Lululemon Surge Short vs. The Short: Which one should you buy?

The Lululemon Surge Short is a technical, performance-focused short designed for serious runners who need support and moisture-wicking materials, while The Short is a more versatile, relaxed-fit option for everyday wear and lower-impact workouts. The Surge Short has a more fitted silhouette with a longer 4-5" inseam, whereas The Short features a looser cut and a shorter 2.5-3" inseam for a more casual feel.

Here’s a clear look at both options from Lululemon to help you decide which one is right for your needs.

Lululemon Surge Short

The Surge Short is engineered specifically for runners and athletes engaged in high-impact training. With a focus on performance, these shorts are made from lightweight, technical fabrics that keep you dry and comfortable. They feature a more supportive, athletic fit designed to stay securely in place during intense movement, preventing distraction and chafing.

• What it is: High-performance athletic shorts designed for running and training sessions.
• Key features: Technical Swift and Nulux fabrics, a longer 4-5" inseam for coverage, flatlock seams to prevent chafing, sweat-wicking materials, and often includes reflective details for safety.
• Price: $68 to $78
• Materials/Construction: Lightweight, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying fabrics built to withstand rigorous use. A supportive liner is commonly included.
• Sizing/Fit: True to size with a fitted, compressive feel that sits close to the body without being restrictive, meant to keep everything in place.
• Pros: Excellent locked-in support during sprints and long runs. Performance-driven materials keep you cool and dry. Longer inseam provides good coverage. Durable construction holds up to frequent workouts.
• Cons: Tighter fit isn't as comfortable for casual lounging. Higher price point reflects its technical focus. Less versatile for non-athletic wear.

This short is for the dedicated athlete who needs functional, high-performance gear that won't get in the way of a new personal best.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/men-shorts/Surge-Short-MD

Lululemon The Short

The Short offers a more relaxed and versatile approach to athletic wear. It has a minimalist design, a shorter inseam, and a looser fit, making it a great choice for a wide range of activities from light gym sessions to running errands. Its focus is on general comfort and freedom of movement rather than pure athletic performance.

• What it is: A multi-purpose short with a relaxed cut suitable for everyday activities and low-impact workouts.
• Key features: Shorter 2.5-3" inseam, relaxed and casual silhouette, soft and comfortable fabrics that are still moisture-wicking.
• Price: $58 to $68
• Materials/Construction: Typically made from soft fabrics like Swift or Ultralu that prioritize everyday comfort while still offering sweat-wicking properties.
• Sizing/Fit: Features a looser, more relaxed fit that provides a bit more room and a casual drape. Sizing is consistent but feels more spacious than the Surge Short.
• Pros: Very comfortable for all-day wear. Highly versatile for the gym, errands, or lounging. Lower price point offers great value. Relaxed fit allows for excellent freedom of movement.
• Cons: Less supportive for high-impact activities like running. Shorter inseam offers less coverage. Fabric may not be as technically advanced for managing heavy sweat.

This is the go-to short for anyone seeking comfort and versatility for their active lifestyle, easily transitioning from a workout to the weekend.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/men-shorts/The-Short-MD

Lululemon Surge Short vs. The Short Comparison

Coverage & Length

The most immediate difference between the two shorts is the length. The Surge Short has an inseam around 4 to 5 inches, offering moderate coverage that is preferred by many runners who don’t want fabric to ride up. This length strikes a good balance between freedom and modesty.

In contrast, The Short features a much shorter 2.5 to 3-inch inseam. This creates a more minimal, modern look and feel, maximizing freedom of movement. However, this length provides significantly less coverage, which may not be comfortable for everyone, especially for activities involving deep squats or lunges.

Fit & Comfort

Your preference for fit will be a major deciding factor. The Surge Short offers a very specific athletic fit – it is more streamlined and compressive around the thighs and waist. This tailored design ensures that the shorts stay completely locked in place during sprints, jumps, and long-distance runs, which is critical for performance.

The Short is built for comfort with a relaxed, straight cut. It feels much looser and more breathable for casual settings. This fit provides a great range of motion for activities like weightlifting or yoga but lacks the secure, supportive feel needed for high-impact cardio.

Materials & Quality

Both shorts are crafted with Lululemon's high-quality standards, but the materials serve different goals. The Surge Short uses more technical fabrics like Swift and Nulux, which are engineered to be ultralight, quick-drying, and intensely sweat-wicking. The construction, including flatlock seams, is optimized to prevent chafing during repetitive motion.

The fabric on The Short, often Swift or Ultralu, is chosen more for its soft feel and comfort. While still capable of managing moisture for a standard workout, it isn't designed for the same level of sweat management as the Surge. Both shorts are durable, but the Surge Short's materials are better suited to withstand the rigors of frequent, intense exercise.

Price & Value

The Surge Short is the more expensive option, typically priced around $10 more than The Short. This price difference is justified by its specialized performance features, technical fabric composition, and durable construction designed for serious athletic use. If you are an avid runner, this is a worthwhile investment in your gear.

The Short offers excellent value for its price. It serves as a durable, comfortable, and stylish multi-purpose short that performs well in the gym and looks great for everyday casual wear. For those who won't be doing intense running, The Short is a more budget-friendly and practical choice.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both options are excellent, but they cater to very different activities and preferences.

Choose the Lululemon Surge Short if:

• You are a dedicated runner or athlete who engages in high-impact training.
• You prefer a supportive, streamlined fit that doesn't move or shift during your workout.
• You need advanced moisture-wicking technical fabric to stay dry and comfortable.
• You want more coverage with a 4" or 5" inseam.

Choose The Short if:

• You're looking for a versatile short for casual wear, errands, and light gym activities.
• You prefer a minimalist aesthetic with a relaxed, unrestrictive fit.
• You want a shorter length that provides maximum freedom of movement.
• You prioritize everyday comfort and want a more budget-friendly option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Surge Short and The Short?

The main difference comes down to fit, length, and intended use. The Surge Short is a technical, longer (4-5"), and fitted short for serious running and training. The Short is a casual, shorter (2.5-3"), and relaxed-fit short for everyday wear and light workouts.

Which Lululemon short is better for running?

The Surge Short is hands-down the better choice for running. Its technical fabric, supportive fit, and longer inseam are all designed to offer chafe-free comfort and performance during high-impact movement.

Can I wear The Short for running?

You can wear The Short for casual, short-distance runs, but it's not ideal. The relaxed fit doesn't offer much support, and the shorter inseam might lead to chafing or riding up on longer runs.

How does the sizing compare between the Surge Short and The Short?

Both generally fit true to size. However, the Surge Short will feel much more snug and compressive, while The Short will feel looser and more spacious. If you are between sizes, you could comfortably size down in The Short for a trimmer fit or size up in the Surge Short for a bit more room.

Do these shorts have liners?

The Surge Short almost always comes with a supportive liner designed for running. Liner options for The Short may vary by specific version, but its primary design focuses on a simpler, linerless construction for casual comfort.

Which short is more expensive?

The Surge Short is typically priced about $10-$20 higher than The Short due to its advanced technical materials and performance-oriented features.

Are both shorts good for the gym?

Yes, but for different activities. The Short is great for weightlifting and general fitness where freedom of movement is key. The Surge Short is better for activities like HIIT, box jumps, or treadmill sprints where a secure fit is important.

How do I wash these shorts?

For both styles, machine wash with like colors in cold water and tumble dry on low. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can degrade the performance and feel of the technical fabrics.