In this review, we will be looking at Athleta, a business featured on our website. Please note that this review includes an affiliate link, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through it. We will provide a brief, honest and impartial overview of their products or services and share some insights into what you can expect based on their advertisements.
If you are interested in them or want to learn more about them, just click on any of the links in the article and that will direct you to the merchant’s site. Now, let us see how they measure up.
Athleta is a popular women’s activewear brand owned by Gap Inc., well-regarded for its high-quality, versatile apparel designed for various types of physical activities, including yoga, running, gym workouts, hiking, and everyday athleisure wear.
Founded in 1998, Athleta focuses on creating clothing that blends functionality and style, catering to women and girls who want comfortable, durable, and stylish activewear. As part of the larger Gap Inc. family since 2008, the brand has expanded both its product offerings and retail presence, with a number of stand-alone stores across the United States and an extensive online presence through Athleta’s dedicated website.
One of the standout aspects of Athleta’s brand identity is its commitment to empowering women. Athleta often promotes messages around body positivity, inclusivity, and supporting women and girls to lead active, balanced lives.
The brand offers a wide range of sizes, with many items available in petite, tall, and extended sizes. This size-inclusive approach makes Athleta accessible to women of various body types, setting it apart from some other activewear brands. Their marketing and product lines focus on celebrating women of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels, which resonates with a broad audience.
Athleta also prioritizes sustainability and ethical practices in its production. Many of its garments are made from eco-friendly materials, such as recycled polyester, and the company actively works towards minimizing its environmental footprint.
Athleta has set ambitious goals for sustainability, including making 80% of its products with sustainable fibers by 2025. In addition, they are members of the Fair Trade movement, which emphasizes fair wages and ethical treatment of workers, further enhancing their appeal to eco-conscious and ethically-minded consumers.
The brand’s products are known for their high quality, comfort, and innovation. Athleta’s apparel often features advanced fabric technologies, like moisture-wicking, anti-chafing, and quick-drying properties, designed to perform well across different activities and climates.
Their collections span everything from leggings, sports bras, and tops to outerwear and accessories, allowing customers to build a complete activewear wardrobe. Athleta also emphasizes versatility, with many pieces suitable for both workouts and casual wear, reflecting the increasing demand for athleisure clothing that transitions easily from the gym to daily life.
Athleta has garnered a loyal customer base, in part due to its excellent customer service and supportive community initiatives. Their Power of She campaign, for example, connects women through events, workshops, and social causes, reinforcing their brand’s focus on female empowerment.
Additionally, Athleta’s loyalty program and regular promotions encourage repeat customers, and many shoppers appreciate the brand’s return policy and store experience. In a highly competitive activewear market, Athleta has managed to stand out by focusing on quality, inclusivity, and social responsibility, making it a trusted choice for women who seek both style and performance in their activewear.
HERE’S A BALANCED OVERVIEW OF THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE “UGLY” ASPECTS OF ATHLETA:
THE GOOD
Quality and Functionality: Athleta’s activewear is known for its durability and high-quality materials, often featuring moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and four-way stretch fabrics. Many customers find that the clothing holds up well even after numerous washes, making it a long-term investment for active and casual wear alike.
Inclusivity and Sizing: Athleta stands out in the activewear industry for offering a wide range of sizes, including petite, tall, and extended sizes, which ensures more women can find activewear that fits well and feels good.
Sustainability and Ethics: Athleta has been a leader in incorporating eco-friendly materials, like recycled polyester, and is a member of the Fair Trade movement. This ethical focus aligns with the values of many modern consumers who prioritize sustainable and ethical production.
Empowerment and Community Focus: Athleta’s “Power of She” initiative, along with its partnerships with women-centered organizations, demonstrates the brand’s commitment to empowering women. Through events, campaigns, and community-building efforts, Athleta fosters a supportive atmosphere for women in fitness and beyond.
Style and Versatility: Many customers appreciate Athleta’s stylish, athleisure-focused designs that can seamlessly transition from the gym to everyday settings. The variety of styles and colors appeals to those who want both performance and style in their wardrobe.
