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

Fanatics is the leading global retailer for official, licensed sports merchandise, catering to dedicated fans of leagues like the NFL and NBA. Fabletics, on the other hand, is a subscription-based activewear brand that focuses on trendy, high-quality, and inclusive workout and athleisure apparel.

Let's explore the key differences to help you decide which brand fits your style and needs.

Fanatics: The Destination for Licensed Sports Gear

Fanatics is the go-to destination for passionate sports fans looking for authentic, officially licensed apparel and merchandise. With a massive inventory covering professional and collegiate sports, the brand serves anyone who wants to show support for their favorite team, from dedicated collectors seeking rare memorabilia to casual fans needing a new game-day shirt.

• Product mix: An extensive selection of official merchandise from major leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NCAA. Products include jerseys, t-shirts, hoodies, hats, collectibles, and signed memorabilia.
• Price point: Prices range from affordable fan basics like a t-shirt for $30 to authentic jerseys priced between $100 and $150. Limited-edition collectibles and memorabilia can cost significantly more.
• Quality & Materials: Products are officially licensed, meeting league standards for authenticity. Jerseys and fan apparel use durable, breathable fabrics like polyester, designed for comfort during sporting events.
• Style & Aesthetic: The focus is on function and authenticity, prominently featuring team logos, colors, and player names. Designs are classic and sporty rather than trend-driven.
• Fit & Sizing: Sizing is generally true to size for standard-fit items like t-shirts and hoodies. Some specialty items like replica jerseys may have a more fitted cut, so checking the size chart is recommended.
• Return policy: Offers a straightforward and reliable return process, giving shoppers confidence in their purchases.

Fanatics is the unrivaled choice for any sports fan seeking authentic, high-quality merchandise to represent their favorite teams and athletes.

Shop Fanatics: fanatics.com

Fabletics: The Hub for Trendy Activewear

Fabletics is a modern activewear brand that blends fashion and function, offering stylish and affordable workout apparel through a flexible membership model. Co-founded by Kate Hudson, the brand appeals to men and women seeking versatile athleisure wear that performs well in the gym and looks great for everyday activities, with a strong emphasis on size inclusivity.

• Product mix: A wide array of workout and athleisure apparel including leggings, sports bras, tops, jackets, and accessories.
• Price point: Mid-range pricing with significant savings for members. Leggings typically cost between $25-$50, and complete outfits can be purchased for around $30 for members.
• Quality & Materials: Known for high-quality performance fabrics that are moisture-wicking and feature four-way stretch. Their apparel is praised for comfort, fit, and durability, holding up well to frequent washing and intense workouts.
• Style & Aesthetic: The aesthetic is modern, vibrant, and influenced by current fashion trends. Collections feature bold colors, unique patterns, and versatile cuts that easily transition from workout sessions to casual wear.
• Fit & Sizing: A strong commitment to inclusive sizing, with most items available in sizes XXS to 4X. Sizing is consistent, and detailed guides help customers find an accurate and supportive fit.
• Sustainability: The company is focused on improving its sustainability by using eco-friendly materials like recycled polyester and ensuring ethical manufacturing practices.

Fabletics delivers on-trend, durable, and inclusive activewear at a competitive price point, making it a top choice for fashion-conscious fitness enthusiasts.

Shop Fabletics: fabletics.com

Fanatics vs. Fabletics Comparison

Price Comparison

Fanatics provides a wide pricing spectrum that matches its diverse product catalog. You can find affordable fan basics like shirts and hats for under $40, while a high-quality, authentic team jersey will cost over $100. The brand frequently offers discounts and promotions tied to major sporting events and holidays, making it accessible for fans on a budget.

The Fabletics value proposition is centered around its membership model. While non-members pay mid-range retail prices, VIP members get deep discounts, often securing a two-piece outfit for the price of a single pair of leggings elsewhere. With frequent sales and member-exclusive offers, Fabletics provides affordable access to high-quality activewear.

Quality & Materials

The primary focus for Fanatics is product authenticity. Materials are durable and meet the specifications set by official sports leagues. While the fabrics may not always feel premium on lower-priced items, they are designed to be comfortable and last through game days and repeated wear. The quality aligns with expectations for officially licensed sports merchandise.

Fabletics invests heavily in fabric innovation, creating proprietary materials that offer compression, moisture-wicking properties, and a soft feel. Customers often compare their leggings and sports bras favorably to much more expensive activewear brands. The emphasis is on performance, durability, and a comfortable fit that supports an active lifestyle.

