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The ULTIMATE Guide to Fabletics Leggings—Are They Right for You?

Anna Reilly
ByAnna ReillyJan 27, 2022 | 38 comments

ultimate guide to fabletics leggings review 2019

UPDATE: This post has been updated on 1/30/2020 to include the newest Motion365 fabric!

Oh, Fabletics, where would I be without you? Since subscribing to this fitness apparel subscription in 2017, I've amassed an amazing collection of leggings, sports bras, tops, and gym-ready accessories. They fit great, they look awesome, and best of all, they hold up. (As someone who regularly opts to wash cold and tumble dry hot no matter what the tag says, I'm thrilled with how shapely and smooth my Fabletics pieces continue to be!) Check out our Fabletics reviews to learn more.

If you're ready to sign up, follow this link to learn how you can get 2 pairs of leggings for just $24!

But if you're still on the fence about Fabletics, you've come to the right place. I'm sharing everything you need to know about the subscription, from how the subscription works to what kinds of leggings they offer. ("PowerHold"? "Motion365"? I'll break down the differences between the most popular Fabletics leggings fabrics and styles.)

fabletics leggings review how does it work

How does Fabletics work?

Let's start with the basics, shall we? Here are some details you should know before getting started with Fabletics:

Is it a subscription?

Fabletics is what we like to call a "shopping subscription" similar to JustFab, ShoeDazzle, or Rihanna's Savage X Fenty lingerie brand.

As a Fabletics member, you'll get the opportunity to shop an ever-expanding catalog of premium fitness and athleisure styles in women's sizes XXS-3X at VIP prices. At the top of each month, you'll have several days to shop for something new, skip the month, or wait.

  • Shop by making a purchase of any amount before the 5th of the month.
  • Skip by logging into your account and choosing the "skip" option by the 5th of the month. You won't be charged anything for months you skip.
  • Wait by simply taking no action by the 5th of the month. Fabletics will charge you $49.95, which they'll save as store credit on your account. You can spend that store credit as soon as the next month, or wait months before you use it!

So like with a monthly subscription, you will have the opportunity to get something on a regular basis. But if you'd rather save up for something big, you don't have to spend on something every month.

How much does it cost?

If you choose to wait and not make a purchase at the top of the month, Fabletics will charge you $49.95 (which, remember, you can use as store credit whenever you're ready to shop).

If you do shop, you can spend whatever's comfortable for you. In other words, you don't have to spend $49.95 if that's not in your budget for the month. Fabletics leggings, for example, start around $39.95, tops and bras start around $24.95, and their accessories start around $4.95.

But wait! When you're a Fabletics member, you also get access to deals on full outfits (think a bra and leggings, or a bra, leggings, and a third piece, such as a jacket or sweatshirt) for prices that start at $49.95—that's two or more pieces for the price of one pair of leggings.

This is the option I usually go for, since 1) the price is pretty good for the performance pieces you get, and 2) it's fun to get a coordinating look rather than one-off pieces. I will say that most of the outfits are over $49.95 (think $59.95 or $69.95), but that's typically significantly less than the listed retail price. And as I've mentioned, I'm always impressed by the fit and quality.

Expert Tip:

Don't forget to check out the sale section for some great looks available at even deeper discounts!

fabletics leggings review sizes

What sizes do they offer?

Fabletics offers women's clothing from XXS to 3X and bras for sizes 30A-48D+.

Based on my experience and what I've heard from fellow subscribers, Fabletics does a great job fitting a wide range of body types. For instance, I'm 5'3", about 150lbs, wear a 10 in jeans and a 6 or 8 in dresses. I often have a tough time finding leggings that not only fit my curvier hips and booty, but actually stay put during a rigorous workout (which for me, ranges from vinyasa yoga to bi-weekly roller derby practices). Where other leggings tend to slide down my legs or scrunch down below my tummy as I move, most of my Fabletics leggings (the Salar PowerHold styles, in particular) comfortably hug my hips so I don't have to constantly tug them back into place.

