Lululemon Zeroed In vs. Pace Breaker: Which one should you buy?

The Lululemon Pace Breaker is a versatile, relaxed-fit short designed for everything from running to daily wear, offering ample storage and a classic athletic style. In contrast, the Zeroed In Short is built for high-performance training with a sleek, minimalist design, a more tailored fit, and advanced technical fabric that prioritizes moisture control and minimal chafing.

Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right Lululemon shorts for your training and lifestyle.

Lululemon Pace Breaker Short

The Pace Breaker has become a go-to for its superb versatility and comfortable, relaxed fit. It bridges the gap between a performance running short and a casual everyday bottom, making it a reliable choice for gym workouts, weekend jogs, and running errands. It serves as a comfortable workhorse in any active wardrobe.

• What it is: A multi-purpose men's training short designed for running, working out, and casual wear, featuring a built-in liner for support.
• Key features: Multiple pockets including a secure zippered side pocket for your phone, an adjustable drawstring waistband, and mesh panels for added breathability where you need it most.
• Price: $68 - $78
• Materials/Construction: Made from Lululemon's lightweight, quick-drying Swift fabric (a blend of polyester and elastane) that's designed for moisture-wicking and durable wear.
• Sizing/Fit: A classic, relaxed fit that provides room through the seat and thighs. It typically comes in a 7-inch inseam and is available in waist sizes 28-40 inches.
• Pros: Highly versatile for a range of activities. Great storage options keep essentials secure. Comfortable, non-restrictive fit suits many body types. Good overall value.
• Cons: The relaxed fit might feel too loose or bulky for serious runners or high-intensity interval training. Classic style may be less appealing for those who prefer a modern, sleek aesthetic.

This is the short for anyone who wants a dependable, multi-purpose option that transitions seamlessly from a workout to the rest of their day.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/mens/shorts/Pace-Breaker-Shorts

Lululemon Zeroed In Short

The Zeroed In is engineered for athletes who prioritize performance above all else. Its minimalist design and advanced technical fabric are purpose-built for intense training sessions where lightweight freedom of movement and minimal distraction are critical. The close-to-body fit ensures nothing gets in your way as you push your limits.

• What it is: A high-performance running and training short engineered with a streamlined fit and advanced technical materials.
• Key features: Ultra-light, four-way stretch fabric for unrestricted movement, a secure flat waistband with an internal drawcord, a hidden zip pocket for valuables, and minimal seams to reduce chafing.
• Price: $78 - $88
• Materials/Construction: Crafted from a proprietary technical fabric blend that offers superior moisture control, durability, and a second-skin feel for high-output activity.
• Sizing/Fit: Features a tailored, streamlined fit that stays closer to the body without being compressive. Typically has a 7-inch inseam with a slimmer cut through the legs for a sleek look.
• Pros: Excellent for intense workouts and serious running. Minimalist design eliminates bulk and chafing. Superior moisture management keeps you dry. Durable, high-quality construction.
• Cons: Not as versatile for casual, everyday wear due to the slim fit. Limited storage space. Higher price point reflects its specialized use.

This short is tailor-made for dedicated athletes who demand gear as serious about performance as they are.

Shop this product: shop.lululemon.com/p/mens/shorts/Zeroed-In-Shorts

Pace Breaker vs. Zeroed In Short Comparison

Fit & Comfort

The most immediate difference between the Pace Breaker and Zeroed In is the fit. The Pace Breaker has a classic, relaxed fit, offering more room through the seat and thighs. This makes it extremely comfortable for all-day wear and a variety of movements, from squats in the gym to simply walking around town.

The Zeroed In short, conversely, has a streamlined, tailored fit. It contours closer to the body to reduce fabric flutter and minimize distractions during high-speed movements like sprinting or cycling. While it’s less roomy, its four-way stretch fabric ensures it never feels restrictive, moving with your body perfectly. For pure performance comfort, the Zeroed In excels, for casual, all-day comfort, the Pace Breaker is the winner.

