Editor’s Note: As a runner and gym bro, I go hard in my training, and even harder on my performance wear. I thought I’d locked in my brand, but as the colors faded, the prices kept climbing. Then I discovered Fabletics — Read my full review below…
My Life Before Fabletics:
For years, I was Nike all the way. Everything about it: the iconic ads, strutting about the gym, or heading out for a run. I used to feel proud rocking that swoosh. But in the last year, I had to pull back on my discretionary spending. So, I ordered less from Nike.
And since I was relying on each piece more and more, I really noticed the wear and tear. My shirts were losing shape, the armpits looked chewed up, and the once-bold colors were shot. I’m one for pushing myself to the limit, but my activewear shouldn’t be the first thing to break down. Meanwhile, Nike’s prices kept climbing. I was getting priced out of my favorite brand.
It was time to find performance wear that performs smarter for less.
After seeing countless ads about Fabletics’ crazy low prices, I had to see if the hype was real. Could I save money and upgrade my stuff?
Then I Tried Fabletics:
When I read that Fabletics offers high-performance, style-forward activewear designed for real life, I was intrigued — especially when I saw the crazy deals new VIP members get. We’re talking premium gear at a fraction of the price you’d normally pay. That alone made me think, okay. Let’s check it out.
How the VIP Membership works:
As a new Fabletics VIP, I can score some amazing deals. After my first purchase, I’ll be charged $59.95/month for a Member Credit that can be redeemed for any outfit or item worth up to $100, and is valid for 12 months. I can cancel anytime. So cool.
I ordered the One Short Lined 7in, the Go-To Joggers, and the 24/7 Tee to take them head-to-head against my Nike gear.
Here’s my breakdown by clothing type:
Shorts:
My Nike Unlimited 2-1 Versatile Shorts ($60) are decent, but I’m unimpressed with how they fit. Sounds impossible, I know, but they’re both too big and too small at the same time. The liner is tight and constricting, and the outside part of the shorts is baggy.
Now for the Fabletics 7” One Short Lined (originally $79.95 — only $10 when I became a new VIP member). These shorts have a comfortable lining that holds my phone securely while working out. The fit makes my legs look toned. Plus, the quality and materials feel the same — if not better — than Nike.
Joggers:
Similar to my Nike shorts, I’m not a fan of their Sportswear Tech Fleece Joggers’ fit ($125). Although the material feels fantastic, the fit can get pretty tight once I get a sweat going. Not worth the price — in my opinion.
Fabletics Go-To Jogger (non-member: $104.95 and only $19 when I became a new VIP) is a terrific blend of a casual, loose fit and a sleek, athletic look. There are zipper pockets that keep my phone safe while still giving the ultimate stretch during any workout. I wear them for everything from making coffee to binge-watching Netflix — they’re ridiculously comfy. And the best part? I can buy 5 pairs of Fabletics pants for 1 pair of Nike.
Performance Tees:
My Nike Dri-FIT Men’s Fitness T-Shirt ($30) is an overall great shirt. I like the color and materials, but the fit of the shirt is a bit boxy for me.
My 24/7 Tee (originally $59.95 — but I got 3-for-$19 when I became a new VIP) is engineered with Fabletics’ signature Hybrid365 fabric. It’s sweat-wicking, has anti-stink tech, and 4-way stretch that’s built for movement. The 24-7 Tee’s fit is spot-on — whether I’m at the gym, flipping burgers on the grill, or chilling with a beer and my latest Netflix show.
The Showdown:
It’s three months in, and I’ve been cycling my Nike and Fabletics pieces equally. Fair is fair, after all. And wow, the difference in durability is clear. The Nike gear wears down fast — dull colors, stretched-out collars, and pilling fabric, especially in high-friction areas.
Meanwhile, the Fabletics pieces held their shape and feel with noticeably less breakdown. No sagging waistbands, no thinning seams, and the material still feels solid. And this wasn’t about babying the clothes — each item saw the same sweat, wash cycles, and weekend hangs. Fabletics is hanging tough, while Nike is hanging on — maybe?
The hype is real. Comfortable, durable, and designed for your life by the pool, in the gym, on the court, or sipping a brew with your bros, Fabletics fitness gear won’t hurt your wallet.
Don’t sleep on the premium fabrics, diverse styles, and insane deals from Fabletics!