Gymshark Sport Shorts vs. Arrival Shorts: Which one should you buy?

The core difference between Gymshark Sport Shorts and Arrival Shorts comes down to two things: aesthetics and ethics. Gymshark offers trendy, performance-focused shorts at an affordable price with bold branding designed for the gym, while the lesser-known Arrival brand focuses on minimalist, versatile shorts made from sustainable materials at a slightly higher price point.

Here’s everything you need to know to decide which of these activewear shorts is the right fit for your training and your values.

Gymshark Sport Shorts

Gymshark Sport Shorts are a go-to for fitness enthusiasts who want stylish, form-fitting, and high-performance activewear without breaking the bank. Known for their flattering cuts and bold branding, these shorts are specifically designed to support you through intense training sessions while keeping you on-trend.

• What it is: A line of affordable, performance-driven fitness shorts known for a modern, sleek aesthetic and a comfortable, supportive fit.
• Key features: Moisture-wicking fabrics, sleek cuts, high-rise options, and prominent logo accents across a wide variety of styles and colors.
• Price: $25 - $40, with frequent sales and promotional events.
• Materials/Construction: Typically made from durable performance blends of polyester and elastane, designed to offer stretch and support during high-impact activities.
• Sizing/Fit: Tends to be true to size with a snug, form-fitting feel that emphasizes and supports your physique.
• Pros: Very affordable and great value for the quality. A huge range of trendy styles and vibrant colors to choose from. Well-known and trusted brand in the fitness community. Fabric is supportive and great for workouts.
• Cons: Branding can be too bold for those who prefer an understated look. Primarily designed for the gym, so may be less versatile for casual wear. Less focus on sustainable or eco-friendly materials.

These shorts are ideal for the dedicated gym-goer who prioritizes a trendy aesthetic, performance, and affordability in their workout wear.

Shop this product: https://www.gymshark.com/collections/shorts

Arrival Shorts

Arrival shorts are designed for the modern, eco-conscious consumer who wants high-quality activewear that is both sustainable and stylish. With a focus on minimalist design, clean lines, and neutral colors, these shorts are versatile enough to transition seamlessly from a workout to everyday casual wear.

• What it is: A premium, versatile activewear short made with an emphasis on sustainable materials and ethical production.
• Key features: Clean, minimalist silhouettes, neutral color palette, and lightweight, breathable fabrics made from recycled materials.
• Price: $40 - $60, reflecting the investment in sustainable sourcing and quality construction.
• Materials/Construction: Utilizes sustainable fabrics like recycled polyester and nylon combined with elastane for flexible, long-lasting wear.
• Sizing/Fit: True to size but with a slightly more relaxed fit compared to Gymshark, prioritizing comfort and ease of movement.
• Pros: Strong commitment to sustainability and ethical manufacturing. Timeless, minimalist style is incredibly versatile for both gym and life. High-quality materials feel premium and are built for durability.
• Cons: Higher price point. Fewer styles and color options compared to Gymshark. The brand is less known and doesn't run sales as often.

This brand is perfect for those who are willing to invest in ethically-made, durable activewear with an understated aesthetic that works for any occasion.

Shop this product: https://www.arrival.com/collections/shorts

Gymshark Sport Shorts vs. Arrival Shorts Comparison

Style & Aesthetic

The most immediate difference is in their approach to style. Gymshark is unapologetically bold and fitness-focused. They offer a wide array of vibrant colors, modern cuts, and feature their logo prominently. This aesthetic is for those who want their gym wear to make a statement and stand out. It’s trendy, youthful, and distinctly athletic.

Arrival takes the opposite approach. Their design language is minimalist and timeless, characterized by clean lines, neutral colors, and subtle branding. This makes their shorts extremely versatile, they look just as good running errands as they do in the squat rack. If you prefer a more classic, understated look that won't go out of style, Arrival is the clear winner.

Quality & Materials

Both brands produce quality shorts, but their materials reflect their core mission. Gymshark uses standard-issue performance fabrics - polyester and elastane blends that are durable, moisture-wicking, and stretchy. They hold up well to intense workouts and frequent washing, delivering reliable performance at a great price.