Product Selection & Style

Fanatics serves a single purpose: officially licensed fan gear. Its style is dictated entirely by team branding, logos, and player paraphernalia. It is not trying to be a fashion brand, it's a direct connection for fans to the teams they love. The selection is unmatched in its category, with thousands of items available for virtually every major sports team.

Fabletics is all about trend-driven activewear. Collections are released monthly with new colors, patterns, and fashionable silhouettes. The style blends function with aesthetics, creating pieces that work equally well for a spin class, running errands, or meeting friends for coffee. Its selection is deep within the athleisure category, offering a wide range of leggings, tops, and outerwear.

Fit & Sizing

Fanatics gear generally fits true to size, similar to what you would find at other major retailers. However, specific items like tailored jerseys can have a slimmer, athletic fit, making it important for customers to check individual product sizing guides. Its sizing is standard and less focused on accommodating a wide range of body types.

Inclusivity is a core part of the Fabletics brand identity. The company offers an extensive size range from XXS to 4X, recognizing that active bodies come in all shapes and sizes. Sizing is known to be consistent across its product lines, and performance fabrics with ample stretch ensure a supportive and comfortable fit for many different body types.

Sustainability & Ethics

As a distributor of licensed goods, Fanatics adheres to the manufacturing standards set by the leagues and brands it works with, focusing on responsible sourcing. However, the company does not prominently feature specific sustainability initiatives or a detailed transparency report on its environmental impact.

Fabletics has made sustainability a more visible part of its brand strategy. The company uses eco-friendly fabrics like recycled polyester and has implemented ethical manufacturing programs. By communicating these efforts to consumers, Fabletics appeals to shoppers who prioritize environmental and ethical considerations in their purchases.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right brand for you depends entirely on what you're shopping for, as they cater to very different needs and interests.

Choose Fanatics if:

• You are a dedicated sports fan and want officially licensed gear.
• Authenticity is your top priority when buying jerseys, hats, or team apparel.
• You are shopping for a gift for a sports enthusiast in your life.
• You want to wear the exact same gear that the pros wear on the field or court.

Choose Fabletics if:

• You need stylish and high-quality activewear for workouts and daily life.
• You appreciate a personalized shopping experience with member-exclusive discounts.
• Finding an inclusive brand with consistent sizing (from XXS to 4X) is important.
• You prioritize performance fabrics that are durable, comfortable, and supportive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fanatics or Fabletics cheaper?

It depends on the product. Fanatics offers affordable fan t-shirts and hats for around $30, while its authentic jerseys can be over $100. Fabletics is highly affordable for members, who can often get an entire outfit for under $50, making its per-item price on activewear generally lower than premium brands.

Which brand has better quality clothing?

Fabletics generally offers higher-quality materials in terms of fabric technology for apparel, focusing on performance features like moisture-wicking and four-way stretch. Fanatics' quality is based on authenticity and meeting official league standards, which ensure durability but may feel less premium than dedicated activewear.

Which brand is better for workout clothes?

Fabletics is the clear winner for workout clothes. Its entire product line is designed specifically for fitness and an active lifestyle, featuring performance-driven fabrics, supportive fits, and functional designs for activities ranging from yoga to high-intensity training.

Do I have to subscribe to shop at Fabletics?

No, you can shop at Fabletics as a guest and pay standard retail prices. However, the best value comes from their VIP Membership program, which provides significant discounts on all items and personalized outfit recommendations.

Where can I get authentic NFL or NBA jerseys?

Fanatics is the leading official retailer for licensed NFL and NBA products. You can be confident that the jerseys, hats, and other gear you purchase from them are authentic and officially licensed by the leagues.

Does Fanatics only sell men's clothing?

No, Fanatics offers a comprehensive selection of men's, women's, and children's sports apparel and merchandise for all major teams and leagues.

How does sizing compare between the two brands?

Fanatics follows standard apparel sizing, though some athletic-fit items might run small. Fabletics is known for its inclusive and consistent sizing, offering a range from XXS up to 4X to fit a wider variety of body types accurately.

Which brand is more sustainable?

Fabletics is more transparent and proactive about its sustainability and ethical manufacturing efforts. The company highlights its use of eco-friendly materials and ethical production standards, making it a better choice for an environmentally conscious consumer.