THE BAD
Pricing: Athleta’s activewear is premium-priced, and some customers find it too expensive compared to similar brands. While many are willing to pay for the quality, others may find the price point out of reach, especially for staple items like leggings and tops that cost significantly more than average.
Sizing Consistency: Although Athleta offers inclusive sizing, some customers report inconsistency in sizing across different product lines, making it hard to find the right fit without trying items on. This is a common issue across the apparel industry but can be particularly frustrating in activewear, where fit is essential.
Availability and Stock Issues: Due to high demand, popular items and sizes are sometimes out of stock both online and in stores. This can frustrate customers, particularly those who are looking for seasonal or limited-edition items that are frequently not restocked.
THE UGLY
Potential Quality Control Issues: While most reviews are positive, some customers report issues with seams coming undone or fabric pilling on certain items. These issues can be particularly disappointing given Athleta’s premium price point.
Customer Service Inconsistencies: Though Athleta is generally known for good customer service, there have been occasional complaints about delayed responses, especially when handling online orders, returns, or exchanges. As Athleta’s online presence grows, this has sometimes led to frustration for customers who expect quick and efficient support.
Gap Inc. and Corporate Practices: Being part of the larger Gap Inc. can be both a strength and a drawback. Some customers perceive Gap Inc. as a large corporation that doesn’t fully align with the sustainability and small-business ethos Athleta promotes. For customers who prioritize supporting smaller brands, this association may detract from Athleta’s appeal.
Athleta is a trusted brand with quality products, ethical practices, and a strong community focus. However, its premium pricing, occasional stock and sizing issues, and the challenges that come with corporate ownership may be considerations for potential customers. For those who prioritize quality, sustainability, and inclusivity, Athleta remains a top choice, but budget-conscious shoppers or those seeking smaller brands may have some reservations.
HERE ARE SOME GREAT REASONS TO CONSIDER CHECKING OUT ATHLETA:
High-Quality Activewear for a Variety of Activities: Athleta’s clothing is designed for high performance across various physical activities, from yoga and running to gym workouts and hiking. With advanced fabric features like moisture-wicking, quick-drying, and stretchability, Athleta gear supports comfort and ease of movement.
Size Inclusivity: Athleta is one of the few activewear brands that offers extended sizing, including petite, tall, and plus-size options. Their commitment to inclusivity makes it easier for women of all body types to find activewear that fits well and looks great.
Eco-Friendly and Ethical: If you value sustainability, Athleta is ahead of the curve. Many of their products are made with eco-friendly materials, such as recycled polyester, and they’ve committed to making 80% of their materials sustainable by 2025. Athleta’s Fair Trade certification also means they’re investing in ethical labor practices, making the brand appealing to socially conscious shoppers.
Stylish and Versatile Designs: Athleta’s activewear has a stylish, athleisure vibe that can transition easily from workouts to casual wear. Their designs are fashionable yet functional, making them perfect for everything from a workout class to a coffee outing.
Empowerment and Community: Athleta is more than just a clothing brand—it’s focused on empowering women through its “Power of She” campaign, events, and partnerships with women’s organizations. By shopping with Athleta, you’re supporting a brand that invests in women’s well-being and confidence.
Consistent Sales and Loyalty Program: While Athleta’s products are often premium-priced, they offer frequent sales and promotions, along with a loyalty program for repeat shoppers. This can make their high-quality products more affordable, and their generous return policy is also a plus for those new to the brand.
Wide Range of Products: From leggings and sports bras to outerwear and swimwear, Athleta has a large product line to meet nearly every activewear need. Whether you’re building a workout wardrobe or just looking for a few essentials, there’s a good chance Athleta has what you’re looking for.
Athleta offers a unique blend of quality, style, inclusivity, and ethical practices that appeals to many shoppers. If you’re looking for activewear that combines performance and style while supporting a positive mission, Athleta is definitely worth exploring.