Arrival differentiates itself by using high-quality sustainable fabrics, like recycled polyester and nylon. These materials not only reduce environmental impact but also feel lightweight, breathable, and premium. The focus on eco-friendly materials often results in a product designed for longevity, positioning them as a long-term investment.

Fit & Sizing

When it comes to fit, Gymshark Sport Shorts are designed to be snug and supportive. The fit is often compressive and form-enhancing, meant to stay in place during dynamic movements. Most people find they run true to size, but the fit is intentionally close to the body.

Arrival shorts also run true to size, but their fit is generally more relaxed. It's designed for comfort and freedom of movement without being baggy. This slightly looser cut contributes to their versatility, as it feels equally comfortable during a workout or a casual day out.

Price & Value

Gymshark is the clear winner on price, with most shorts costing between $25 and $40. They also hold frequent sales, making them highly accessible for shoppers on a budget. The value here comes from getting stylish, performance-oriented gym shorts at a low price point.

Arrival shorts are priced higher, typically between $40 and $60. The value proposition is different - you're paying a premium for sustainability, ethical production, and high-quality, long-lasting materials. If environmental impact and durability are priorities, the higher price can be easily justified as a long-term purchase.

Sustainability & Ethics

This is Arrival's biggest advantage. Their entire brand identity is built on eco-conscious manufacturing and using recycled materials. They offer transparency about their production process, which resonates with consumers who want to make a positive impact with their purchases.

While Gymshark has been making efforts to improve its sustainability practices, it's not the core of its business. Their focus remains primarily on blending fashion trends with athletic performance, and their transparency on ethical sourcing is less developed than brands like Arrival.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both brands offer excellent products, but they cater to very different priorities.

Choose Gymshark Sport Shorts if:

• You're shopping on a tighter budget and love a good sale.
• You prefer trendy, bold, and fashion-forward gym styles.
• You want a wide variety of colors and cuts to choose from.
• Your main goal is a supportive, great-fitting short for intense workouts.

Choose Arrival Shorts if:

• Sustainability and ethical production are important factors in your shopping decisions.
• You prefer a minimalist, timeless aesthetic over trendy designs.
• You want versatile shorts you can wear for both fitness and casual activities.
• You are willing to invest more for durable, high-quality materials built to last.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Gymshark and Arrival shorts?

The main difference is in their core focus. Gymshark focuses on trendy, affordable, and performance-based activewear with bold styling. Arrival focuses on high-quality, sustainable activewear with a minimalist and versatile aesthetic.

Which brand is more expensive?

Arrival is more expensive, with shorts typically ranging from $40 to $60. Gymshark is more affordable, with prices usually between $25 and $40.

Are Gymshark shorts true to size?

Yes, Gymshark shorts generally fit true to size, but they are designed for a snug, form-fitting, and supportive feel. If you are in between sizes, consider what kind of fit you prefer - go with your regular size for compression or size up for a bit more room.

Are Arrival shorts true to size?

Yes, Arrival shorts also fit true to size. However, their fit is slightly more relaxed compared to Gymshark to maximize comfort and versatility for both athletic and casual wear.

Which shorts are better for HIIT and intense workouts?

Both are suitable, but Gymshark's snug and supportive fit is specifically engineered to stay in place during high-impact, dynamic movements, making them a popular choice for intense training.

Which shorts are more versatile for everyday wear?

Arrival shorts are far more versatile due to their minimalist design, subtle branding, and neutral color palette. They transition easily from the gym to errands or casual hangouts without looking overly athletic.

Is Arrival actually a sustainable brand?

Yes, sustainability is a cornerstone of the Arrival brand. They prioritize using recycled fabrics and eco-conscious manufacturing processes and are transparent about their efforts.

How often does Gymshark have sales?

Gymshark is known for its frequent sales events, especially around holidays and their popular anniversary sales. It's often possible to find their shorts at a discounted price.

Which brand is better for someone on a budget?

Gymshark is the better choice for anyone on a budget due to its lower initial price point and frequent discount opportunities.