Materials & Technology

Both shorts are made from high-quality, quick-drying materials, but they cater to different needs. The Pace Breaker uses Lululemon’s trusted Swift fabric, a durable and moisture-wicking polyester blend that stands up well to frequent washing and a variety of activities.

The Zeroed In features a more advanced, proprietary fabric blend that feels distinctly lighter and offers move-with-you stretch. This material is designed for maximum moisture dissipation, making it ideal for very sweaty workouts. Its construction also emphasizes chafe reduction with minimal seaming, a detail serious athletes will appreciate on long runs.

Price & Value

The Pace Breaker generally costs about $10 less than the Zeroed In short. Priced around $68-$78, the Pace Breaker offers a fantastic balance of performance, versatility, and durability for its price, making it a great value for most people.

At $78-$88, the Zeroed In sits at a more premium price point. That extra cost gets you a more specialized product with higher-end fabric technology and a performance-oriented fit. If your workouts demand peak performance and minimal distraction, the extra investment provides genuine value.

Aesthetics & Versatility

In terms of looks, the Pace Breaker has a classic, sporty design available in a wide range of colors, making it easy to style for the gym or a casual weekend outing. Its versatility is its greatest strength - it’s just as appropriate for a coffee run as it is for a long run.

The Zeroed In boasts a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that looks modern and technical. It typically comes in more subdued, core colors like black and navy. While it looks sharp, its performance identity makes it less suitable for casual scenarios. The Pace Breaker is the clear winner for anyone needing a short that can do it all, while the Zeroed In is for those who dress specifically for their training.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both shorts are great, but they are built for different users and priorities.

Choose the Pace Breaker if:

• You want a highly versatile short for running, lifting, and everyday activities.
• You prefer a comfortable, relaxed fit that doesn't cling to your body.
• Having multiple pockets, including one for your phone, is important to you.
• You are looking for the best all-around value in a premium athletic short.

Choose the Zeroed In if:

• Your primary focus is high-intensity training, long-distance running, or competitive fitness.
• You prefer a tailored, streamlined fit that reduces bulk and prevents chafing.
• Advanced, ultra-lightweight, and super-stretchy fabric is a top priority.
• You are willing to invest in a specialized piece of gear for peak performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Lululemon Pace Breaker and Zeroed In shorts?

The main difference comes down to fit and function. The Pace Breaker has a relaxed fit and is designed for all-around versatility. The Zeroed In has a streamlined, tailored fit and is engineered specifically for high-performance training.

Which short is better for running?

It depends on the runner. For casual joggers and those running a few times a week, the Pace Breaker's comfort and storage are perfect. For serious runners focused on speed, distance, or reducing chafing, the Zeroed In's lightweight construction and sleek fit are superior.

Do Pace Breaker or Zeroed In shorts have a liner?

Yes, both typically come with a built-in liner designed to provide support and wick away moisture, eliminating the need for separate underwear during workouts.

How do the Zeroed In shorts fit compared to the Pace Breakers?

The Zeroed In shorts have a much slimmer, more tailored fit than the Pace Breakers. They sit closer to the thighs and seat, whereas the Pace Breakers have a classic, relaxed fit with more room for movement.

Can I wear these shorts for activities other than working out?

Absolutely. The Pace Breaker is extremely versatile and works great for casual wear, errands, or even lounging due to its relaxed fit and classic style. The Zeroed In can be worn casually, but its technical look and slimmer fit make it less suited for everyday activities.

Is the Zeroed In short worth the higher price?

If you are a serious athlete who will benefit from features like minimal seam constructions, ultra-light fabric, and a distraction-free fit, then yes, it’s worth the premium. For most casual gym-goers, the Pace Breaker delivers more than enough performance for a lower price.

What is the inseam length on these shorts?

Both shorts are commonly available in a 7-inch inseam length, which tends to hit just above the knee for most men, offering a good balance between coverage and mobility.

Do these shorts have good pockets?

The Pace Breaker is excellent for storage, featuring side pockets and a secure side zipper pocket that's perfect for a smartphone. The Zeroed In is more minimalist, offering just a hidden zipper pocket for small essentials like a key or credit card.