Knitted Underwear Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2020-2030F

The Knitted Underwear Market was valued at USD 25.43 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 33.69 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 4.80%. This market is witnessing consistent growth fueled by increasing consumer demand for comfortable, breathable, and sustainable innerwear solutions. Changing fashion sensibilities, rising awareness of personal hygiene, and the shift toward eco-conscious living are key factors boosting adoption. Materials such as organic cotton, bamboo fiber, and modal blends are gaining traction due to their softness, breathability, and environmental benefits. Additionally, the growing interest in functional innerwear that combines comfort with performance attributes - especially in active and athleisure lifestyles - is contributing to market expansion across all age groups and regions.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Demand for Comfort and Functional Activewear

A major factor driving the knitted underwear market is the heightened consumer focus on comfort and multifunctionality in everyday clothing. With more individuals adopting active lifestyles and seeking health-oriented apparel, demand is increasing for undergarments that offer moisture management, flexibility, and breathability. Knitted underwear made from performance fabrics - such as modal, bamboo blends, and other advanced textiles - delivers superior comfort for daily and athletic wear alike. The popularity of athleisure has also influenced purchasing behavior, with consumers favoring lightweight, seamless, and adaptive underwear. Innovations such as temperature-regulating and antimicrobial fabrics are particularly appealing to health-conscious consumers, supporting continued growth in this segment.

Key Market Challenges

Rising Raw Material Costs and Supply Chain Disruptions

Volatility in raw material pricing poses a significant challenge to manufacturers in the knitted underwear market. Natural fibers like organic cotton, bamboo, and wool are susceptible to price swings influenced by agricultural variables, climate conditions, and geopolitical events. The surge in demand for eco-friendly materials has also strained supply chains, increasing procurement and processing costs. For synthetic blends, fluctuating petroleum prices affect affordability and availability. These factors collectively pressure manufacturers to either absorb rising costs or raise retail prices, potentially reducing product accessibility in cost-sensitive regions. Ongoing supply chain instability also complicates inventory planning and product rollout strategies, particularly for brands pursuing sustainable sourcing.

Key Market Trends

Technological Advancements in Smart and Performance Fabrics

The integration of advanced textile technologies is a key trend transforming the knitted underwear market. Brands are increasingly adopting smart and performance fabrics that offer features such as moisture-wicking, odor control, and thermal regulation. These innovations cater to consumer preferences for comfort and hygiene, especially among fitness-oriented users. Emerging applications include antibacterial yarns, UV-resistant materials, and even health-monitoring fabrics embedded with sensors. Compression designs and phase-change materials (PCMs) are also gaining momentum in performance underwear, enhancing muscular support and thermoregulation. As consumer demand shifts toward intelligent, value-added products, such technological enhancements are expected to redefine brand differentiation and premium offerings in the market.

Key Market Players

• HanesBrands Inc.
• adidas AG
• Macy’s Inc.
• PVH Corp.
• Jockey International, Inc.
• Giorgio Armani S.p.A.
• ExOfficio LLC
• Fruit of the Loom, Inc.
• Rupa & Company Limited
• Wolford AG

Report Scope:

In this report, the global knitted underwear market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Knitted Underwear Market, By Product Type:

• Boxers
• Briefs
• Thongs
• Boyshorts
• Performance Underwear

Knitted Underwear Market, By Material:

• Cotton
• Modal
• Bamboo Fiber
• Wool
• Blends

Knitted Underwear Market, By Age Group:

• Children (0-12 years)
• Teenagers (13-19 years)
• Adults (20-40 years)
• Middle-aged (41-60 years)
• Seniors

Knitted Underwear Market, By Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• Germany
• Spain
• Italy
• United Kingdom
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• Japan
• India
• Vietnam
• South Korea
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Turkey
• Kuwait
• Egypt
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the global knitted underwear market.

Available Customizations:

With the given market data, the publisher offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report.

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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