Lululemon Wunder Under vs. Fast and Free: Which one should you buy?
The Lululemon Wunder Under line (largely replaced by the Wunder Train) and the Fast and Free tights serve very different needs. Wunder Train, made with Everlux fabric, is a versatile workhorse designed for training and mixed-use with a soft and supportive feel. The Fast and Free is a specialized running tight made from ultra-lightweight Nulux fabric that offers a compressive, barely-there sensation with multiple pockets.
Here's everything you need to know to decide which iconic Lululemon legging is right for your workout and lifestyle.
Lululemon Wunder Under (now Wunder Train) Tights
The original Wunder Under, made from Luon fabric, was Lululemon’s do-it-all legging for yoga and low-impact activities. Today, its successor, the Wunder Train, has taken that versatile foundation and optimized it for training. Built with Everlux fabric, it strikes a balance between soft comfort and high-performance support, making it one of the brand's most popular all-around tights.
- What it is: A highly versatile, high-rise legging designed for gym workouts, training sessions, and everyday wear.
- Key features: Fast-drying Everlux fabric, four-way stretch, a continuous drawcord for a secure fit, and a hidden pocket in the waistband.
- Price: Around $98–$118
- Materials/Construction: The Everlux fabric is designed to feel soft on the inside and cool on the outside, wicking sweat efficiently and drying quickly to handle tough training sessions.
- Sizing/Fit: Runs true to size with a supportive fit that hugs the body comfortably without feeling constricting.
- Pros: Extremely versatile for multiple activities. Everlux is durable and resistant to pilling. Feels supportive and comfortable for all-day wear. The fabric is highly sweat-wicking for intense workouts.
- Cons: A lack of side phone pockets is a common complaint on the base model. The fabric is thicker than Nulux, which may feel too warm for very hot environments or for specific runners.
This is the legging for the person who wants a versatile, reliable tight that can handle a gym session, a yoga class, and running errands all in the same day.
Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/womens-leggings/Wunder-Train-HR-Tight-25
Lululemon Fast and Free Tights
The Lululemon Fast and Free tight is a purpose-built running legging engineered for zero distractions. Made from feather-light Nulux fabric, it provides a "naked sensation" feeling - cool, slick, and completely weightless, allowing for total freedom of movement. It's packed with functional details like multiple pockets and reflective elements, making it a favorite among serious runners.
- What it is: A high-performance, high-rise running tight designed for a compressive, second-skin feel.
- Key features: Weightless Nulux fabric, two deep side drop-in phone pockets, five waistband pockets, continuous drawcord, and reflective details for low-light visibility.
- Price: Around $128
- Materials/Construction: Nulux fabric is known for its incredible breathability and slick, cool-to-the-touch surface that wicks sweat and dries lightning fast. The seams are minimal to reduce chafing during long runs.
- Sizing/Fit: True to size with a snug, compressive fit. They are designed to stay securely in place without slipping during high-impact movement.
- Pros: Unbelievably lightweight and breathable for hot weather. The abundance of pockets is very functional. The fit does not slip or sag during runs. Provides cool, unrestricted movement.
- Cons: The Nulux fabric is more delicate and prone to pilling or snagging compared to Everlux. The higher price tag reflects its specialized nature. Some may find the thin, "naked" feeling less supportive than what they are used to.
This legging is ideal for dedicated runners and anyone doing high-sweat, high-impact workouts who values a technical, weightless feel and ample, secure storage.
Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/womens-leggings/Fast-And-Free-HR-Tight-25-Nulux
Lululemon Wunder Train vs. Fast and Free Comparison
Fabric & Feel
The biggest difference between these two tights is the material. The Wunder Train Tights use Everlux, which feels soft, slightly "cottony" on the inside but sleek and cool on the outside. It’s supportive and sweat-wicking while still offering a substantial, comfortable feel suitable for training and squats.
