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

The main difference between leggings from HeyNuts and Lululemon comes down to ethos and price. HeyNuts offers a sustainable, eco-conscious option known for comfort and affordability, typically priced between $50 and $80. Lululemon is a premium activewear leader famous for its proprietary high-performance fabrics, innovative designs, and a higher price point of $98 to $128.

Here’s a complete look at how these two very popular activewear brands compare so you can decide which is right for you.

HeyNuts Leggings

HeyNuts has quickly become a popular activewear choice for those seeking comfortable, stylish, and sustainable apparel without a premium price tag. The brand emphasizes eco-friendly materials, ethical production, and inclusive sizing, creating versatile pieces that work for both the gym and everyday life. Their aesthetic is minimalist and modern, appealing to a relaxed, eco-conscious consumer.

• What it is: Mid-range activewear leggings focused on environmental responsibility, comfort, and inclusive design.
• Key features: Minimalist aesthetic, simple designs, and a focus on soft, durable-feeling fabrics.
• Price: $50–$80
• Materials/Construction: Prioritizes eco-friendly fabrics such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and sustainable spandex blends, coupled with ethical manufacturing practices.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers a wide range from XS to XXL, with a reputation for running true to size and offering a comfortable, less compressive fit.
• Pros: Significantly more affordable than Lululemon. Strong commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. Comfortable enough for all-day wear. Inclusive sizing accommodates more body types.
• Cons: Lacks the advanced, proprietary performance fabrics of Lululemon. No physical stores for in-person shopping or try-ons. Designs are more basic and less trend-driven.

This brand is ideal for eco-conscious shoppers who prioritize affordability, everyday comfort, and sustainability in their activewear.

Shop this product: heynuts.com

Lululemon Leggings

Lululemon is a global leader in premium activewear, celebrated for its high-performance fabrics, expert construction, and modern, versatile designs. The brand’s leggings, made with signature materials like Nulu and Everlux, are engineered for everything from intense workouts to comfortable lounging. While a significant investment, Lululemon has built a loyal following based on the proven durability, functional style, and flattering fit of its products.

• What it is: Luxury activewear known for innovation, durability, and a sleek, fashion-forward aesthetic.
• Key features: Proprietary fabrics with exceptional stretch and moisture-wicking capabilities (Luon, Everlux, Nulu). Reinforced seams provide long-term durability.
• Price: $98–$128
• Materials/Construction: Utilizes advanced, high-tech fabrics designed for intense activity, long-term wear, and a specific feel (e.g., buttery soft Nulu).
• Sizing/Fit: Offers consistent sizing from 00 to 14+ with various length options. Fits are typically supportive and compressive, designed to shape and stay in place during movement.
• Pros: Superior fabric technology for moisture management and performance. Exceptionally durable and long-lasting, justifying the higher cost over time. Sleek, versatile designs suit both workouts and daily wear. Premium shopping experience with physical retail stores.
• Cons: A premium price point makes it one of the more expensive activewear brands. While improving, its sustainability practices are not as central to its brand identity as HeyNuts.

This brand is best for consumers willing to invest in top-tier performance, sleek style, and activewear that is built to last for years.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com

HeyNuts vs. Lululemon Comparison

Price & Value

There is a clear difference in price between the two brands. HeyNuts leggings sit in the $50-$80 range, making them an accessible, mid-range option. This positioning offers excellent value for budget-conscious buyers who still want quality and a sustainable focus.

Lululemon is a premium investment, with leggings costing between $98 and $128. While the initial cost is high, many users point to the superior durability and longevity of Lululemon leggings, which can arguably provide better long-term value if properly cared for. The choice comes down to immediate affordability versus a longer-term investment.

Quality & Materials

Lululemon's biggest advantage lies in its proprietary fabrics. Materials like Luon for support and Everlux for fast-drying performance are the result of years of R&D and are considered some of the best in the industry. These fabrics give Lululemon leggings an edge in high-intensity workouts where moisture-wicking and shape retention are critical.

