Lululemon Pace Breaker Lined vs. Linerless: What's the difference?

The core difference between the Lululemon Pace Breaker Linerless and Lined Short is simple: the Lined version includes a built-in, moisture-wicking brief for added support and coverage, while the Linerless version is just the outer shell. This makes the Lined short an all-in-one solution for high-impact workouts, and the Linerless option a more versatile, minimalist choice for those who prefer their own undergarments or a breezier feel.

Here’s a clear look at what each short offers to help you decide which is the right fit for your training and lifestyle at Lululemon.

Lululemon Pace Breaker Lined Short

The Pace Breaker Lined Short is the go-to for runners and athletes who need built-in support and security. It combines a lightweight, stretchy outer short with an integrated brief-style liner, creating a single piece of performance gear that moves with you and keeps everything in place during intense activity.

• What it is: High-performance athletic shorts with a built-in, supportive liner for coverage and moisture control during activities like running and training.
• Key features: Lightweight Swift fabric, built-in Out of Mind™ (OOM™) liner with 3D-shaped pouch, zippered side pocket, no-bounce phone pocket, and drawcord waistband.
• Price: $68 - $78
• Materials/Construction: The outer short is made of 100% recycled polyester Swift fabric, which is sweat-wicking and quick-drying. The inner liner is a soft, supportive, and breathable mesh fabric.
• Sizing/Fit: Fits true to size but offers a more snug and secure feel because of the internal liner. The liner is supportive without being overly compressive.
• Pros: Built-in support eliminates the need for separate underwear. Reduced chafing due to the smooth liner. Secure feel during runs and jumps. Offers confident coverage.
• Cons: The liner can feel restrictive to some users. May feel warmer in extremely hot or humid climates compared to the linerless version. Liner fit is a personal preference and may not work for everyone.

This short is perfect for dedicated runners and anyone training at a high intensity who values the convenience and chafe-free security of an all-in-one short.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/men-shorts/Pace-Breaker-Lined-Short-7

Lululemon Pace Breaker Linerless Short

The Pace Breaker Linerless Short offers the exact same high-performance outer shell as its lined counterpart but without the built-in brief. This provides a more versatile, lightweight, and unrestricted experience for those who prefer choosing their own base layer or simply enjoy a more minimal, breezy fit.

• What it is: A versatile, minimalist athletic short without an internal liner, designed for workouts, casual wear, and general activity.
• Key features: Lightweight Swift fabric, streamlined fit, zippered side pocket, and a drawcord waistband for a secure fit.
• Price: $68 - $78
• Materials/Construction: Made from 100% recycled polyester Swift fabric that is light, sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and has four-way stretch.
• Sizing/Fit: True to size with a classic, relaxed fit. It feels roomier and more airy compared to the lined version.
• Pros: Maximum breathability and a lighter feel. Complete freedom to pair with your preferred type of underwear or compression shorts. More versatile for non-athletic activities like lounging. Simpler design feels less restrictive for some users.
• Cons: Lacks any form of built-in support. You have to provide your own supportive undergarment for running or high-impact activities. Coverage is solely dependent on the outer shell and what you wear underneath.

Ideal for weightlifting, casual wear, or hot-weather workouts when you prioritize breathability and the freedom to choose your own base layer.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/men-shorts/Pace-Breaker-Linerless-Short-7-Updated

Lululemon Pace Breaker Lined vs. Linerless Comparison

Support & Coverage

Support is the primary point of difference here. The Lined Pace Breaker offers immediate, built-in support thanks to its Out of Mind™ liner. This mesh brief is engineered to be chafe-free and keep you secure, making it a reliable choice for long runs or dynamic gym sessions where you don't want to think about adjustments or discomfort.

The Linerless version provides zero built-in support, placing the responsibility on you. This can be an advantage if you have specific performance underwear or compression shorts you swear by, but it's a downside if you're looking for an easy, grab-and-go option for a run. In terms of coverage, the liner adds an extra layer of security, while the linerless feels more open.

