Athleta Vs Lululemon: My Honest Review After Trying Both

When it comes to activewear, Athleta and Lululemon are two of the biggest names in the game. I’ve worn both brands for workouts, casual wear, and even traveling. Additionally, I’ve spent hours reading online reviews and forum discussions to understand what others think. While both brands offer high-quality leggings, sports bras, and activewear, they have key differences that may make one better than the other—depending on what you’re looking for.

So, if you’re stuck choosing between Athleta vs Lululemon, I’ll break down everything based on my personal experience, research, and what the online community says. Let’s dive in!

Comparison Table Between Athleta Vs Lululemon

Athleta offers comfortable, supportive, and inclusive clothes at affordable prices with frequent sales. In contrast, Lululemon is known for high-performance apparel and stylish designs, but is generally more expensive.

If you want detailed insights in a short period, then the table below is for you:

Feature	Athleta	Lululemon
Best	Everyday wear, comfort, versatility	High-performance workouts, sleek style
Fit & Sizing	XXS-3X (more inclusive, better for curvier bodies)	Numeric sizing (runs small, best for leaner frames)
Fabric & Feel	Powervita fabric – soft, compressive, and warm	Nulu fabric – lightweight, second-skin feel
Durability	More durable, low-maintenance, less pilling	Needs careful washing, prone to pilling
Pockets	Deep back pocket (Elation), side pockets (Salutation Stash)	Small inner pocket in waistband (Align)
Waistband	More supportive and comprehensive	Lighter, flexible waistband
Lighter, flexible waistband	Low-impact workouts, yoga, and casual wear	Running, HIIT, weightlifting
Weather Suitability	Better for cooler weather	Better for warm weather
Price Range	$79 – $109 (more affordable)	$98 – $138 (more expensive)
Sales & Discounts	Frequent sales, up to 30% off for instructors	Minimal sales (We Made Too Much), 15% instructor discount
Return Policy	More flexible – can return worn items	Stricter policy – returns must be unworn
Store Experience	Similar to Lululemon, often near Lululemon stores	High-end boutique feel
Joggers & Pants	More length options for tall & petite sizes	Can run short for taller people
Special Mentions	Rainier Tights (great for winter), better sports bras for larger busts	Track That & Speed Up shorts (best for running)
Final Verdict	Best for comfort, affordability, and durability	Best for performance, style, and high-intensity workouts

→ Also Read: Vuori vs Lululemon: Which I Found Best For Men

General Differences: What Sets Them Apart?

Both brands have loyal fans, but they serve different needs.

Lululemon is well-loved for creating workout clothes that truly excel! Their tops, sports bras, and leggings are thoughtfully designed for various activities like yoga, HIIT, and running. Plus, the materials are wonderfully soft and lightweight, providing that amazing feeling of wearing a second skin.

Athleta, on the other hand, leans more towards athleisure wear—meaning you can wear their pieces not just to the gym but also while running errands, traveling, or even lounging at home. Their clothes are softer, more compressive, and often offer better support for different body types.

One big difference is in their discount programs. Lululemon offers a 15% discount for certified fitness instructors, while Athleta gives a much better 30% discount for instructors. If you’re a trainer or yoga teacher, this can be a big deal.

Sizing & Fit: Which One Fits Better?

When buying sportswear or leggings, getting the right size is very important, and Athleta does a great job at this.

Athleta offers sizes from XXS to 3X, while Lululemon uses numbers like 2, 4, 6, etc. This means Athleta can fit a wider range of body shapes with its more inclusive sizing.

Another thing I noticed is that Lululemon leggings are made for taller, slimmer people (about 5’7″ to 5’8″), so if you’re between sizes, you might find their clothes a bit tight. On the other hand, Athleta leggings are stretchier and more comfortable, making them a better option for people who are between sizes or have curvier bodies.

I wear a size 4 in Lululemon and an XS in Athleta, and I find that Athleta fits me better and isn’t too tight. If you’re looking for leggings that will fit well and keep you comfortable all day, Athleta is the better choice.

Price & Discounts: Which One is More Affordable?

Let’s be honest—both brands are expensive. But when comparing Athleta vs Lululemon, Athleta is slightly more affordable.

Brand	Average Price For Leggings	Discount & Sales
Lululemon	$98 – $138	Limited sales (We Made Too Much)
Athleta	$79 – $109	Frequent sales, deeper discounts

While Lululemon does have a “We Made Too Much” sale section, the discounts are often minimal. Meanwhile, Athleta frequently offers deeper discounts. I’ve seen their leggings go on final sale for as low as $20-$30, which is almost unheard of for Lululemon.

Another benefit is that Athleta is part of the Banana Republic family, so if you shop at Banana Republic, Gap, or Old Navy, you can earn store credit and use it on Athleta purchases.

Fabric & Material: Which Feels Better?

If you’ve ever tried Lululemon Align leggings, you must know how soft and light they are. This is because they use unique Nulu fabric, a blend of nylon and spandex, making it perfect for yoga, lounging, or traveling!

Athleta’s best leggings, like Elation and Salutation Stash, use Powervita fabric with more spandex than Lululemon Align. This results in thicker, compressive leggings, perfect for colder weather, featuring a brushed texture for added warmth and softness.

One of the common issues of Lululemon Align leggings is pilling, especially where the thighs rub together. Some customers still see pilling after a few months, even though the 2024 versions claim to have fixed this problem. On the other hand, Athleta leggings have less pilling, making them more durable over time.

Choose Lululemon Align if you want very light leggings for warm weather. If you prefer thicker, more supportive leggings (like me) that last longer, Athleta is a better option.

Pockets & Convenience: Athleta Wins!

If you love leggings with pockets, Athleta is the clear winner.

• Lululemon Align leggings only have a small pocket in the waistband.
• Athleta Elation leggings have a deep pocket in the back.
• Athleta Salutation Stash leggings have side pockets on both legs—perfect for holding your phone!

I personally love having side pockets because they make it so much easier to go hands-free when running errands or working out. If pockets matter to you, Athleta is the better pick.

Durability & Care: Which Lasts Longer?

Lululemon is known for its great fabric, but it needs some special care. 

• Lululemon leggings can pill if you don’t wash them properly.
• Athleta leggings require less maintenance and hold up well even after multiple washes.

Lululemon leggings require gentle washing and air drying, yet they can last for many years. In contrast, Athleta leggings are more durable and can be washed and dried easily.

Performance: Which One is Better for Workouts?

• If you need leggings for high-intensity workouts, Lululemon is better. Their Fast & Free leggings are loved by runners and athletes.
• If you need leggings for yoga, casual wear, or work, Athleta is more comfortable and supportive.

Athleta Rainier Tights are better for winter running, while Lululemon Fast & Free leggings are better for running in warmer weather.

Customer Service & Return Policies

Athleta has a flexible return policy that lets you return worn items if you are not happy with them. In contrast, Lululemon has a stricter return policy.

If you are concerned about sizing or fit, Athleta is a better choice because you can return items even after wearing them.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

For comfy, supportive leggings for everyday use, choose Athleta. Their options are affordable, fit various body types, and require less upkeep. They also provide larger discounts and a flexible return policy. 

Similarly, for high-quality and intense workouts, choose Lululemon. Their lightweight, smooth fabrics are perfect for running, HIIT, and yoga, but they require more care and tend to be pricier with fewer discounts. Ultimately, prioritize comfort and durability with Athleta, or opt for Lululemon for style and performance.

FAQs