, ensuring they remain the leading revenue source.

On the other hand, the premium segment is on a rapid ascent, projected to grow at an annual rate of 6.77%. This surge is driven by players' heightened demand for specialized features, including advanced cushioning, torsion control, and eco-friendliness. Brands like ASICS are at the forefront, showcasing innovations such as the EUR 250 NEOCURVE sneaker, underscoring the trend of sustainability-led premiumization. Furthermore, luxury collaborations are pushing market boundaries; a prime example being New Balance’s tie-up with high-fashion Miu Miu, resulting in limited-edition 530 SL models fetching over USD 1,000. These partnerships meld court heritage with exclusivity, marrying performance with high-fashion allure. The premium tier's growth is reshaping supply chains, with a noticeable pivot towards bio-based foams and recycled yarns. Yet, the quest for high-grade recycled TPU poses challenges, leading to production bottlenecks and curbing the segment's rapid scalability.

By Distribution Channel: Online Acceleration Challenges Traditional Retail

In 2024, offline retail stores dominate tennis footwear sales, commanding a robust 69.25% market share. This dominance highlights the tactile nature of tennis shoes, where players prioritize fit, comfort, and direct product comparisons for optimal performance and injury prevention. Specialty tennis stores play a pivotal role, offering expert fitting and advice, especially valued by serious and competitive players. The in-person shopping experience fosters trust, allowing customers to engage with knowledgeable staff, underscoring the significance of brick-and-mortar outlets. Retailers capitalize on these advantages, providing exclusive in-store services and nurturing local tennis communities. Consequently, offline retailers remain the cornerstone of the market, catering to customers who seek precise fittings, immediate product access, and expert guidance tailored to specific court surfaces and playing styles.

On the other hand, online retail channels are witnessing the most rapid growth, with a projected CAGR of 6.13% through 2030. This e-commerce boom is fueled by enhanced digital experiences and direct-to-consumer strategies from major brands like Nike and PUMA. In fiscal 2024, Nike's direct-to-consumer revenues climbed 6% to $5.7 billion, while PUMA's direct sales leaped 16.6%, constituting 27.5% of its total revenue, highlighting the channel's strategic significance for margin growth and customer relationship enhancement. Online platforms are rolling out advanced personalization and customization features: Nike's AI-driven Athlete Imagined Revolution project hints at a future of tailored product recommendations and designs based on individual player styles and surface preferences. This digital evolution empowers brands to innovate, broaden their audience reach, and swiftly adapt to changing consumer preferences, all while maintaining vital relationships with retailers who provide the expert fitting and local insights that discerning tennis footwear buyers depend on.

Geography Analysis

In 2024, North America commanded a 34.68% revenue share, largely driven by the United States' approximately 27,000 courts, which keep the footwear turnover brisk^{[3]Source: United States Tennis Association,"U.S. tennis participation surges to new high of 25.7 million players following five consecutive years of growth", www.usta.com}. The USTA's commitment of USD 10 million in grants for facility upgrades not only ensures a steady demand for replacements but also bolsters premium sales in affluent metropolitan areas. These investments are expected to enhance the quality and accessibility of tennis facilities, further driving participation rates. Meanwhile, Canada and Mexico are witnessing a boost in grassroots participation, thanks to club expansions and school-based programs that aim to introduce tennis to younger demographics and foster long-term engagement with the sport.

Asia-Pacific is set to lead with a robust 6.35% CAGR through 2030, buoyed by the ITF's tally of 35.3 million players in the region. With infrastructure investments in China and India leaning towards hard-court constructions, there's a heightened demand for durable shoes designed to withstand intensive use. Additionally, rising incomes in the middle class and proactive government wellness campaigns are driving up unit volumes by encouraging more individuals to adopt tennis as a recreational activity. Coupled with this, regional manufacturing hubs are slashing freight costs, enabling brands to swiftly replenish their stocks and maintain competitive pricing in a rapidly growing market.

Europe enjoys consistent growth, thanks to its rich heritage of tournaments and a growing consumer focus on eco-sensitivity. ASICS, recognizing the region's potential, launched its recycled-material NEOCURVE™ here, banking on consumers' readiness to pay a premium for green credentials. The introduction of such sustainable products aligns with the increasing demand for environmentally friendly options, particularly among younger, eco-conscious consumers. South America, along with the Middle East and Africa, presents budding opportunities. As urbanization and disposable incomes rise, these regions show promise for market expansion. However, challenges like macroeconomic fluctuations and restricted court access temper immediate growth expectations, requiring strategic investments and partnerships to unlock their full potential.