PowerHold, Seamless, UltraCool... Which style of Fabletics leggings is right for you?

Fabletics offers several different styles of leggings with different fabrics, compression levels, and specialties. I've personally tried almost every style, and I definitely have my favorites. Find out which line is best for your workout needs!

fabletics powerhold leggings

PowerHold

PowerHold leggings are my go-to compression legging. Fabletics' signature style holds everything in just so without feeling stuffy or stifling. The poly-spandex fabric offers all-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and comfort, plus it has a soft, brushed cotton feel. Because they're a little thicker (and thus, a little warmer than other styles), I prefer them for outdoor activities like cool morning jogs, or generally less-sweaty exercise, like slow-flow yoga. I love the high-waisted cuts (they fit my curves best), and the PowerHold styles with edgy mesh details and pockets.

fabletics leggings review seamless

Seamless

The Seamless nylon/elastane leggings I've tried from Fabletics legitimately make me feel like I'm wearing nothing. Seamless fabric is just thick enough to provide reliably opaque coverage and still feel lighter than air. You won't get the same body-smoothing effect as you would with their PowerHold or other compression styles, but when you want easy, breezy freedom of movement, they're the ones I reach for. For instance, I love wearing my Seamless leggings to spin classes. They're not as stay-put as other styles (just because the all-way-stretch fabric is so forgiving), but that cool, unrestricted, second-skin feeling adds ease to even the toughest hills and sprints.

fabletics leggings review scultpknit

SculptKnit

SculptKnit is a great pick if you're looking for the freedom of a seamless style but want a little more compression. These leggings are made from nylon/elastane fabric that's structured in a way that hugs your body in functional, flattering places. They're smoothing and stay-put where you need them to be, but still have the ease of movement that comes with traditional Seamless styles. SculptKnit is my favorite style for roller derby practice, where freedom of movement is key—as is not worrying about slouchy leggings mid-game! Plus, the mesh details that often appear in SculptKnit styles make these smooth, sleek leggings make extra cool and breathable.

fabletics leggings review pureluxe

PureLuxe

PureLuxe fabric is, as the name suggests, effortless, comfy, and sleek. This polyester/spandex fabric is not quite as compressive as other fabrics on this list, but it does gently smooth over your silhouette (unlike thinner, less forgiving fabrics). Because of its smooth finish, it has a very slight sheen, especially compared to the brushed-cotton texture of PowerHold pieces. Because of the texture, PureLuxe leggings can shift around a little bit (or more than the aptly named PowerHold styles do), but even in very active yoga classes, I've not experienced them sliding down.

fabletics leggings review ultracool

UltraCool

UltraCool fabric made its debut on Fabletics close to 2 years ago, but I'm still excited about it! It's billed as "med-high compression", so it's close to PureLuxe, but in my opinion, seems a little bit thinner. The fabric doesn't conceal in the way I expected it to, but the waistband does feel like it's holding me in and not going anywhere. Most of the UltraCool styles have a smooth, sleek look about them with a slight sheen, plus eye-catching details like mesh panels and flattering stitching. The best part, of course, is how breathable and free UltraCool fabric feels, especially during a particularly sweaty workout. Plus, the all-way stretch of this polyester/elastane fabric makes it super easy to move in. Dance fitness class, you've met your match!

Motion365

Motion365 is Fabletics’ newest fabric as well as their most versatile. It’s made with sweat-wicking nylon and combines the compression (like that of their PowerHold) with the sculpting abilities of their SculptKnit in one super fabric. You can definitely feel this in the pair I have that really compresses and holds everything in place while I’m doing any range of motion. All of this while remaining super breathable. I find this fabric to be super slimming and flattering and it’s super soft and smooth as well.

Awesome! What else should I know?

If you're still unsure about Fabletics, know that they have a great returns policy. You can return or exchange your VIP purchases within 45 days of their shipment date using a free return shipping label. (Look in the Order Details section of your account to have one emailed to you.) Nab a new size, a new item/outfit, or get store credit or a refund. As long as your purchase wasn't a final sale item, you'll be good to go!

