Lululemon Hotty Hot Shorts vs. Speed Up: Which one should you buy?

The Lululemon Hotty Hot and Speed Up shorts are two of the brand's most popular running styles, but they offer very different experiences. The Hotty Hot features a more relaxed, classic fit with a simple design using lightweight Swift fabric, making it a great basic for everyday runs. In contrast, the Speed Up has a more athletic, streamlined fit with a supportive high-rise waistband, more pocket options, and technical Everlux fabric for superior sweat-wicking during intense workouts.

Here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose the right Lululemon shorts for your activity level and style.

Lululemon Hotty Hot Shorts

The Hotty Hot shorts are Lululemon's quintessential running shorts, known for their comfortable, relaxed fit and lightweight feel. They're designed for unrestricted movement and breathability, making them a go-to for casual runners, beginners, and anyone seeking a simple, reliable short for workouts or everyday wear.

• What it is: A classic running short featuring a lightweight design, built-in liner, and a relaxed, breezy fit.
• Key features: Sweat-wicking Swift fabric, wide leg openings for freedom of movement, a continuous drawcord for a secure fit, a discreet zipper pocket in the side seam, and reflective details.
• Price: Around $58, making it the more affordable of the two options.
• Materials/Construction: Made from lightweight, four-way stretch Swift fabric that is quick-drying and feels airy against the skin. Features flatlock seams to reduce chafing.
• Sizing/Fit: Tends to run true to size with a relaxed fit. Available in 2.5" and 4" inseams to accommodate different coverage preferences.
• Pros: Very comfortable and lightweight, breathable for hot weather, easygoing fit is great for lounging and workouts, more budget-friendly.
• Cons: The relaxed fit offers less support, pockets are minimal, and the Swift fabric isn't as technical as Lululemon's other performance textiles.

This short is ideal for those who prioritize comfort and a non-restrictive feel for casual runs, gym sessions, or everyday activities.

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

Lululemon Speed Up Shorts

The Speed Up shorts are geared towards the more serious athlete who needs technical performance and a supportive fit. With a wider, higher waistband and advanced fabric technology, these shorts are built to stay in place and manage moisture during the most intense runs and training sessions.

• What it is: A performance-focused running short with a streamlined fit, supportive high-rise waistband, and superior moisture-wicking capabilities.
• Key features: Made from Lululemon's Everlux fabric, a wide high-rise waistband that won't dig in, multiple pocket options for storage, and reflective details for visibility.
• Price: Around $68, reflecting its more technical design and materials.
• Materials/Construction: Features Everlux fabric, which is highly breathable, four-way stretch, and fast-drying. It's known for its durability and feels cool and slick on the inside.
• Sizing/Fit: These have a more compressive, athletic fit while still being true to size. The high-rise waistband offers more coverage and a hugged-in feeling. Available in 2.5" and 4" inseams.
• Pros: Excellent support from the high-rise waistband, superior sweat-wicking properties, more durable fabric, and ample pocket space for essentials like keys and cards.
• Cons: Moderately higher price point, the compressive fit isn't for everyone and may feel restrictive for casual wear or lounging.

This is the short for dedicated runners and athletes who require enhanced support for high-impact activities and value technical features and fabric performance.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/women-shorts/Speed-Up-Short-HR

Hotty Hot vs. Speed Up Comparison

Fit & Sizing

The most significant difference between the two shorts is their fit. The Hotty Hot short offers a relaxed, generous fit with a wider leg opening. This creates a breezy, comfortable feel that's great for maximizing airflow. Its simple elastic waistband sits comfortably without providing much compression.

On the other hand, the Speed Up short has a more streamlined, athletic fit that contours to your body for a secure, stay-put feel. Its hallmark feature is the wide, high-rise waistband, which offers excellent support and coverage, ensuring the shorts don't shift or slide down during high-intensity movement.

