Gen Y and Z Fuel 20% Surge in ‘Running-Hiking’ Sales as outdoor Recreation Gains Momentum
Bangkok, Thailand – November 9, 2025 – A growing preference for outdoor activities among Gen Y and Gen Z is driving a โฃsignificant increase โคin sales of “running-hiking”โข gear, with Decathlon Thailand reporting a 20% rise in this segment. The trend underscores a broader โคshift in consumer behaviour towards prioritizing health and wellnessโข through engagement with nature, a phenomenon โincreasingly recognized for its restorative benefits.
This surge in interest comes as Decathlon Thailandโ recently openedโฃ its 28th โbranch at The Mall Bangkapi, signaling the company’s commitment to meeting the rising demand for outdoor sports equipment. The company’s analysis of end-of-year consumer trends reveals a heightenedโข focus on activities that promote physical and mental wellbeing through immersion in natural environments.Experts suggest this reflects a desire for experiences that offer respite from the pressures ofโ modern life and foster a deeperโ connection with the outdoors.
Decathlon Thailand’s findings indicate that โyounger generations are actively seeking opportunities to disconnect from digital spaces and reconnect with nature. This trend aligns with โgrowing research highlighting the positive impact of outdoor recreation on mental health,โ with studies demonstrating that spending time in forests and natural settings can reduce โคstress, lowerโ blood pressure, and improve mood. Theโ company’s data suggests this isn’t a fleeting fad, but a sustained behavioral change poised to shape the future of the sports โขand leisure industry.