Curious to see what style and fit you'd be best suited in? You can check out the Leggings Finder on the Fabletics site to get started!

Expert Tip:

Don't just try your new legging out in front of the mirror—move around in them! Jump, twist, squat, do a few forward folds. Get to know how the leggings respond to the movement you're most likely to put them through. Just keep the tags on until you're sure they're the style for you. (That way you can return them without a hitch!)

Try Fabletics for yourself & get 2 pairs of leggings for $24!

Get your choice of two Fabletics leggings styles for just $24! Just follow this link to learn more.

Have you tried Fabletics? Which leggings worked best for you?

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Fabletics, founded in part by actress Kate Hudson, is a global active-lifestyle brand designed with every body type in mind. Fabletics fuses fashion forward designs with high-performance technology and fabrics, evolving activewear from beyond the gym and into every walk of life.

Anna Reilly
Anna Reilly
Anna loves collecting little treasures, be they pop-culture finds, handmade mementos, or new potions to put in her makeup bag. Beauty boxes got her interested in the subscription world, but now she's swooning for all things kawaii!

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38 comments

Brandi Smith

Can you tell me which style is best for thick legs. The compression calves in the ones I got are too tight

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Heidi

I’ve been to the store twice now and every time I find a pair I like and take them home they roll down and make a break for it! Which line won’t roll down and fall off?

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Senior Jogger

I have been wanting to try these leggings for so long and was so excited when I received a pair as a present. I’m a size 12 and the leggings are sized medium. Every 5 minutes or so, I had to stop and pull them up and looked like a penguin. What a disappointment

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Candice

Just curious…what size do you wear in fabletics? I’m the same height and weight as you so I’m curious since I’m just about to place my first order 🙂 thanks!

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Stephanie

Hi, I just received my first pairs of Fabletics. I decided to go with the Powerhold 7/8. This may seem like a dumb question, but how right should they fit. I feel like mine are super snug, which I would think would help keep them in place. I don’t want them so stretched out though that they become see through or don’t hold up. I’m afraid if I go to the next size they might be too loose and not stay in place. I got an XL but wonder about getting an XXL. I hate to send mine back only to find I should’ve kept that size. Thanks in advance for your advice.

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Mandi

Their sales are great, I had an order come in yesterday with some outfits for $50 and I was really happy with them. I’m short and like the 7/8 length leggings and biker shorts, but I had a bra completely bust after a workout 2 weeks ago, a metal piece holding the strap just broke in half and flew across the room. I hand wash/air dry and only wore it a handful of times so I was surprised.

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Beth

Anna – really helpful post. Thanks! Are all the leggings designed for actual athletic use or are some designed for non-athletic types who just prefer the comfort of leggings when lounging around the house, (so leggings that aren’t shiny and don’t compress)?

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Annie

I’m sorry, I didn’t read your question carefully! Yes the seamless would be good for you. There is a quiz when you sign up where you tell them you want to Lounge, they also have casual tops that are very cute. They will recommend several styles to suit you. I strongly suggest You stick within those recommended styles, because some of the Athletic leggings (powerhold etc that people love) are very uncomfortable – tight and stuffy. Fine for a workout but you won’t watch Netflix in them twice.

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Marne Orenich

Hey, Beth! While I’m not as well-versed as Anna on these, I think the Seamless sound right up your alley! I, too, am more of a lounger so it’s good to note that Fabletics has a large variety of joggers and other non-leggings as well. 🙂 Hope this helps!

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Beth

Thanks!!

Amanda P

I have their normal leggings for working out. They’re sized relatively tight in the legs and loose at the waist compared to other brands. They wear out more quickly than my more expensive leggings – stitching coming out, pilling, etc. I hand wash mine with cold water and gentle detergent per instructions (delicate cold water only), which is a pain. I washed one pair on gentle cycle once and noticed a difference. They’re also a *little* thinner and therefore a bit more revealing if you’re butt/groin aren’t covered and you’re at the gym. However the design helps prevent bunching. All that said I think they are a fair deal for what you’re paying at the VIP price point. If you need 4-5 pairs to support daily workouts these will do you. If you’re a 1-2 a week person you’re better off getting 2 higher quality pairs. They will look better and last longer (same price per wear but bigger investment up front).

