Lululemon 4 Inch Shorts vs. 6 Inch Shorts: Which size is right for you?

The Lululemon 4 Inch Shorts and 6 Inch Shorts differ primarily in coverage and versatility. The 4-inch inseam offers a shorter, more-revealing fit designed for maximum freedom and ventilation in high-intensity workouts, while the 6-inch inseam provides a bit more modest coverage, making it a highly adaptable option for everything from running to casual wear.

Here's everything you need to know to choose the right Lululemon shorts for your needs.

Lululemon 4 Inch Shorts

Lululemon's 4-inch shorts are designed for athletes who prioritize minimal fabric and maximum breathability. Made from lightweight, sweat-wicking materials like Luon or Nulu, they provide an almost weightless feel perfect for hot weather runs or intense gym sessions. Their streamlined fit is contoured to the body, offering a sleek look that moves with you.

• What it is: A performance-oriented athletic short with a 4-inch inseam, designed for minimal coverage and maximum mobility.
• Key features: Sweat-wicking and quick-drying fabrics, snug waistband to prevent slipping, built-in liner for support, and often includes reflective details for visibility.
• Price: $58 - $78, depending on the specific style and fabric.
• Materials/Construction: Typically made from Lululemon's signature lightweight fabrics designed to feel like a second skin and efficiently manage moisture.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers a slim, body-contouring fit. Most find they are true to size, staying in place during dynamic movements.
• Pros: Excellent ventilation for hot climates and high-intensity exercise. Allows for a completely unrestricted range of motion. Lightweight feel. Stylish and modern athletic look.
• Cons: Limited coverage is not ideal for everyone's comfort level. Can potentially ride up during movements like squats or lunges. Less versatile for casual, non-athletic wear.

This length is ideal for dedicated runners and fitness enthusiasts who want the least amount of fabric getting in their way during tough workouts.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/women-shorts/Hotty-Hot-Short-4-Inch

Lululemon 6 Inch Shorts

The 6-inch shorts from Lululemon strike a balance between performance-ready design and everyday practicality. With two extra inches of length, they offer more substantial coverage for confidence during a wider range of activities, from trail running to running errands. They are built from the same high-quality performance fabrics as their shorter counterparts, ensuring comfort and durability.

• What it is: A versatile athletic short with a 6-inch inseam that provides moderate coverage suitable for workouts and casual wear.
• Key features: Comfortable and secure waistband, functional details like hidden pockets, moisture-wicking and breathable fabric blends, and a supportive fit.
• Price: $58 - $78, depending on specific style and collection.
• Materials/Construction: Made with premium, soft performance fabrics that offer stretch and durability without feeling heavy.
• Sizing/Fit: Designed for a comfortable fit that isn't restrictive. The extra length prevents riding up more effectively than shorter versions for most body types. They generally fit true to size.
• Pros: Enhanced coverage offers more comfort and modesty. Highly versatile for a mix of athletic and casual activities. Less prone to riding up during exercise. Transitions seamlessly from the gym to the street.
• Cons: Slightly less ventilation compared to the 4-inch short. The extra fabric may feel marginally heavier to some who prefer a minimal short.

This is the go-to length for those who want a reliable, do-it-all athletic short that provides peace of mind without sacrificing performance.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/women-shorts/Hotty-Hot-Short-6-Inch

Lululemon 4 Inch Shorts vs. 6 Inch Shorts Comparison

While both shorts share Lululemon's commitment to quality materials and a superb fit, their two-inch difference in length creates distinct use cases. Both lengths are typically made from the same sweat-wicking, quick-drying performance fabrics, so the choice comes down to coverage, comfort, and how you plan to use them.

Coverage & Length

The primary difference is the 2-inch longer inseam on the 6-inch shorts. The 4 Inch Shorts provide minimal coverage, hitting high on the thigh. This is great for showing off your legs and staying cool, but can feel revealing for some, especially during deep squats or bending over. The 6 Inch Shorts offer more thigh coverage, sitting at a mid-thigh length that many find more comfortable for a wider range of public activities. For taller individuals, the 6-inch often provides a more balanced and proportional look.

