As someone working inside the apparel manufacturing world at
Fuki Gymwear, brands often ask me:
“Is Fabletics actually comparable to Lululemon — or are they for totally different buyers?”
Here is a clear comparison based on fabric engineering, fit testing, pricing, global strategy, and real buyer experience.
Table of Contents
- Quick Answer
- 1. Brand Identity: Budget-Performance vs Premium-Performance
- 2. Fabric Quality & Technology
- 3. Fit, Compression & Comfort
- 4. Pricing Comparison
- 5. Best For Different Types of Buyers
- Fabletics vs Lululemon Comparison Table
- OEM Insights from FukiGymwear
- FAQs
- Final Thoughts
Quick Answer
Fabletics is the value-driven, membership-based activewear brand offering strong compression and affordability.
Lululemon is the premium performance brand offering elite fabrics, precision fit, and long-lasting durability.
They serve two different types of buyers, and both are “good” for the right audience.
1. Brand Identity: Budget-Performance vs Premium-Performance
Fabletics
- Membership-based pricing
- Influencer-driven visibility
- Value + community model
- More design experimentation
Lululemon
- Premium retail experience
- Highly engineered performance fabrics
- Strong brand trust
- Timeless, minimal aesthetic
Summary:
Fabletics = high-performance feel at lower cost
Lululemon = premium consistency and elite performance
2. Fabric Quality & Technology
Fabletics Fabrics
- High compression
- Medium–heavy denier knits
- Trend-forward finishes
- Good support but less breathability
- Made for sculpting & impact workouts
Lululemon Fabrics
- Nulu™ for yoga (buttery-soft, ultra-stretch)
- Align™ fits
- Luxtreme™ for running (cooling, smooth)
- Everlux™ for high sweat workouts
- Breathability + long-term durability
Fabric verdict:
Fabletics = strong compression
Lululemon = premium feel + long-lasting performance
3. Fit, Compression & Comfort
Fabletics Fit
- Runs slightly small
- Higher compression
- Sculpting waistbands
- Best for HIIT, running, gym sessions
Lululemon Fit
- True-to-size
- More natural stretch
- Better contouring without squeezing
- Best for yoga, daily wear & performance
Fit verdict:
Compression lovers → Fabletics
Comfort + precision fit → Lululemon
4. Pricing Comparison
| Brand | Leggings | Bras | Tops | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fabletics | $24–$69 (membership price) | $19–$49 | $15–$49 | Best value deals |
| Lululemon | $88–$138 | $48–$78 | $48–$98 | Premium pricing |
Pricing verdict:
Fabletics is far cheaper, especially with membership bundles.
Lululemon costs more but lasts longer.
5. Best For Different Types of Buyers
Choose Fabletics if you want:
- high compression
- trendy designs
- lower pricing
- value bundles
- gym-heavy workouts
Choose Lululemon if you want:
- premium performance fabrics
- long-lasting products
- elite comfort
- true-to-size fits
- breathable fabrics for yoga / Pilates
Fabletics vs Lululemon Comparison Table
| Brand | Global Strategy | Fabric Strength | Sizing | Pricing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fabletics | Membership + influencers | Compression + value | Runs small | $24–$69 | Trend + value buyers |
| Lululemon | Premium retail | Elite performance fabrics | True-to-size | $88–$138 | Fitness purists |
OEM Insights from FukiGymwear
From manufacturing experience at
Fuki Gymwear：
Brands requesting Fabletics-style fits usually want:
- 260–300 gsm compression knits
- high shaping waistbands
- sculpting seam placements
- cost-efficient performance blends
Brands requesting Lululemon-style fits want:
- lightweight premium nylon/modal blends
- buttery-soft handfeel
- precision 4-way stretch
- breathable cooling finishes
Meaning:
The two brands are engineered very differently — by intention.
FAQs
Is Fabletics as good as Lululemon?
Different strengths. Lululemon is more premium; Fabletics offers value.
Does Fabletics run small?
Yes, especially leggings. Size up if between sizes.
Which lasts longer?
Lululemon generally has better long-term durability.
Which brand is better for HIIT?
Fabletics — higher compression.
Which brand is better for yoga?
Lululemon — softer, more flexible fabrics.
Final Thoughts
Fabletics and Lululemon compete in the same category but serve different purposes:
Fabletics = value + compression
Lululemon = premium feel + advanced performance
If you prioritize cost and support → choose Fabletics.
If you want long-lasting comfort and precision engineering → choose Lululemon.
For brands creating similar products,
Fuki Gymwear
supports OEM development for both value-driven and premium activewear lines.
