Fabletics vs Lululemon Leggings: Which Leggings is Better?
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As two giants in the athleticwear industry, both Fabletics and Lululemon have been at war for years over the top spot, a competition that still rages on today. Seriously, Kate Hudson Fabletics vs Lululemon leggings, which brand is better?
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Each brand promises that it has something special to offer its customers, albeit for a considerably higher price than those at your standard sporting goods storeโฆso what makes these activewear brands so amazing?
Luckily for you, weโre here to answer that question!
Introduction
Taking a look at their most popular collections, as well as their materials of choice, the fit and function of their sportswear, and other key features, itโs time to get to the bottom of this long-running fight.
Let the battle commence!
Fabletics vs Lululemon Comparison Chart [At A Glance]
FABLETICS | LULULEMON | |
---|---|---|
PRICING | $49.95+ (for leggings) | $95+ (for leggings) |
COLORS | Various | Various |
COLLECTIONS | PowerHold, Motion365, SculptKnit, PureLuxe, Seamless | WunderUnder, Align, Energy, Scuba, Invigorate, Swiftly |
ACTIVITY | Yoga and studio, running, gym and workout | Yoga, athletics, general exercise |
BESTSELLERS | Leggings, sports bras, 3 piece workout looks | Scuba hoodie, WunderUnder high-waist leggings, Align crop pants |
Brand History: Lululemon & Fabletics
LULULEMON had its start in 1998 in Vancouver, as a primary retailer of athletics clothing founded by Chip Wilson. Though initially a single store focused on yoga wear, they subsequently expanded, opening hundreds of branches across the US.
Flash forward to now and theyโre one of the most successful proprietors ofย workout gearย in the world, with a hugely popular site, nearly 500 physical stores, a flagship in London, and a series of lifestyle accessories alongside their sportswear line.
Most recently, they have bought shares in the world of at-home exercise equipment, funding over $500 million of the startupย companyย Mirror.
That said, their primary focus right now absolutely remains on theirย fitnessย clothingย lines, particularly theirย high-quality leggings.
As forย FABLETICS, which was partly founded byย Kate Hudsonย in 2013, they have always maintained a heavy online presence and are best known for their e-commerce. These days, they also have 22ย brickย andย mortarย stores across the US.
Though initially forย womenย only, they launched a menโsย activewearย line in 2015, and subsequently expanded their stock beyondย athleisureย to include dresses, swimsuits, and underwear in 2016.ย
One of their number one priorities from the start has been to offer an all-inclusive range of sizes thatย fitย everybody, which is continued to this day.
All of theirย linesย are available in XXS-4XL, which remains far superior to many of their competing brands.
Feature Comparison: Lululemon vs Fabletics
STYLES/COLORS
Both Fabletics and Lululemon cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, as well as having collections for men and women that are equally as extensive. Regardless of your preference, youโll be able to shop comfortably at either store, finding clothes to suit you.
Likewise, there are hundreds of prints, patterns, and colors available on their various ranges, from bold blocks to fancy floral and wild animal print.
Youโll also be able to find various finishes, from soft-touch to shimmery, across each siteโs collections.
In terms of distinguishing between the two, you should probably find another characteristic to help you make your mind up. When it comes to stylish, fashion-forward, functional sportswear, Fab and Lulu have it all!
QUALITY
Manyย LULULEMONย leggingsย (and a lot of their sportswear) are made from their very own, in-house designedย quality fabrics, known as Luon.
Combining nylon and lycra, it makes for ultra stretchy, yet cottony soft, and technically sound clothing.
They also have a range known as Luxtreme, which is intended for more high-octane, intense training, given its ability to soak up some serious sweat. With a smooth, cool-to-touch feel, and inherent moisture-wicking properties, itโs a treat for your skin.
Primarily used in their lighter layers and t-shirts, the trademarked Vitasea fabric is a blend of Seacell yarn, cotton, and lycra.
Able to keep itsย shapeย and softness even after hundreds of wears and washes, itโs a go-to for theย gymย bunnies amongst us.
There are even more materials used in their huge number of collections and clothes, each more innovative and stylish than the last. When it comes to quality, at Lululemon you most definitely get what you pay for.
My experience with Lululemon leggings so far: minimal fabric pilling, super soft, moisture-wicking, great compression (not as intense as Spanx leggings), and non-see through.
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As for FABLETICS, they also have a serious selection of different fabric designs throughout their various categories. Perhaps most popular is their PowerHold compression leggings, a poly-spandex hybrid that booty sculptors swear by.
