Lululemon Define Cropped vs. Regular: Which one should you buy?

The Lululemon Define Cropped Jacket and the classic Define Jacket primarily differ in length and fabric. The Cropped version features a modern, waist-length cut made from buttery-soft Nulu™ fabric, while the Regular version offers vintage hip-length coverage in the brand's more supportive, cottony-soft Luon™ fabric.

Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right Define Jacket from Lululemon for your wardrobe and workout style.

Lululemon Define Cropped Jacket

The Define Cropped Jacket is a fresh take on Lululemon's iconic fitted jacket, designed for those who love high-waisted bottoms and a modern silhouette. Its primary appeal is the waist-length cut and the use of Lululemon's beloved Nulu™ fabric, giving it a weightless, buttery-soft feel that moves with you.

• What it is: A slim-fit, cropped performance jacket designed to sit at the waistline, perfect for studio workouts, running, or everyday wear.
• Key features: Cropped length, thumbholes and Cuffins™ foldable cuffs, secure zippered front pockets, falls just above the waist flattering high-rise leggings.
• Price: $118
• Materials/Construction: Made from Lululemon's Nulu™ fabric (81% Nylon, 19% Lycra® elastane), which is famous for its buttery-soft feel, four-way stretch, and sweat-wicking properties - it's the same fabric used in Align leggings.
• Sizing/Fit: A slim fit designed to contour your body. It runs true to size for a "hugged" sensation, but some prefer to size up for a little more room for layering or a less compressive feel.
• Pros: Trendy and modern cropped style is highly flattering with high-waisted gear. The ultra-soft Nulu™ fabric feels incredible against the skin. Its shorter length avoids any bunching at the hips.
• Cons: Provides minimal coverage, which isn't for everyone. Less versatile for layering over longer tops. Those with longer torsos may find it too short.

This jacket is ideal for anyone who primarily wears high-rise pants and leggings and prefers the soft, less-compressive feel of Nulu™ fabric for a modern, fashion-forward look.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/jackets-and-hoodies-jackets/Define-Cropped-Jacket-Nulu

Lululemon Define Jacket (Regular)

The original Lululemon Define Jacket is a cult classic for a reason. Its hip-length cut offers more coverage and a timeless athletic look, while the Luon™ fabric provides a supportive, second-skin feel that sculpts and smooths. This is the versatile, multi-purpose jacket that started it all.

• What it is: The iconic, slim-fit performance jacket with a hip-length cut for classic coverage during workouts or daily activities.
• Key features: Hip length, thumbholes and Cuffins™, zippered front pockets, and a back vent for added breathability when you're moving.
• Price: $118
• Materials/Construction: Made from Lululemon's original Luon™ fabric (87% Nylon, 13% Lycra® elastane), which offers support, four-way stretch, and a cottony-soft feel that holds its shape.
• Sizing/Fit: A slim fit that hugs the body from shoulders to hips. It’s considered true to size to get the intended sculpted look, sizing up is common for those who want a bit more room.
• Pros: Timeless and classic design. Provides excellent coverage over the waist and hips. Luon™ fabric is durable and supportive. The back vent is a thoughtful feature for regulating temperature. Highly versatile for running, gym, and errands.
• Cons: The longer length can sometimes bunch around the hips on curvier body types. Its classic look may feel less current to those who prefer cropped styles. The Luon™ fabric is soft but noticeably less "buttery" than Nulu™.

This is the jacket for someone seeking a versatile, high-performance layer that provides more coverage and a supportive, form-fitting feel in a timeless athletic style.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/jackets-and-hoodies-jackets/Define-Jacket-Luon

Lululemon Define Cropped Jacket vs. Define Jacket Comparison

Length & Coverage

The most obvious difference is the cut. The Define Cropped Jacket is designed to hit right at the natural waist, creating a clean line that perfectly complements high-waisted leggings and pants. It puts your mid-section on display and creates the illusion of longer legs.

In contrast, the regular Define Jacket offers full torso coverage, extending down to the hips. This classic length provides more warmth and a more modest look that many prefer for running outdoors or navigating daily errands. For taller individuals or those with longer torsos, this extra coverage can be a significant benefit.

