Fabletics vs. Gymshark: Which brand should you buy? [2026]

Fabletics is known for its affordable, trendy activewear sold through a flexible subscription model and aimed at a broad audience seeking versatile, everyday styles. In contrast, Gymshark focuses on high-performance, minimalist apparel with a sleeker, more body-enhancing aesthetic designed for serious fitness enthusiasts.

Let's compare these two activewear brands to help you decide which is the right fit for your workout and lifestyle.

Fabletics: Affordable, Subscription-Based Athleisure

Co-founded by Kate Hudson in 2013, Fabletics disrupted the activewear market with its subscription-based membership that offers stylish and functional workout gear at very competitive prices. Its target customer values trend-forward designs, inclusive sizing, and versatility, wanting outfits that work for both the gym and a casual day out.

• Product mix: A wide range of leggings, sports bras, tops, jackets, and accessories for women and men, often featuring bold prints and bright colors. They also offer loungewear and everyday basics.
• Price point: Generally lower, especially for members. Leggings typically range from $25-$60, with VIP member deals often bringing costs down significantly, including frequent promotions like 2 for $24 leggings.
• Quality: Uses signature materials like PowerHold fabric for compression and support. The quality is solid for the price, making it an excellent option for casual workouts and everyday wear, though it may not be as durable as specialist performance brands over time.
• Sizing/Fit: Highly inclusive, offering sizes from XXS to 4X. Fabletics gear is designed for a comfortable, everyday fit that's generally true to size.
• Shopping model: The primary way to shop is through the VIP Membership, which costs $59.95 per month. This fee becomes a member credit you can spend on any outfit or item, with the option to "Skip the Month" by the 5th to avoid being charged.
• Return policy: Allows returns and exchanges within 45 days.

Fabletics is the perfect choice for shoppers who want fun, stylish activewear on a budget and enjoy the perks and savings of a membership model.

Shop Fabletics: fabletics.com

Gymshark: High-Performance Fitness Apparel

Founded in the UK, Gymshark has built a massive global following by focusing on high-performance clothing with a sleek, modern aesthetic. The brand is deeply embedded in fitness culture, serving dedicated gym-goers, bodybuilders, and anyone who wants their gear to support intense training while accentuating their physique.

• Product mix: Leggings, shorts, sports bras, hoodies, and tops designed for performance. Key collections include the seamless Vital line and supportive Flex range, which are favorites among athletes.
• Price point: Mid-range, reflecting its focus on technical fabrics and design. Leggings cost between $40 and $70, while hoodies and jackets can range from $50 to $100.
• Quality: Known for durable, high-quality technical fabrics that provide compression, breathability, and sweat-wicking properties. Gymshark apparel is built to last through intense workouts.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers sizes from XS to XL, with a focus on a compressive, body-hugging fit. Because pieces are designed to be form-fitting, some customers size up for a more comfortable feel.
• Shopping model: A traditional direct-to-consumer online retailer. Limited-edition product drops create high demand and a sense of exclusivity.
• Return policy: You can return items within 90 days of receiving them, as long as they are unworn and in original condition.

Gymshark excels at creating functional activewear with a minimalist, performance-driven aesthetic for those who take their training seriously.

Shop Gymshark: gymshark.com

Fabletics vs. Gymshark Comparison

Price Comparison

Fabletics is the clear winner on price, particularly for its VIP members. The popular 2 for $24 leggings introductory offer and monthly member credits provide incredible value for building a full activewear wardrobe. Regular, non-member prices are still competitive, but the membership model is where the brand’s affordability truly shines.

Gymshark is moderately priced, sitting in a premium-but-accessible category. You are paying more for the technical fabrics, durable construction, and performance-oriented design. While you won't find deals comparable to Fabletics' introductory offers, Gymshark runs major sales events, like their well-known Black Friday sale, where you can find significant discounts.

Quality & Materials

Gymshark's reputation is built on the quality and durability of its materials. Fabrics featured in collections like Vital and Flex are engineered for heavy lifting and high-intensity training, offering excellent stretch, support, and moisture-wicking capabilities. Users consistently praise the apparel's resilience after repeated, intense use and washes.