For fuller movements and a complete range of motion โ ideal for pretty much any activity โ their Motion365 leggings also offer high compression, with additional breathability and moisture-wicking capability to fight back against sweat and stink.
One of the original โbarely-thereโ triumphs, plastered all over Instagram, was their Seamless style, a blend of nylon and elastane thatโs perfect for yoga class or lazing around. Little compression, but lots of comfort, you wonโt wanna take โem off.
Likewise, weโve only scratched the surface of what Fabletics has to offer, so if youโre after a characteristic, in particular, check out this complete guide to all of their fabrics. Donโt worry, it isnโt full of science jargon โ youโll easily understand everything.
My experience with Fabletics leggings has been great. I love their diverse range of versatile athleisure pieces. Seriously, there is a style for everyone. I did feel like the tummy-control on two of the pieces I ordered via JustFab, their sister brand, was a little disappointing.
SIZING
At Fabletics, pretty much all of their products are available in a considerable range of sizes, from XXS up to 4XL. Thatโs great news for the plus-size athletes reading, who should be able to secure some gear thatโs actually comfortable for them.
With Lululemon, their sizes used to range from US 2-12, though in some instances you could get certain items in sizes 0 or 14. Nowadays, they have a much better size range, starting at XXS and reaching 4XL, so athletes in any size can shop freely.
FIT
In terms of fit at Fabletics, as well as your size, you can also customize the inseam of their bottoms. Choosing between short, regular and tall, allows you to prevent uncomfortable chafing and ensure you get a fit that clings to all of the right places.
Likewise, you can also choose between high-waisted, Capri, 7/8, and other lengths, which again is another convenient factor that gives their sportswear some edge.
Some of theirย fabricsย even allow you to cut to your own length, without any fraying!
With their in-depth size guide, youโll be able to figure out exactly which fits work right for you, whether thatโs for tops, bottoms, bras, or shoes. That, plus the customer feedback regarding fit on every product listing, allows you to buy with confidence.
One piece of advice that Lululemon offers is that their Luon fabric is designed to have a matte finish overall. Therefore, if thereโs a sheen that can reflect the light once youโre wearing them, the fit is too snug and may restrict your movement.
You can choose between three lengths when it comes to their classic leggings: 25, 28, and 31 inches, each designed to sit comfortably at different points on your leg, depending on your height.
Though you donโt have as much freedom when it comes to choosing a personalized inseam, they do offer a hemming service for free in all of their Lululemon stores, allowing you to achieve the perfect fit for you outside of traditional measurements.
PRICE POINT
The Fabletics prices vary considerably, depending on whether or not youโre a VIP member. Those who pay the monthly membership fee get a considerable discount, including two pairs of leggings for an incredible $24. Wow, that’s one affordable price!
With up to 50% off regular retail prices, it works out much more affordably that way, though of course, you are then a member.
You can cancel whenever youโd like, but you wonโt get to keep thoseย VIPย membershipย benefits, unfortunately.
However, even without that hefty price reduction, you can still score yourself an entire outfit of workout gear for the cost of one pair of Lulu yoga pants, which is a considerable saving. Itโs arguable that they might not last as many years, thoughโฆ
Eachย pair of leggingsย thatย Lululemonย sells are at least $95, which is pretty steep considering you can get twoย pairsย for $24 as aย VIPย with Fabletics.
Itโs also very, very expensive unless youโre planning on wearing them every day!
That being said, they do have a special section of their website thatโs permanently discounted. Known as We Made Too Much, youโll find major savings on a regularly updated, rotating collection of sale items, perfect for snagging a bargain.
Many, many customers swear by their resilience, arguing that they last years longer on average than sportswear from other brands. This is Luluโs justification for higher prices โ invest a little extra, so you donโt need to spend more on replacements.
Bestsellers From Both Brands
When it comes to Lululemon, there are several go-to pieces that athletes, men, and women alike, canโt stop buying. The bestsellers from Lululemon are:
- Scuba High-Rise Jogger Fleece, 28โ โ $118
- Everyone needs a pair of sweats to climb into on a lazy Sunday (or Monday, or Fridayโฆ weโre not judging) and these fleece joggers are a favorite.
- Perfectly Oversized Crew โ $108
- Ideal for throwing on right after a workout, youโll feel comfy and cute in this oversized crew neck sweater.
