India Riding Gear Market Research Report, 2029

The Indian riding gear market is experiencing a growth phenomenon unlike any other. While the global market is dominated by professional riders and safety regulations, India's story revolves around two unique trends: the flourishing female ridership and the burgeoning adventure touring segment. Firstly, India is witnessing a seismic shift in female ridership. Traditionally a male-dominated domain, motorcycling is rapidly becoming a symbol of empowerment for women. Scooter sales to women have surpassed those to men, highlighting a cultural shift and a growing female biker community. This translates to a surge in demand for women-specific riding gear, with manufacturers scrambling to cater to this previously untapped market. Secondly, the vast and diverse Indian landscape is fueling a passion for adventure touring. The Himalayas, with their challenging terrains and breathtaking vistas, are becoming a magnet for motorcycle enthusiasts. This newfound interest necessitates specialized riding gear – heavy-duty apparel for varying weather conditions, off-road-ready boots, and technologically advanced helmets with communication systems. This unique confluence of female ridership and adventure touring creates a compelling scenario for the Indian riding gear market. Unlike established markets, India presents a growth opportunity not just in volume but also in product innovation. Manufacturers who can cater to the specific needs of women riders and adventure tourers will be well-positioned to dominate this exciting market. Furthermore, unlike developed nations where powerful motorcycles dominate, India sees a surge in demand for mid-range motorcycles (150-250cc). This segment presents a unique opportunity for riding gear manufacturers. Traditional gear, often designed for high-performance riding, may not resonate with these everyday riders. However, a growing safety awareness, coupled with rising disposable incomes, fuels the demand for practical, affordable riding gear. This niche offers a goldmine for companies that can cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Indian rider. Early Indian riders primarily focused on practicality. Helmets, mandated by law since the 1980s, were often seen as a necessary evil rather than a safety measure. Leather jackets, a mainstay of western bikers, were considered too hot for India's tropical climate. Locally produced cotton jackets and gloves, while offering some protection, fell short on abrasion resistance and weatherproofing. The 1990s witnessed a shift with the arrival of international motorcycle brands like Royal Enfield and Harley-Davidson. These brands not only introduced powerful machines but also a culture of motorcycle apparel. Indian riders began to appreciate the safety and comfort offered by dedicated riding gear. The new millennium ushered in a digital revolution, and India wasn't left behind. Online motorcycle communities and forums sprouted, exposing riders to the global riding gear scene. The importance of high-quality helmets, armored jackets, and protective pants for preventing serious injuries gained traction.

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According to the research report "India Riding Gear Market Research Report, 2029," published by Actual Market Research, the Indian Riding Gear market is projected to add more than 300 Million USD from 2024 to 2029. Despite the positive outlook, the Indian riding gear market grapples with some unique challenges. While disposable incomes are rising, a significant portion of riders remains price-sensitive. This can lead to compromising on safety by opting for cheaper, less protective gear. While awareness is growing, there's still a segment of riders who underestimate the importance of proper riding gear. Educational initiatives promoting the benefits of safety gear are crucial. The market is plagued by counterfeit riding gear that mimics popular brands but offers inferior protection. Stricter regulations and consumer awareness campaigns are needed to combat this issue. The lack of dedicated storage compartments on many Indian motorcycles can discourage riders from carrying full gear, especially on shorter commutes. Manufacturers need to consider innovative solutions for integrating storage options into motorcycle designs. As the most crucial element, helmets dominate the protective gear segment. Mandatory helmet laws have driven high penetration, but the market goes beyond basic compliance. Indian riders seek options that cater to the subcontinent's climate. Features like superior ventilation for hot summers and comfortable visors for monsoons are in high demand. Additionally, increased disposable income is leading to a rise in premium helmets with advanced safety features and lightweight materials like polycarbonate and carbon fiber. This segment is witnessing exciting growth. While traditionally associated with professional riders, growing safety awareness and a rise in adventure touring are pushing everyday riders towards these protective elements. Manufacturers are innovating with breathable and lightweight materials to suit Indian weather conditions. Leather remains the preferred material for its durability and abrasion resistance, but textile gloves with waterproof capabilities are gaining traction for monsoon riding. Glove manufacturers are also focusing on features like knuckle protection and improved tactility for better grip on handlebars. Mesh jackets are king in India, offering excellent airflow for hot and humid conditions. Textile jackets with waterproof liners are popular choices for multi-season riding. Leather jackets, while a classic choice, see lower adoption due to heat concerns. Manufacturers are experimenting with advanced materials like Cordura for a balance between abrasion resistance and breathability. Similar to jackets, mesh and textile pants with waterproof capabilities are preferred. Riding jeans with abrasion-resistant lining are gaining popularity, especially for urban riding. For long-distance touring enthusiasts, purpose-built riding suits made of waterproof and breathable materials are becoming increasingly popular. These suits offer superior protection and comfort for extended rides. Ankle-high leather or synthetic boots with good ankle protection are the go-to choice for everyday riders. Features like oil resistance and a sturdy sole are crucial for Indian road conditions. Motorcycle Touring Boots: For adventure riders, knee-high touring boots made of waterproof materials and offering better shin and ankle protection are gaining traction. This niche segment caters to professional riders on race tracks. These boots offer maximum protection with features like high ankle coverage, reinforced soles, and shin guards. Brick-and-mortar stores dominate the Indian riding gear market, especially in smaller towns and cities. These stores allow riders to try on gear, ensuring proper fit, which is crucial for safety and comfort. Additionally, they often provide after-sales support and guidance from experienced salespeople. However, the selection in these stores might be limited, especially for niche products. These stores offer a variety of riding gear brands under one roof, catering to a wider range of budgets and preferences. Motorcycle dealerships often stock riding gear from the same brand as the bikes they sell, offering a convenient one-stop shopping experience for new motorcycle owners. E-commerce platforms are rapidly growing in popularity for riding gear purchases in India. They offer a wider selection of brands and products compared to offline stores, including niche international brands. Additionally, online stores often have competitive prices and attractive deals. However, trying on gear before buying can be a challenge, and after-sales support might be limited compared to offline stores. Many riding gear brands have established their own online stores in India, allowing riders to directly purchase the latest collections and benefit from brand-specific promotions. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are increasingly used by both established and niche riding gear retailers to showcase their products and connect with potential customers. The Indian riding gear market offers a unique blend of value-consciousness and a growing appreciation for safety and performance. As disposable incomes rise and riding enthusiasts mature, the demand for premium gear is expected to climb. Manufacturers who cater to the specific needs of Indian riders, offering a balance of affordability, safety features, and climatic comfort, will be well-positioned to capitalize on this dynamic market.

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Kripa Shah

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Considered in this report • Historic year: 2018 • Base year: 2023 • Estimated year: 2024 • Forecast year: 2029 Aspects covered in this report • Riding Gear market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments • Various drivers and challenges • On-going trends and developments • Top profiled companies • Strategic recommendation By Product • Protective Gear (Body Armor, Knee and Elbow guards, Glovers and Helmet) • Clothing Gear (Jacket, Pants and Riding Suits) • Footwear (Urban motorcycle boots, Motorcycle touring boots and Racing motorcycle boots)

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By Distribution Channel • Online • Offline The approach of the report: This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources. Intended audience This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Riding Gear industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.