As someone who has handled and tested dozens of activewear brands for international buyers, I can confirm that Sweaty Betty does run slightly small, especially compared to US brands like Lululemon or Athleta.
If you’re shopping online or sourcing yoga apparel for your brand, knowing how Sweaty Betty sizing works will help you choose the right fit — or learn from their pattern standards for your own line.
Table of Contents
- Quick Answer
- How Sweaty Betty Sizing Compares to Other Brands
- Why Sweaty Betty Runs Small
- Best Fit Tips for Different Body Types
- Sweaty Betty vs Lululemon Size Chart
- When to Size Up or Down
- FAQs
- Build a Perfect-Fit Yoga Brand with FuKi Yoga
Quick Answer
Yes — Sweaty Betty tends to run small, especially in leggings and compression tops.
It follows UK/European sizing standards, which are generally narrower in the hips and shorter in the inseam compared to North American fits.
Most shoppers who are between sizes should go one size up for maximum comfort.
How Sweaty Betty Sizing Compares to Other Brands
From my experience fitting samples in both UK and US markets, Sweaty Betty sizing sits between Alo Yoga’s snug fit and Lululemon’s flexible stretch.
| Brand | Fit Type | Size Tendency | Key Fit Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweaty Betty | Slim & compressive | Runs small | Designed for a sculpted look |
| Lululemon | True to size | Neutral | Adapts to most body types |
| Alo Yoga | Tight fit | Slightly small | Fashion-forward cuts |
| Athleta | Relaxed | True / slightly big | Inclusive sizing options |
If you wear US 6 in Lululemon, you may need a UK 10 (US 8) in Sweaty Betty.
Why Sweaty Betty Runs Small
There’s a design logic behind this fit difference — it’s not a flaw.
Sweaty Betty’s British tailoring roots favor:
- Compression silhouettes for sculpting and support
- Performance fit for gym and running
- Minimal stretch room to maintain garment structure
That’s why the brand feels more fitted and lifted, but less forgiving for curvier body types compared to US brands.
Best Fit Tips for Different Body Types
| Body Type | Recommended Size Move | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Petite / Slim build | True to size | Provides a supportive, snug feel |
| Curvy / Athletic build | Size up once | More comfort around hips and thighs |
| Tall body frame | Size up for length | Prevent leggings from riding up |
| Between sizes | Go larger | Keeps waistbands comfortable during movement |
Sweaty Betty’s Power and Zero Gravity collections are known for strong compression — so if you like stretch, those may feel tighter than expected.
Sweaty Betty vs Lululemon Size Chart
| Measurement | Sweaty Betty (UK) | Lululemon (US) |
|---|---|---|
| XXS | UK 6 | US 0–2 |
| XS | UK 8 | US 4 |
| S | UK 10 | US 6 |
| M | UK 12 | US 8 |
| L | UK 14 | US 10 |
| XL | UK 16 | US 12 |
👉 Tip: Always check the specific collection — Power leggings fit smaller, while Chill or Super Soft lines fit closer to true size.
When to Size Up or Down
- Size up if you’re buying compression or sculpting leggings (e.g., Power series).
- Stay true to size for casual yoga sets or seamless pieces.
- Avoid sizing down — the waistbands and seams are tight and could roll or restrict movement.
Personally, I find UK sizing precision great for performance wear, but for comfort yoga sessions or lounging, going up one size gives more freedom to move.
FAQs
Q1: Does Sweaty Betty run small or true to size?
Generally small. It’s designed for a snug, performance fit.
Q2: Should I size up in Sweaty Betty leggings?
Yes, especially for compressive styles or if you’re between two sizes.
Q3: Is Sweaty Betty UK or US sizing?
It’s UK-based, so sizes are smaller than standard US equivalents.
Q4: Are Sweaty Betty leggings stretchy?
Yes, but the stretch is firm and sculpting, not overly flexible like Lululemon’s Nulu.
Build a Perfect-Fit Yoga Brand with FuKi Yoga
At FuKi Yoga, we specialize in helping yoga and activewear brands achieve the ideal fit for every market — whether you want UK compression or US comfort.
Our services include:
- Custom size grading for different regions (US, EU, AU, UK)
- OEM & ODM production for leggings, bras, and jumpsuits
- Fabric development from soft stretch to high-compression blends
- Private labeling & logo printing (heat transfer, silicone, embroidery)
- Low MOQ for startup yoga brands
- Sustainable material sourcing for eco-conscious collections
By combining technical precision with fashion-forward design, FuKi Yoga helps brands create better-fitting, high-performance yoga wear trusted by customers worldwide.
