It's almost summer, and you know what that means...time to get outside again! But first, let's throw those old workout shorts away and invest in quality workout clothes that will last, without breaking the bank.

Finding good-quality, functional athletics apparel that won't cost a fortune is challenging, and the last thing anyone wants to do after a long work week is spend hours shopping for workout gear. Our editors have been looking to find a brand that has everything you could possibly need - whether you're looking for outdoor activities, play ball, or chill on the couch.

A lot of brands came close to ticking all of the boxes, but ultimately two came out on top: Fabletics Men and Nike.

We compared both to see who is the top dog for the best workout clothes & athletics shorts for men.

Key Similarities:

  • Both brands design workout and sportswear that range across sports apparel, lounge wear, and accessories
  • Both brands emphasize quality and use premium fabrics that support workouts
  • Both brands have apps to help with training

Key Differences:

  • Fabletics Men products average $24 (with VIP membership), more affordable than Nike products which average $45+
  • Fabletics Men runs promotions regularly whereas Nike rarely runs promotions on new drops except on big holidays.
  • Fabletics Men has a unique membership at $49.95 a month (that you can skip anytime) which allows you to redeem credits for the same amount and gives you access to amazing discounts for the whole year
  • Nikes' membership offers exclusive access to new drops but few discounts

Fabletics Men

Fabletics Men is a clothing brand designed for men who want to keep it stylish but simple. Their clothes are designed with premium fabrics and focus on a great fit. From workout wear to loungewear and even casual clothes, Fabletics Men does have something for everyone.

From joggers, pants, tees, tanks, vests, sweatshirts, jackets, to underwear and accessories like socks and caps, you can get everything you need in one place at a great price. The technical and premium fabrics that Fabletic Men's use ensure that you feel and look great. Fabletics Men have workout shirts starting from $24 and lined athletic shorts from $39.95, but you can save even more money with their awesome VIP membership.

As a new VIP member, you'll gain access to amazing deals like 70% off your first order, 2 for $24 on Pants, and 2 for $24 on athletic shorts.

Here's how it works: for $59.95 every month, you will have access to new arrivals every week with 20-50% off, free shipping and returns, and access to the Fabletics Fit App with trainer-led on-demand workouts. That fee gets deposited into your account for you to spend. ('Skip the Month' by the 5th of each month, and you won't be charged. If you don't 'Skip', your payment method will be charged $59.95 on the 6th of each month and you will receive one VIP Member Credit valued at $59.95.)

The VIP credits go into your account and can be used on items up to $80 within a year. With Fabletics Men, it's all about quality, style and function. We love being able to save money and stock up whenever we want.

NIKE

We have all heard of Nike - it is one of the most popular sports brands in the world. Although they are mainly known for their sneakers - they also have a lot of clothes and accessories, from tees to workout clothes, fleece trousers, jackets and hoodies.

Nike has a bunch of different materials and technologies that they use in their products, all designed to provide maximum support for workouts. Nike's prices are definitely higher than average: tees start at $45.96 and their workout shorts are $51.86. With Nike, while everything is definitely high-quality, it feels like you are paying for the name more than anything else. Fabletics Men offers apparel that is just as good and focused on performance but at a much better price point.

Nike has a membership program that offers access to the member shop which boasts a unique collection of Nike shoes and gear that is only available to Nike Members. Although their membership is free, you don't get any extra discounts, so it really doesn't feel like a membership at all. Nike does do special offers for holidays and special events, but having to wait for these periods to shop is really not ideal.

Final Thoughts

Although Nike is a big brand with an even bigger reputation when it comes to apparel, it's not just about having the logo on your sleeve but what you can actually get for your money. We may have been loyal Nike users before, but now we've made the switch to Fabletics Men - it is more affordable but still, their quality, style, and function are outstanding.

Fabletics Men has everything big brands have and more. With something for everyone and incredible offers like the 2 for $24 on athletic shorts, you can't not make the switch.