The GAP in the West Acres Mall has officially closed, but the GAP brand is not leaving Fargo. Athleta by GAP opened Feb. 16, 2021, and is now in the Buffalo Court between Zoomies and LOFT. Athleta is a store targeted toward young girls and women who lead athletic lifestyles.
Athleta started in California in 1998, and was purchased by GAP Inc in 2008. Very few brands designed workout gear specifically for women, and this was the vision for Athleta. Athleta has expanded from athletic apparel to include other lines such as dress, rompers, swimsuits and accessories. Athleta has been doing well during the pandemic as their masks have gotten praise for being one of the most comfortable masks on the market.
The clothing at Athleta is similar to the clothing sold at Lululemon. Lululemon opened at West Acres in the fall of 2017. Lululemon sells athletic apparel for men and women that lead athletic lifestyles. Both Athleta and Lululemon are considered to be high end athletic brands. Prices at Athleta are slightly lower than they are at Lululemon, but the quality of Lululemons is generally considered to be better. Athletas’ leggings run around $78 dollars a pair where Lululemon’s run around $98 a pair. Both are great options for athletic wear.
Athleta has established itself as different from Lululemon through its inclusivity. Athleta also differs from Lululemon in that it only carries products designed for women and girls. The sizing of Athleta is more inclusive, and its campaign “Power of She” promotes female empowerment.
The Athleta store in West Acres mall is set up with the front of the store having many mannequins in the front and scattered around the store modeling different ways to wear and style the clothes. Near the front of the store there are leggings, sweaters and shirts. In the center of the store the check out is located. To the left of the check-out there are masks and other accessories on the wall. In the back right of the store there is a section for young girls. And on the far back wall of the store the fitting rooms are located.
GAP has been a staple in the West Acres Mall. The GapKids/BabyGap store was open for 25 years before it closed in 2020. It is expected that 350 GAP stores will close by 2024. 225 GAP stores closed in 2020 alone. There are no longer any GAP stores located in North Dakota. Many GAP stores were underperforming in malls and shopping centers leading to the mass-closure of stores.
If you are looking for somewhere new to shop, or you want to find some new, trendy, comfortable athleisure wear at an affordable price, visit Athleta on your next trip to West Acres mall.