Lululemon Glow Up vs. Wunder Train: Which one is better?
The Lululemon Glow Up aesthetic focuses on stylish, fashion-forward activewear that transitions from the gym to the street, while the Wunder Train collection is built for pure, high-intensity performance. Glow Up pieces often feature softer fabrics and trend-driven details, whereas Wunder Train prioritizes durability, high compression, and superior sweat-wicking with its technical Everlux™ fabric.
Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide which Lululemon collection is the right fit for your training and lifestyle needs.
Lululemon Glow Up Collection
The Lululemon Glow Up look is all about blending performance with a modern, fashionable aesthetic. Think of it as versatile activewear with unique design details, perfect for those who want their gym outfits to work for coffee runs, errands, and casual hangouts. It emphasizes comfort and style without completely sacrificing functionality for light to moderate activity.
- What it is: A category of stylish, athleisure-focused activewear that is as suited for everyday life as it is for the gym.
- Key features: Trend-forward designs, subtle color-blocking, unique textures, and a sleek, modern look.
- Price: Pieces typically range from $98 to $128.
- Materials/Construction: Often made with innovative, soft technical fabrics that feel great against the skin while remaining breathable and quick-drying.
- Sizing/Fit: Designed for a snug but comfortable, body-contouring fit that runs true to size.
- Pros: Highly versatile for workout and casual wear, fashionable and modern aesthetic, extremely comfortable for long-term wear, features unique design details.
- Cons: Softer fabrics may not be as durable for intense, high-abrasion workouts, often priced slightly higher than core performance lines.
This collection suits the individual who prizes versatile activewear that makes a style statement and comfortably handles everything from a pilates class to a day out.
Shop this style: shop.lululemon.com/c/womens/new-arrivals/
Lululemon Wunder Train Collection
The Wunder Train line is Lululemon’s dedicated workhorse for serious training. Made from the brand's tough yet breathable Everlux™ fabric, these pieces are engineered to handle the toughest, sweatiest workouts. The focus is squarely on performance, providing high compression, durability, and unmatched moisture management for activities like HIIT, lifting, and spinning.
- What it is: High-performance activewear, including leggings and shorts, purpose-built for intense training sessions.
- Key features: Made with fast-drying Everlux™ fabric, feels cool on the inside and soft on the outside, high compression for muscle support, durable construction.
- Price: Leggings are typically priced around $98.
- Materials/Construction: Crafted from Everlux™ fabric, which is Lululemon’s most quick-drying material with four-way stretch and excellent shape retention.
- Sizing/Fit: A secure, high-compression fit. Runs true to size, but the compressive nature may feel very snug, some prefer to size up for slightly less squeeze during everyday wear.
- Pros: Exceptional durability for high-intensity training, fantastic sweat-wicking and quick-drying properties, provides excellent support and compression, great value for a high-performance tight.
- Cons: The compressive fit may be too intense for casual lounging, aesthetic is more functional than fashion-forward, not as soft as other Lululemon lines like Align.
This line is ideal for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who demand high-performance gear that will not fail during rigorous workouts.
Shop this product: wundertrain.com
Lululemon Glow Up vs. Wunder Train Comparison
Style & Aesthetic
The main difference between these two lies in their design philosophy. The Glow Up aesthetic leans into current trends with a fashion-forward, sleek look. It uses modern silhouettes, tonal accents, and subtle details to create activewear that feels elevated enough for street style. Its function is to look good both in and out of the studio.
In contrast, the Wunder Train collection has a timeless, performance-focused aesthetic. The design is clean, minimalist, and functional. Available mostly in solid colors, its look communicates pure performance over fashion, though its sleek silhouette is still classic and flattering for everyday wear.
Quality & Materials
Both collections feature premium Lululemon construction, but the fabrics are chosen for different purposes. Glow Up styles often use fabrics that prioritize a soft, comfortable hand-feel along with breathability, making them pleasant for all-day wear.
The Wunder Train line is exclusively built with Everlux™, Lululemon's fastest-drying fabric. It is notoriously tough, abrasion-resistant, and engineered to wick sweat away instantly, keeping you cool and dry during the most intense workouts. While comfortable, its primary benefit is performance under pressure, not a buttery-soft feel.
Fit & Sizing
Sizing is true to size for both, but the *feel* is very different. Glow Up styles offer a comfortable, body-hugging fit that's supportive but not restrictive. You can easily wear them for hours without feeling compressed.
Wunder Train features a distinct high-compression fit. This supportive squeeze is designed to aid muscle performance and recovery during intense activity. While secure and empowering for a workout, it's not the first choice for extended lounging if you dislike a compressive sensation.
Price & Value
Both lines represent a premium investment. The Wunder Train is typically priced around $98 for a pair of leggings, offering immense value given its durability and performance longevity. For serious athletes, this is a cost-effective choice that holds up to heavy use.
Glow Up pieces can range from $98 to $128, with the higher price reflecting trendy details or newer fabric blends. The value here is in its versatility - paying for a single item that serves both your fitness and casual wardrobe needs.
Which One Should You Choose?
The right choice comes down to prioritizing either fashion-forward versatility or uncompromised training performance.
Choose the Glow Up style if:
- You want activewear that easily transitions from a workout to brunch.
- Your style is modern, sleek, and you appreciate unique design details.
- You engage in light-to-moderate activities like yoga, pilates, or light gym work.
- All-day comfort with a less compressive feel is your top priority.
Choose the Wunder Train if:
- You participate in HIIT, CrossFit, running, spinning, or heavy weightlifting.
- Your primary needs are durability, sweat-wicking, and high support.
- You prefer the secure, "held-in" sensation of a compressive fit during exercise.
- You want a reliable, long-lasting pair of leggings for tough, sweaty workouts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between Glow Up and Wunder Train?
The primary difference is intent. The Glow Up aesthetic is centered on versatile, fashionable activewear for gym-to-street life with a comfortable, less restrictive fit. Wunder Train is engineered specifically for high-intensity training, prioritizing durability, support, and sweat-wicking above all else.
Which is better for running or HIIT?
The Wunder Train is superior for running and HIIT. Its Everlux™ fabric is built to handle high sweat levels and dries incredibly fast, while the compressive fit provides muscle support during high-impact movements.
Are they true to size?
Yes, both are generally true to size. However, because Wunder Train is highly compressive, some customers prefer to size up for a slightly more relaxed (but still supportive) fit. It’s best to stick to your true size for the intended performance benefits.
Which one is more comfortable for just lounging?
The Glow Up styles are generally more comfortable for lounging. Their softer fabrics and less compressive fit make it a better choice for all-day casual wear compared to the tight, performance-oriented feel of the Wunder Train.
Is Wunder Train squat-proof?
Yes, Wunder Train leggings are a popular choice for leg day because the durable Everlux™ fabric is known to be opaque and squat-proof, offering secure coverage during deep movements.
How does Wunder Train compare to Lululemon Align?
Wunder Train is vastly different. Align leggings are made from Nulu™ fabric, which is buttery-soft and designed for yoga and low-impact activities with a "barely-there" feel. Wunder Train is made from durable Everlux™, designed for high-impact training and has a compressive, supportive feel.
Is one more durable than the other?
The Wunder Train's Everlux™ fabric is specifically designed for high-abrasion activities, making it more durable and resistant to pilling than many of the softer fabrics often used in more style-focused collections.