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KS

Fabletics leggings are great quality considering you can buy them on sale for $15-20. I own dozens of leggings, including a few in $250+ price-range, and my Powerholds are still the ones I reach for frequently for high-intensity and outdoor workouts.

I do agree Fabletics are not as breathable as some of the other brands but I don’t think it’s that noticeable. I do limit my Fabletics purchases though because I’m trying to move away from Made in China fashion and there are a lot of amazing American brands I want to support.

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Alexa Kathol

I’m looking for leggings comparable to the buttery soft LuLu Lemon leggings. I have the power-hold leggings and like them, but I hate their cotton-like feel. I would love something buttery soft. I am thinking nylon fabric is the way to go, just because I’ve gone through about 5 pairs of polyester leggings and they feel no different than the cotton leggings. I know that the PureLuxe leggings are advertised as having a “buttery-feel” but all the leggings are a polyester-spandex blend as far as I can tell. I noticed you gave a great review to the SculptKnit and that most of their leggings are the nylon-spandex blend. What is your take on the feel of the leggings? I don’t want to just purchase them and return them because there’s a $6 restocking fee 🙁 that’s deducted from the return. So advice would be great!

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KS

Fabletics doesn’t really have Lululemon dupes imo. If you’re particular about fabrics, I would probably not recommend Fabletics.

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Kat

I was looking for a review on the seamless leggings for fit and saw your comment… I am currently wearing aligns LOL! Honestly I have tried sooo many other brands and “dupes” and I’ve found that you will not find an alternative to Nulu (align material). My best advice is to save your money looking for an alternative and just pick up pieces as they move into WMTM. Fabletics has great options for exercise, but I don’t think they do great with comfort & lounge pieces like Lulu does. Hope this helps.

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Susan

Kat, I totally agree with you, if you want the Align feeling, the only place to get it is Lulu Lemon. I find my leggings last a tremendously long time, so the extra to buy those special leggings is worth every cent. I have a mix of Fabletics (I like the MAJ pant) and some of their tops, I have ALO, and I have Lulu, Adidas, Puma you name it, love them all for different reasons. I live in Align leggings at home ! so great Advice !

Jean

Fabletics leggings are the best! Powerhold capris and 7/8 leggings are staples in my workout wardrobe.

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Lynn

I have been thinking of joining either fabletics or Ellie for a while now. I like how the leggings and outfits look, but I can’t get past the fabric being polyester or nylon. It seems to me that it would be uncomfortable to wear when you are sweating. I have always preferred cotton for its breathability. Doesn’t polyester and nylon also lead to increased risk of yeast and bladder infections? I guess I am asking, does this fabric actually allow air flow and absorb sweat or are you smothering in a tight layer of your own sweat?

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Jenn

I didn’t like Ellie. They lost their elasticity too soon. The shirt and the sweatshirt I got from them I loved. But the leggings were a no go. Didn’t even stay in my closet for 6 months.

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Carmen

I personally love the thicker powerhold fabric because it’s moisture wicking, and I do boot camp/ HIIT exercise. I do get a little warm with the leggings, so I generally stick to using powerhold crops, capris, and 7/8’s. I sweat a tremendous amount when I exercise (think just-out-of-the shower drenched), and I’ve never had any issues with yeast or bladder infections. I do change out of my sweaty clothes as soon as I get home though.

If the powerhold material too thick for you, they have other styles that are thinner/lighter that provide better air flow. One style not mentioned in the review is the motion 365 (called Trinity on Fabletics website) that is still high compression but a thinner fabric. I love wearing these for my summer workouts.

Plus, you can find different types of leggings with mesh for more breathability. My personal favorite is the Mila capri. It has mesh panels that run down the outer leg and comes with pockets.