Feel & Fabric

The Hotty Hot shorts are made from Lululemon's Swift fabric, which is known for being extremely lightweight and quick-drying. It's designed for breathability and comfort, making it perfect for light jogs, dynamic workouts, or just lounging on a warm day.

The Speed Up shorts utilize Everlux fabric, a more technical material designed for Lululemon’s high-sweat studio classes. It excels at moisture management, pulling sweat away from the skin quickly and feeling cool to the touch. It's also more durable and resistant to wear compared to the classic Swift fabric.

Features & Design

When it comes to functionality, the Speed Up short has a clear advantage. It is equipped with multiple pockets, including easy-access side drop-in pockets and a secure back zipper pocket integrated into the waistband, which are perfect for carrying gels, keys, or cards during a long run.

The Hotty Hot keeps it simple with a more minimalistic design. It typically has a single discreet zipper pocket in the seam or a small pocket in the liner, which is enough for a key but not much else. Its aesthetic is more classic and casual compared to the Speed Up’s sporty, performance-driven look.

Price & Value

At approximately $58, the Hotty Hot is the more accessible option. Its value lies in its versatility and comfort for daily use, making it a solid investment for those who want a reliable short for a mix of casual activities and workouts. For about $10 more, the $68 Speed Up is positioned as a premium performance piece. The extra cost is justified by its superior fabric, supportive waistband, and greater storage capacity, offering better value for serious athletes who will make full use of its technical features.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right choice comes down to your personal fit preference and primary activity.

Choose the Hotty Hot shorts if:

• You prefer a relaxed, loose, and airy fit in your shorts.
• You’re looking for a versatile short for casual runs, gym workouts, errands, or lounging.
• You want a comfortable, classic short at a more affordable price point.
• You only need to carry a single key or small item.

Choose the Speed Up shorts if:

• You're a serious runner or athlete who needs a supportive, stay-put fit.
• You engage in high-sweat, intense workouts and need superior sweat-wicking materials.
• You need multiple pockets to securely carry essentials like a phone, keys, and nutrition.
• You love a high-waisted fit that provides extra coverage and a hugged feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the main difference between Lululemon Hotty Hot and Speed Up shorts?

The main difference is the fit and fabric. Hotty Hot shorts have a relaxed, loose fit with lightweight Swift fabric, designed for comfort and casual activities. Speed Up shorts have a more compressive, athletic fit with technical Everlux fabric and a high-rise waistband for support during intense workouts.

Which one is better for running?

It depends on the type of runner you are. For casual joggers or those who prefer a non-restrictive feel, the Hotty Hot is a great choice. For serious or long-distance runners who need support and secure pockets, the Speed Up is the superior performance option.

Are Lululemon Hotty Hot shorts true to size?

Yes, Hotty Hot shorts generally run true to size, offering a relaxed and roomy fit. If you are between sizes and prefer a closer fit, you could consider sizing down, but most find their usual size is perfect.

Are Lululemon Speed Up shorts true to size?

Yes, Speed Up shorts also fit true to size, but they are designed to be more form-fitting and compressive than the Hotty Hots. Stick to your usual size for the intended athletic fit.

Which short has better pockets?

The Speed Up short definitively has better and more numerous pockets. With a secure back zipper pocket and side drop-in pockets in the liner, it’s built to hold essentials like your keys securely during a run.

Do both shorts have a built-in liner?

Yes, both the Hotty Hot and Speed Up models come with a built-in lightweight liner for coverage and comfort.

Which one is more durable?

The Everlux fabric of the Speed Up short is generally more durable and resistant to pilling and abrasion than the fine Swift fabric used in the Hotty Hot, making it better suited for rigorous, frequent use.

Is the $10 price difference for the Speed Up short worth it?

If you are a dedicated runner or athlete who will benefit from the enhanced fit, technical fabric, and extra pockets, the $10 extra for the Speed Up is absolutely worth it for the performance upgrade.