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

Fabletics is a subscription-based activewear brand known for trendy, affordable styles for men and women, while True Classic is a direct-to-consumer men's brand focused on creating perfectly fitting, high-quality basics like t-shirts and polos. Fabletics prioritizes fashion-forward performance gear with frequent new collections, whereas True Classic centers its entire identity on perfecting timeless, minimalist wardrobe essentials that solve common fit issues for men.

Let's break down everything you need to know to choose the right brand for your wardrobe and lifestyle.

Fabletics: The Trendy & Affordable Activewear Leader

Co-founded by actress Kate Hudson in 2013, Fabletics disrupted the activewear market with its stylish designs and flexible VIP membership model. The brand targets men and women who want functional workout gear that doesn't compromise on current trends. By combining performance fabrics with bold colors and patterns, Fabletics makes apparel that transitions seamlessly from the gym to daily life.

• Product mix: Extensive collection of activewear including leggings, sports bras, tops, outerwear, and accessories for both men and women. They also offer athleisure apparel for a more casual look.
• Price point: Affordable, especially for members. Leggings typically cost non-members around $60 but are available to VIP members for as low as $24.99, with frequent deals offering two pairs for that price.
• Quality & Materials: Utilizes proprietary performance fabrics like PowerForm and Luxtreme, which are designed to be moisture-wicking, supportive, and durable for high-intensity workouts.
• Sizing/Fit: Inclusive sizing from XS to 3X. Compression styles are designed for a snug, secure fit, so they can feel tight, consider sizing up if you prefer a more relaxed feel.
• Style & Aesthetic: Very trendy, vibrant, and youthful. Fabletics constantly releases new collections, often in collaboration with influencers, featuring bold patterns and modern designs.
• Rewards program: The VIP membership is the core of their business. For a monthly fee (which becomes a shopping credit), members get access to discounts of up to 50%.
• Return policy: Offers free returns and exchanges within 45 days of purchase for members.

Fabletics is best for shoppers who see activewear as a key part of their wardrobe and appreciate the deep discounts and new styles that come with a membership model.

Shop Fabletics: fabletics.com

True Classic: The Master of Men's Basics

Founded in 2019, True Classic was built to solve a simple problem: finding high-quality, perfectly fitting men's t-shirts that are also affordable. The brand focuses exclusively on timeless basics, engineering their products to enhance the male silhouette with a tailored fit around the chest and arms and a more relaxed feel around the midsection. Their direct-to-consumer model helps keep prices accessible.

• Product mix: Primarily wardrobe essentials for men, including t-shirts, polo shirts, henleys, joggers, and sweatshirts. The focus is on core pieces rather than a wide variety of styles.
• Price point: Very competitive, with most t-shirts costing between $15 and $25. They frequently offer bundle deals and promotions that provide excellent value.
• Quality & Materials: Emphasizes soft, durable, and breathable fabrics like premium combed cotton and cotton-polyester blends that hold their shape and comfort after many washes.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers sizes from S to 3XL. Their main selling point is the consistent, flattering fit that is designed to be snugger in the chest and shoulders without being restrictive.
• Style & Aesthetic: Minimalist, versatile, and classic. The color palette centers on neutral, easy-to-wear colors like black, white, gray, and navy - perfect for building a foundational wardrobe.
• Shopping Experience: Simple and straightforward. There's no subscription, customers buy what they want, when they want.
• Return policy: Free and easy returns within 30 days of purchase.

True Classic is the clear choice for men looking to upgrade their everyday basics with high-quality pieces that are engineered to fit well and last long.

Shop True Classic: trueclassic.com

Fabletics vs. True Classic Comparison

Price Comparison

Both brands position themselves as affordable alternatives to premium labels. Fabletics derives its affordability from its VIP membership. A pair of their popular leggings might cost $60 for a non-member but is often available as part of a 2-for-$24 deal for new members, making it incredibly cheap if you're buying frequently. However, this relies on a continuous subscription.

True Classic offers straightforward, low pricing with no strings attached. Single tees are around $15-$25, and their value increases with bundles, like getting three shirts for around $45. This model is better for those who prefer to make one-off purchases without a recurring commitment.