- Energy Bra, Medium Support โ $52
- Having been voted โmost likely to be worn multiple times a weekโ by their customers, this bra is a staple for wearing during any sports or athletic activities.
- Lululemon Align Pant, 28โ โ $98
- Practically perfect in every way, the classic Align collection paired with Nulu signature fabric makes for a weightless, comfortable yoga pant. I live in my Aling yoga pants.
- Scuba Oversized ยฝ Zip Hoodie โ $118
- A naturally breathable cotton-blend fleece fabric, in an adorable oversized silhouette? This is sure to be your new go-to.
Over at Fabletics, they also have a page of their bestselling items. Here are some of their most popular pieces, which youโre also sure to love:
- High-Waisted PowerHold Legging โ $69.95 (retail)
- Fabletics number one, best selling product of all time, is this brilliant butt-clinging, stomach-compressing PowerHold leggings. Their first and best high-waisted pair!
- Sync Seamless Midi Sports Bra โ $39.95 (retail)
- Perfectly perforated for breathability, this sports bra serves as a second skin, as well as offering more comfort than youโd expect, with a nice midi length.
- Daria Jogger โ $64.95 (retail)
- Cut from the softest tech terry fabric imaginable, with tapered ankles and a drawstring waist, you wonโt want to lounge around in anything else.
- Ultra High-Waisted PureLuxe Pant โ $79.95 (retail)
- Allowing a total range of motion, in their softest, smoothest finish yet, the barely-there feel of their PureLuxe pants is ideal for more mature (or conservative) athletes.
- Dip 2-Piece Outfit โ $129.90 (retail)
- One of the best things about Fabletics is their matching outfits, available at a lower price; the most-loved is Dip โ perfect for the studio, with a luxurious yet subtle sheen.
In Summary: Fabletics vs Lululemon Which Is Better?
Deciding between these two iconic brands can be quite tricky if youโre an average size and have money to spend.
Both Lululemon and Fabletics offer high quality, comfortable, and confidence-boosting clothing for all sporting occasions, with plenty of choices for everyday athleisure styles.
Lululemonย has less in the way of plus-size ranges, which meansย Fableticsย is better for those seeking aย fitย that suits them. However, Luluโs men’s range is aย lotย bigger, with more to explore; that may just be the extra decades ofย experienceย they have.
Fabletics is definitely the more affordable of the two, particularly if you decide to join as a VIP member. Itโs totally acceptable to get your two for $24 leggings and cancel the subscription, so donโt feel ashamed if you want to get a bargain and bounce.
Most customers whoโve tried both Fabletics and Lululemon would probably argue that Luluโs clothes are of a better, more long-lasting quality. I’ll admit that I really really like my buttery-soft Lulemon Align leggings.
However, the Fabletics range of compression sportswear, and the sheer amount of choice within it, is popular with influencers and trendsetters. These are definitely better than basic chain store leggings.
If youโre after athletic clothing that will make your body look incredible, and your Insta feed even better, youโll probably find that easier (and for less) with Fabletics. For leggings that will last forever, then sticking with the citrus of Lulu is your best bet.
Whichever you choose, by perusing their lengthy sizing guides and all of the customer feedback both sites offer, youโre sure to find something to love. Good luck!
PRO TIP: With my JustFab membership, I have access to a great selection of Fabletics leggings, athleisure finds, and fashion. If you shop often for workout pieces, getting a Fabletics VIP membership might be your best bet. Just skip the month to avoid getting charged.
To score the best deal on Lululemon, wait for their Black Friday Sale or for one of the rare Lululemon Warehouse Sales. Alternatively, shop the We Made Too Much section of Lululemon’s website to save some money.
Your Turn! Have you tried either brand? Lululemon vs Lululemon leggings and fitness pieces, which do you prefer?
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I love them both, plain black to hide my fats and the colorful designs are awesome too
Both brands seem like they are a good choice, but budget wise I would have to choose Fabletics.
Great brands. I love trying out different leggings. Thanks for the comparison.
I have heard of both these brands but never tried either I have to admit. It sounds like both have their place and have something a bit different to offer.
There is such a big price difference in the two brands. I am glad to know that they are similar in many aspects.
It was interesting to see the comparison between the two companies. It seems both have their advantages.
I’ve tried Lululemon and think they are extremely comfortable. I keep a pair in my travel bag in case I’m stuck somewhere and need a comfy item of clothing.
This was a really interesting read. My GF has been trying to decide which ones to get because she needs some new ones. I’ll have to show this to her.