Gymshark Leggings vs. Lululemon: Which one should you buy?

The main difference between Gymshark and Lululemon leggings comes down to price, quality, and style. Gymshark offers trendy, body-contouring leggings at an affordable price point (around $30-$70), making them a favorite for budget-conscious fitness enthusiasts, while Lululemon is a premium brand known for its incredibly comfortable, durable, and versatile leggings that cost significantly more ($98-$128).

Here's everything you need to know to decide whether to invest in Lululemon's luxury quality or opt for Gymshark's modern style.

Gymshark Leggings

Gymshark has become a social media sensation, known for its affordable performance apparel that combines modern style with gym-ready function. Their leggings are especially popular for their structured, body-hugging designs that offer support and a contoured look, making them a go-to for weightlifters and workout enthusiasts who want to look and feel good without a high price tag.

• What it is: Trendy, budget-friendly performance leggings designed primarily for gym workouts and weight training.
• Key features: High-waisted fits, seamless construction, body-contouring details like ribbing or scrunch-bum designs, and a wide variety of bold colors and styles.
• Price: Approximately $30–$70.
• Materials/Construction: Typically made from comfortable polyester and elastane blends that are moisture-wicking and squat-proof. Seamless fabric is a signature feature in many collections.
• Sizing/Fit: Women's sizes range from XS to XL. The fit is generally very snug and compressive to provide a "sculpted" look, though consistency can vary between different styles.
• Pros: Highly affordable price point. Stylish, trend-focused designs that are very popular. Excellent for providing a contoured, flattering silhouette. Frequently holds sales and promotions.
• Cons: Longevity can be an issue, with some styles prone to pilling after repeated wear. Less versatile for everyday or casual wear compared to Lulu. Sizing can sometimes be inconsistent across collections.

This brand is perfect for anyone seeking stylish, functional gym leggings for weightlifting and high-intensity workouts without making a major financial investment.

Shop this product: www.gymshark.com

Lululemon Leggings

Lululemon is the benchmark for luxury activewear, renowned for its proprietary fabrics that deliver unparalleled comfort, durability, and a flattering fit. Their leggings, like the iconic Align Pant, are famous for their buttery-soft feel and versatility, easily transitioning from a sweaty yoga class to a casual coffee run. They are designed as a long-term investment piece for those who prioritize quality and all-day comfort.

• What it is: Premium, high-performance leggings known for superior comfort, quality, and versatility for yoga, running, and everyday life.
• Key features: Signature technical fabrics like feather-light Nulu™ and supportive Luon™. Meticulous construction with flatlock seams to reduce chafing. Thoughtful details like hidden waistband pockets.
• Price: Approximately $98–$128.
• Materials/Construction: High-performance technical blends with excellent stretch retention and moisture-wicking properties. Fabrics are engineered for specific activities, from low-impact yoga to high-intensity training.
• Sizing/Fit: Known for highly consistent and inclusive sizing, typically ranging from 0–20. The fit provides a hugged, second-skin sensation without feeling restrictive.
• Pros: Exceptional comfort and a "buttery-soft" feel. Extremely durable and long-lasting, retaining shape and color for years. Versatile for workouts, lounging, and errands. Consistent and reliable sizing.
• Cons: High price point positions them as a luxury item. Sales are rare. The minimalist aesthetic may be too simple for those who prefer trendy or bold designs.

Lululemon is an investment for consumers who prioritize long-lasting quality, supreme comfort, and a timeless aesthetic that works for any activity.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com

Gymshark Leggings vs. Lululemon Leggings Comparison

Price & Value

There is a substantial price gap between the two brands. Gymshark leggings range from $30 to $70, making them an accessible option for almost any budget. Their frequent sales make them even more affordable. This offers great value if you want trendy, functional gear without a long-term commitment.

Lululemon is a premium investment, with leggings costing between $98 and $128. The value here is in longevity. A single pair can last for many years of regular wear without pilling or losing shape, often outlasting several pairs of lower-priced competitors. If cost-per-wear is your measure, Lululemon offers excellent long-term value.

Quality & Materials

Lululemon’s reputation is built on its innovative, high-quality fabrics. Materials like Nulu™ feel addictively soft and lightweight, perfect for yoga or all-day wear, while Luxtreme™ offers cool, smooth compression for running and training. The construction quality is meticulous, with reinforced seams that hold up to constant stretching and activity.

