What is the difference between tall and regular lululemon shorts?

Lululemon does not have “tall” and “regular” shorts, but does offer a variety of inseam lengths for a majority of its shorts styles, allowing you to choose the length of the short leg that you prefer, which can help you find the right fit.

Should I size up in lululemon shorts?

Many lululemon women’s shorts come in sizes 0-20, while men’s range from XS-XXL. Men’s styles tend to fit true to size and are pretty consistent with other men’s clothing brands. Depending on the style, lululemon women’s shorts may run one size smaller than your usual size. If you can’t try on the shorts in a store, you may want to consider choosing one size up when ordering online.

Do lululemon shorts ride up?

If your lululemon shorts are the correct size for your body, they are unlikely to ride up. Lululemon’s fabrics and design features help the shorts stay in place through your workouts.

Which lululemon fabric has the most compression?

Full-On Luxtreme fabric is the most compressive fabric at Lululemon. Made from nylon and Lycra elastane, it’s smooth and cool to the touch. Full-On Luxtreme has a tight interlock construction that offers high support while still feeling stretchy and breathable.

How to care for lululemon shorts?

To keep them looking and performing their best, all lululemon shorts should be washed in cold water with like colors. Shorts made from Swift, French terry, and abrasion-resistant fabric can be put in the dryer at a low temperature. Shorts made from Nulu and Everlux should be line dried. Lululemon recommends against bleaching, ironing, or dry cleaning any of its shorts.

The 15 Best Lululemon Shorts, According to an Expert

lululemon, a Vancouver-based activewear company, has garnered a loyal following thanks to its top-quality products. The company makes athletic wear that’s fashionable and functional for a range of activities, like yoga, running, weight training, and lounging.

Besides leggings, lululemon is also known for quality shorts. lululemon uses innovative fabrics in shorts that perform well during workouts, look and feel good, and last a long time. This feature, paired with thoughtful and unique design features, makes many lululemon products worth the high price (and we have some tips for navigating lululemon's "We Made Too Much" section). “Ultimately, the most important feature is a short that will stay put through all types of movement and is so comfortable that you don't have to think about them during your workout,” Heather Hart, ACSM-certified Exercise Physiologist and RRCA and UESCA running and ultrarunning coach, says.

To find the best lululemon shorts on offer, we evaluated dozens of pairs and assessed them based on fit, fabric, design, and additional features, like pockets.

Based on our research, here are the best lululemon shorts on the market.

Our Top Picks

Best Women's Overall:

Lululemon Speed Up Lined Short 4” at Lululemon

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Best Men's Overall:

Lululemon Pace Breaker Lined Short 7” at Lululemon

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Best Women's Budget:

Lululemon Hotty Hot Lined Short 4” at Lululemon

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Best Men's Budget:

Lululemon T.H.E. Linerless Short 9" at Lululemon

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Best Unisex:

Lululemon Bowline Short 5” Stretch Ripstop at Lululemon

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Best for Running:

Lululemon Speed Up Lined Short 2.5” at Lululemon

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Best Biker Shorts:

Lululemon Invigorate High-Rise Short 10” at Lululemon

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Best for CrossFit:

Lululemon Wunder Train Short 4” at Lululemon

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Best Size Range:

Lululemon Track That Lined Short 5” at Lululemon

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Best for Hiking:

Lululemon Multi-Pocket Cargo Hiking Short 5" at Lululemon

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In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.6

Lululemon

Pros

Two types of pockets
Quick-drying fabric
Lightweight

Cons

Some say colors are more muted than in product photos

Our top overall pick is the Speed Up Mid-Rise Lined Short because, while they were designed for running, they are versatile enough for walking, weight lifting, and more. We love that they provide just enough coverage without added bulk, with a comfortable mid-rise waistband and a four-inch inseam.

Made with lululemon’s polyester and elastane Swift fabric, these shorts are lightweight, sweat-wicking, and quick-drying. They also feature four-way stretch so you can lunge, squat, and jump with ease. The Speed Up shorts have a breathable liner with added Lycra fibers for even more stretch and comfort.

The waistband includes a zip pocket for storing keys, ID, or a credit card, as well as pockets without zippers for easy access to fuel during training runs and races. A continuous drawcord helps create the perfect, customized fit.

Price at time of publication: $68

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: 0-14 | Inseam Length: 4 inches | Material: Polyester, elastane | Pockets: Zip pocket and connected gel pockets in waistband | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

4.8

Lululemon

Pros

Three types of pockets
Made from sustainable materials
Quick-drying fabric

Cons

Drawstring is not continuous

We also recommend the Pace Breaker Lined Short. It’s designed for running and training, but it’s versatile enough for most activities, such as working out on rowing machines. We love how lightweight the mesh liner is. It provides support with a built-in pouch while maintaining a barely-there feel.

