Let’s be honest, having the best pair of shorts during a workout or a casual get-together makes a ton of difference. I was the type to never bother to look for better alternatives to my local store shorts, until I found out about Vuori and Lululemon.
These two brands don’t offer only shorts. They’ve built up their reputation massively with shorts, but they’re both apparel brands that have shirts, joggers, t-shirts, hoddies, pants, trousers, and so much more.
The point is, they know their way of making an ultra-high-quality piece of clothing.
Since shorts from both Vuori and Lululemon have been the subject of so much praise, we thought it be best to put them to the test. What follows is a review of both, and an in-depth comparison, in order for you to find the perfect one for yourself!
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Why Bother Going With, Vuori or Lululemon?
Honestly, compared to your usual store brands, quite frankly Vuori and Lululemon are quite affordable. It may not look that way, but chances are, if you go to your local store, you will be overwhelmed with big price tags, on name brands.
And this is the main reason why these two make sense. They’re a big name in the shorts industry themselves, but they’re affordable compared to big name brands, thanks Nike.
Oh, and the quality? Exceptional, truly.
Both of them are very well-made. Some of the fabrics used isn’t cotton, and in fact polyester, but they’ve managed to manufacture these shorts from recycled polyester. Furthermore, polyester isn’t the only fabric that these two use.
All of this is to say that, if you’re concerned whether the quality will match the appeal of them, don’t be. In fact, once you switch to either Vuori or Lululemon, you might wish to never go back.
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Which Shorts Are For You? – In-Depth Comparison of Vuori & Lululemon
To make things much simpler, we thought the best way to do so, is to compare both of them, side-by-side. This way, we can truly capture the bigger picture when it comes to what are the differences between them.
Here’s an in-depth comparison of Vuori and Lululemon:
Comparison Vuori vs Lululemon | ![]() | ![]() |
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Designs | More than 48 | More than 51 |
Pricing | $48-$76 | $64-$98 |
Shipping Locations, Timing & Price | Only US, usually 5-10 days – Free Shipping on Orders over $75 | A lot of international locations, usually 5-10 days – Free Shipping |
Liner or Non-Liner shorts? | Both | Both |
Return Policy | 120-day Return Policy – No Exchanges | 30-day Return Policy on three or less items |
Fabrics | Fabrics vary in proportions, but usually: Recycled Polyester, Polyester and Elastane. | A lot of different materials also similar to Vuori, but with additional ones. |
Types of shorts based on activity | Climbing, Hanging-out, Hiking & Running | Running, Workout, Training, Casual, Golf, On The Move, Hiking, Swim, Tennis, Travel & Yoga |
Length | 5” – 7.5” | 3” – 11” |
Website |
Vuori is impressive with its return policy, making it easier for people to consider Vuori, since the fear of not nailing the exact size is gone. It is also the more affordable choice, although, we will get into that once again later on.
Although both of them have liner and non-liner shorts, most of the time, the best sellers for each, are liner shorts, as there are exceptionally made and both brands have built their reputation around them.
Which Are Better Shorts For Workouts? – Vuori VS Lululemon
Well, it depends. Since Lululemon was established in 1998, in due time, they have created more activity type shorts to cover most sports or activities out there. So, instead of Vuori’s measly four activity type shorts, Lululemon has more than 10 types of shorts based on activity.
Still, if there is one thing we learned with Vuori and Lululemon, it is that these shorts are made with a lot of emphasis on versatility. So, does it really matter if you choose Hiking shorts for your efficiency? Well, it does, but with such versatile shorts, the difference is very small.
With that said, let’s talk about Vuori for a bit. On average, their shorts feel lighter, more versatile, and breathable. This is what makes Vuori such a strong contender to Lululemon.
On the other hand, Lululemon also has some light-weight and breathable shorts, but on average, it isn’t as apparent as those of Vuori.
If you want shorts that are appropriate for going out and working out, it makes sense to go with Lululemon. Even so, if your primary goal is to get some good workout shorts, which are just that, workout shorts, then Vuori does seem to be the better option.
Vuori Review

Vuori is very impressive, considering it has only been around for less than ten years.
It was founded in 2013, and since then, it has become a strong contender to companies from the same caliber as Lululemon. They offer a couple of styles such as: climbing, hanging-out, hiking, and running. But truthfully, Vuori’s shorts are so versatile that they can be used for a multitude of other things as well.
