Lululemon Lava Cake vs. Sequoia: What's the difference?

The difference between Lululemon's Lava Cake and Sequoia colorways comes down to their hue and an aesthetic that is either bold and warm or earthy and muted. Lava Cake is a rich, warm brownish-orange that makes a statement, while Sequoia is a deep, forest-inspired green that acts more like a versatile neutral.

Here’s a detailed guide to help you decide which of these popular Lululemon colors is the right fit for your activewear wardrobe.

Lululemon Lava Cake

Lava Cake is a distinctive, warm-toned color reminiscent of rich terracotta or a muted autumnal orange. It's a statement color that adds an earthy yet bold touch to any outfit, from Align pants to sports bras. Because it's not a standard primary color, it feels sophisticated and unique.

• What it is: A specific colorway offered on Lululemon's high-performance activewear, known for its warm, brownish-orange hue.
• Key features: A rich, earthy tone that stands out. Available across popular Lululemon styles and fabrics like Nulu (buttery-soft) and Everlux (fast-drying).
• Price: The color itself does not add to the cost, price is determined by the product style, typically ranging from $98 to $128 for leggings.
• Materials/Construction: Offered in signature Lululemon fabrics with features like four-way stretch, sweat-wicking properties, and durable, flatlock seams. The dye is designed to be fade-resistant.
• Pros: Unique and eye-catching color. Its warm tones are flattering on many skin types. Pairs beautifully with neutral colors like cream, beige, and black. A great way to add a pop of color that isn't overly bright.
• Cons: A more seasonal color that may feel tied to autumn. Less versatile than a true neutral like black or grey. Availability can be limited to specific seasons or collections.

This color is perfect for those who want their activewear to make a subtle statement and prefer warm, earthy colors over simple basics.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/search?N=0&Nrpp=24&Ntt=Lava%20Cake

Lululemon Sequoia

Sequoia is a deep, muted green inspired by the majestic forests of its namesake. This color functions almost as a neutral, providing a sophisticated and calming alternative to black or navy. Its earthy tone is grounding and incredibly versatile, easily transitioning from a yoga class to casual streetwear with effortless style.

• What it is: A popular, earthy green colorway available in various Lululemon collections and styles, like the Wunder Train and Align leggings.
• Key features: A subdued, nature-inspired hue that pairs well with almost any color. Found across Lululemon’s signature high-performance fabrics.
• Price: Same as other standard colors within a product line, typically $98–$128 for leggings.
• Materials/Construction: Top-tier Lululemon materials and construction, guaranteeing comfort, longevity, and performance, regardless of the color.
• Pros: Highly versatile and pairs with a wide range of colors. Looks sophisticated and timeless. A great "colored neutral" for those looking to expand beyond black. Flattering on a broad variety of skin tones.
• Cons: Might feel too subdued for those who love bright, energetic colors for their workouts. Can sometimes be mistaken for grey or a muted brown in certain lighting conditions.

This is the ideal choice for those seeking a versatile, understated color that offers a touch of nature-inspired elegance for both workout and everyday wear.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/search?N=0&Nrpp=24&Ntt=Sequoia

Lava Cake vs. Sequoia Comparison

Hue & Aesthetic

The most immediate difference is the color itself. Lava Cake is a warm, brownish-orange that brings energy and warmth. It’s perfect for autumnal vibes or for anyone who styles with rich, earthy reds and oranges. It feels unique and makes more of a fashion statement.

Sequoia, on the other hand, is a cool-toned, muted forest green. Its visual impact is much quieter and more serene. It captures a sense of calm and connection to nature, acting as a grounding base for any outfit, similar to how one might wear navy or olive green.

Versatility & Styling

When it comes to versatility, Sequoia has a clear edge. Its muted, cool tone allows it to function as a neutral, a trait highly valued in expensive activewear. It can be paired with bright colors, pastels, or other neutrals like white, black, and beige with zero clashing. You can wear Sequoia leggings as easily with a neon yellow sports bra as you can with a simple grey sweater.

Lava Cake, while beautiful, requires more deliberate styling. It shines brightest when paired with complementary warm neutrals, such as cream, tan, and chocolate brown, or with a simple black or white top. It is best treated as the core color piece of an outfit rather than a background shade.

Price & Materials

This is the simplest comparison point: there is no difference. Both Lava Cake and Sequoia are color options, not distinct product lines. A pair of Align leggings in Sequoia costs exactly the same as a pair in Lava Cake. Both feature the same high-quality Nulu fabric, impeccable stitching, and performance features you expect from Lululemon.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both colors offer the premium Lululemon experience, so your choice depends entirely on your personal style and wardrobe needs.

Choose Lava Cake if:

• You gravitate towards warm, earthy color palettes.
• You want to make a stylish statement that stands out from typical activewear colors.
• Your wardrobe has plenty of creams, tans, beiges, and browns to pair it with.
• You love seasonal colors and enjoy building outfits around a unique centerpiece.

Choose Sequoia if:

• You want a versatile color that functions like a neutral but is more interesting than black or grey.
• Your style is more understated, classic, and nature-inspired.
• You need your activewear to pair easily with a wide variety of tops and shoes.
• You are looking for a timeless color you can wear year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Lululemon Lava Cake and Sequoia?

The main difference is their hue and feel. Lava Cake is a warm brownish-orange that is bold and attention-grabbing. Sequoia is a cool-toned, deep forest green that is muted, versatile, and acts like a neutral.

Is Lava Cake or Sequoia more popular?

Sequoia is often considered a more timeless and versatile staple in many wardrobes due to its neutral quality, giving it lasting appeal. Lava Cake tends to be a popular seasonal shade that sees surges of interest when it's actively promoted in new Lululemon collections.

What colors go well with Lava Cake?

Lava Cake pairs best with warm neutrals like cream, beige, ivory, and tan. It also looks sharp with crisp white or classic black, which allows the rich color to stand out.

What colors go well with Sequoia?

Sequoia is extremely versatile and works with almost anything. It pairs beautifully with other earthy tones, pastels (like light pink or lavender), brights, and all standard neutrals like black, white, and heather grey.

Is there a price difference between the two?

No. The price is determined by the garment (e.g., Align Pant 25", Wunder Train Bra), not the color. Clothing in Lava Cake and Sequoia are priced identically.

Do these colors come in all Lululemon products?

No, availability depends on Lululemon's seasonal collections. While both colors are often featured in popular products like Align leggings, Wunder Trains, and Scuba hoodies, they may not be available in all styles at all times.

Are Lava Cake and Sequoia leggings made of the same fabric?

Yes. If you buy the same style of leggings (for example, the Align Pant), the fabric will be identical regardless of whether you choose Lava Cake or Sequoia. The Nulu fabric will feel the same in both colors.

Which color is more flattering?

This is subjective and depends on skin tone and personal preference. Generally, Sequoia's cool, muted tone is very versatile and flattering on a wide range of skin types. Lava Cake's warm hue can beautifully complement warmer skin tones but works well on anyone looking for a rich, warm splash of color.