The Pace Breaker shorts are made with Lululemon’s Swift fabric, which is lightweight, quick-drying and sweat-wicking, and it provides four-way stretch. They’re also eco-friendly, since 100 percent of the polyester used to make these shorts is recycled.

Features include a drawstring waistband to provide a perfect fit and three different types of pockets. You’ll find front pockets, a smaller zip pocket for valuables, and a no-bounce phone pocket in the liner with a cord exit for headphones.

Price at time of publication: $68

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XS-XXL | Inseam Length: 7 inches | Material: Polyester, elastane | Pockets: Front pockets, zip pocket, phone pocket in liner | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

Lululemon

Pros

Reflective details for visibility
Continuous drawstring
Two types of pockets

Cons

Thinner waistband than other options

Designed with a little extra room, the Hotty Hot Low-Rise Short is a comfortable option for running, walking, or training. We like the two hidden pockets, which make it easy to store your phone and other valuables discreetly.

Mesh panels on the legs provide ventilation to keep you cool during workouts. And if you walk or run outdoors, you’ll appreciate the reflective details on this short for added safety. These shorts are made with lightweight Swift fabric that keeps you cool, dry, and comfortable while you exercise.

Be mindful that whether you're shopping for shorts or leggings, Lululemon sale items are non-returnable, so double check your size before placing an order online.

Price at time of publication: $68

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: 0-14 | Inseam Length: 4 inches | Material: Polyester, elastane | Pockets: Zip pocket in seam, pocket in liner | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

Lululemon

Pros

Zippered pocket
Lightweight
Split hem

Cons

Some may not like the tapered fit

If you prefer a linerless short, we recommend lululemon’s T.H.E. shorts. They’re made from lightweight, breathable Swift fabric with four-way stretch that moves with you.

T.H.E. Shorts have a tapered fit and a split hem that gives your glutes and leg muscles plenty of room to move without feeling baggy, making them also great for workouts on exercise bikes and ellipticals. They’re designed for training, but you could wear these shorts for a variety of sports and activities.

The soft and stretchy waistband stays put and includes a drawstring for added support. In addition to front pockets, we like that the T.H.E. shorts feature a zippered pocket for you to stash keys, cash, or your ID, keeping you hands-free while working out.

Price at time of publication: $68

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XS-XXL | Inseam Length: 9 inches | Material: Polyester, elastane | Pockets: Traditional pocket, one zip pocket | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

Lululemon

Pros

Drawstring can be worn inside or outside
Water-repellent fabric

Cons

Not suitable for high-impact activities

Lululemon’s Bowline Short 5” have a timeless design and a wide size range suitable for all kinds of workouts. They’re available in a variety of colors and neutrals that will mesh with any style.

These shorts are designed for more casual wear, so you can pair them with a T-shirt or a button-down for a cool and effortless look. They are a great option for low-impact activities, like walking or hiking. And since they’re made from water-repellent fabric, we like that you can throw these shorts on to go paddleboarding or kayaking, too.

We also love the drawstring, which can be worn inside or outside the waistband. You can stash your stuff in the front pockets or the zippered back pocket for extra safekeeping.

Price at time of publication: $78

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: XS-XXL | Inseam Length: 5 inches | Material: Nylon, elastane | Pockets: Front pockets, back zip pocket | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

Lululemon

Pros

Continuous drawstring
Lightweight
Inclusive size range

Cons

Small pockets

Designed specifically for running, the Speed Up High-Rise Lined Short is perfect for marathons and neighborhood jogs alike. We like that these shorts have a continuous drawcord and multiple waistband pockets to keep you comfortable and your gear contained while you hit the track.

What the Experts Say: “I find them to be incredibly comfortable, flattering, and durable. They last and can take a beating, making them well worth the investment.” —Heather Hart, ACSM-certified Exercise Physiologist, RRCA and UESCA running and ultrarunning coach

Made from Lululemon’s Swift fabric, these shorts are lightweight and breathable, keeping you cool and dry while running. The liner with added Lycra fibers is comfortable, helps prevent chafing, and ensures adequate coverage with a 2.5-inch inseam. Choose from a wide variety of colors in sizes 0-20.

