Lululemon vs. Vuori: We Put the Brands’ Best Gear to the Test

The activewear and athleisure space is insanely crowded these days. But Vuori and Lululemon are two brands that seem to be on top right now.

Both labels excel in performance-driven gear that can work for everything from hard-core gym sessions to brunch. But is one actually better than the other? To see how the two labels really stack up, we did a style deep dive into both brands and tested a handful of its bestsellers. While I do think Lululemon is more of a top choice overall, I see why Vuori is giving the brand some serious run for its money with some specific workout gear.

The Background

Lululemon has been around since the late ’90s after launching in Vancouver, Canada. After noticing a lack of stylish, technically-driven yoga clothing options for women, founder Chip Wilson decided to fill that gap. Lululemon has since expanded into menswear and many other product categories even focusing on more streetwear and outerwear, all while maintaining its commitment to delivering on performance.

Vuori, on the other hand, is newer to the scene. It was founded by Joe Kudla in 2015 in Southern California with a focus on super-soft, versatile pieces that would appeal to those with “blended lifestyles.” Its debut product was the Kore Short, which looks a lot like a casual board short but boasts a supportive liner. The style remains a bestseller to this day and continues to set the tone for the brand’s technical yet easy-going offerings.

Let’s Talk Fabric

Vuori’s buttery soft fabrics are likely the first thing that come to mind when you think of the label. Its signature DreamKnit is a brushed jersey fabric and probably its most popular for both men and women. VCycled is the other one worthy of a shoutout. It’s a water-friendly, quick-drying textile made with 50 percent recycled materials.

Lululemon has long been an innovator in performance materials. Its famous four-way stretch Luon fabric is a bestseller, though it’s typically used in women’s apparel. But some of the brand’s newer materials shine too. For instance, Lululelmon’s popular ABC Joggers are done in a smooth Warpstreme material, which is more of a mid-weight fabric that’s perfect for all-weather wear. Meanwhile, the Metal Vent Tech Short-Sleeve shirt is done in an almost unimaginably breathable nylon blend that works even on the hottest of days.

Sizing & Fit

While both Lululemon and Vuori tend to fit true to size, their products (generally speaking) are cut slightly differently. True to its California roots, Vuori’s pieces tend to offer slightly more casual, relaxed fits. Meanwhile, Lululemon offers slimmer cuts, and all the clothes have a bit more structure or tight fit.

Pricing

Price-wise, Vuori and Lululemon are pretty comparable. Three out of the four products I tested from each brand were priced almost identically, with the exception of Lululemon’s ABC Joggers, which cost $30 more than Vuori’s Sunday Joggers.

Test #1: Lululemon vs. Vuori Workout Tees

After testing the most popular Lululemon and Vuori workout tees, I can confirm they have some key differences. The best types of workout clothes are the ones that are so effortless you (almost) forget you’re wearing them. Luluelmon’s Metal Vent Tech shirt is one of those pieces. I wore it recently on a run and it was perfect (though I can imagine wearing it for other types of workouts as well). The brand recently redid the construction of the garment, making it even more conducive to movement, which I definitely noticed. Not only that, but it’s also incredibly lightweight and breathable.

Vuori’s Ponto Performance Tee is made from the brand’s DreamKnit performance fabric and is honestly one of the softest things I’ve ever felt. While certainly not as lightweight as the Metal Vent, it never weighed me down during my HIIT class because of how moisture-wicking it is. For added versatility, this style also looks a little less sporty than the Metal Vent, meaning you can get away with wearing it practically everywhere.

Test #2: Lululemon vs. Vuori Joggers

Vuori’s Sunday Performance Jogger is made from a soft polyester blend with an unmistakably slim cut. This is a versatile pant that works just as well for a lifting session as it does for a post-gym trip to the grocery store. The tapered ankle gives the garment a sleek look, while elastic at the waistband adds an additional element of comfort. The zip pocket on the left thigh also offers convenient storage for your wallet and keys.

Meanwhile, Lululemon’s ABC Jogger looks slightly more tactical, with sturdy elastic bands at the ankles and waist, big front pockets with visible stitching (and handy smaller pockets inside them), and a functional zip pocket on the right rear. This pant is made from the brand’s soft Warpstreme fabric, which is mid-weight and durable. There’s also an added panel in the crotch area for enhanced freedom of movement. Still, the ABC Jogger feels elevated enough for a casual weeknight dinner or Saturday brunch with friends.

Test #3: Lululemon vs. Vuori Training Shorts

Lululemon Lululemon Pacebreaker Linerless Short

Pros

• Slim, sleek cut
• Breathable and versatile

Cons

• No liner for added support

Vuori’s Kore shorts have a board short look, especially in certain colorways. They have a relaxed, comfortable fit that’s perfect for everyday wear. They feature a stitched fly, plus slash pockets and a right rear pocket for handy storage. The Kore short also features a boxer brief liner, which I found provides enough support for bopping around on the weekend, but perhaps not quite enough support for an intense workout or run.

Lululemon’s similar Pace Breaker shorts are fantastic for any kind of workout. The slim cut and soft-yet-strong waistband made me feel secure, while mesh paneling in the back of the shorts make these super breathable. Like the Kore, these also have handy slash and zip pockets. These don’t have a liner though, so if you prefer that feature, you may want to go with the Kore.

Test #4: Lululemon vs. Vuori Trousers

Vuori Vuori Fleet Chino Athletic Pant Slim

Pros

• Sleek, crisp look
• Elastic waistband and internal drawstring

Cons

• Might fit too snug for some

Lululemon’s ABC Classic 5-Pocket Pant has all the hallmarks of a classic chino in terms of fit and cut, but features the brand’s incredible Warpstreme fabric for peak comfort and flexibility. It also has a hidden zip pocket within the back right pocket, which is a fun (and useful) touch. Belt loops, a zip front, and button fixture all help to maintain the pant’s elevated feel, making it a perfect all-day, everyday option.

Vuori’s Fleet Chino embodies the age of the versatile athleisure pant. These have a fairly snug fit, but I never felt restricted wearing them throughout an entire day of meetings and running errands. The pant features an elastic waistband with an internal drawstring that’s easily kept hidden, as well as a zipper fly, button closure, and belt loops—which almost makes you feel like you’re getting away with wearing sweatpants. The internal zipper pocket within the right front pocket also helps keep your valuables secure.

The Final Verdict

With both Vuori and Lululemon, you get what you pay for: High-quality performance gear that can work for a variety of occasions. This is athleisure that truly works for those days where you’re running around the city from the gym to the office to a date night or dinner with friends. You can’t go wrong with either brand; choosing between the two really comes down to personal preference.

With Vuori, you’re getting a more laidback, casual vibe. While it may feel as though its products don’t always have all the latest bells and whistles, it either don’t need them, or the brand is quite adept at seamlessly incorporating them in a way that you might not even notice. For me, Vuori’s calling card is its irresistibly soft fabrics that I want to wear everywhere—even outside of the gym.

Ultimately, when it comes to pure performance, there’s a reason why Lululemon is known for its innovation in the activewear space. These are products that make you want to move and make you look pretty cool while doing it.

What it comes down to is specific items, your needs, and where you’re headed in these clothes. For joggers, Vuori will give you comfort, Lululemon will give you style. For shirts, Lululemon will give you lightweight performance, and Vuori will give you a cool look with a soft feel. There’s room for both in your life, you just have to think about your specific needs and where you’re headed in these clothes.