moderate this relationship, where trusted brands increase consumer confidence and positively impact intention
to purchase (Kim & Oh, 2020). Additionally, aesthetic appeal, style, and visual design play a crucial role in
shaping purchase intention, particularly among younger consumers who consider fashion alongside
functionality (Martínez & Ruiz, 2021).
Price perception is another critical determinant of purchase intention in the sport product market, as consumers
evaluate whether the product delivers adequate value for its cost (Komariah, 2023). Research shows that
Malaysian consumers are particularly price-sensitive due to the availability of both local and international
brands, making competitive pricing strategies essential for driving purchase intention (Ken Research, 2025).
Moreover, the perceived risk associated with a product, including concerns about durability, fit, or after-sales
service, can negatively affect purchase intention if not addressed through warranties, reviews, or brand
credibility (Davis & Ahmed, 2025). Therefore, manufacturers must balance product quality with cost-
effectiveness to optimize purchase intention in competitive markets.
The influence of digital marketing and online reviews on purchase intention has grown significantly in recent
years, as consumers increasingly rely on e-commerce platforms for sports products (Tian & Xi, 2023). Positive
online reviews, ratings, and social media endorsements enhance trust and reduce perceived risk, thereby
increasing the likelihood of purchase (Chobngam & Iamlaorpakdee, 2025). Furthermore, technological
features such as smart sensors, wearable devices, and app connectivity also contribute to higher purchase
intention, as consumers perceive added functional value and modernity in these products (Zhou & Li, 2024).
Consequently, digital engagement and technology integration are key drivers of contemporary purchase
intention in the sport product industry.
Sustainability and ethical production are emerging as influential factors affecting purchase intention among
Malaysian consumers, who increasingly consider the environmental impact of their purchases (Nguyen, Li &
Choi, 2025). Research indicates that eco-friendly materials, transparent supply chains, and sustainable
manufacturing practices can positively influence consumers’ intention to buy sportswear and equipment
(Gupta & Mehta, 2023). Additionally, perceived social responsibility enhances brand loyalty and strengthens
purchase intention, particularly among environmentally-conscious consumers (Kim & Oh, 2020). In sum,
understanding the multifaceted drivers of purchase intention—including quality, price, technology, digital
influence, and sustainability—is essential for manufacturers and marketers seeking to optimize product
strategies in the Malaysian sport product market.
Theory of Planned Behavior
The grounded theory in predicting the intention is the Theory of Planned Behavior, as a person’s behavior is
controlled by his intention in performing certain types of behavior or action (Ajzen, 1991; Fishbein & Ajzen,
1975). According to the theory, a person’s intention is guided by three constructs, which are attitudes,
subjective norms and perceived behavior control. Attitude is the sum of beliefs about particular behavior
weighted by the person’s evaluations of these beliefs, while subjective norm is the beliefs of people weighted
by the importance of one attributes to each of their opinions (Miller, 2005; Schiffman & Kanuk, 2006).
Perceived behavior control is the extent control over internal and external factors upon behavior performance;
whether facilitate or restrain it. It is consisting of control beliefs and perceived facilitation; which control
beliefs refer to the person beliefs toward the factors available that facilitate or prevent performing a behavior,
while perceived facilitation refers to the condition that the person perceived as being able to perform the
behavior (Fishbein & Ajzen, 1975; Ajzen, 1991).
Numerous researchers had proved the applicability of the theory in predicting purchase intention across
various industries, products and services (Alam & Sayuti, 2011; Jani & Han, 2011; Lada et al., 2009; Lee et
al., 2011; Mukhtar & Butt, 2012; Omar, Mat, Imhemed, & Ali, 2012; Shaari & Arifin, 2010; Shaharudin,
Ismail, et al., 2011; Shaharudin, Pani, Mansor, Elias, & Sadek, 2010). A firm will be at the competitive
advantage when it has clear understanding on what influenced consumers in term of their decision making
process, which then will contribute to a better meeting of customers’ needs and expectation. So, it is important
to measure them as close to behavioral observation as possible to ensure an accurate prediction, as well as
intention can change over time (Padgett, 2009).