Quality & Materials

The brands' material choices reflect their different purposes. Fabletics focuses on synthetic performance fabrics designed for athletic activity. These materials offer moisture-wicking properties, four-way stretch, and compression, ideal for the gym. The quality holds up well to intense exercise and frequent washing.

True Classic is all about comfort and longevity in everyday wear. They use high-quality combed cotton and cotton blends that are exceptionally soft, breathable, and designed to maintain their shape and structure over time. Their materials are not meant for serious athletic performance but are perfect for daily comfort.

Product Selection & Style

Fabletics offers a vast and ever-changing catalog of activewear and athleisure for men and women. Its style is dictated by current fitness and fashion trends, with an emphasis on bold colors, unique prints, and modern silhouettes. You'll find everything from workout leggings and sports bras to casual joggers and hoodies.

True Classic keeps its product line intentionally narrow and focused. They stick to men's basics - t-shirts, polos, long-sleeves - in a timeless, minimalist style. Their aesthetic is built around simplicity, fit, and versatility, with a core palette of neutral colors that easily integrate into any man's wardrobe.

Fit & Sizing

Fit is a central selling point for both. Fabletics offers inclusive sizing from XS to 3X in men's and women's styles, with a fit tailored for an active body. The compression fabrics create a snug, body-hugging silhouette designed to support you during movement.

True Classic's entire brand is built around perfecting the fit of a man's t-shirt. Their signature athletic cut is tighter on the arms and chest to accentuate the shoulders and biceps, with a little more room around the waist. This specific design has earned a loyal following among men who struggle with standard t-shirts that are either too boxy or too tight.

Shopping Experience

Shopping with Fabletics is built around its VIP membership program. While you can shop as a guest, the best prices and perks are reserved for members. The model encourages frequent shopping to use the monthly credits. Their return window is a generous 45 days.

The True Classic experience is a simple, direct-to-consumer transaction. The website is clean and easy to use, focusing on showcasing the fit and quality of the products. With a 30-day return policy, the buying process is hassle-free and transparent.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right choice really depends on your specific wardrobe needs. Both brands deliver excellent value, but they cater to very different customers and use cases.

Choose Fabletics if:

• You're looking for trendy, performance-ready activewear.
• You go to the gym or do yoga regularly and need durable, stylish gear.
• You appreciate the significant discounts that come with a subscription model.
• You want a wide selection of styles, colors, and patterns for both men and women.

Choose True Classic if:

• You are a man building a wardrobe of high-quality, timeless basics.
• You struggle to find t-shirts and polos that fit well and flatter your body shape.
• You value comfortable, soft materials for everyday wear.
• You prefer a simple, no-subscription shopping experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fabletics or True Classic cheaper?

For activewear, Fabletics is often cheaper through its VIP membership, where full outfits can cost less than a single item from a competitor. For men's basics, True Classic offers better value, especially with bundle deals, without requiring a subscription.

Which brand has better quality?

Both have very good quality for their specific purpose. Fabletics' quality is optimized for athletic performance with durable, moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics. True Classic's quality lies in the softness, durability, and shape-retention of its cotton blends for daily comfort.

Does Fabletics only sell women's clothes?

No, Fabletics launched Fabletics Men and offers a wide range of athletic apparel and athleisure for men, including shorts, joggers, t-shirts, and hoodies.

Is Fabletics a mandatory subscription service?

You can purchase from Fabletics as a guest at full price. However, the brand's primary model is the VIP membership, which charges a monthly fee that becomes a store credit. You can choose to skip the monthly charge if you do so within the first few days of each month.

Are True Classic shirts true to size?

Yes, reviewers overwhelmingly state that True Classic shirts fit true to size. The brand is known for its consistent and flattering "athletic cut," which is a key reason for its popularity.

Which brand is better for athletic performance?

Fabletics is the clear winner for athletic performance. Its fabrics are specifically engineered with features like sweat-wicking, compression, and enhanced stretch to support intense workouts.

What are the return policies for Fabletics and True Classic?

Fabletics offers a 45-day window for free returns and exchanges. True Classic provides a 30-day window for free returns.

Who is True Classic designed for?

True Classic is designed for men of all body types who want comfortable, great-fitting wardrobe staples. Its unique cut is particularly popular with men who find standard t-shirts too baggy or ill-fitting.