The fast rise of padel plus an increase in the number of people playing tennis has boosted demand for racquet sportswear. Eleanor Kingsford-Smith, brand ambassador at Result Clothing, discusses pockets, practical yet feminine features, and savvy customers
Eleanor Kingsford-Smith
What are the key trends in racquet sportswear for 2025?
Sportswear and the decoration industry always follow behind the fashion trends and therefore all-in-one, unitard and jumpsuit styles will likely be popular. Therefore, I think we will see an uplift in both skorts and fitness dress styles. Customers are getting savvy – why buy two pieces when one does the job.
Are there any standout developments in the racquet sports sector that you’d like to highlight?
Padel is the fastest growing sport in the world and no doubt pickleball and racquetball will follow. They are all very sociable sports and less technical than tennis, meaning they are more accessible.
Are there any specific design features that your racquet sportswear customers are demanding for 2025, or are especially popular at present?
The integral pockets, which can be used for smartphones and balls, are especially popular. Ladies love a pocket!
What innovations can readers expect to see in this sector in 2025?
Breathable mesh panels, thumbholes, and tiered ruffles, combining practicality with femininity.
And what about fabric choice for racquet sportswear?
Sustainable fabrics are becoming increasingly popular; Adidas, Fila, Babolat, to name a few, all launched their recycled polyester tenniswear.
How popular is racquet sportswear as a brandable product? Is demand increasing, steady or decreasing?
The decoration industry is increasing all the time and therefore it only makes sense that with the increase in leisurewear sales in general, the racquet sportswear market will increase also.
The Women’s Recycled Fitness Skort with integral pockets
The Women’s Recycled Fitness Dress
What was the bestselling racquet sportswear style from Spiro by Result in 2024 and what do you think was the reason behind this?
Spiro by Result’s bestselling racquet sport style was the S261F Skort. Easy to wear, lightweight and good value.
Do you expect this to continue or is there another style that is shaping up to be a bestseller in 2025?
Customers are always looking for more sustainable garment options and therefore the S797F Recycled Fitness Skort is likely to see a big uptake in 2025.
How do you see racquet sportswear product development progressing over the next few years?
I think it will become more fashionable, there will be less distinction between retail, leisurewear and the decoration industry.
What’s the single best piece of marketing and sales advice you can give to Images readers to help them sell more racquet sportswear?
Ecommerce is still on the increase therefore good photography and imagery will be key. Racquet sports is the fastest growing sport, surely they want a piece of the pie. It’s accessible to everyone: males, females, adults and juniors. Get on it, people!
