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

Gymshark is known for its trendy, form-fitting, and budget-friendly activewear that appeals to a younger, gym-focused audience, often priced between $30 and $80. In contrast, Sweaty Betty is a premium brand offering high-performance, fashion-forward pieces designed for versatility, with a higher price point (typically $50 to $150) and a strong commitment to sustainability.

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

Gymshark: Trend-Forward Performance Activewear

Gymshark is a UK-based fitness apparel brand that has become a global phenomenon, particularly among Millennial and Gen Z consumers. The brand's success is built on a direct-to-consumer model, influencer marketing, and designs that blend performance with a sleek, minimalist style. Their target customer is the dedicated gym-goer who wants functional, stylish, and affordable gear for weightlifting, HIIT, and everyday wear.

• Product mix: The collection is focused on core gym apparel like seamless leggings, high-support sports bras, crop tops, hoodies, and joggers. They are well-known for their specific collections designed for different types of training, like the Vital Seamless 2.0 or Adapt lines.
• Price point: Very accessible and budget-friendly. Leggings typically cost $50-$65, sports bras are around $30-$50, and shorts are between $30-$40.
• Quality: Made from durable and stretchy material blends like nylon, polyester, and elastane. The pieces hold up well during intense workouts, though some users report that fabrics can show wear or pilling after extensive washing.
• Style & Aesthetic: Minimalist, body-conscious, and very on-trend. Expect a lot of solid colors, subtle branding, and silhouettes that accentuate an athletic physique.
• Fit & Sizing: Generally true to size but famously form-fitting and compressive. Some items, particularly seamless leggings, can run a bit small, so consulting their size chart is a good idea.

Gymshark is cornering the market for consumers looking for affordable, on-trend activewear that performs well in the gym and looks great.

Shop Gymshark: gymshark.com

Sweaty Betty: Premium, Fashion-Forward Activewear

Founded in London in 1998, Sweaty Betty has built its reputation on empowering women with activewear that is as stylish as it is functional. This premium brand focuses on technical fabrics, versatile designs, and a sophisticated aesthetic that transitions from a yoga class to brunch. Their customer values quality craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and pieces that express personal style through bold prints and vibrant colors.

• Product mix: Offers a broad range of activewear including leggings for running, yoga, and gym workouts, along with sports bras, tops, outerwear, and accessories. Their iconic Power Leggings are a standout bestseller.
• Price point: Positioned in the premium segment. Leggings can range from $80 to $130, while sports bras generally cost between $50 and $80. The higher price reflects the advanced materials and construction.
• Quality: Known for superior, high-performance fabrics that are long-lasting, moisture-wicking, and breathable. Many products use recycled and eco-friendly materials, with construction details like bonded seams for extra comfort and durability.
• Style & Aesthetic: Fashion-meets-function. Sweaty Betty is famous for its unique, eye-catching prints and bright color palettes, offering a more expressive and sophisticated look than many competitors.
• Fit & Sizing: Offers a more inclusive and slightly relaxed fit, running true to size from XXS to 2XL. Leggings are designed to be "bum-sculpting" yet comfortable, catering to a wide range of body types.
• Return policy: Customer-friendly with a 28-day return policy for standard items, even if worn, so you can test them out during a workout.

Sweaty Betty is the go-to brand for those willing to invest in stylish, long-lasting activewear that offers premium performance and a strong commitment to sustainability.

Shop Sweaty Betty: sweatybetty.com

Gymshark vs. Sweaty Betty Comparison

Price Comparison

The most immediate difference between the two brands is the price. Gymshark is squarely aimed at the budget-conscious consumer, with most of its core items falling well under $80. You can easily build a full workout outfit for a little over $100. Frequent discounts and major sale events, like their annual Black Friday sale, add to their affordability.

Sweaty Betty operates in the premium activewear market, with prices comparable to brands like Lululemon. A single pair of their well-known Power Leggings can cost what an entire Gymshark outfit might. While they offer seasonal sales, the discounts are generally more modest. You're paying for higher quality materials, unique designs, and sustainable practices.

Quality & Materials

Gymshark provides solid quality for its price point. Its apparel uses performance-oriented blends that are squat-proof, supportive, and durable enough for consistent training. However, the fabrics don't have the same luxe, technical feel as more premium brands, and some may wear out faster with near-daily use and washing.

