Waterproof Socks Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Calf-Length Socks, Ankle-Length Socks, Knee-length Socks, and Others), End-User (Men, Women, and Unisex), Distribution Channel (Retail Outlets/Offline and E-commerce/Online), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032

The global waterproof socks market size was valued at USD 77.38 million in 2023. The market is projected to grow from USD 80.06 million in 2024 to USD 116.98 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.77% during the forecast period of 2024-2032.

Waterproof socks have a waterproof membrane, which makes the outer layer water-resistant. These socks are breathable and designed to dry the individual’s feet and avoid blisters and other foot problems. Furthermore, they are made of cotton, 100% polyester, nylon, acrylic, and faux leather. They are available in the market in diverse color options, such as black, white, gray, blue, multicolor, purple, and others. These socks are durable, windproof, stretchable, and long-lasting as consumers use them extensively.

The COVID-19 pandemic adversely impacted the market. Factors, such as implementation of lockdowns across the globe, closure of national & international borders, supply chain restrictions, lack of labor forces, limited raw material availability, and others, restricted the global waterproof socks market growth.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers

Growing Technological Advancements to Favor Market Expansion

Technological innovations have revolutionized the waterproof socks market. Continuous innovation in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) is reshaping the industry landscape by offering high levels of efficiency in production. This has improve the quality control & supply chain process, and fostered revenue streams for manufacturers. Furthermore, AI has made manufacturing customized waterproof socks more straightforward and effective for producers. In addition, technological advancements have helped companies recognize defects quickly and precisely, and categorize them to eliminate the production of inferior products. Moreover, improvements in waterproof technologies for manufacturing and designing waterproof socks will boost the growth of the market. For instance, DexShell, which manufactures waterproof socks and gloves, has developed the DEXLOK technology, preventing water from entering the socks and helping users stay warm and dry. Thus, technological improvements in manufacturing quality products will further foster the growth of the global waterproof socks market.

Market Restraint

High Prices of Socks to Restrict Market Growth

The high prices of waterproof socks can restrict their demand, especially among individuals with budgetary constraints. The high price factor can discourage potential sports players or individuals from participating in water sports. The high cost of waterproof socks in developing countries, such as Indonesia, Brazil, India, Vietnam, and others will further restrain the growth of the market.

Market Challenge

Limited Availability of Fashionable Socks and Lack of Marketing Activities to Impede Market Growth

The limited availability of stylish socks globally is a major challenge impacting the market growth. Non-stylish products do not attract the young population, resulting in declining company sales. Moreover, the lack of product promotions on online and offline platforms further fails to attract new customers. Thus, the lack of stylish waterproof socks and improper product promotions will further impede the industry.

Market Trends

Rising Trend of Eco-Friendly Waterproof Socks Globally to Boost Market Growth

The rise in awareness regarding eco-friendly products among consumers has encouraged manufacturers across the globe to use eco-friendly materials to produce waterproof socks. For instance, manufacturers like RANDY SUN produce waterproof socks made of recycled yarns. This recycled sock’s membrane prevents snow, rain, mud, sand, germs, and dirt from getting inside the socks, owing to which its use is increasing significantly in outdoor activities. Furthermore, the recycled material used in producing these socks plays a vital role in diverting waste from landfills. Its usage among manufacturers in developed and developing countries is increasing. Thus, the rise in awareness regarding eco-friendly waterproof socks among consumers will further boost the growth of the market.

Market Opportunity

Rising Number of Participants in Water Sports Worldwide to Trigger Product Demand

Rise in people’s inclination toward water sports activities, such as kayaking, scuba diving, rafting, rowing, fly boarding, spearfishing, swimming, and others will boost the waterproof socks market. Growing recreational activities, coupled with increasing disposable income of individuals in developing countries, will further create lucrative opportunities for manufacturers. According to the World Rafting Federation, rafting is the most popular recreational sport, with a projected 15 to 20 million participants yearly. Furthermore, the number of male and female participants in outdoor recreation activities has increased significantly owing to better awareness regarding health and fitness. According to the Outdoor Industry Association, female participation in outdoor recreation increased by 20 million, and male participation by 19 million from 2015 to 2021. Hence, the increased number of participants in water sports and outdoor recreational activities will further drive the demand for waterproof socks.

SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

By Type

Growing Popularity of Ankle-Length Socks Accelerates Their Sales

Based on type, the market is segmented into calf-length socks, ankle-length socks, knee-length socks, and others.

The ankle-length socks segment holds the most significant global waterproof socks market share. These socks help boost blood flow and insulate lower legs and muscles, keeping them comfortable, warm, and dry, and protecting them from cuts and scrapes.

The calf-length socks segment is expected to record the highest CAGR during the forecast period. These socks, also known as over-the-calf socks, cover the calf muscle and are popular amongst watersports athletes as they provide more coverage and warmth.