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Jara

I personally feel like the leggings are super thick. They are great at moisture wicking so I’m not just drowning in my own sweat, but I feel like I am dying from how hot I get when I workout in Fabletics leggings. I have several pairs that I bought on a great sale, but probably won’t buy anymore because I can’t comfortably workout in them since they’re not breathable.

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Crystal

Thank you for this! Do you find that their leggings are too long on you? I am only 5’2” and I usually get petite lengths in other brands so I’m a little nervous that these will all be way too long :/ Fo you usually get the 7/8 length? Thanks! 🙂

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Nancy

I ordered the PureLuxe Cashel leggings style in XL Short. It’s supposed to be comparable to a 14/16 but they tag says size 12/14. Still, they fit so no complaint. They are extremely long. The inseam is actually 31″ long on the Short length. That’s what they say the Tall length will be. They still work though they bunch up at my ankles. I’ll try a capri next.

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Carmen

Fabletics offers the leggings in short, regular, and tall inseams. They also carry 7/8, capri, and crop lengths in certain styles. I’m 5’3, and their short inseam leggings fit me well. I prefer the 7/8 and capri styles, though.

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Lee

I hate compression but need something for powerlifting. Is the seamless version squat proof?

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Elise

I absolutely LOVE fabletics!! Their leggings are the best ones I own I have some really great sweatshirts from them too!! I usually skip the month and wait for the sales – they always have good sales around holidays and usually have some random deals throughout the month too. (However – if you buy things with a big discount on sale they’re usually not returnable so I wouldn’t recommend this if you’ve never bought from them before). I’ve been buying from them for 2 years now and I’ve only forgotten to skip a month once and I remembered the next day and asked them if they could cancel the charge since it hadn’t gone through yet – and they did! Love them.

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Andrea

Thanks for this post!! All the information is so helpful. I’ve been looking at Fabletics for a while and just didn’t know where to start.

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Anna Reilly

Yay! So glad we could help, Andrea!

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MinnePuffin

Powerhold with mesh and pockets are my go-to yardwork pants. We have about 5 acres, so I spend most of my summer out there mowing or planting or clearing debris. Those pants HOLD UP. I have yet to have any get tears or runs, even in the mesh part. I always just chuck them in a normal load of laundry and they’re fine.

If Fabletics could just make sports bras in cup sizes, I’d pretty much wear nothing else. Their current sizes don’t fit me.

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Alice

Thank you. I, too, have a large ranch, lots of animals, and tons of chores. No need for any gym or boot camp, we live in one! And it’s super hot and humid here, so comfort and cooling is of utmost importance.

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Ally

I’m days late reading this post but THANK YOU for this comment. I live on a small 15 acre horse farm and have been looking for good yet cute leggings for summer farm chores!

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Mary

So what would be the benefit of waiting, rather than skipping, a month?

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Dorothy

The benefit is solely for the company. (I still love Fabletics though)

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Jen

I workout outside all year and want warm leggings. I have two different styles of fleece-lined leggings from Fabletics and wear them on heavy rotation. Both styles have been discontinued otherwise I’d gladly buy more. I wish they would make more cold weather gear.

Anna Reilly

If you’re someone who does a lot of shopping on Fabletics, then it can’t hurt, since you’ll likely be back soon to spend that store credit. But personally, I’m not inclined to part with $49.95 until I’m sure of what I’m spending it on! My advice? Schedule those calendar reminders! For the sake of doing reviews, I buy more often than I skip, but even I have reminders to make sure I don’t miss the window. Sure, I do think the clothes are worth it (especially the leggings), but I also believe in spending on things you really WANT – not because you HAVE to! Hope that helps <3

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Jackie

There is none that I know of. Basically waiting to me means you forgot to skip.

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Lisa

Thanks Anna for a the low down on Fabletics system! I’ve been with Ellie for about a year and am considering switching. This info will really help with my decision.

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Jackie

I personally love the Salar Powerhold 🙂 They make me feel like I’m wearing something very expensive, if that makes sense 🙂

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