Glowmode vs. Lululemon: Which brand should you buy? [2026]

Glowmode is an eco-conscious activewear brand offering trendy, vibrant styles at a mid-range price point, making it a strong choice for budget-minded and environmentally aware shoppers. In contrast, Lululemon has established itself as the premium benchmark for high-performance athletic apparel, known for its proprietary fabrics, exceptional durability, and higher price tag.

Let's break down everything you need to know to choose the right activewear for your workouts and lifestyle.

Glowmode: Eco-Conscious & Trend-Forward Activewear

Glowmode appeals to modern consumers who want their activewear to be both stylish and sustainable. Focusing on eco-friendly materials and transparent manufacturing, the brand delivers trend-forward designs that seamlessly transition from the gym to everyday life without the premium price tag of more established competitors.

• Product mix: A collection of leggings, sports bras, tank tops, and outerwear designed with both function and fashion in mind. The pieces often feature minimalist designs paired with vibrant, contemporary color palettes.
• Price point: Sits comfortably in the mid-range market. Expect to pay between $60 and $100 for a pair of leggings and from $50 to $120 for most other apparel items.
• Quality & Materials: The brand's key selling point is its use of innovative, eco-friendly materials that are moisture-wicking, breathable, and supportive. Glowmode prioritizes recycled and sustainable fabrics in its collections.
• Style: Bold colors, unique design details, and a youthful aesthetic define the brand. Their styles are more expressive and fashion-forward compared to the more classic look of Lululemon.
• Sizing/Fit: Sizing is generally reported as true to size, but as an online-focused brand, there can be some minor variations between different collections.
• Sustainability: This is a core part of Glowmode's mission. The brand emphasizes ethically sourced, sustainable materials and transparency throughout its supply chain.

Essentially, Glowmode is the perfect choice for shoppers who prioritize sustainability and trendy styles at a more accessible price point.

Shop Glowmode: glowmode.com

Lululemon: The Gold Standard in Premium Athletic Apparel

Lululemon is a global leader in athletic apparel, famous for setting the standard in quality, fit, and fabric technology. Their products are made to perform and last, attracting a loyal following from serious athletes and style-conscious individuals who are willing to invest in premium activewear.

• Product mix: Extensive range of high-performance yoga wear, running gear, training apparel, and versatile athleisure. The collection also includes mats, bags, and other accessories.
• Price point: Sits firmly in the premium category. Leggings typically cost between $98 and $128, while jackets and other key pieces can range from $120 to over $200.
• Technology/Innovation: Lululemon is famous for its proprietary fabrics, like the buttery-soft Nulu™ fabric used in Align™ pants and the durable, compressive Luon™ fabric. These materials are engineered for specific activities, offering superior stretch, moisture management, and comfort.
• Style: The aesthetic is characteristically sleek, minimalist, and modern. Pieces are designed to be timeless and versatile, easily worn for a workout or as part of a casual outfit.
• Sizing/Fit: Known for a consistent and flattering fit. Lululemon products are designed to contour and support the body, and they offer a broad size range from 0-20 (equivalent to XXS-XXL).
• Shopping Experience: Features a robust online store and a large network of physical retail locations where customers can receive personalized fittings and expert advice from staff.

Lululemon remains the top choice for those who demand maximum performance, unmatched comfort, and a fit that has been refined over decades.

Shop Lululemon: shop.lululemon.com

Glowmode vs. Lululemon Comparison

Price Comparison

There is a clear difference in pricing between the two brands. A typical pair of leggings from Glowmode costs between $60 and $100. In contrast, Lululemon's most popular leggings run from $98 to $128.

This price distinction extends across their product lines. Glowmode frequently offers sales and bundle deals, making its stylish activewear even more accessible. Lululemon's sales are less frequent, and discounts are typically modest, reflecting its premium positioning. For budget-conscious shoppers, Glowmode is the undeniable winner.

Quality & Materials

Lululemon built its reputation on exceptionally high-quality materials. Its proprietary fabrics, like Nulu™, Luxtreme™, and Everlux™, are industry benchmarks for softness, sweat-wicking capabilities, and long-term durability. These fabrics hold their shape and performance exceptionally well, even after years of washing and wear.