Price at time of publication: $68

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: 0-20 | Inseam Length: 2.5 inch | Material: Polyester, elastane | Pockets: Connected gel pockets, one zippered pocket | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

Lululemon

Pros

Quick-drying fabric
Continuous drawstring
Two types of pockets

Cons

Some may not like the tight fit

Whether you love indoor or outdoor cycling, the Invigorate High-Rise Short is ideal for biking. It's made from lululemon’s Everlux fabric, a quick-drying blend of nylon and Lycra elastane. We love that these shorts will keep you cool and dry, even in a hot and humid environment.

You’ll feel supported but not restricted in these shorts, which have four-way stretch and plenty of elasticity. Stash your phone, keys, or a credit card on a long bike ride in the side drop-in pockets or the hidden waistband pocket.

The 10-inch length won’t ride up during your workout and helps prevent chafing while you pedal. We love the high-rise waistband, which pairs well with tank tops, sports bras, or crop tops. Whether you're working out on an indoor cycling bike or going out for a long ride, they'll be your go-to shorts every time.

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: 0-20 | Inseam Length: 10 inches | Material: Nylon, Lycra elastane | Pockets: Side drop-in pockets, hidden waistband pocket | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, line dry, do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

Lululemon

Pros

Quick-drying fabric
Continuous drawstring
Lightweight

Cons

Only one pocket

The Wunder Train High-Rise Short will help you power through CrossFit workouts with ease. Like many Lululemon premium-quality leggings, these are made with the brand's lightweight, quick-drying, nylon and Lycra elastane Everlux fabric to wick sweat away quickly as you push through those reps.

These shorts have a hidden pocket in the waistband to stash valuables. The continuous drawcord ensures that everything stays put, because you don’t want to waste precious seconds pulling up your shorts during a tough circuit. We like the thick waistband, which has plenty of stretch.

Price at time of publication: $64

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: 0-20 | Inseam Length: 4 inches | Material: Nylon, Lycra elastane | Pockets: Hidden waistband pocket | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, line dry; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

Lululemon

Pros

Continuous drawstring
Lightweight
Built-in liner

Cons

Only one pocket

Lululemon continues to offer a wider size range for several products, including their Track That Mid-Rise Lined Short. You can find this short in a variety of colors and patterns in sizes 0-20.

Track That shorts were designed for running, and they feature a lightweight, built-in liner. We like that they are made with extra room in the leg opening and offer good coverage while still looking stylish. The continuous drawstring won’t get lost, and you can stash your running essentials in the zippered side pocket.

These shorts are made with Swift fabric, which is lightweight, breathable, and sweat-wicking to keep you comfortable and dry. Lululemon’s Swift fabric also has four-way stretch, allowing you to move in all planes of motion without restriction.

Price at time of publication: $68

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: 0-20 | Inseam Length: 5 inches | Material: Polyester, elastane | Pockets: Zippered side pocket | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

Lululemon

Pros

Deep cargo pockets
Water-repellent fabric
Abrasion-resistant

Cons

May be too bulky for regular workouts

When you’re hitting the hiking trails, we recommend choosing clothing that is comfortable and functional, and can stand up to the elements. The Multi-Pocket Cargo High-Rise Hiking Short was designed specifically for hiking, with plenty of pockets and lightweight fabric.

These shorts are abrasion-resistant, so you can push through branches, brush, or rough trails without worrying about tearing. The fabric is also water-repellent to keep you dry in case of unexpected showers.

We love that these shorts have plenty of useful features, like deep cargo pockets, a zippered pocket for valuables, a D-ring, and loops you can clip a carabiner to. The drawstring ensures a customizable fit, so your shorts won’t move around while you’re tackling the trails.

Price at time of publication: $98

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: 0-14 | Inseam Length: 5 inches | Material: Nylon, recycled nylon, elastane | Pockets: Two zippered pockets, two cargo pockets | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

Lululemon

Pros

Overlapping side panels
Odor-resistant
Reflective details for visibility

Cons

Only one pocket

Whether you’re training for a 10K or a marathon, we recommend the Find Your Pace High-Rise Short for long-distance running. They are light and airy, so you can focus on the miles instead of how your shorts feel.

Made from four-way stretch fabric, these shorts are sweat-wicking and quick-drying. You’ll feel comfortable and dry even as your mileage hits double digits. The built-in liner is there to support you without any added bulk.

We like that these shorts feature overlapping side panels, so your legs won’t feel constricted by extra fabric. Reflective details ensure that you’ll be visible to drivers and other runners at night. Other features include a continuous drawstring, a drop-in pocket, and a waistband treated with zinc to prevent odor-causing bacteria from growing.