In contrast, the Fast and Free Tights are made with Nulux fabric. This material is ultra-thin, slick, and cool to the touch. The goal is to feel like you’re wearing nothing at all - a true "naked sensation" designed to eliminate distractions and fabric weight for runners. It's less soft and more technical and streamlined.
Fit & Performance
Both leggings have a high-rise waist and a continuous drawcord to prevent slipping, but their fit is tuned for different activities. The Wunder Train offers a supportive, hugging fit that's comfortable enough for all-day wear but robust enough to handle deep squats, lunges, and cycling. It holds you in without feeling restrictive.
The Fast and Free delivers a more compressive, locked-in feel. This ensures it stays perfectly in place during the repetitive, high-impact motion of running. There is absolutely no sag or slip, even over long distances, which is exactly why runners swear by it.
Features & Pockets
Functionality is a key differentiator. The Fast and Free is a clear winner in the storage department, featuring two large drop-in side pockets that securely fit a smartphone, plus five additional pockets in the waistband for keys, cards, and running gels. Reflective dots on the lower legs also add a layer of safety for early morning or evening runs.
The classic Wunder Train tight is much more minimal, offering only a small, hidden pocket in the waistband that fits a key or a card. While some variations offer pockets, the base model prioritizes a smooth, streamlined silhouette over storage.
Price & Value
Priced around $128, the Fast and Free is a premium, specialized tight. For avid runners who need the technical features and lightweight feel, the price is justified by its performance. The Wunder Train sits at a slightly lower price point, around $98-$118. Given its versatility and durability, it offers excellent value as a multi-purpose legging that can excel in various settings beyond a single sport.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between them really comes down to your primary activity and texture preference.
Choose the Wunder Under (Wunder Train) if:
- You want one versatile legging for gym training, spin classes, yoga, and casual wear.
- You prefer a softer, comfortable fabric with a supportive, hugging sensation.
- Fabric durability and resistance to pilling are important to you.
- You don't need side pockets for your day-to-day activities.
Choose the Fast and Free if:
- Running or high-impact HIIT is your main form of exercise.
- You want multiple, easily accessible pockets for your phone, keys, and fuel.
- You love a weightless, "naked sensation" and need maximum breathability.
- You often work out in hot, humid weather and prioritize a cooling fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between Wunder Train and Fast and Free leggings?
The primary difference is the fabric and intended use. The Wunder Train is a versatile training tight made from soft, durable Everlux fabric for gym workouts and yoga. The Fast and Free is a specialized running tight made from ultra-lightweight Nulux fabric designed for a "naked," barely-there feel, and it's loaded with pockets.
Which is better for running?
The Fast and Free is unequivocally better for running. Its lightweight feel, compressive fit that prevents slipping, and numerous pockets are features specifically engineered for runners.
Which legging is more durable?
The Wunder Train Tights' Everlux fabric is generally more resilient and resistant to pilling and snags than the delicate Nulux fabric of the Fast and Frees. If durability is your top priority, choose Wunder Train.
Are Fast and Free leggings see-through?
No, despite being incredibly thin, the Nulux fabric is engineered for weightless coverage and passes the squat test. Its tight knit provides opacity while remaining lightweight.
Does the Wunder Train have pockets?
The standard Wunder Train tight has one small, hidden pocket in the waistband for a key or card. However, Lululemon does release versions with side pockets, often labeled "Wunder Train Contour Fit High-Rise Tight with Pockets."
Which pair is more compressive?
The Fast and Free offers a higher level of targeted compression designed to support muscles and stay in place during high-impact movement. The Wunder Train is supportive but feels more like a comfortable hug than technical compression.
How do you wash Lululemon leggings?
For both pairs, it's best to machine wash with like fabrics in cold water and hang them to dry. Avoid using fabric softener as it can inhibit the sweat-wicking properties of the technical fabrics.
Are they true to size?
Yes, both styles generally run true to Lululemon sizing. Choose your normal size. The Fast and Free will feel significantly tighter and more compressive when you first put it on, but this is by design.
