Ten Thousand Shorts vs. Vuori: Which brand is better? [2026]

Ten Thousand builds rugged, minimalist training apparel designed specifically for high-intensity workouts, prioritizing durability and function above all else. In contrast, Vuori is a lifestyle brand known for its incredibly soft, comfortable, and versatile clothing that transitions seamlessly from the gym to everyday casual wear, often with a higher price point and a focus on sustainable materials.

Let's break down everything you need to know to choose the right activewear brand for your needs.

Ten Thousand: The Minimalist Performance Workhorse

Ten Thousand is a performance-first brand designed for serious athletes who need their gear to be as tough as their workouts. Their target audience includes CrossFit athletes, strength trainers, and anyone who demands rugged, reliable apparel that won't fail during intense training. The aesthetic is clean, utilitarian, and distraction-free, stripping away everything non-essential to focus purely on performance.

• Product mix: A focused collection of high-performance shorts, shirts, and accessories specifically engineered for intense training sessions and demanding physical activity.
• Price point: Shorts and other core items typically retail between $60 and $80, positioning them as a premium option focused on long-term value through durability.
• Quality & Durability: Known for superior construction using abrasion-resistant fabrics and reinforced seams designed to handle everything from barbell scrapes to outdoor training.
• Style & Aesthetic: Minimalist and functional, primarily using neutral color palettes. The look avoids flashy logos and trends in favor of a timeless, performance-oriented design.
• Sizing/Fit: Tends to be true to size with a distinct athletic cut that stays close to the body, ensuring maximum mobility without excess fabric.

Ten Thousand is the clear choice for athletes who prioritize ruggedness and high-performance engineering over style and versatility.

Shop Ten Thousand: tenthousand.cc

Vuori: The Versatile Lifestyle Staple

Inspired by the active California lifestyle, Vuori merges technical performance with a relaxed, modern aesthetic. Their apparel is famous for its exceptional softness and comfort, designed to be versatile enough for a yoga class, a coffee run, or lounging at home. Vuori appeals to a broad audience looking for stylish, high-quality activewear that doesn't scream "gym clothes."

• Product mix: A wide range of performance shorts, joggers, leggings, and a significant collection of casual shirts, pants, and outerwear for men and women.
• Price point: Generally priced higher than Ten Thousand, with shorts ranging from $70 to $100. The cost reflects their premium fabrics, stylish designs, and sustainable practices.
• Quality & Materials: Emphasizes soft, sustainable fabrics like recycled polyester and organic cotton. The focus is on lightweight, breathable materials that feel incredible against the skin.
• Style & Aesthetic: Modern, relaxed, and stylish. Vuori uses a wider variety of colors and more fashion-forward designs that are suitable for many occasions outside the gym.
• Sizing/Fit: Runs true to size but often leans towards a more classic or relaxed fit compared to the strict athletic cut of Ten Thousand, prioritizing comfort.
• Sustainability: The brand is highly committed to sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and promoting ethical manufacturing processes.

Vuori excels at creating exceptionally comfortable and stylish activewear perfect for consumers who want performance gear that doubles as everyday apparel.

Shop Vuori: vuoriclothing.com

Ten Thousand vs. Vuori Comparison

Price Comparison

Ten Thousand shorts usually cost between $60 and $80, providing excellent value for athletes who need gear that will last through hundreds of grueling workouts. Their pricing is justified by their focus on durability and functional design.

Vuori is consistently more expensive, with their popular shorts priced from $70 to $100. This higher price point accounts for their focus on proprietary soft-tech fabrics, versatile style that extends beyond the gym, and a strong commitment to using sustainable materials.

Quality & Materials

Ten Thousand explicitly engineers its clothing for abrasion resistance and durability. They use high-performance nylon and polyester blends with reinforced seams and moisture-wicking properties to keep you comfortable during the toughest workouts. Their gear is built to be used heavily and repeatedly without breaking down.

While still durable, Vuori's primary focus is on premium comfort and softness. They utilize sustainable materials like recycled polyester blends that are lightweight, breathable, and feel great against the skin. Vuori's materials are optimized for comfort during activities like yoga and running or for all-day wear, whereas Ten Thousand's are built for brute force activities.

Style & Aesthetic

The aesthetic difference is a major deciding factor. Ten Thousand is minimalist and utilitarian. Their gear is designed with a singular purpose: to perform. This results in clean lines, neutral colors, and a look that is functional and timeless. You won't find loud patterns or trendy colors here.

Vuori embodies a modern, West Coast lifestyle vibe. Their designs are much more fashion-forward, with a broader color palette and a relaxed style that's meant to be seen outside the gym. If you want a single pair of shorts for your workout, errands, and meeting friends for lunch, Vuori is designed for exactly that.

Fit & Sizing

Both brands generally run true to size, but their fit is different. Ten Thousand uses an athletic cut designed to move with your body during explosive movements, staying secure without being restrictive. It’s a fit built for athletes who can’t have excess fabric getting in their way.

Vuori offers a more relaxed fit across many of its styles, prioritizing comfort and a casual drape. While they also offer technical fits for running, their most popular products are known for providing a bit more room, making them exceptionally comfortable for everyday life.

Sustainability & Ethics

Sustainability is a core pillar of Vuori's brand identity. They are transparent about their supply chain, use recycled and organic fabrics extensively, and are committed to reducing their environmental footprint. This is a significant selling point for customers who prioritize eco-conscious shopping.

Ten Thousand's focus is more on quality control and ethical production, with much of their manufacturing based in the USA. While they produce long-lasting products, which is a form of sustainability, they don't market eco-friendly initiatives to the same extent as Vuori.

Which One Should You Choose?

The right choice comes down to what you prioritize in your activewear. Both brands are excellent, but they serve different needs.

Choose Ten Thousand if:

• Your workouts involve high-intensity activities like CrossFit, weightlifting, or HIIT.
• Durability and long-term resilience are your main concerns.
• You prefer a minimalist, function-first aesthetic without trendy frills.
• You want a secure athletic fit that won't get in your way during training.

Choose Vuori if:

• You want one piece of clothing flexible enough for the gym, running errands, and traveling.
• Unmatched comfort and soft fabrics are your top priorities.
• Your activities include running, yoga, hiking, or general fitness.
• You value sustainable manufacturing and eco-friendly materials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ten Thousand or Vuori cheaper?

Ten Thousand is generally cheaper, with shorts typically in the $60-$80 range. Vuori's shorts start around $70 and can go up to $100, reflecting their use of premium lifestyle materials and their positioning as a versatile athleisure brand.

Which brand is more durable?

Ten Thousand is designed specifically for extreme durability. