3D Printed Wearable Industry Outlook from 2023 to 2033

3D printed wearable market is expected to generate USD 4251.70 million in 2023. 3D printed wearable market revenue is expected to reach USD 10,246.60 million by 2033.

A CAGR of 9.20% is expected for the 3D printed wearable market during the forecast period. The 3D printed wearables market will likely encounter beneficial opportunities as apparel companies increasingly invest in 3D printing technology.

Attributes Key Insights
3D printed Wearable Market Value in 2023 USD 4,251.70 million
Projected Industry Value in 2033 USD 10,246.60 million
Value-based CAGR from 2023 to 2033 9.20%

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3D printed Wearable Industry Trends and Highlights

3D printed clothing develops, embedded sensors will be able to monitor vital signs, regulate the temperature, and communicate with each other. Fashionable and functional garments could be created using these materials.

Prosthetic limbs are already being printed for customization, but future advancements could result in lighter and more functional designs. 3D printing could also make it easier for individuals to access exoskeletons that enhance their strength or mobility.

A university in Arizona developed made-to-fit wearable electronic systems with 3D printing through advancements in material science and electronic engineering. Some companies, like hearing aid providers, to develop housings that have room to embed ready-made electronics, are already using the technology.

Key 3D printed wearable Industry Trends

  • Wearables that are 3D printed are becoming increasingly popular as products are customized and personalized.
  • As technology advances, 3D printers are getting cheaper and accessible to a wider audience.
  • 3D printed wearables are being developed for new applications through increased research and development.
  • As wearables become more sophisticated, 3D printing facilitates the introduction of new materials, features, and shapes.
  • Innovation in materials and the rising integration of AI is expected to drive the market for 3D printed wearable market.

2018 to 2022 Historical Analysis vs. 2023 to 2033 Market Forecast Projections

The market was valued at USD 3,926.50 million in 2022. Between 2023 and 2033, 3D-printed wearable sales are expected to rise at a 9.20% CAGR. Increasing research and development activities and investments drive market demand for 3D printed wearables.

For instance, In a Hong Kong exhibition exploring expanding definitions of fashion, students from the UB architecture department created wearable assemblies of folded paper and 3D-printed resin.

Market Value in 2022 USD 3,926.50 million
Market Value in 2023 USD 4,251.70 million

Graduate architecture media seminar students developed stunning shirt-skirt combinations, including towering headgear and intricate limb bands, as part of an immersive study of fashion and architecture. Gregory Serweta and Maia Peck, faculty members at the University of Michigan, directed the course last fall.

Medical devices can benefit greatly from 3D-printed wearables. Creating medical wear customized for specific individuals they help create specialized medical products. In addition to improving mobility, minimizing pain, and improving outcomes, personalized wearables offer patients great comfort. Wearable medical devices made from 3D-printed materials can also be made at a lower cost by medical device manufacturers.

Sudip Saha
Sudip Saha

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3D Printed Wearable Industry Drivers

Modern technology, such as 3D printing, allows companies to design devices according to the specifications of their customers. In addition, consumer technology companies and the general public are increasingly placing an emphasis on health. Consumer education about 3D printed wearable technology is becoming increasingly important as the technology grows.

With 3D printing, wearables such as fitness trackers and custom-fit shoes have been created with lightweight materials and personalized designs. Individuals can customize these items to make them more comfortable and fit their needs. Clothing and accessories designed using 3D printing have gained popularity among designers and fashion brands.

Unique and intricate designs have attracted attention to 3D printed fashion items. Wearables can be produced using 3D printing with minimal waste since only necessary materials are used. Increasingly durable and flexible 3D printing materials have been developed through ongoing research and development. Wearables have expanded their potential applications with advancements in biocompatible and bioactive materials.

With 3D printing, wearables can be customized even in small batches or even in mass quantities. As a result, manufacturers can provide a wide variety of sizes and styles to consumers without maintaining a large inventory of these products. Fashion and technology brands are partnering with 3D printing companies to create wearable technologies. Collaborations like these aim to expand the market for 3D printed products.

