Why I Don't Mind Spending A Little More For Athleta Clothing

Anyone who has been around this blog for any length of time knows that I take my athleisure clothing seriously. I have done numerous Dressing Room Diaries for Athleta and and I can thank my mom for introducing me to the brand.

Why I Don’t Mind Spending A Little More For Athleta Clothing

One thing I get asked a lot falls around the price point of Athleta. I get it, their clothing doesn’t match a Target or Amazon price point. But I will tell you — I don’t mind paying a little bit more for Athleta clothing. In fact, Athleta is worth the price and today I’m talking a little bit more about why. So, if you’ve been considering Athleta workout clothing or wondering if it’s worth taking the plunge on the $80 leggings, stick around.

Athleta workout clothes last.

I have every piece of clothing I have ever purchased from Athleta, have washed and dried it multiple times, have carted it around the world, on airplanes, up mountains and beyond — it still looks and performs just as good as the day I purchased it. No fading, no seam rips, no stink (something most workout brands cannot claim!) and no pilling (my biggest beef in cheap leggings).

On this trip to Africa, we lost an entire suitcase filled with gear for nearly 3 days. I happened to be wearing Athleta clothing and after two days of camping in 90+ degree temps with only a wet wipe bath — those clothes did not stink! That is two big freaking thumbs up from this gal.

Athleta is a B-Corp.

What does this mean? Businesses with a B-Corp classification are legally bound to consider the decisions made company-wide and how they impact their workers, consumers, suppliers, community and the environment. It’s a pretty big deal in the world of sustainable clothing choices, because B-Corp certification does not come easily.

When you purchase from Athleta, your dollars are going toward products that are made using water-saving techniques and empowering women in the workplace.

Athleta’s website says it best: “It’s about doing the right thing, especially when it’s hard. And using the power we have as a big company to make informed decisions that improve lives—for everyone, everywhere.”

Athleta clothing is multi-use.

I guess the term athleisure is appropriate here, because pretty much every piece of Athleta clothing I own, I’ve worn for both working out and going out. Their longline bras work great with high-waisted pants and skirts, their tanks are cute paired with a casual pair of shorts and I’ve purchased quite a few swimsuits and casual pants that I wear for everything from grocery shopping to a night out.

Not that it’s make or break, but it’s worth noting that if you shop in stores at Athleta, they have fit guide experts and will alter anything you purchase free of charge. It’s a great perk for short-legged gals like myself!

There seems to be a trend right now, especially in fitness apparel, for pieces that look and feel like more popular brands (Lululemon and Athleta), but from my experience, they don’t perform as well during workouts, they fall apart at the seams or pill after washing and use, and simply do not last or wind up too smelly to keep in my drawer. I know this isn’t everyone’s experience, but it has been mine!

I realized a couple years ago, I was throwing money down the drain and being careless with my consumption by buying multiple cheap pieces of clothing instead of a handful of quality pieces I know will last, especially since I use my workout clothing at least once per day. By the time I purchased and paid for shipping on two lower quality pairs that annoyed me and fell apart, I could have gotten one pair that is going to last me many, many years.

I fully recognize this is not the mentality everyone has and that is completely fine —you do you, right?! But I do get quite a few questions about Athleta and if it’s worth the cost, so I wanted to share my opinion.

Now let’s chat — do you wear Athleta? Do you think it’s worth the investment? Also just to note – Athleta has absolutely no idea who I am. I simply love their clothing and believe in their brand. I’ve linked some of my tried and true favorite Athleta pieces below.