This is where Sweaty Betty truly justifies its cost. The brand invests heavily in innovative, technical fabrics that are simultaneously high-performing and incredibly soft. Their fabrics offer excellent compression, moisture-wicking, and shape retention that lasts for years. The construction feels more premium with details like flat-locked seams to prevent chafing and thoughtfully placed pockets.

Style & Aesthetic

Gymshark's aesthetic is defined by modern, minimalist gym culture. Their form-fitting designs, seamless construction, and often monochromatic colorways are meant to highlight the physique. It's a very current, influencer-driven style that resonates with a younger audience hitting the weights.

Sweaty Betty takes a much more fashion-forward approach. Style is a primary driver, with collections featuring bold, exclusive prints, vibrant solids, and chic silhouettes that you can wear well beyond the studio. Their goal is versatility - apparel that looks just as good running errands as it does in a spin class.

Fit & Sizing

Gymshark is known for its compressive, body-hugging fit. While many find it runs true to size, those between sizes or who prefer a less restrictive feel often size up. The focus is on a sculpted look favored by bodybuilders and fitness competitors.

Sweaty Betty offers a more accommodating and inclusive fit. Sizing is consistent and true to size across a wider range from XXS to 2XL. The fit is supportive without feeling overly restrictive, designed for movement and comfort for various body types and activities like yoga, running, and dance.

Sustainability & Ethics

Sweaty Betty has a clear advantage in this category. The company has a well-defined sustainability platform, utilizing recycled materials in many of its key products and aiming for eco-conscious packaging. They are also transparent about their factory list and ethical manufacturing standards.

Gymshark has started to make improvements in sustainability, such as incorporating recycled materials, but it's not a core pillar of their brand identity in the same way. Their focus has traditionally been more on product performance and price accessibility. For shoppers who prioritize environmental and ethical considerations, Sweaty Betty will most likely be a better option.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right choice depends entirely on your budget, style, and what you prioritize in your activewear.

Choose Gymshark if:

• You're shopping on a budget and want the best value for your money.
• You prefer a simple, sleek, and body-sculpting aesthetic for the gym.
• You do a lot of weightlifting and want compressive, supportive designs.
• You follow fitness influencers and enjoy wearing the latest gym trends.

Choose Sweaty Betty if:

• You're willing to invest in premium, long-lasting activewear.
• You love bold prints and fashion-forward designs that stand out.
• You want versatile pieces that can be worn for workouts and everyday life.
• Sustainability and ethical production are important factors in your purchasing decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gymshark or Sweaty Betty cheaper?

Gymshark is significantly cheaper. On average, Sweaty Betty leggings are about twice the price of Gymshark's, reflecting the difference in materials and brand positioning.

Which brand has better quality leggings?

Sweaty Betty is widely considered to have superior quality and durability due to its investment in high-performance, technical fabrics and more detailed construction. Their leggings are known to maintain their shape and feel for years.

Does Gymshark or Sweaty Betty run small?

Gymshark is known for a very compressive, slim fit, and some customers find they need to size up, especially in their seamless collections. Sweaty Betty generally runs true to size with a more accommodating fit for different body types.

What is Sweaty Betty known for?

Sweaty Betty is best known for its "bum-sculpting" Power Leggings, which are praised for their flattering fit, durability, and versatility. They are also recognized for unique, fashionable prints and a commitment to technical, high-quality materials.

Which brand is more sustainable?

Sweaty Betty has a much stronger and more transparent commitment to sustainability. They actively use recycled materials, focus on reducing their environmental impact, and have clear ethical manufacturing standards.

Can I wear Sweaty Betty for things other than working out?

Absolutely. One of Sweaty Betty's main selling points is the versatility of its designs, which are stylish enough to be worn as everyday athleisure wear.

What is the return policy for each brand?

Sweaty Betty is notable for its generous 28-day return policy, which allows you to work out in the clothes to ensure you're happy with them. Gymshark typically has a 30-day return window for unworn items with tags still attached.

Which brand is better for weightlifting vs. running?

Gymshark's compressive and sturdy designs are popular for weightlifting and high-intensity interval training. Sweaty Betty's technical fabrics and thoughtful designs, such as those with side pockets and great moisture-wicking properties, are excellent for activities like running, yoga, and studio classes.