Price at time of publication: $68

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: 0-20 | Inseam Length: 3 inches | Material: Polyester, elastane | Pockets: Drop-in pocket | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

Lululemon

Pros

Breathable
Lightweight
Wide range of colors and sizes

Cons

Only one pocket
Not quick-drying

For yoga, we recommend choosing shorts that feel stretchy, comfortable, and weightless. Lululemon’s Align High-Rise Shorts are made from lightweight Nulu fabric, which conforms to your body. The nylon and Lycra elastane fabric is sweat-wicking and breathable, so it performs well for even the sweatiest yoga practices.

We love the eight-inch length of these shorts that stay put and won’t ride up, even in the trickiest poses. The high rise is supportive and on-trend, so you can pair it with your favorite sports bras and crop tops.

There’s a hidden pocket in the waistband to stash small valuables. Choose from a wide selection of colors and patterns in Lululemon’s full size range (0-20).

Price at time of publication: $64

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: 0-20 | Inseam Length: 8 inches | Material: Nylon, Lycra elastane | Pockets: Hidden waistband pocket | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, line dry; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

Lululemon

Pros

Lightweight
Extra leg room
Continuous drawstring

Cons

Only one pocket

For an option that can take you from your workout, to running errands, to lounging at home, we recommend the Track That High-Rise Lined Short. This item is made with extra room in the leg openings, to be comfortable enough for all-day wear. The sleek and simple style pairs well with workout tops or a basic T-shirt for hanging out.

These shorts are made from lightweight fabric that’s breathable, thanks to four-way stretch. They're also quick-drying and sweat-wicking, so you’ll stay cool and dry during sweaty runs or workouts, which is why this material is also popular for workout underwear.

Store a credit card or keys in the zippered side pocket for safe keeping. We love the continuous drawstring, which ensures that these shorts won’t budge as you go about your day.

Price at time of publication: $68

^{Key Specs:
Size: 0-20 | Inseam Length: 3 inches | Material: Polyester, elastane | Pockets: Zippered side pocket | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

Lululemon

Pros

Three pockets
Sweat-wicking fabric
Soft feel

Cons

Some may not like the tight fit

Pockets make anything better—including the Align High-Rise Short. Since these shorts have side pockets, you can store all of your essentials and go about your workout or your day hands-free. Made with soft, lightweight fabric, we like that they are ultra comfortable and breathable.

The two side drop-in pockets are big enough to hold your phone, while the waistband drop-in pocket can store smaller items like keys, cash, or cards. These shorts are designed for yoga, with added Lycra fiber in the fabric that helps them stretch well but still maintain their shape over time.

Price at time of publication: $74

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: 0-20 | Inseam Length: 6 inches | Material: Nylon, Lycra elastane | Pockets: Two side pockets, one waistband pocket | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, line dry; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

Lululemon

Pros

Breathable fabric
Interior card sleeve
Inclusive size range

Cons

No zippered pockets

Sweat shorts are an essential piece of any athleisure wardrobe, and we recommend the Inner Glow High Rise shorts for a day of running errands or lounging at home. They’re made from French terry fabric that is naturally breathable and feels soft on your skin, and has four-way stretch, so they are lightweight and comfortable.

We love the high rise of these shorts, which pairs well with crop tops and tank tops. They have two side pockets with an interior card sleeve, so you can feel confident while staying hands-free. The drawstring lets you find your perfect fit and guarantees that your shorts will stay put.

Price at time of publication: $68

^{Key Specs:
Sizes: 0-20 | Inseam Length: 3 inches | Material: Cotton, elastane | Pockets: Two side pockets with an interior card sleeve | Care and Washability: Machine wash cold with like colors, tumble dry low; do not iron, bleach, or dry clean}

How We Selected the Best Lululemon Shorts

We began the selection process by consulting with two experts—Ryan Ernsbarger, a certified personal trainer, and Heather Hart, a running coach—about what features to look for in exercise shorts. We then researched all of the shorts on lululemon’s website and looked into the brand’s specialty fabrics.

To choose the best lululemon shorts, we examined inseam length, material, fit, and overall design. We also considered style, size range, and any additional features each pair offered.