3D Printed Wearable Industry Restraints

A 3D printer that is designed for industrial use can be remarkably costly. A production unit can be difficult to establish in an underdeveloped country, further stifling the entry of small firms. Wearables from 3D-printed materials are made on demand, but their steady production pace may adversely affect their surging demand. 3D printed wearables are therefore restricted from expanding long term.

Medical wearable products printed with 3D technology also cause concerns about their durability and quality. In the market, materials manufactured using traditional methods are considered superior in quality. Material compatibility is an issue with 3D printers. Especially in fashion technology, these machines cannot easily print materials with a wide range of materials. In addition to these limitations, they also impede the market's growth.

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Country-wise Insights

The following table shows the top five revenue-generating countries, led by China and India. In the future, 3D-printed wearables can grow in sales with rising technologies and healthcare industries. These two countries are expected to increase their 3D printed wearable sales through 2033.

Forecast CAGRs of 2023 to 2033

Countries CAGR
China 10.30%
Germany 4.80%
India 9.20%
United Kingdom 5.40%
United States 5.30%

The Integration of Technology in Wearables will Drive Demand for 3D Printed Items

3D printed wearables are likely to grow rapidly in the United States during the assessment period. In 2033, the market is anticipated to increase by 5.30% CAGR during the forecast period. The United States is expected to become the leader in wearable tech owing to its high disposable income, allowing them to spend more on gadgets like smart watches that measure heart rate and weight.

The awareness of consumers is one of the most vital factors in the market expansion of 3D printed wearables in the market. The demand for technological innovation is growing at an exponential rate. The wearable market for 3D-printed items is well-known among Americans, for instance, Fitbits and smartwatches are growing in sales, which is likely growing demand for these technologies.

Textile production in India is driving 3D Printed Wearables Sales

3D printed wearables have been in high demand in India in recent years. The market is expected to reach 9.20% CAGR until 2033. Healthcare in India is among the most advanced in the world. Government support for 3D printed wearables and small and large textile companies in India are driving market growth. New avenues in the fashion industry are also being opened by 3D printed wearables.

Research institutions and academic institutions in India are exploring new technologies and applications using 3D printing. Hands-on experience with 3D printing technology can benefit students and researchers, leading to further innovations and advancements.

Wearable product development and design can benefit from rapid prototypes made using 3D printing. Iterating and refining wearable products can be achieved with this technology in India.

Advances in Material Sciences will Enable China to Grow its Market

3D printed wearables are expected to dominate the market in China. A 10.30% CAGR is estimated for the market until 2033. A growing geriatric population and advanced medical infrastructure are driving China to outgrow all other Asian economies.

China's continued leadership in material sciences can also be attributed to its development in this field. The country has been flooded with premium products as consumer awareness and research and development have increased, and leading technical giants are attracted to the country.

With growing affluent consumers driving part of the growth in the wearables market in China, the market has taken a different shape. For instance, a recent study published by a think tank affiliated with the Chinese government estimated that in the port city in southeastern China, which is also a manufacturing hub, approximately 80% of smart wearable devices were made.

Research and Development in Medical Industries to Drive 3D Printed Wearables Demand in Germany

Germany is seeing increased demand for high-end 3D printed wearable materials. A CAGR of 4.80% is anticipated from 2023 to 2033 for Germany. The increasing number of medical services in this country is expected to increase demand for these wearables.

Recently, the country has seen increased demand for medical wearables made from 3D-printed materials. Implants and prosthetics are particularly popular in these fields due to their 3D printability.

Customized medical wearables are also a result of personalized medicine, which is gaining momentum around the world. A rapidly increasing number of 3D printed wearables have been developed to meet the expanding need for efficient healthcare in the country.

Research and development of new treatments have also contributed to the industry's growth. In addition, Germany stands out as a leading hub for high-quality, high-end, reliable, and complex 3D printed wearables. In turn, this is expected to drive the growth of the 3D printed wearables market.

