Across the years we have seen an increased uptake in racket sports sparking popularity with all age groups due to the growing interest in health and wellbeing.  There has particularly been a surge in paddle, tennis and badminton attracting millennials who not only care about the latest fitness trends but are looking for a lifestyle shift. 

For garment decorators, this presents a unique and timely opportunity as the racket market grows so does the demand for custom apparel. Take this opportunity to provide clubs, social leagues and tournaments with durable and comfortable uniforms and merchandise.  

This blog will dive into the growing trends of racket sports and the new and exciting opportunities it presents for printers and embroiderers.  

The Uptake in Racket Sports: What’s driving it? 

Health and Wellbeing  

Racket sports hold lots of health benefits combining both physical activity and mental simulation appealing to those who are looking for a change in lifestyle. The high intensity-based sport provides an excellent workout whilst challenging your mind proven to reduce stress and improve cognitive functions.  

Accessibility 

Public tennis courts, community programmes and affordable equipment makes racket sports accessible to all encouraging an increase of numbers in gyms and clubs. Large fitness and racket sport operators, like David Lloyd Leisure, reported membership numbers of 785,000 in 2024, up from 755,000 the year before.  

Sporting Events and Media Coverage 

One of the biggest drivers in the increase of racket sports is due to televised racket events such as Wimbledon, Badminton World Championships and US Open to name a few. Millions of viewers watch these racket sports, feel inspired and then go on to take up a racket sport.  The influence of social media also plays a huge part as we start to see racket sport apparel becoming fashionable with people wearing the clothing on and off the court. 

Opportunities for Garment Decorators 

Teamwear and Clubs 

Teams and clubs are always looking for sportswear apparel that is durable and comfortable so they can move freely on the court without restriction. Across tennis, paddle and badminton, clubs are looking to stand out. Clubs are looking for uniform that reflects professionalism and pride on social media as well as on the court. Branded uniform is a way for a club to express their identity and feel more united as a team. Wicking polo shirts, shorts, skorts and quarter-zips with custom logos, initials or sponsor creates a look of ambition and presence players would be proud to wear. 

Events and Tournaments 

Providing custom branded apparel for tournaments and championships is a great way to boost your sales. Not only is there merchandise to consider, but events also require organisers uniform, kits for volunteers and player's uniform. The opportunities are endless! This could include printed caps, custom t-shirts, lightweight jackets and golf towel enhancing event visibility. To enhance your selling, you can offer tournaments and championships limited edition event packs for spectators will all branded golf clothing and accessories. 

Merchandising and Retail Crossover 

As racket sports evolves into lifestyle choices, there is a growing demand for merchandise that combines both sport and fashion. Social clubs or teams often want a unique, trendy collection that combines both style and functionality with bold prints and unisex cuts. This opens lots of opportunities for garment decorators to collaborate with local clubs that generate revenue from each sale.