Fabletics PowerFlex vs. PowerHold: What's the difference?

The core difference between Fabletics PowerFlex and PowerHold fabrics lies in their feel and function. PowerFlex is designed for buttery-soft comfort and maximum flexibility with minimal compression, making it ideal for low-impact activities like yoga or lounging. In contrast, PowerHold is Fabletics's maximum-compression fabric, engineered to sculpt, support, and stay put during high-intensity workouts like running and HIIT.

This guide explains everything you need to know about each fabric to help you choose the right activewear for your workout style.

Fabletics PowerFlex

Fabletics PowerFlex is crafted for those who prioritize absolute comfort and an unrestricted range of motion. It’s the brand's answer to a flexible, barely-there feel that moves with your body, making it a favorite for studio classes and all-day wear where support is secondary to comfort.

• What it is: A lightweight, high-stretch, and exceptionally soft activewear fabric designed for low-impact workouts and ultimate comfort.
• Key features: Superior four-way stretch, a soft or "peached" handfeel, chafe-resistance, and moisture-wicking properties. It offers very light compression.
• Price: Leggings typically range from $49.95 - $79.95 for non-VIP members, with significant discounts for VIP members.
• Best for: Yoga, Pilates, barre, stretching, lounging, and everyday casual wear.
• Fit/Sizing: Fits true to size with a forgiving, flexible feel. The low compression means it has more give and a less restrictive fit than other Fabletics fabrics.
• Pros: Extremely comfortable and feels buttery-soft against the skin. Allows for total freedom of movement. Versatile enough for the gym and daily errands. Lightweight and breathable.
• Cons: Lacks the support needed for high-impact activities. Less "sculpting" than more compressive fabrics. Can be less durable over time compared to thicker materials.

This fabric is perfect for anyone seeking next-level comfort for their studio practice or for versatile leggings they can live in all day.

Shop this product: https://www.fabletics.com/shop/tops

Fabletics PowerHold

Engineered for performance, PowerHold is Fabletics's signature maximum-compression fabric. It’s designed to provide a secure, "held-in" sensation, sculpting your shape and supporting your muscles through the most demanding workouts. This is the fabric you choose when you need your gear to stay put and work as hard as you do.

• What it is: A high-compression, durable, and sculpting fabric built for high-impact training and maximum support.
• Key features: Supreme compression that enhances shape and supports muscles. Excellent moisture-wicking capabilities, UPF protection, and a structured, "second-skin" fit.
• Price: Leggings typically have a similar price point to other Fabletics collections, around $49.95 - $84.95 for non-VIP members, before considering membership deals.
• Best for: Running, HIIT workouts, CrossFit, weight training, and any activity where you want to minimize bounce and feel secure.
• Fit/Sizing: Provides a tight, compressive fit that is true to size. If you are between sizes or dislike a very snug feel, you might consider sizing up, but for the intended performance, your normal size should work.
• Pros: Amazing "held-in" support and muscle stability. Creates a very flattering, sculpted silhouette. Stays in place during intense movements. Durable fabric holds up to tough workouts.
• Cons: The high compression can feel restrictive for lounging or casual wear. Can be more challenging to put on and take off. Thicker material may feel less breathable to some.

This is the go-to fabric for athletes who need a compressive, confidence-boosting fit for serious performance.

Shop this product: https://www.fabletics.com/shop/leggings/compression-level-Maximum

PowerFlex vs. PowerHold Comparison

Feel & Compression

The most immediate difference is how the fabrics feel. PowerFlex is known for its buttery-soft, almost plush texture that prioritizes comfort. Its compression is light, offering a gentle hug rather than strong support. You choose PowerFlex for a fit that feels like a cozy second skin.

On the other hand, PowerHold delivers a powerful, compressive sensation. The fabric is thicker, smoother, and more structured. It provides a secure, "locked-in" feeling designed to sculpt your body and support your muscles. When you put on a pair of PowerHold leggings, you instantly notice the supportive squeeze.

Performance & Best Use Cases

Each fabric excels in different environments. PowerFlex's incredible stretch and flexibility make it the undisputed champion for yoga, Pilates, and barre. Any activity that requires bending and deep stretching is perfect for PowerFlex, as the fabric moves with you without ever feeling restrictive. Its comfort also makes it ideal for an everyday "at-home" uniform.

PowerHold is built for intensity. The high compression reduces muscle vibration during runs and High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). It provides steadfast support during heavy lifts and ensures your leggings stay in place without sliding down or needing adjustment, no matter how much you jump or sweat. This is the fabric you wear when performance is your top priority.

Sizing & Fit

While both fabrics generally recommend you stick to your true size, the resulting fit is very different. PowerFlex has a lot of give, so your true size will feel comfortable and flexible. It's a forgiving fit that adapts easily to your shape.

PowerHold offers a very snug, body-contouring fit. Your true size will feel tight, as it's designed to compress and support. If you're on the line between sizes or prefer an all-around less restrictive feel for your workouts, you might consider sizing up in PowerHold, though this may slightly reduce its performance benefits.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both fabrics are excellent, but they cater to very different needs and preferences.

Choose PowerFlex if:

• You prioritize buttery-soft comfort for all-day wear or lounging.
• Your workouts are primarily low-impact, like yoga, Pilates, or walking.
• You want maximum freedom of movement and a barely-there feeling.
• You dislike the feeling of thick or highly compressive activewear.

Choose PowerHold if:

• You need maximum support for high-impact activities like running, HIIT, or circuit training.
• You love a "held-in" sensation that sculpts and smooths your silhouette.
• You need leggings that will not budge, roll, or slide down during intense exercise.
• You prefer a more structured, durable fabric that offers support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between PowerFlex and PowerHold?

The main difference is the level of compression and the intended use. PowerFlex is a low-compression, high-stretch fabric for comfort and flexibility (ideal for yoga). PowerHold is a maximum-compression fabric for support and sculpting (ideal for running and HIIT).

Which Fabletics fabric is best for running?

PowerHold is the best choice for running. Its high compression supports your muscles, minimizes bounce, and ensures the waistband stays securely in place no matter how many miles you log.

Which fabric is better for yoga?

PowerFlex is much better for yoga. Its four-way stretch allows for deep, unrestricted movement in any pose, and its soft feel enhances comfort during your practice.

Are PowerHold leggings squat-proof?

Yes, Fabletics’s PowerHold fabric is designed to be opaque and durable, making it squat-proof so you can feel secure during lunges, squats, and other bending movements.

Do PowerFlex and PowerHold leggings fit true to size?

Yes, both are designed to fit true to size, but the feeling is different. PowerFlex will have a relaxed, stretchy fit, while PowerHold will feel very snug and compressive. Select your usual size based on the fit you want.

Has Fabletics renamed its fabrics?

Yes, Fabletics continuously evolves its collections, and historic names like PowerFlex have transitioned into new fabric technologies like 'PureLuxe' (which offers a similar soft, flexible feel). PowerHold remains a key concept and is represented in their "maximum" compression category.

Which fabric is more flattering?

This is subjective. PowerHold offers a powerful sculpting and lifting effect, creating a very smooth and contoured silhouette. PowerFlex offers a more natural, comfortable fit that moves fluidly with your body's shape, which many people find just as flattering.

What fabric from Fabletics is similar to Lululemon's Align fabric?

The Fabletics fabric most similar to Lululemon's Align fabric is PowerFlex (or its successor, PureLuxe). Both are famous for their extremely soft, 'peached' handfeel, four-way stretch, and focus on comfort for low-impact activities like yoga.