Demand for Sustainable Materials to Drive Demand in the United Kingdom

In the coming years, the United Kingdom will lead in 3D printed wearable technology. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 5.40% by 2033. 3D printing makes it possible to design highly personalized and customized items such as tendons, support systems, and even fashion accessories. Customized wearables are particularly beneficial for healthcare, where patients can enjoy greater functionality and comfort.

Wearables related to healthcare have been manufactured using 3D printing in the United Kingdom, as well as many other countries. In addition to improving the mobility and quality of life of patients, 3D printing can be used to create custom prosthetic limbs. 3D Iterative prototyping and rapid design iteration are possible with printing.

Several industries, including fashion and technology, benefit from this, including product development and research. By creating prototypes and iterating on designs quickly, engineers and designers can bring wearable innovations to market more quickly.

The printing process can be done locally, thus minimizing the need for centralized production. As a result, transportation costs and supply chain issues could be reduced. Local businesses can also benefit, and shipping goods from overseas can reduce carbon emissions.

Compared to traditional methods, printing generates less waste and can be used with recyclable materials, which makes it a more sustainable manufacturing technique. Many countries, including the United Kingdom, are concerned about sustainability.

Category-wise Insights

According to market forecasts, the footwear segment is predicted to dominate with a 27.30% market share in 2023. According to the forecast, the online segment is expected to hold a market share of 66.10%.

Categories Details
Footwear Market Share in 2023 27.30%
Online Market Share in 2023 66.10%

3D Printed Wearables for Footwear in the Fashion Industry to Boost Sales

Based on the product type, footwear is expected to dominate the market. The footwear segment is expected to hold 27.30% of market share in 2023. Numerous factors have contributed to increased 3D printed footwear demand over the last few years.

Fashion industry professionals, consumers, and manufacturers benefit greatly from digital technologies. When compared with traditional footwear manufacturing, 3D-printed shoes are more environmentally friendly to manufacture.

Printing offers a wide range of custom options. Shoe sizes and preferences are tailored to the customer's exact specifications. Customers who desire personalized shoes can purchase shoes that are unique, comfortable, and well-fitting.

With 3D printing, shoes can be made more comfortable and supportive. An ill-fitting shoe may cause discomfort or pain, but properly fitted shoes can reduce these issues.

For instance, HP has proved a stronger probability of winning in additive footwear with its partnerships with Carbon and BASF, as it demonstrated most recently with Brooks Running. Two firms have collaborated on a new running shoe line, the Exhilarate-BL, developed specifically based on data provided by runners.

Online Sales Channels are set to Dominate the 3D Printed Wearable Market

Based on the sales channel, the online segment is predicted to dominate the market. The online sales channel is expected to reach 66.10% market share by 2023. Customers can customize their purchases easily through online sales platforms.

The technology behind 3D printing allows individual wearables to be tailored to meet their needs and preferences. As a result of this customization, customers can get wearables customized to their specific requirements and aesthetic preferences.

Many companies that manufacture and sell 3D printable products are adopting an online marketplace or direct-to-consumer business model to sell their products. This reduces costs and allows for more competitive pricing by eliminating traditional retail intermediaries.

Online sales facilitate the testing and refinement of wearable products by designers and manufacturers. Customer feedback can be collected quickly, improvements can be made, and updated designs can be released. As a result of 3D printing technology, prototypes can be produced quickly and at a lower cost, improving the feasibility and affordability of iterative design.

Competitive Landscape

Wearables based on 3D printing are still in their infancy, but they have a lot of potential for growth in the future. This has resulted in a limited number of players in the market. These companies also cater to a very limited range of industries. 3D printed wearables will likely grow in popularity as a result of the many advancements in printing technology that will come our way in the near future.

  • In October 2023, the Fingy3D startup company run by Mon Health's Intermed Labs continues to put West Virginia at the forefront of medical technology. The startup provides online ordering of 3D-printed prosthetic digits through Intermed Labs at Mon Health. The international contest boasted entries from 21 countries and 21 states, with five finalists vying for a USD 350,000 prize.
  • In September 2023, scientists from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and Meta invented a new type of 3D printed material for real-life wearable applications. Biological materials can be mimicked by these new materials, which can potentially impact the future of augmented humanity.

