Lululemon Base Pace vs. Fast and Free: Which one should you buy?

The Lululemon Base Pace shorts are all about comfortable, versatile performance, featuring a supportive fabric and an everyday-friendly 4" inseam. In contrast, the Fast and Free shorts are built for pure speed with an ultra-lightweight fabric and a minimal 3" inseam designed to feel like nothing is there.

Here’s what you need to know to pick the right Lululemon running shorts for your needs.

Lululemon Base Pace High-Rise Lined Short 4"

The Base Pace short is Lululemon's answer for the runner who wants a reliable, multi-purpose short that doesn't sacrifice comfort for performance. Made from the brand's slick and supportive Luxtreme fabric, these shorts feel smooth to the touch and offer a held-in sensation without being restrictive, making them a great option for moderate runs, gym sessions, and daily wear.

• What it is: Versatile high-rise running shorts with a 4" inseam, comfortable liner, and supportive fabric suitable for running and cross-training.
• Key features: Moisture-wicking Luxtreme fabric, continuous drawcord in the waistband, a side drop-in pocket, and back pocket for essentials, lightweight liner for coverage.
• Price: $68
• Materials/Construction: The body is made of Luxtreme fabric known for its sweat-wicking properties, four-way stretch, and cool, slick feel against the skin.
• Sizing/Fit: Offers a true-to-size, relaxed fit that feels secure but not compressive. The 4" inseam provides modest coverage comfortable for a wide range of movements.
• Pros: Highly versatile and can easily transition from a run to errands. Luxtreme fabric is durable and supportive. The 4" inseam offers a great balance of freedom and coverage. Generally more comfortable for all-day wear.
• Cons: Fabric isn't as lightweight or 'barely-there' as options like Nulux. Not optimized for high-speed racing or the hottest days. Style is more functional than high-fashion.

This is the go-to short for casual runners, gym-goers, and anyone seeking a durable, comfortable short that performs well across various activities.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/women-shorts/Base-Pace-HR-Short-4-Lined

Lululemon Fast and Free High-Rise Lined Short 3"

Engineered for speed, the Fast and Free short feels weightless and liberating. It's crafted from Lululemon's Nulux fabric, which is incredibly light and sleek, providing an unrestricted feel that helps you focus on your stride. With a shorter 3" inseam and a minimalist design, everything about this short is built to minimize distractions for dedicated runners.

• What it is: A high-performance, lightweight running short with a 3" inseam designed for speed workouts, racing, and hot weather training.
• Key features: Weightless Nulux fabric that feels sleek and cool, built-in liner for coverage, several waistband pockets for essentials, continuous drawcord for a secure fit.
• Price: $78
• Materials/Construction: The body uses Nulux fabric, an ultra-lightweight, quick-drying material with full four-way stretch. The seams are minimal to reduce any potential chafing during long runs.
• Sizing/Fit: Designed for a snug, secure fit that borders on compressive to stay put during intense activity. Runs true to size, but some may prefer to size up for a less tight feel.
• Pros: Incredibly lightweight and breathable for hot conditions. Nulux fabric dries very quickly. Minimalist design reduces bulk and potential for chafing. Ideal for racing and speed work.
• Cons: More expensive than the Base Pace. The shorter 3" inseam offers less coverage and might not be comfortable for everyone. The snug fit is less suited for casual, all-day wear.

This short is meant for serious runners who prioritize a weightless feel and minimal design to maximize their performance during races or intense training sessions.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/women-shorts/Fast-and-Free-HR-Lined-Short-3

Lululemon Base Pace vs. Fast and Free Comparison

Fit & Feel

The most immediate difference between the two is how they feel on your body. The Base Pace offers a comfortable, securely held-in feeling thanks to its Luxtreme fabric. It's smooth and supportive but not compressive, hugging your body in a relaxed way that makes it great for long-term wear from the gym to the grocery store.

On the other hand, the Fast and Free short provides a sleek, barely-there sensation. The Nulux fabric is featherlight and the fit is much snugger, designed to move with you without any excess fabric getting in the way. It feels freeing and fast, but its form-fitting nature means it’s less about all-day lounging and more about pure performance.

Materials & Performance

The Base Pace is made with Luxtreme fabric, a true workhorse in Lululemon’s lineup. It's sweat-wicking, cool to the touch, and offers substantial four-way stretch. Its key attributes are support and durability, standing up well to repeated wear and washes, making it an excellent choice for consistent training.

