The sports technology industry is undergoing an unprecedented shift. A stronger push for equity and sustainability, combined with growing consumer demand for personalization and digital engagement are shaping new trends in sports technology. The result is a wide variety of innovative products and solutions that are changing the game — from virtual and phygital training to innovations for female athletes and smart stadium experiences.
For sports teams, emerging technologies are a key driver of growth and revenue. The most important trends to keep an eye on include wearables that enable high-level performance monitoring, augmented and virtual reality (AR and VR) for immersive fan experiences and enhanced training techniques, and a growing emphasis on athlete wellness and eco-friendly practices.
Sports organizations are also looking to optimize emerging technologies, and use them in ways that will benefit fans. This includes reassuring fans about the use of their personal data to build trust, identifying user needs and expectations before deploying new technologies, and converting more casual fans into avid fans.
Smart athletic devices are becoming increasingly accessible, enabling teams and athletes of all levels to access advanced technology that was previously available only to professional clubs. For example, the Oura Ring 4 is a powerful tool that tracks heart rate, body temperature and sleep patterns to enable personalized training strategies and improve recovery. Meanwhile, smart clothing and footwear like Hexoskin and Sensoria provide garments that monitor pressure distribution and gait efficiency metrics.
Moreover, modern sports coaching technology is reshaping the way teams lead their squads to victory. Wearables track player performance in real time, allowing coaches to identify and address injuries quickly. And specialized mouthguards from companies like HITIQ help athletes to avoid concussions. This helps players stay healthy and safe, enabling them to return to play more quickly.