HeyNuts, on the other hand, centers its material choice around sustainability. Using recycled polyester and organic cotton, its leggings are praised for being soft, stretchy, and durable. While they may not offer the same level of advanced moisture management as Lululemon, they provide excellent comfort and performance for everyday activities and moderate workouts.

Fit & Sizing

Lululemon offers highly consistent sizing from 00 to 14+. Their fits are often engineered to feel supportive and compressive, providing a flattering, hugged-in sensation that helps the leggings stay in place. This makes them a reliable choice for running and high-impact activities.

HeyNuts provides more inclusive sizing, typically from XS to XXL, with a focus on an accommodating and comfortable fit. Reviews often note that their leggings have a more relaxed feel compared to Lululemon's compressive fit, which many prefer for lounging and casual wear.

Style & Aesthetic

The style of Lululemon is sleek, minimalist, and versatile. Their neutral color palettes, subtle branding, and classic designs make their leggings easy to wear from the studio to the street. The brand is also known for introducing trendy seasonal colors and patterns.

HeyNuts has a modern and simple aesthetic, with a focus on muted and earthy tones. The designs are slightly more understated and casual, aligning with their eco-conscious, laid-back brand identity.

Sustainability & Ethics

This is where HeyNuts has a major advantage. Sustainability is a core part of their brand, showcased through their use of eco-friendly materials and ethical manufacturing practices. They are transparent about their sourcing and appeal to shoppers for whom environmental impact is a key decision factor.

Lululemon has started making strides in sustainability, introducing programs with recycled materials. However, it's not the central message of the brand, and they have faced criticism for a lack of transparency in their supply chain in the past.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both brands offer quality products, but they cater to different priorities, budgets, and values.

Choose HeyNuts if:

• You are looking for a quality pair of leggings under $80.
• Sustainability and ethical production are important factors in your shopping decisions.
• You prefer a comfortable, relaxed fit over a highly compressive one.
• You need leggings primarily for everyday wear, yoga, or low to moderate-impact workouts.

Choose Lululemon if:

• You need high-performance activewear for intense workouts, running, or hot yoga.
• You are willing to invest in exceptionally durable apparel that will last for years.
• You prefer a compressive, second-skin fit that is supportive and sculpting.
• You value a sleek, minimalist aesthetic and an established brand with a premium feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between HeyNuts and Lululemon?

The main differences are price, materials, and brand focus. HeyNuts is an affordable, eco-conscious brand focused on comfort, while Lululemon is a premium brand renowned for its high-performance proprietary fabrics and intense workout gear.

Are HeyNuts leggings a good Lululemon alternative?

Yes, HeyNuts leggings are often considered an excellent alternative to Lululemon, especially for everyday comfort, casual wear, and low-impact workouts. They offer great softness and style at a much more accessible price point.

Which brand is better for high-intensity workouts?

Lululemon is generally better for high-intensity workouts due to its advanced, moisture-wicking fabrics like Everlux, which are designed to handle heavy sweat and intense movement while providing superior support and shape retention.

How does the sizing compare between the two brands?

Lululemon offers sizes 00-14+ and is known for a consistent, compressive fit that hugs the body. HeyNuts offers more inclusive sizing (XS-XXL) and is often described as having a more relaxed, comfortable fit that is true to size.

Which brand is more sustainable?

HeyNuts places a stronger emphasis on sustainability, utilizing recycled and organic materials and promoting ethical production. While Lululemon is incorporating more eco-friendly practices, it is a core pillar of the HeyNuts brand identity.

How long do Lululemon leggings last?

With proper care, Lululemon leggings are known for their exceptional durability and can last for many years, even with frequent use. Their fabric is designed to resist pilling and retain its shape, which is a major justification for their premium price.

Are HeyNuts leggings squat-proof?

Customer reviews for HeyNuts widely praise their leggings for being opaque and passing the "squat test." However, as with any brand, this can sometimes vary by color and specific style, so checking recent reviews is always a good idea.

Is Lululemon worth the money?

For many activewear enthusiasts, the answer is yes. If you prioritize performance, a flattering fit, and unmatched durability for intense activities, the investment in a pair of Lululemon leggings is often considered worth it due to their longevity and effectiveness.