Glowmode also produces quality apparel, with a focus on ethical standards and sustainable fabrics that are both breathable and moisture-wicking. While they perform well, Lululemon’s extensive fabric research and development give it the edge in performance and longevity. If long-term durability is your primary concern, Lululemon’s investment in fabric technology pays off.

Style & Aesthetic

The two brands target different style preferences. Lululemon opts for a sleek, minimalist aesthetic with timeless pieces in mostly solid colors and subtle branding. This makes their apparel extremely versatile for both athletic and everyday settings.

Glowmode offers a more vibrant, expressive, and trend-focused look. Their collections often feature bold colorways, unique textures, and fashionable cuts that appeal to a younger, style-forward audience. If you want your gym clothes to make a statement, Glowmode offers more adventurous options.

Fit & Sizing

Lululemon is renowned for its consistent and meticulous sizing. Their designs are known for their body-contouring, flattering fits that provide support where needed. With a size range typically spanning 0-20, they cater to a wide variety of body types, and this consistency makes online shopping reliable.

Glowmode generally fits true to size, but as a newer and more rapidly evolving brand, some customers note minor inconsistencies between different collections and styles. While they are working on broadening their size offerings, Lululemon currently provides a more extensive and reliable fit experience.

Sustainability & Ethics

This is where Glowmode truly shines. Sustainability is a core pillar of their brand identity. They emphasize the use of recycled and organic materials and maintain a high level of transparency in their supply chain. This commitment resonates deeply with eco-conscious consumers looking to align their purchases with their values.

Lululemon has made significant improvements in sustainability, with initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and using more responsible materials. However, their brand narrative is centered more on performance and quality, making Glowmode the clearer choice for shoppers who prioritize environmental and ethical considerations above all else.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both brands offer excellent products, but they cater to different priorities and shoppers.

Choose Glowmode if:

• Sustainability and ethical production are your primary decision-making factors.
• You're on a budget and looking for high-quality activewear without the premium price.
• You enjoy bold, trendy, and expressive styles that stand out at the gym.
• You exclusively shop online and value discovering new, fashion-forward pieces.

Choose Lululemon if:

• Peak performance, exceptional durability, and longevity are your top concerns.
• You are willing to invest in premium activewear that will maintain its quality for years.
• You prefer a classic, minimalist, and versatile aesthetic suitable for any setting.
• You value a consistent fit and benefit from in-store try-on sessions and expert advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Glowmode or Lululemon more expensive?

Lululemon is significantly more expensive. For example, popular leggings from Lululemon cost around $98-$128, while Glowmode leggings are priced more affordably between $60-$100.

Which brand is better quality?

Both brands offer quality products, but they are different. Lululemon is known for its legendary durability and high-performance proprietary fabrics, which are designed to last for years. Glowmode offers good quality with a focus on sustainable materials, making it a great value for its price point, but Lululemon has a slight edge in terms of proven longevity.

Is Glowmode sizing the same as Lululemon?

Not exactly. Lululemon is known for its highly consistent sizing and flattering fit across its entire range. Glowmode is generally true to size, but as a direct-to-consumer brand, you may experience slight variations between different styles or collections.

Which brand is more sustainable?

Glowmode has built its brand around sustainability. From using recycled and organic fabrics to promoting supply chain transparency, they are the clear winner for eco-conscious shoppers.

Does Glowmode have physical stores?

No, Glowmode operates primarily as an online-only business. Lululemon has an extensive network of brick-and-mortar stores in addition to its website, allowing for in-person shopping and returns.

Is Glowmode a good alternative to Lululemon?

Yes, Glowmode is an excellent alternative, especially if you're seeking a similar aesthetic and good quality at a lower price, with the added benefit of sustainability. It is not a direct "dupe" due to its distinct materials and style focus, but it serves a similar market very effectively.

Do both brands have sales?

Yes, but Glowmode has more frequent sales, promotions, and bundle deals. Lululemon sales events are less common, and their "We Made Too Much" section offers limited-time markdowns, but widespread discounts are rare.

Which brand offers more styles?

Lululemon has a much broader collection overall, including dedicated lines for yoga, running, training, and casual wear for both men and women. Glowmode has a more focused collection that is more geared toward trend-focused styles.