The UK activewear market has exploded in recent years, driven by the athleisure trend that sees gym clothing worn far beyond the gym. Consumers now wear leggings, joggers, and sports tops as everyday fashion, creating a massive year-round opportunity for retailers who source at wholesale prices.
The Growing Athleisure Market
Athleisure is no longer a passing trend — it is a permanent shift in how people dress. The UK fitness clothing market is worth billions and continues to grow as health and wellness become lifestyle priorities. For retailers, this means consistent demand that does not depend on seasonal events like Halloween or Christmas.
Key Wholesale Activewear Categories
Leggings
Leggings are the cornerstone of any activewear range. Stock high-waisted, squat-proof styles in black as your core line, then expand into colours, prints, and seamless designs. Wholesale leggings offer excellent margins because customers buy multiple pairs and replace them frequently.
Sports Bras and Crop Tops
From low-impact yoga styles to high-support running bras, this category covers a wide range of activities and body types. Stock multiple support levels and sizes, including plus sizes, to capture the broadest market.
Vests and Tank Tops
Lightweight vests and racerback tank tops are staple gym wear for both men and women. They are low-cost items that encourage multi-buy purchases and work well as bundle additions.
Tracksuits and Joggers
Wholesale tracksuits have seen a resurgence thanks to the work-from-home trend and athleisure styling. Matching tracksuit sets in neutral tones and bold colours both sell well across online and high-street channels.
Seasonal Trends in Activewear
Although activewear sells year-round, there are clear seasonal patterns to plan your buying around:
- January: The biggest spike — New Year fitness resolutions drive a surge in gym clothing purchases
- March-April: Spring fitness push as customers prepare for summer
- September: Back-to-routine after summer holidays reignites gym attendance
- November-December: Gift buying — activewear sets and leggings are popular presents
Selling to Gyms and Studios
Independent gyms, yoga studios, and personal trainers are valuable trade customers for activewear. Many want to sell branded or own-label gym clothing to their members. Offer bulk pricing on core items like leggings, vests, and sports bras to win this business. Volume orders from a single gym can rival weeks of individual retail sales.
Margins and Pricing
Wholesale activewear typically supports healthy retail margins:
- Leggings: 2.5-4x markup on wholesale cost
- Sports bras: 3-4x markup
- Tracksuits: 2.5-3.5x markup
- Vests and basics: 3-5x markup on lower-cost items
Browse Our Wholesale Activewear Range
Wicked Nights stocks a growing range of wholesale activewear including gym leggings, sports bras, vests, and tracksuits at competitive trade prices. Pair with our wholesale leggings and wholesale tracksuits for a complete fitness clothing offering.
Apply for a trade account today to access trade prices on our full range of over 10,000 products with same-day dispatch.