Fit & Comfort

Both lengths are designed to stay put with secure waistbands and high-quality construction. However, comfort can be subjective. Some find the minimal fabric of the 4-inch short to be more comfortable and freeing, especially for running. Others feel more secure in the 6-inch length, as it is less likely to ride up or require adjusting. If you're someone who is frequently self-conscious about your shorts creasing or shifting, the 6-inch offers more fabric and thus a bit more stability and peace of mind.

Versatility

The 6-inch short is the clear winner in versatility. Its modest length makes it appropriate for a broader range of settings, from the yoga studio and gym floor to coffee shops and grocery stores. The extra coverage reads more "day-to-day short" than just "workout short." The 4-inch length is more of a specialist's tool - perfectly designed for athletic performance but less adaptable for casual wear in many situations.

Price & Value

Both the 4-inch and 6-inch versions of Lululemon shorts typically fall within the same price bracket ($58-$78), so cost isn't usually a deciding factor. The value is determined by your lifestyle. If you need a dedicated, hyper-functional short for serious training, the 4-inch provides immense value. If you want one pair of shorts that can handle a workout and then seamlessly blend into the rest of your day, the 6-inch offers better all-around utility for your money.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both lengths are excellent, but they cater to different priorities and preferences.

Choose the 4 Inch Shorts if:

• You prefer a feeling of minimal fabric and maximum freedom of movement.
• You primarily wear shorts for running, track workouts, or high-intensity training.
• You train in consistently hot and humid weather and need maximum breathability.
• You are petite and find longer shorts look out of proportion on your frame.
• You are not concerned with showing more leg during your activities.

Choose the 6 Inch Shorts if:

• You want more coverage for peace of mind during squats, stretching, and daily wear.
• You are looking for a versatile short that can be worn for gym sessions, errands, and casual outings.
• You are taller and prefer a short that offers more proportional coverage.
• You dislike the feeling of shorts riding up and want a more secure fit.
• Your activities include a mix of things, like hiking, yoga, weightlifting, and running.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Lululemon's 4-inch and 6-inch inseams?

The main difference is the length. The 4-inch inseam offers minimal thigh coverage for a freer, more athletic feel, while the 6-inch inseam provides more modest coverage, better suited for a wider range of activities and casual wear.

Which length is better for running?

Both are great for running. Choose the 4-inch if you are a serious runner focused on speed and performance in the heat, as the minimal fabric provides superior ventilation. Choose the 6-inch if you are a daily runner who values a bit more coverage and security, particularly for longer, more relaxed runs.

Do the 4-inch shorts ride up?

This depends on body type, but the 4-inch inseam's shorter length makes it more prone to riding up for some people during activities like squats or lunges compared to the 6-inch version.

Are Lululemon shorts true to size?

Yes, Lululemon shorts generally run true to size. It's best to consult the brand's size chart and consider your fit preference - if you're between sizes, you might size up for a more relaxed feel or down for a more compressed fit.

Which length is more versatile?

The 6-inch length is far more versatile. The additional coverage makes it more appropriate for wearing casually before or after a workout, transitioning easily from athletic to everyday settings.

Which style is better for taller women?

Taller women (around 5'8" and above) often prefer the 6-inch shorts, as the extra length provides a more balanced and proportional coverage on a longer frame.

What are Lululemon shorts typically made of?

Lululemon uses a variety of their proprietary lightweight fabrics like Swift for their run shorts. These materials are known for being sweat-wicking, quick-drying, breathable, and having 4-way stretch for comfort and mobility.

How do you wash Lululemon shorts?

To preserve the fabric's integrity, it is recommended to wash them in cold water with similar fabrics and colors. It's best to hang them to dry, as high heat from a dryer can degrade the material and elasticity over time.