A research report by Leisure Trends, one of leading research firm in sports, recreation, etc, stated that compression gear was the most rapidly growing segment of performance apparel market in 2012.

In 2010, compression was featured in about 5 percent of all apparel sold at run specialty stores, according to the company. Tights and Capri tights, socks and leg sleeves were among the most commonly purchased compression items.

In an interview with fibre2fashion, Ms. Melissa Gwozdz, spokesperson of Sigvaris North America, one of the global leaders in graduated compression hosiery and socks, said, “There is an increase in demand for graduated compression clothing in the global market since leg problems are widespread throughout the world.”

“According to the American College of Phlebology, more than 80 million Americans suffer from some form of venous disorder,” she adds.

In a similar vein, Ms. Suzanne Kerpel, marketing director of Zensah, a leading Miami-based compression apparel company, says, “The compression apparel market is very large and there is a huge potential in this market.”

“There is a strong demand for compression garments in athletic regions like North America, Australia, Western Europe, Scandinavia and South America, all of which have growing fitness and running communities,” she informs.

When asked about the challenges faced by the industry, Ms. Gwozdz says, “It is all about educating people on how a simple change of socks can leave them with achy-free legs and more energy.”