Gymshark uses effective synthetic blends that are moisture-wicking, supportive, and squat-proof. Their seamless technology is a key feature that reduces irritation and creates a smooth silhouette. While durable enough for regular workouts, the fabric may not withstand years of use with the same resilience as Lululemon’s textiles and can sometimes show wear like pilling more quickly.

Style & Aesthetic

Gymshark’s aesthetic is youthful, modern, and trend-driven. Their designs often feature bold colors, prominent logos, mesh panels, and scrunch-bum details that accentuate and contour the body. Their styles are made to be seen at the gym and are heavily influenced by social media fitness culture.

Lululemon practices a more understated, timeless minimalism. Their leggings typically come in solid, muted colors or subtle patterns with minimal branding. The focus is on a sleek, flattering silhouette that is versatile enough to be dressed up for daily errands or worn for an intense workout, appealing to those who prefer a less-is-more approach.

Performance & Versatility

Both brands perform well in the gym, but they excel in different areas. Gymshark's compressive and structured fit is fantastic for weightlifting and HIIT workouts, as it provides support and a secure, "locked-in" feel. However, this compression can sometimes feel too restrictive for lounging or casual wear.

Lululemon leggings are known for their incredible versatility. The same pair of Align pants you wear for a gentle yoga session is comfortable enough to wear all day long, from running errands to relaxing at home. Fabrics like Everlux are specifically engineered for high-sweat sessions, proving they can handle intense activity while still prioritizing comfort over pure compression.

Fit & Sizing

Lululemon is a leader in fit consistency. Once you know your size (typically from 0–20), you can order confidently across different styles. The fit is designed to feel like a second skin - supportive but not restrictive.

Gymshark’s sizing is generally true to size (XS–XL), but shoppers sometimes report inconsistencies between different collections. Some styles may fit tighter or looser than others. Their leggings offer a more compressive, body-molding fit compared to the "gently hugged" feel of most Lululemon styles.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both brands offer excellent leggings, but they cater to very different priorities and budgets.

Choose Gymshark if:

• You're on a tighter budget and want high-performance gear under $70.
• You love trendy, bold styles with body-contouring details.
• Your main activities are weightlifting, HIIT, and general gym workouts.
• You enjoy getting new activewear frequently to keep your workout wardrobe fresh.

Choose Lululemon if:

• You prioritize durability and are willing to invest in leggings that will last for years.
• Unparalleled comfort and a buttery-soft feel are your top priority.
• You want versatile leggings that are an amazing choice for yoga, training, and everyday life.
• You prefer a timeless, minimalist aesthetic with consistent, reliable sizing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Gymshark and Lululemon leggings?

The biggest differences are price and fabric quality. Gymshark focuses on stylish, affordable leggings ($30-$70) for a gym-focused audience. Lululemon is a premium brand ($98-$128) that prioritizes high-quality, ultra-comfortable proprietary fabrics designed for long-term durability and versatility.

Which is better for squats, Gymshark or Lululemon?

Both brands offer many squat-proof options. Gymshark heavily markets its leggings as squat-proof, and their thicker, more compressive fabrics are very popular for lifting. Many of Lululemon's training-focused leggings, like those in Everlux or Luxtreme fabrics, are also fully opaque and designed to handle deep squats without sheering.

Do Gymshark leggings run true to size?

Gymshark leggings generally run true to size, but they are designed for a very compressive fit. Some shoppers report that sizing can be slightly inconsistent between different collections, so it's always a good idea to consult the specific size chart for the item you're interested in.

Are Lululemon leggings worth the price?

For many customers, yes. While the initial cost is high, their exceptional durability means they often last for years, bringing the "cost per wear" down considerably. The superior comfort, flattering fit, and versatility for both athletic and casual wear are key reasons people feel the investment is worth it.

Which brand is more comfortable for all-day wear?

Lululemon is widely considered more comfortable for all-day wear. The Nulu™ fabric used for their Align pants is specifically designed to feel weightless and buttery-soft, making it perfect for lounging and casual activities.

How long do Lululemon leggings last?

With proper care (machine wash cold, hang to dry), Lululemon leggings can last for several years of frequent wear without pilling, fading, or losing their shape. Many owners report their leggings look and feel great even after 5+ years.

Which brand has more sales?

Gymshark has frequent sales and promotional events throughout the year, especially around major holidays. Lululemon sales are much rarer, typically limited to their "We Made Too Much" section, which features items at a modest discount.

Which company is more sustainable?

Lululemon has more established and transparent sustainability initiatives. The company invests in using recycled materials, responsible sourcing, and publishes detailed reports on its progress, making it the more eco-conscious choice.