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 significant increase in sales of “running-hiking” gear, with Decathlon Thailand reporting a 20% rise in this segment. The trend underscores a broader shift in consumer behaviour towards prioritizing health and wellness through engagement with nature, a phenomenon increasingly recognized for its restorative benefits.
This surge in interest comes as Decathlon Thailand recently opened its 28th branch 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 heightened 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 of modern life and foster a deeper connection with the outdoors.
Decathlon Thailand’s findings indicate that younger generations are actively seeking opportunities to disconnect from digital spaces and reconnect with nature. This trend aligns with growing research highlighting the positive impact of outdoor recreation on mental health, with studies demonstrating that spending time in forests and natural settings can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. The company’s data suggests this isn’t a fleeting fad, but a sustained behavioral change poised to shape the future of the sports and leisure industry.