Report Scope

Attributes Details
Estimated Market Size in 2023 USD 4251.70 million
Projected Market Valuation in 2033 USD 10,246.60 million
Value-based CAGR 2023 to 2033 9.20%
Forecast Period 2023 to 2033
Historical Data Available for 2018 to 2022
Market Analysis Value in USD million
Key Regions Covered North America; Latin America; Western Europe; Eastern Europe; South Asia and Pacific; East Asia; The Middle East & Africa
Key Market Segments Covered Product Type, End-use Sector, Sales Channel, Region
Key Countries Profiled The United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, The United Kingdom, France, Spain, Italy, Russia, Poland, Czech Republic, Romania, India, Bangladesh, Australia, New Zealand, China, Japan, South Korea, GCC countries, South Africa, Israel
Key Companies Profiled DANI PELEG; New Balance; Under Armour; Adidas America Inc.; 3D Systems Inc.; Shapeways Inc.; Formlabs; Materialise; Zortrax; Stratasys Ltd.; EnvisionTEC; Carbon, Inc.

3D Printed Wearable Market Segmentation

By Product Type:

  • Footwear
  • Prosthetics
  • Orthopedic Implants
  • Surgical Instruments
  • Smart Watches
  • Fitness Trackers

By End-use Sector:

  • Hospital
  • Pharma and Biotech companies
  • Academic Institutes
  • Others

By Sales Channel:

  • Online Retail
  • Offline Retail
  • Direct Sales
  • Healthcare Providers
  • Customization Platforms

By Region:

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Western Europe
  • Eastern Europe
  • South Asia and Pacific
  • East Asia
  • Middle East and Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current size of the 3D-printed wearable market?

3D printed wearable is expected to reach US$ 4,251.70 million in 2023.

What is the CAGR from 2023 to 2033?

The 3D-printed wearable market is expected to increase by a CAGR of 9.20% by 2033.

What is the estimated size of the 3D printed wearable market in 2033?

The 3D printed wearable industry is forecast to reach US$ 10,246.60 million by 2033.

Which product type is expected to be the dominant 3D printed wearable on the market?

Footwear is expected to be the dominant product type on the market.

Which sales channel is expected to dominate the 3D printed wearable market?

Online sales channel is expected to dominate the 3D-printed wearable market.

Table of Content
	1. Executive Summary
	2. Market Overview
	3. Market Background
	4. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
	5. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Product Type
		5.1. Footwear
		5.2. Prosthetics
		5.3. Orthopaedic Implants
		5.4. Surgical Instruments
		5.5. Smart Watches
		5.6. Fitness Trackers
	6. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By End-use Sector
		6.1. Hospital
		6.2. Pharma and Biotech companies
		6.3. Academic Institutes
		6.4. Others
	7. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Sales Channel
		7.1. Online Retail
		7.2. Offline Retail
		7.3. Direct Sales
		7.4. Healthcare Providers
		7.5. Customization Platforms
	8. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Region
		8.1. North America
		8.2. Latin America
		8.3. Western Europe
		8.4. Eastern Europe
		8.5. South Asia and Pacific
		8.6. East Asia
		8.7. Middle East and Africa
	9. North America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	10. Latin America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	11. Western Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	12. Eastern Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	13. South Asia and Pacific Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	14. East Asia Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	15. Middle East and Africa Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	16. Key Countries Market Analysis
	17. Market Structure Analysis
	18. Competition Analysis
		18.1. DANI PELEG
		18.2. New Balance
		18.3. Under Armour
		18.4. Adidas America Inc.
		18.5. 3D Systems Inc.
		18.6. Shapeways Inc.
		18.7. Formlabs
		18.8. Materialise
		18.9. Zortrax
		18.10. Stratasys Ltd.
		18.11. EnvisionTEC
		18.12. Carbon, Inc.
	19. Assumptions & Acronyms Used
	20. Research Methodology
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