Their assortment of designs is impressive as well. Vuori offers almost the same number of designs as Lululemon. One thing to mention though, is while Vuori’s shorts are of high-quality, they slightly fall short compared to Lululemon.
Still, the prices are quite affordable in any case.
Another thing to mention is the fact that one can’t fail to mention that Vuori does seem to be most focused on making more workout or sport-oriented shorts. Not that Vuori discloses that, but most of their designs aren’t that formal or casual.
Although there are some designs which can be considered going out-worthy, they’re not to everyone’s taste.
Whatever the case may be, Vuori is still a strong contender to Lululemon. So, if you so choose to go with Vuori, what are the positive and negative sides to it? Here’s a list of the pros and cons:
PROS
- Very efficient for workouts
- Comfortable
- Highly-stretchable
- A lot of designs
- Light-weight
CONS
- No “formal” options
- Most designs are flamboyant
Lululemon Review

Lululemon has been the subject of comparison next to Chubbies and Bird Dogs, which are also great short brands. But multiple times, its huge shorts line-up has been the subject of praise.
Furthermore, since Lululemon has been in the game for quite a while, they have managed to utilize the different fabrics they use to the fullest. This meant an increase in quality, as this is the most important thing to Lululemon.
There are so many designs to choose from, and almost anyone can find one which ticks all of the boxes for them. According to me, I think that Lululemon are shorts which can be worn to a 10-mile run, and then to the opera.
It might seem like a huge overstatement, but the truth is, Lululemon combines versatility with style. It comes at a cost though. Versatility is lost a bit, to achieve the formal and unique style of designs that Lululemon has. However, the difference is so small, and rarely can be felt while wearing its shorts.
There are several sizes to choose from, and also, there are different style of shorts to choose from, whether it be regular, long, or short shorts.
If you so choose to go with Lululemon though, what are some of the pros and cons you should consider?
PROS
- Great designs both formal and sports
- Impeccable quality
- Good combination of fabrics
- Very breathable
- A lot of sizes to choose from
CONS
- Feel heavier to wear
- Most designs are flat and not lively
Head-To-Head Comparisons
Of course, by now we have a pretty good picture of which one would be the perfect choice for some, while the other might not. However, to go a little deeper and reveal even more details, we put Vuori and Lululemon, in a mini head-to-head.
Below, you will find a comparison of the two brands, and which might make more sense to some.
Vuori or Lululemon?
In all honesty, Vuori and Lululemon have managed to create shorts which are definite contenders to other high-caliber brands on the market at the moment.
Their quality is not up for question. With that, there is little progress to be made. However, style and practicality might be the most definite factors to finding out which one will work for you more.
For example, Lululemon is brand which can be considered more formal and fitting for most lifestyles. This is due to the fact that the designs and shorts are made so that they’re appropriate in most settings, such as going out or working out.
With that being said, Lululemon is far better if you want something versatile, and a daily driver.
On the other hand, Vuori does excel with making sports-oriented shorts. They tend to feel lighter and more breathable while doing heavy-workouts, although, that might be a bit subjective.
Their designs are ones which can be considered flamboyant and lively, and fitting for a gym let’s say. In addition, with these lively designs, they seem to be much more social media material. Also, on average, they do seem much more affordable than Lululemon.
If you choose to go with Vuori, it might be a bit difficult to nail your exact size, while that is not the case with Lululemon, as the fit seems to be on target. However, customers do have 120 days to return their shorts, should they not be a good fit, with Vuori.
The Verdict: Best Shorts For You – Vuori VS Lululemon
With all that was said above, Vuori and Lululemon seem to be at the top of a new movement for different kinds of shorts. Compared to alternative choices on the market, they seem like a much better choice, since they’re affordable, breathable, and light-weight.
Like we said before, the difference is quite small in terms of quality, it all comes down to which lifestyle you have.
If you’re more on the move and might go out for a regular Starbucks run while also having in mind to workout, then Lululemon is a great choice. Also, if you regularly cycle to destinations, then Lululemon will provide great functionality, with exceptional style and quality.
As for Vuori, it does make sense in multiple spectrums. For one, it is much more sport-oriented, and can be considered more versatile when it comes down to fitness. So, all of you fitness enthusiasts looking for versatile shorts that are light-weight and breathable, look no further, Vuori matches your criteria.
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