Fabric & Feel

This is an important, but often overlooked, point of comparison. The Cropped Jacket is made from Nulu™, the same famously soft fabric used in Lululemon’s Align™ leggings. It feels weightless, buttery-soft, and offers a gentle, hugged sensation with minimal compression. It’s designed for cloud-like comfort.

The classic Define Jacket is made from Luon™, Lululemon's original performance fabric. Luon™ feels more supportive and slightly thicker, with a soft cotton-like texture. It provides more compression than Nulu™, lending a "held-in" feel that is great for workouts and sculpting your silhouette. The choice here comes down to personal texture and support preference: buttery and lightweight (Cropped) vs. cottony and supportive (Regular).

Style & Aesthetics

The Cropped Define is unapologetically modern and on-trend. It taps into the current demand for cropped athletic wear and pairs perfectly with the high-waisted trend, creating an hourglass shape. It's a statement piece that blends studio-ready fashion with real-world function.

The regular Define Jacket offers a timeless, polished athletic look. It's a versatile staple that has remained popular for years because of its clean lines and flattering, body-contouring fit. It seamlessly transitions from a workout to a post-gym coffee run without feeling overly trendy.

Price & Value

Both the Cropped Define Jacket and the Regular Define Jacket are priced identically at $118. Because there is no price difference, the value proposition is entirely dependent on your personal preferences for length, fabric, and intended use. Both jackets are investments in high-quality activewear that holds up exceptionally well over time when cared for properly.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both are excellent jackets, but they serve two distinct style preferences and body types.

Choose the Define Cropped Jacket if:

• You almost exclusively wear high-waisted leggings and joggers.
• You love the buttery-soft, lightweight feel of the Align pant's Nulu™ fabric.
• You prefer a modern, trendy look that highlights your waistline.
• You have a shorter torso, or you just prefer less fabric around your midsection.

Choose the regular Define Jacket if:

• You want more coverage over your stomach and hips for modesty or warmth.
• You prefer a more supportive, slightly compressive fabric feel like the classic Luon™.
• You need a versatile jacket that layers easily over different styles and lengths of tops.
• You favor a timeless athletic silhouette that won't go out of style.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between the Define Cropped and Regular jackets?

There are two primary differences: length and fabric. The Cropped version stops at the waist and is made from buttery-soft Nulu™ fabric. The Regular version extends to the hips for more coverage and is made from the more supportive, cottony-soft Luon™ fabric.

Which Lululemon Define Jacket is more flattering?

This is completely subjective and depends on your body type and what you want to highlight. The Cropped Jacket is exceptionally flattering with high-waisted bottoms as it creates a defined waistline. The Regular Jacket is often seen as flattering because its seam work creates a long, lean silhouette.

Should I size up in the Define Jacket?

Many people find the Define Jacket fits true to size for its intended "hugged" sensation. However, if you have a larger chest, broader shoulders, or simply want more room for layering, sizing up one size is a very common recommendation. Both the Cropped and Regular versions follow this sizing advice.

What is Nulu™ fabric like?

Nulu™ is Lululemon’s buttery-soft, weightless fabric with four-way stretch. It’s what the viral Align™ pants are made of. It offers light compression and is prized for its supreme comfort against the skin.

What is Luon™ fabric like?

Luon™ is Lululemon's foundational 'second-skin' fabric. It provides serious stretch and recovery, is sweat-wicking and has a supportive and compressing feel with a soft, cottony surface.

Can you wear the Define Jacket for running?

Absolutely. Both jackets were designed with running and training in mind. They are sweat-wicking and feature thumbholes and Cuffins™ to keep sleeves in place and hands warm. The Regular jacket also features a strategic back vent for extra airflow.

Are Lululemon Define Jackets worth the price?

For most shoppers, yes. The Define Jacket line is known for its incredible fit, premium materials that last for years, and versatile design. While the initial cost is high, its durability and timeless style make it a worthwhile piece for any activewear wardrobe.

How do you wash a Lululemon Define Jacket?

To keep your jacket in top shape, machine wash it in cold water with similar fabrics. Avoid using fabric softener as it can inhibit the performance of the technical fabric. You can either tumble dry on low or, ideally, lay it flat to dry.