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By End-User

Unisex Segment Will Dominate Market Owing to Rising Availability of Products With Versatile Designs

Based on end-user, the market is segmented into men, women, and unisex.

The unisex market segment will dominate the market during the forecast period. The rise in the availability of versatile and high-quality unisex waterproof socks will boost the segment’s growth. Furthermore, the growing awareness regarding sustainable products among consumers will further boost the segment’s growth as it has reduced the need for excessive production and decreased waste.

The women segment is projected to record the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Women's participation in watersports and outdoor activities has increased globally owing to rising interest in watersports and adventure activities. Furthermore, rise in the working population of women across the globe has increased their disposable income. This has resulted in women spending more on fitness and outdoor activities, such as watersports, thereby boosting the segment’s growth.

By Distribution Channel

Retail Outlets/Offline Segment Dominates Global Market Due to Increasing Number of Physical Distribution Platforms

Based on distribution channel, the market is bifurcated into retail outlets/offline and e-commerce/online.

The retail outlets/offline segment holds a major market share owing to surge in the number of brand outlets and specialty stores across the globe. Furthermore, physical stores provide ease in purchasing and verifying the quality of the product.

The e-commerce/online segment is expected to record the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. Online retailers provide the convenience of buying any product 24/7, and it also offers diverse products on a single platform and a price comparison feature, which will further drive the segment's growth.

Global Waterproof Socks Market Regional Outlook

Europe

Europe dominates the global waterproof socks market. The rise in water sports events and growing number of participants in countries, such as the U.K., Germany, France, and others will further fuel the regional market’s growth. According to the Watersports Participation Survey 2022, around 13.2 million adults in the U.K. participated in boating in 2022, which is 3% more than 12.8 million participants in 2021.

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North America

North America is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The rise in the number of participants in watersports, snow sports, and outdoor recreational activities in the region will boost the waterproof socks market growth. According to the Outdoor Industry Association, in 2022, the number of participants in outdoor recreational activities in the U.S. had grown to 2.3% to a record 168.1 million participants or 55% of the U.S. population, aged six and older.

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific is also projected to register a considerable CAGR owing to the rise in awareness regarding waterproof socks in countries, such as India, Vietnam, South Korea, and others. The rise in the working population, growing disposable income, large-scale urbanization, and others are the key factors boosting the Asia Pacific market growth.

South America and Middle East & Africa

South America and the Middle East & Africa have witnessed substantial growth in the last couple of years owing to a rise in the number of participants in watersports, such as rafting, kayaking, scuba diving, rowing, and others.

Furthermore, the rise in social media marketing by manufacturers in Latin American countries has further enhanced the consumer base, which will fuel the product demand.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Key Companies to Adopt Innovative Strategies to Gain Competitive Edge

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Sealskinz, DexShell, Footland Inc., Shanghai Coolayer Outdoor Co., Ltd, and RANDY SUN are the key players in the market. The market is consolidated, with the top 5 players accounting for around 42.34% of the market share. The market is highly competitive, and prominent companies are focusing on technological innovations, partnerships, and expansions to gain a strong foothold in the market. The key players are also focusing on their promotion and marketing strategies to create strong brand awareness.

List of Key Waterproof Socks Companies Profiled:

• Footland Inc. (China)


• Shanghai Coolayer Outdoor Co., Ltd. (China)


• Sealskinz (U.K.)


• DexShell (China)


• Shaoxing Qianbodu Knitting Co., Ltd. (China)


• RANDY SUN (U.S.)


• HANZ USA (U.S.)


• Henderson Neosport (U.S.)


• Shanghai Hicon Industrial Co., Ltd. (China)


• Paultex Hosiery Ltd. (Taiwan)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS:

• November 2023: Sealskinz, which produces waterproof accessories, announced the launch of a pop-up store in the U.K. The launch will help the company enhance its customer reach and expand its business in the country.


• July 2023: Sealskinz, which deals in producing and distributing waterproof accessories, announced the launch of its new apparel collection. The launch will help the company remain competitive in the market.


• August 2021 – Rynox, which deals in the manufacturing of waterproof accessories, launched 100% waterproof socks. These socks are available on both online and offline platforms.


• January 2021 – RANDY SUN, which deals in the manufacturing of waterproof socks, shoes, gloves, and others, launched toddler-sized long waterproof socks. The launch will help the company enhance its product category.


• October 2020 – Indiahikes Private Limited, which provides trekking products on rent, launched waterproof socks for trekking. The launch will help the company grow its customer base.

REPORT COVERAGE

The report provides a detailed market analysis and focuses on key aspects, such as competition landscape, market dynamics, regional analysis, types, end-users, and distribution channels. It offers insights into various market trends and highlights key industry developments. In addition to the above-mentioned factors, the report encompasses several other factors that have contributed to the growth of the market in recent years.

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Report Scope & Segmentation