Lululemon Swift Speed vs. Fast and Free: Which one is better?

The Lululemon Swift Speed and Fast and Free tights cater to different running preferences, with the core difference lying in their fabric and resulting feel. Swift Speed is made from supportive, compressive Luxtreme fabric for a secure, held-in sensation, perfect for high-impact miles, whereas Fast and Free uses sleek, lightweight Nulux fabric to deliver a barely-there, unrestricted feeling ideal for hot weather or long distances where you want to forget you're wearing leggings.

Here’s a detailed comparison to help you choose the right running tight from Lululemon for your running style and needs.

Lululemon Swift Speed Tights

The Swift Speed collection is engineered for runners who value support and a secure, compressive fit above all. Made from Lululemon’s low-friction Luxtreme fabric, these tights provide a hugged sensation that supports muscles during intense effort and ensures they stay perfectly in place, no matter how fast you move.

• What it is: A high-rise running tight designed to offer significant compression and support for high-impact activities.
• Key features: Side drop-in pockets for phone or gels, a secure zippered back pocket, a continuous drawcord, and reflective details for low-light visibility.
• Price: Around $128
• Materials/Construction: Built with Luxtreme fabric, which is sweat-wicking, offers four-way stretch, and provides a sleek, low-friction surface. It feels cool against the skin but is structured and supportive.
• Sizing/Fit: A snug, compressive fit. They are designed to feel tight and supportive, so you should stick to your true size for the intended performance experience.
• Pros: Excellent support that holds you in. The fabric is durable and very resistant to pilling. They do not move or slide down during runs. Ample and secure pocket storage.
• Cons: The compressive feel is not for everyone, it can feel restrictive to runners who prefer a weightless sensation. The thicker fabric can feel warmer in very hot climates.

This tight is for runners who prioritize a locked-in, secure feeling and want robust muscle support for everything from speed work to demanding long runs.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/womens-leggings/Swift-Speed-HR-Tight-28

Lululemon Fast and Free Tights

The Fast and Free collection is the answer for runners who want to feel ultimate freedom. Crafted from Lululemon's incredibly lightweight Nulux fabric, these tights offer a "naked sensation" designed to move with you without any distraction, making them a favorite for distance runners and for workouts in warm weather.

• What it is: An ultra-lightweight, high-rise running tight that feels like a second skin, prioritizing breathability and unrestricted movement.
• Key features: Two side drop-in pockets large enough for a phone, plus five waistband pockets for small essentials. The waistband also features a continuous drawcord, and the ankle hem is often a bonded, raw edge for minimal weight.
• Price: Around $128-$138
• Materials/Construction: Made with Nulux™ fabric that is weightless, sweat-wicking, breathable, and offers four-way stretch with a cool, sleek feel. It's engineered to feel like you're wearing nothing.
• Sizing/Fit: Fits true to size for a second-skin feel without being overly compressive. Its gentle compression is just enough to offer a streamlined silhouette.
• Pros: Incredibly lightweight and breathable, making them exceptional for hot weather. The Nulux fabric feels silky smooth and barely-there. An abundance of pockets for storage.
• Cons: The Nulux fabric can be slightly less durable than Luxtreme over the long term, especially with friction. Offers minimal compression and support. The raw, unfinished hem isn't for everyone.

An ideal choice for runners who despise feeling restricted by their gear, prioritize breathability for hot climates, or want max comfort on long-distance runs.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/womens-leggings/Fast-And-Free-HR-Tight-25

Lululemon Swift Speed vs. Fast and Free Comparison

Fit & Feel: Compression vs. Weightlessness

The most significant difference comes down to feel. The Swift Speed provides a distinct, uniform compression that feels supportive and secure. The Luxtreme fabric hugs your muscles firmly, which many runners appreciate for reducing bounce and fatigue during high-impact training. You are always aware that you are wearing a high-performance tight.

Conversely, the Fast and Free aims for the opposite effect. Its Nulux fabric is so lightweight and sleek that it delivers a "naked sensation." The fit is close to the skin but without the intense hug of compression, offering total freedom of movement. It's the tight you wear when you want to forget you're wearing anything at all.