Fit & Comfort

Though both versions have the same "classic fit" cut, they feel different to wear. The Lined short feels more secure and slightly less roomy due to the interior brief. It hugs the body gently, which most athletes prefer for focused performance.

The Linerless short feels noticeably lighter, cooler, and more spacious right away. Without a liner, nothing is holding the outer shell close to your skin, resulting in an airy and unrestricted feel. The ultimate comfort choice comes down to personal preference: do you feel more comfortable with gentle, all-over support or with a free-flowing, minimal-contact fit?

Price & Value

The Pace Breaker Lined and Linerless shorts are priced identically, typically between $68 and $78. From a pure value perspective, the Lined short offers more "product" for your money, as you are getting both an outer short and a high-quality technical liner. If you're going to use the liner and it replaces a need for separate performance underwear, it is arguably a better value.

However, if you find built-in liners uncomfortable or would never use it, the value is lost. In that case, the Linerless version offers better value because it delivers exactly what you want - a premium, high-performance short - without a feature you’d find useless.

Versatility

The Linerless Pace Breaker takes the lead in versatility. Because it's a simple, high-quality shell, it's just as suitable for a hard workout as it is for running errands, lounging at home, or even wearing to the beach. You can pair it with different base layers depending on the activity - compression for training, regular briefs for casual wear.

The Lined short is more of a specialist. It's purpose-built for athletic performance, primarily running and training. While you can certainly wear it casually, the built-in liner makes it slightly less ideal for lounging or activities where that level of support isn't necessary and might feel cumbersome.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right choice comes down to your primary use case and how much you value built-in support.

Choose the Pace Breaker Lined if:

• You are primarily a runner or do high-impact training sessions.
• You value the convenience of an all-in-one short with built-in support.
• You experience chafing with regular underwear during workouts.
• You want a secure, "locked-in" feel when you move.

Choose the Pace Breaker Linerless if:

• You prefer the freedom to choose your own performance base layer.
• You'll use the shorts for a mix of activities, including weightlifting, cross-training, and casual wear.
• You prioritize maximum breathability and a lightweight feel.
• You generally find built-in liners to be restrictive, uncomfortable, or too warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Pace Breaker Lined and Linerless?

The only difference is the integrated liner. The Lined version includes a supportive, moisture-wicking brief, while the Linerless version is just the external shell, offering more versatility and a lighter feel.

Which version is better for running?

For most runners, the Lined version is superior because it provides chafe-free support and security, eliminating the need for separate athletic underwear. It’s designed to stay in place and manage moisture during high-impact movement.

Are Pace Breaker shorts true to size?

Yes, both styles generally fit true to size. However, the Lined version will feel snugger and more secure due to the interior brief, while the Linerless model provides a more relaxed and airy fit.

Can you wear underwear with Lined Pace Breaker Shorts?

While you can, it's not recommended. The shorts are designed to be worn without underwear to maximize the moisture-wicking and anti-chafe benefits of the liner. Wearing another layer underneath would defeat the purpose and could cause discomfort.

Do both versions have the same pockets?

Yes, both the Lined and Linerless versions feature the same pocket configuration, which typically includes two side pockets and a zippered pocket to securely hold small essentials like a key, card, or phone.

What is Lululemon's Swift fabric like?

Swift fabric is lightweight, sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and features four-way stretch. It's designed to move with you without feeling restrictive, making it an excellent material for high-output athletic apparel.

Are Lululemon Pace Breaker shorts worth the price?

Many users find them well worth the investment due to their high-quality construction, durable materials, excellent fit, and performance-oriented features. They are designed to withstand frequent, intense training sessions and last for years, offering solid long-term value compared to cheaper alternatives.

How do you wash Pace Breaker shorts?

Lululemon recommends washing them in cold water with similar colors and tumbling them dry on a low setting. Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, as these can break down the technical fibers and impair their sweat-wicking properties.