Fabletics offers good quality for its price point. Its PowerHold and PowerForm fabrics provide comfort and light-to-medium support suitable for yoga, light cardio, and everyday activities. However, for serious, high-impact training, some find the fabric less durable and supportive compared to Gymshark's offerings.

Style & Aesthetic

The two brands cater to very different style preferences. Fabletics embraces a trendy, colorful, and playful aesthetic. Their collections are full of bold prints, seasonal colors, and fashion-forward details, making them ideal for someone whose style extends from the gym to daily life - true "athleisure".

Gymshark's look is much more minimalist, athletic, and performance-focused. Their designs feature clean lines, muted or monochrome color palettes, and contouring details meant to flatter a muscular physique. The focus is on a sleek, powerful look that feels at home in a weight room.

Fit & Sizing

Fabletics is known for its inclusive sizing, running from XXS to 4X. The fit is generally designed for comfort, providing moderate compression that works for a wide range of body types and activities. Sizing is reliable and generally corresponds to standard retail sizing.

Gymshark typically runs from sizes XS to XL and is designed for a tight, compressive fit. This style helps with muscle support during workouts but can feel small to those not used to it. Many regular buyers recommend sizing up, especially in leggings, if you prefer a slightly less restrictive feel around the waist.

Sustainability & Ethics

Both brands are taking steps to improve their environmental impact. Fabletics has incorporated recycled materials into some of its products and is working toward more eco-friendly manufacturing and packaging processes.

Similarly, Gymshark is increasing its use of sustainable materials and has launched initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint. While both brands are making progress, sustainability is not the primary selling point for either, with performance and style taking precedence.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both brands offer great products, but they cater to different priorities and personal styles.

Choose Fabletics if:

• You're shopping on a tighter budget and love a good deal.
• You prefer trendy, colorful, and fun styles that can be worn for workouts and casual outings.
• You value inclusive sizing options and a more relaxed, comfortable fit.
• You like the idea of a subscription model that delivers new outfits regularly.

Choose Gymshark if:

• High-performance fabric and durability for intense workouts are your top priorities.
• You prefer a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with contouring fits that accentuate your physique.
• You are willing to spend a bit more for gear specifically designed for heavy lifting and training.
• You want to be part of a brand with a strong, global fitness community connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fabletics or Gymshark better for lifting?

Gymshark is generally considered better for lifting and serious strength training. Its compressive, durable fabrics offer better support and are specifically designed to withstand the wear and tear of high-intensity workouts.

Which brand is cheaper?

Fabletics is more affordable, especially through its VIP membership program, which provides significant discounts, including introductory offers like 2 leggings for $24.

How does the Fabletics VIP subscription work?

You pay $59.95 each month, which becomes a "Member Credit" you can use to purchase any outfit or item up to $100. You also get access to discounted member pricing across the site. You can choose to skip the month between the 1st and the 5th to avoid being charged.

Does Gymshark activewear run large or small?

Gymshark apparel, especially their leggings and sports bras, often has a very snug, compressive fit. Many customers recommend sizing up if you are between sizes or prefer a less tight fit.

Which has better quality, Fabletics or Gymshark?

For high-performance athletic apparel, Gymshark offers superior quality with more durable and technical fabrics. For everyday casual wear and light exercise, Fabletics offers excellent quality for its price point.

Are Fabletics leggings squat-proof?

Most of Fabletics' darker-colored leggings in their PowerHold fabric are considered squat-proof. However, results can vary with lighter colors and different fabric types, so it's always a good idea to check recent customer reviews.

How often does Gymshark have sales?

Gymshark is famous for its major sales events, which happen a few times a year. Their biggest sales are typically around Black Friday in November and their annual Summer Sale.

Can I return items to both brands?

Yes, both brands have straightforward return policies. Fabletics allows returns within 45 days, while Gymshark offers a more generous 90-day return window. Items must be in new, unworn condition with tags still attached.