If you’ve browsed premium yoga wear online, you’ve likely come across Sweaty Betty — a stylish, performance-driven activewear label loved by women worldwide.
But many wonder: Is Sweaty Betty actually a UK brand?
Let’s uncover its origin, where it manufactures its products, and how it compares to other yoga brands — plus insights from FuKi Yoga, a sustainable OEM partner for global activewear startups.
Table of Contents
- Quick Answer
- 1. Where Did Sweaty Betty Originate?
- 2. Who Owns Sweaty Betty Today?
- 3. Where Are Sweaty Betty Clothes Made?
- 4. Why Sweaty Betty Became So Popular in the UK
- 5. How Sweaty Betty Compares to Lululemon & Athleta
- FAQs
- FuKi Yoga: Partnering with Global Sustainable Brands
Quick Answer
Yes — Sweaty Betty is a UK brand, founded in London in 1998 by Tamara and Simon Hill-Norton.
The company started with one small boutique in Notting Hill and has grown into a global activewear leader, offering premium yoga, running, and lifestyle apparel.
Since 2021, Sweaty Betty has been owned by Wolverine Worldwide (the parent company of Saucony and Merrell), but its design headquarters remain in London, preserving its British identity.
1. Where Did Sweaty Betty Originate?
Sweaty Betty was launched in Notting Hill, London, with a mission to empower women through fitness and fashion.
At a time when sportswear was dominated by unisex designs, the brand stood out by creating female-focused, body-positive, and stylish activewear.
💬 As someone in apparel manufacturing, I can confirm that Sweaty Betty’s early success came from combining aesthetics with performance — something rare in the 1990s.
2. Who Owns Sweaty Betty Today?
In 2021, the brand was acquired by Wolverine Worldwide, a major US footwear and apparel company.
However, the acquisition didn’t change Sweaty Betty’s UK-based design, creative, and marketing teams, which continue to operate independently from London.
| Year | Ownership | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 | Independent (Founded by Tamara & Simon Hill-Norton) | Launched in London |
| 2015 | Private Equity (L Catterton) | Expanded globally |
| 2021 | Wolverine Worldwide | Continued UK brand heritage |
3. Where Are Sweaty Betty Clothes Made?
Sweaty Betty produces its activewear in ethical partner factories located in:
- China
- Vietnam
- Turkey
- Portugal
All suppliers follow Sweaty Betty’s Code of Conduct, ensuring:
- Safe working environments
- Fair labor practices
- Environmentally responsible production
Most fabrics used are recycled nylon, polyester, and organic cotton, aligning with their sustainability goals.
4. Why Sweaty Betty Became So Popular in the UK
Several factors made Sweaty Betty a household name:
- Authentic British branding and community roots
- Fashion-forward activewear appealing to professionals and yogis alike
- Flagship stores and in-store classes across major UK cities
- Strong online presence and influencer collaborations
🧘♀️ It’s not just about fitness — Sweaty Betty sells a lifestyle of confidence, comfort, and empowerment.
5. How Sweaty Betty Compares to Lululemon & Athleta
| Brand | Origin | Price Range | Core Focus | Sustainability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweaty Betty | United Kingdom | $70–$150 | Women’s activewear & lifestyle | Moderate to High |
| Lululemon | Canada | $90–$180 | Technical yoga & running gear | High |
| Athleta | USA | $70–$160 | Inclusive performance wear | High |
| FuKi Yoga | China | OEM/ODM | Custom eco yoga wear | High |
Sweaty Betty bridges the gap between Lululemon’s performance and Athleta’s inclusivity, with a distinct British design identity that resonates globally.
FAQs
Q1: Is Sweaty Betty still a UK company?
Yes, it’s headquartered in London and maintains its British design and brand tone, even after being acquired.
Q2: Does Sweaty Betty use sustainable fabrics?
Yes, many collections feature recycled nylon and organic cotton, certified under GRS and OEKO-TEX®.
Q3: Are Sweaty Betty products made ethically?
Absolutely — their suppliers are regularly audited for labor and environmental compliance.
Q4: How does Sweaty Betty differ from Lululemon?
Sweaty Betty is more fashion-driven, while Lululemon focuses on high-performance athletic gear.
FuKi Yoga: Partnering with Global Sustainable Brands
At FuKi Yoga, we share Sweaty Betty’s vision of sustainability and comfort — but bring it to the OEM/ODM manufacturing level.
We help brands worldwide with:
- Eco-certified fabrics (recycled nylon, polyester, bamboo)
- Low MOQ custom production (100 pcs)
- Private labeling & sampling for yoga and athleisure lines
- Sustainable and ethical factory operations
Whether you’re a startup yoga brand or an established retailer, FuKi Yoga can help you develop premium, eco-friendly activewear that competes globally.
👉 Learn more at fukiyoga.com
