Tapping The Lucrative Market Of Women’s Sports

Gone are the days of hitching up too-big shorts, or doubling up socks to accommodate too-wide shoes.

Women athletes are finding more and more apparel choices to suit their needs as they take to the field, court or pavement in increasing numbers.

Bloomsday is the perfect example. In 1978, only 23 percent of the field of runners were women; this year, women are expected to make up at least 57 percent of the participants.

Manufacturers have taken note, not just of the increased interest in running, but of dramatic jumps nationwide in women athletes. They’re producing gender-specific clothing and gear, tapping into the lucrative market of women’s sports apparel. And it’s paying off.

See story, page A16

, DataTimes