Written by George Buttler » Updated on: July 01st, 2025
According to the report by Expert Market Research (EMR), the global socks market reached a value of approximately USD 52.79 billion in 2024. Aided by the rising awareness of personal hygiene, changing fashion preferences, and the increasing demand for innovative and functional apparel, the socks market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.80% between 2025 and 2034, reaching a value of around USD 92.77 billion by 2034.
Socks are essential clothing accessories worn to provide comfort, absorb moisture, and protect feet from friction and infections. Over the years, socks have evolved from being just utility-based products to fashion-forward and performance-enhancing garments. The market comprises a wide range of products including athletic socks, dress socks, casual socks, compression socks, and specialty socks, catering to diverse consumer preferences.
The socks market has shown consistent growth in recent years owing to the expansion of the apparel and textile industry globally. In 2024, the market value stood at USD 52.79 billion, underpinned by strong demand from both developing and developed economies. With increased purchasing power, urbanisation, and lifestyle changes, consumers are willing to spend more on premium, branded, and functionally designed socks. As the market continues to diversify and innovate, the value is expected to significantly increase over the forecast period.
The global socks market is highly fragmented with the presence of numerous international and regional players. Asia Pacific holds the largest market share, driven by a high population base, growing disposable incomes, and a robust textile manufacturing infrastructure. Countries like China, India, and Bangladesh are major contributors to global production. North America and Europe are also substantial markets due to strong brand penetration, evolving fashion trends, and the high adoption of sports and fitness lifestyles. E-commerce is also playing a significant role in increasing the market share of new entrants and D2C brands by reducing barriers to entry.
One of the prominent trends in the global socks market is the growing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable socks made from organic cotton, bamboo, hemp, and recycled materials. Environment-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives to conventional synthetic products.
Another emerging trend is the rise of performance and smart socks. Athletes and health-conscious individuals prefer socks with moisture-wicking, anti-odor, compression, and temperature-regulating features. Smart socks embedded with sensors to monitor foot pressure, activity levels, and posture are gaining traction in niche health and wellness segments.
Fashion-forward designs, vibrant colors, and customised socks are also becoming popular among millennials and Gen Z consumers. The growing popularity of sock subscription services and gifting trends is further driving the market growth.
Several key factors are propelling the growth of the global socks market:
Rising Health and Hygiene Awareness: Increasing concern for personal hygiene, foot health, and wellness is driving demand for socks across all age groups.
Sports and Fitness Boom: With the global fitness and athleisure trends gaining momentum, there is a significant increase in the demand for sports socks, compression socks, and performance-enhancing designs.
Urbanisation and Changing Lifestyles: Rapid urbanisation and improved living standards are encouraging people to adopt premium and branded apparel, including socks.
Expansion of E-commerce: Online retail platforms have enabled consumers to explore a wide variety of socks in different designs, materials, and price ranges. This is especially beneficial in reaching rural and remote areas.
Fashion and Style Consciousness: Socks are increasingly being used as fashion accessories to complement outfits, especially in younger demographics.
Technological advancements in materials, manufacturing, and design are revolutionising the socks market. Innovations in knitting technologies allow manufacturers to produce seamless, breathable, and ergonomic socks that enhance comfort and fit. Moisture-wicking fabrics, antimicrobial treatments, and cushioned soles are being incorporated to meet the demands of athletic and everyday wear.
Smart textiles and wearable technology are transforming socks into tools for health monitoring. For instance, smart socks integrated with sensors can detect diabetic foot ulcers or track mobility patterns in elderly individuals. Additionally, 3D printing and custom-fit technology are being explored to create tailor-made socks for specific foot shapes and medical needs.
The use of AI and data analytics in product design and inventory management is helping brands optimise supply chains and respond swiftly to consumer demands.
The market can be divided based on voltage, power rating, application, end use and region.
Breakup by Product
Breakup by Raw Material
Breakup by End-User
Breakup by Distribution Channel
Breakup by Region
Some of the major players explored in the report by Expert Market Research are as follows:
Despite the promising outlook, the socks market faces several challenges. Intense competition from unorganised and counterfeit players often leads to price wars and compromises in quality. Rising raw material costs and supply chain disruptions also pose risks to profitability.
However, these challenges also open up numerous opportunities:
Sustainable Innovation: With a strong push toward environmental responsibility, manufacturers have the opportunity to innovate with biodegradable and ethically sourced materials.
Niche and Medical Segments: Compression socks, diabetic socks, and orthopaedic socks present significant growth potential in the healthcare and wellness industry.
Emerging Markets: Untapped markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America present expansion opportunities for global players due to rising incomes and growing fashion awareness.
Customisation and Personalisation: Brands can leverage consumer data to offer personalised sock collections that cater to individual preferences and needs.
The socks market is poised for steady growth over the forecast period of 2025 to 2034. With an expected CAGR of 5.80%, the market is anticipated to reach a value of USD 92.77 billion by 2034. This growth will be supported by rising consumer awareness, continuous product innovation, and strong demand from both retail and institutional buyers.
Increased investment in research and development will likely lead to new materials and designs that cater to both performance and fashion needs. Moreover, the digital transformation of retail, through advanced analytics and AI-driven recommendations, will enhance the consumer buying experience and stimulate further market expansion.
As socks continue to gain prominence as both functional and fashionable accessories, manufacturers and brands that focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation are expected to gain a competitive edge in this dynamic market landscape.
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