The Fast and Free uses Nulux fabric, which prioritizes feeling weightless and cool above all else. This material is exceptionally breathable and dries in a flash, making it superior for hot, sweaty runs or race days when every gram matters. While durable, its ultra-light construction means it’s more technical and may not be as robust as Luxtreme for activities involving abrasion, like certain gym workouts.

Coverage, Style, & Versatility

With an extra inch of inseam, the Base Pace 4" short provides more coverage than its 3" Fast and Free counterpart. This modest length, combined with its relaxed fit, makes the Base Pace much more versatile. You can comfortably wear it for a variety of workouts, errands, or just casual lounging without feeling overly exposed.

The Fast and Free’s 3" inseam and snugger fit create a streamlined, athletic silhouette designed for running. This minimal coverage is excellent for maximizing airflow and freedom of movement but reduces its versatility. It looks and feels like a dedicated piece of running gear, making it less of a gym-to-street option for most people.

Price & Value

The Base Pace typically retails for about $68, while the Fast and Free is priced higher at around $78. The $10 difference comes down to the intended purpose. The Base Pace offers fantastic value as a multi-functional short that works for running, training, and everyday life due to its durable and comfortable design.

The Fast and Free is an investment in specialized performance. The higher price reflects the technical, ultra-lightweight Nulux fabric and construction geared toward minimizing weight and distraction for runners. If your main goal is speed and performance, the features justify the cost.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both shorts are excellent, but they serve different runners with different priorities.

Choose the Base Pace Short if:

• You want a versatile pair of shorts for running, gym workouts, and daily errands.
• You prefer a comfortable, supportive feel over an ultra-lightweight one.
• You like a bit more coverage and prefer a 4" inseam.
• Durability and multi-purpose value are more important to you than race-day optimization.

Choose the Fast and Free Short if:

• You are a dedicated runner focused on speed, training for a race, or running in hot climates.
• You prioritize a weightless, "naked" sensation in your running gear.
• You prefer a shorter 3" inseam for maximum leg freedom and cooling.
• You are willing to pay a premium for technical features designed for high performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between the Base Pace and Fast and Free shorts?

The main difference is the fabric and intended use. Base Pace uses supportive Luxtreme fabric for versatile, everyday performance with a relaxed fit. Fast and Free uses ultra-lightweight Nulux fabric for a barely-there feel, designed purely for speed and high-intensity running with a snug fit.

Which short is better for long-distance running?

This depends on personal preference. Many long-distance runners love the Fast and Free for its lightweight and quick-drying properties, which help prevent chafing over many miles. However, others might prefer the supportive feel and slightly more relaxed fit of the Base Pace for comfort during longer, slower runs.

Are the shorts true to size?

Generally, yes. The Base Pace runs very true to size for its intended relaxed-but-secure fit. The Fast and Free also runs true to size, but its fit is much snugger. If you are between sizes or prefer a slightly looser feel, you may consider sizing up in the Fast and Free.

Which fabric is more durable?

Luxtreme, the fabric used in the Base Pace, is typically considered more durable and resistant to pilling or abrasion than the ultra-fine Nulux fabric of the Fast and Free. For everyday wear and frequent washing, the Base Pace might hold up better over the long term.

Which short is better for someone who is not a runner?

The Base Pace short is the much better choice for non-runners or those who want shorts for general gym workouts, HIIT, or casual wear. Its versatile fit and durable fabric make it suitable for a wider range of activities.

Do both shorts have pockets?

Yes, both styles are designed with functionality in mind. The Base Pace has side drop-in pockets and a back envelope pocket. The Fast and Free line is known for its multiple waistband pockets, great for stashing gels, keys, and cards without bounce.

Which short has more compression?

Neither is a traditional compression short, but the Fast and Free's snug fit and Nulux fabric offer a more noticeable body-hugging, compressive feeling compared to the relaxed supportive fit of the Base Pace.

Is the $10 price difference for the Fast and Free worth it?

If you are a serious runner looking to optimize your gear for race day or high-heat conditions, absolutely. The technical, lightweight Nulux fabric makes a real difference in comfort and performance. If you're a casual runner or want a do-it-all short, the Base Pace offers better all-around value.