What to Look for in Lululemon Shorts

Material

Lululemon shorts are constructed from a variety of signature fabrics:

Swift is a lightweight, quick-drying, and sweat-wicking fabric that feels weightless and breathable. This polyester and elastane fabric is best suited for running and similar activities. It has four-way stretch so you won’t feel constricted as you pound the pavement.
Nulu fabric, made from nylon and Lycra elastane, is constructed to feel soft and lightweight. It’s sweat-wicking and breathable, with Lycra fibers for even more stretch. Shorts made from Nulu are best for lower-impact workouts, like yoga or Pilates, or lounging, because high-friction movements, like running, can cause the fabric to pill.
Everlux is lululemon’s fastest-drying fabric that is stretchy, supportive, and comfortable. Containing nylon and Lycra elastane, this fabric feels brushed and soft on the outside and sleek and cool on the inside. Everlux was designed to disperse sweat, so shorts made from this fabric are perfect for sweaty studio classes, like spinning, and high-intensity workouts.
French terry, made of cotton and elastane, feels super soft and stretchy, just like your favorite cozy sweatshirt. Shorts made from breathable French terry are not ideal for intense workouts—they’re best for hanging out or running errands.
Abrasion-resistant fabric is a tough fabric designed to withstand scrapes, scuffs, and tears. Since it’s made from durable nylon, recycled nylon, and elastane, this fabric is best for hiking and similar activities where you are more exposed to the elements. It’s also water-repellent, to help keep you dry.
Stretch ripstop fabric is a blend of nylon and elastane. Water-repellent and abrasion-resistant, it’s ideal for all-day wear.

Inseam Length

Many of lululemon’s shorts are offered in a range of inseam lengths. For women, you’ll find looser style shorts in 2.5-inch, 3-inch, and 4-inch lengths, and tight-fitting styles all the way up to a 10-inch length.

Waistband

Many lululemon shorts are offered in different waistband rises. Depending on your preference, you can find low-rise, mid-rise, high-rise, and super-high-rise styles. Some waistband fabrics, like Everlux, will offer more compression and support than others.

Fit

Based on the activities you do, you’ll want to select a pair of shorts with the best fit. Lululemon offers loose styles with wide leg openings that are great for running, walking, and hiking. Many loose-fitting shorts also have lightweight liners to protect your from chafing. For low-impact activities that require a lot of flexibility, you may prefer a tight-fitting short that molds to your body.

Pockets

Nearly all of lululemon shorts have at least one pocket built in. Many of the women’s shorts have smaller, drop-in pockets in the waistband that can fit keys, credit cards, or other small valuables. Some styles have additional zippered pockets, and a few styles even have front pockets.

Design

Lululemon is known for its thoughtful design in all products. In addition to multiple types of pockets, its shorts have other features that set them apart from competitors, like continuous drawstrings, liners, reflective detailing, and proprietary fabrics.

The design you look for may vary based on the activity you plan to wear the shorts for. Runners may appreciate zippered pockets, which “are vital for keeping personal belongings safe in your pocket while you run, as I'm sure we all have experiences with phones or keys bouncing out if there was not a zipper there to keep them inside the pocket,” says Ryan Ernsbarger, NCSF-certified personal trainer. Hikers may need shorts with extra pockets and water-repellent fabric.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between tall and regular lululemon shorts?

Lululemon does not have “tall” and “regular” shorts, but does offer a variety of inseam lengths for a majority of its shorts styles, allowing you to choose the length of the short leg that you prefer, which can help you find the right fit.
Should I size up in lululemon shorts?

Many lululemon women’s shorts come in sizes 0-20, while men’s range from XS-XXL. Men’s styles tend to fit true to size and are pretty consistent with other men’s clothing brands.
Depending on the style, lululemon women’s shorts may run one size smaller than your usual size. If you can’t try on the shorts in a store, you may want to consider choosing one size up when ordering online.
Do lululemon shorts ride up?

If your lululemon shorts are the correct size for your body, they are unlikely to ride up. Lululemon’s fabrics and design features help the shorts stay in place through your workouts.
Which lululemon fabric has the most compression?

Full-On Luxtreme fabric is the most compressive fabric at Lululemon. Made from nylon and Lycra elastane, it’s smooth and cool to the touch. Full-On Luxtreme has a tight interlock construction that offers high support while still feeling stretchy and breathable.
How to care for lululemon shorts?

To keep them looking and performing their best, all lululemon shorts should be washed in cold water with like colors. Shorts made from Swift, French terry, and abrasion-resistant fabric can be put in the dryer at a low temperature. Shorts made from Nulu and Everlux should be line dried. Lululemon recommends against bleaching, ironing, or dry cleaning any of its shorts.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Alex Aldeborgh, MS, RD is a Registered Dietitian with a master’s degree in clinical nutrition from New York University. She runs a healthy recipe food blog and private practice for nutrition counseling. Alex is passionate about fitness and has worked at two Lululemon storefront locations, so she has a deep understanding of the company's fabrics, design features, and products.