(Reuters) - California-based premium athleisure wear maker Vuori Inc said on Friday that global investors General Atlantic and Stripes led an investment round worth $825 million, taking up the brand's valuation to $5.5 billion.

The investment is structured as a secondary tender offer that includes a group of other investors as well.

In 2021, SoftBank's venture capital fund invested $400 million in the company, then valuing the business at $4 billion.

Activewear makers have enjoyed steady demand since the pandemic, as customers stuck at home shopped for everything from yoga pants to sports shoes.

The company, which makes $100 leggings and $64 sports bras, has quickly grown in popularity among young consumers in the United States alongside rival Alo Yoga and category leader Lululemon Athletica.

Founded in 2015, Vuori plans to exceed 100 stores in 2026 with a focus on expansion in key markets in Europe and Asia.

The U.S. athleisure market is expected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate of 7% through 2028, according to the statement from Vuori.

(Reporting by Savyata Mishra in Bengaluru; editing by Alan Barona)