Fabric & Materials

Luxtreme (Swift Speed) is a substantial, low-friction performance fabric known for its durability and supportive stretch. It wicks sweat effectively and feels cool to the touch, but its density means it's not as airy as Nulux. It holds up exceptionally well against abrasion and frequent washing, making it a workhorse for serious training.

Nulux (Fast and Free) is an impressive feat of textile engineering. It's paper-thin yet opaque, incredibly slick, and feels cool on the skin. Its primary advantage is supreme breathability and quick-drying properties, which make it superior for running in heat or for athletes who sweat heavily. While durable for running, it's slightly more delicate than Luxtreme and requires a bit more care.

Performance & Best Use Cases

Choose the Swift Speed for high-intensity interval training (HIIT), speed work, or running in moderate to cool temperatures. The compression helps with muscle support and the robust fabric ensures they stay locked in place during explosive movements. They provide a feeling of power and security critical for pushing limits.

Opt for the Fast and Free for long-distance runs (marathons, half-marathons), hot weather workouts, or low-impact activities like yoga where you desire total freedom. The weightless feel reduces friction and distraction over many miles, and the exceptional breathability helps keep you comfortable when your body heat rises.

Price & Features

Both tights are priced in the premium tier, typically around $128, reflecting their technical designs. While both styles feature ample pockets and a continuous drawcord, their pocket configurations differ slightly. The Fast and Free often boasts more waistband pockets (usually five) in addition to its two side drop-in pockets, offering more storage for small items like keys or gels. The Swift Speed also includes large side pockets but combines them with a secure zippered back pocket that's great for more valuable items.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both leggings are excellent-in-class running tights, but they serve distinctly different preferences on feel and performance.

Choose the Swift Speed if:

• You prefer a more held-in, compressive sensation similar to compression tights.
• You want maximum support for your muscles during high-impact runs and workouts.
• Durability is your top priority and you need a tight that can withstand rigorous training.
• You run primarily in temperate or cool climates where extra warmth is not an issue.

Choose the Fast and Free if:

• You truly want to feel like you’re wearing nothing at all.
• You prioritize breathability and run often in hot and humid weather.
• Unrestricted movement and a lightweight feeling are your keys to a more comfortable running experience.
• You need a versatile tight that is just as great for a long run as it is for a Vinyasa yoga class.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Swift Speed and Fast and Free?

The primary difference is the fabric and fit. Swift Speed uses supportive Luxtreme fabric for a compressive, "hugged" feeling. Fast and Free uses weightless Nulux fabric for a sleek, barely-there "naked" sensation.

Which legging is better for running?

Both are designed specifically for running. If you prioritize muscle support and a secure fit for speed, choose the Swift Speed. If you prioritize weightless comfort and an unrestricted feeling for long distances or hot weather, go with Fast and Free.

Which Lululemon tight has more compression, Swift Speed or Fast and Free?

The Swift Speed tight absolutely has more compression. Its Luxtreme fabric is designed specifically to provide a supportive, secure fit that hugs your muscles.

Do Fast and Free leggings slip down?

Generally, they do not. The Fast and Free leggings have a secure fit designed to stay in place without feeling overly tight or constrictive.

Are Swift Speed leggings see-through?

No, Swift Speed tights are not see-through. Their Luxtreme fabric is dense and opaque, ensuring modesty and support.

Which tight holds up better over time?

Due to its more substantial Luxtreme fabric, the Swift Speed tight generally has a reputation for being slightly more durable and resistant to pilling or snagging compared to the finer Nulux fabric of the Fast and Free. However, with proper care (wash cold, lay flat to dry), both provide excellent longevity.

Are Fast and Free squat-proof?

Yes, Fast and Free leggings are squat-proof. The material provides enough coverage to prevent any see-through issues during exercise.

How many pockets do the Fast and Free leggings have?

The Fast and Free typically has a total of seven pockets: two deep side drop-in pockets for a phone and five waistband pockets for small essentials.