Lululemon Leggings 25 vs. 28: Which size is right for you?

Choosing between Lululemon's 25" leggings and the 28" length is all about height and styling preference. The key distinction is inseam: the 25” legging is a 7/8 crop that hits above the ankle on most people, while the 28” is a full-length legging designed to reach the ankle or slightly below.

Here's everything you need to know to find the perfect Lululemon length for your body and your needs.

Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant 25"

The 25" inseam legging is Lululemon’s take on the popular 7/8 length, making it one of the most versatile options. Designed to sit just above the ankle, this length prevents fabric from bunching and is perfect for showing off a great pair of shoes or just enjoying a bit more airflow during a workout. For many, especially those with shorter legs, the 25" provides the ideal fit of a traditional full-length tight without the need for hemming.

• What it is: A cropped, 7/8 length legging with a 25" inseam, available across multiple popular styles like the Align and Wunder Train.
• Key features: Hits just above the ankle bone for most heights, creating a stylish, slightly cropped look that visually elongates the legs.
• Price: Typically $98 - $128, depending on the specific style and fabric (price does not change based on length).
• Fit/Sizing: This length is intentionally cropped for those of average height. On petite women (5'4" and under), it often serves as the perfect full-length legging. For taller women (5'9" and over), it will be a more pronounced crop, sitting higher on the calf.
• Pros: Ideal fit for petite individuals without costly hemming. Versatile length that pairs well with any footwear. Prevents fabric bunching at the ankles. Great for warmer weather or indoor workouts.
• Cons: May feel too short or look awkwardly cropped on taller individuals. Offers less coverage in cooler temperatures. Not the traditional full-length look some prefer.

This length is an excellent choice for petite women seeking a true-to-size full-length tight, or for anyone who prefers the modern, ankle-baring style of a 7/8 legging.

Shop this product: https://shop.lululemon.com/p/womens-leggings/Align-HR-Pant-25

Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant 28"

The 28" inseam is Lululemon’s standard full-length legging, designed to reach the ankle on wearers of average height. It offers complete coverage from waist to ankle, making it a classic choice for year-round wear, from yoga classes to running errands. For those who find the 25" length too exposed or simply prefer the sleek look of an uninterrupted silhouette, the 28" delivers.

• What it is: A classic full-length legging with a 28" inseam, also available across major collections like Align and Wunder Train.
• Key features: Designed to hit right at the ankle for a person of average height, offering complete coverage down to the shoe line.
• Price: Typically $98 - $128, with no price difference compared to its 25" counterpart.
• Fit/Sizing: On average heights (5'5"-5'8"), it should end perfectly at the ankle. For taller women (5'9" and up), it may hit slightly above the ankle, creating a look similar to what the 25" offers on shorter frames. For petite individuals (5'4" and under), this length will often lead to fabric bunching at the ankle.
• Pros: Provides full coverage for cooler weather or for those who prefer not to show their ankles. Offers the perfect full-length fit for individuals of average to tall height. A classic, timeless look.
• Cons: Tends to bunch up around the ankles for petite individuals, often requiring hemming. Can feel warmer than cropped alternatives during intense workouts.

This full-length option is perfectly suited for those of average or taller stature or anyone who prioritizes complete leg coverage for a classic silhouette.

Shop this product: https://shop.lululemon.com/p/womens-leggings/Align-HR-Pant-28

Lululemon Leggings 25" vs. 28": Side-by-Side Comparison

Length & Coverage

The core difference between the 25" and 28” legging is the 3-inch inseam variance. The 25" is designed as a partial-coverage, 7/8 crop. For someone around 5'6", it hits a few inches above the ankle bone. That same person wearing the 28” will find it hits perfectly at the base of the ankle, offering full coverage.

For shorter individuals, typically 5'4" and under, the 25" length transforms into their perfect full-length legging. The 28”, in contrast, will often bunch uncomfortably at the bottom and cover the ankles entirely. For taller women over 5'8", the 28" legging may still feel slightly cropped, while the 25” will look more like a capri.

Style & Aesthetics

Style comes down to your desired look. The 25" legging offers a modern, ankle-baring style that’s great for showcasing sneakers, running shoes, or even sandals. It creates negative space between the legging and the shoe, which many find to be a flattering and elongating silhouette.

The 28" legging provides a classic, continuous line from hip to ankle. It’s a timeless look that provides a clean foundation for any outfit, whether athletic or casual. Some prefer this uninterrupted look, especially in cooler weather or for activities where full skin coverage is desired, like certain types of yoga or outdoor training.

Fit & Comfort

Comfort and fit are subjective and closely tied to height. Both the 25" and 28" versions of any given legging style (like the Align or Wunder Train) will have the same fit through the waist, hips, and thighs. The only difference is where they end on your leg.

Many petite shoppers find the 25" leggings infinitely more comfortable because they don't have to deal with rolling up extra fabric or the feeling of bunching around their ankles. Taller individuals may find the 28” length more comfortable, especially in cold weather, as it protects their ankles from exposure.

Price & Value

There is no price difference between the 25" and 28" inseam in the same Lululemon style. Both typically retail for $98+. The value comes from choosing the length that best fits your body right off the rack. Selecting the right inseam saves you a trip to the tailor or to a Lululemon store for hemming (which they do offer for free), so you get the perfect fit immediately. Picking the right length provides better value by maximizing wearability and comfort from day one.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both lengths are great, but they serve different body types and style preferences.

Choose the 25" inseam if:

• You are petite (5'4" or under) and want a perfect-fitting full-length legging.
• You have shorter legs and find that standard leggings always bunch at the ankle.
• You prefer the stylish, modern look of a 7/8 cropped legging.
• You want to show off your footwear or prefer more airflow around your ankles.

Choose the 28" inseam if:

• You are average height to tall (5'5" and up) and want a true full-length fit.
• You prefer a classic silhouette with complete leg coverage down to the ankle.
• You don't like when your ankles are exposed, especially in cooler weather.
• You are buying leggings for activities where full skin coverage is beneficial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Lululemon's 25" and 28" leggings?

The main difference is the inseam length. The 25” is a 7/8 cropped length designed to hit above the ankle, while the 28” is a full length designed to hit at the ankle for a person of average height.

I'm 5'3". Which Lululemon length is best for me?

For most people 5'4" and under, the 25" legging will fit like a perfect full-length legging, hitting close to your ankle without bunching. The 28" will almost certainly be too long.

I'm 5'8". Which Lululemon length is right?

At 5'8", the 28" length should give you a perfect full-length fit, ending right around your ankle bone. The 25" will provide a noticeable 7/8 crop, which can also be a great stylistic choice.

Does a different length change how the waist fits?

No, the inseam measurement only refers to the length of the leg from the crotch to the hem. The fit of the waistband, hips, and thighs will be identical between a 25" and 28" legging of the same style and size.

Do the Align and Wunder Train leggings come in both 25" and 28"?

Yes, most of Lululemon's core legging styles, including the popular Align and Wunder Train, are offered in multiple inseams, commonly including 25", 28", and sometimes others like 23" or 31".

Is there a price difference between the lengths?

No, Lululemon does not charge a different price based on inseam length for the same style of legging.

Will the 28" leggings be too long on me?

If you are below average height (under 5'5"), there is a high likelihood the 28" leggings will gather or bunch around your ankles. While it's all about personal preference, a 25" inseam is often a better-proportioned fit.

What if I buy the wrong length?

Lululemon offers complimentary hemming on their leggings and pants. If you purchase a 28" and find it too long, you can take it to any company store to have it altered to your desired length at no cost.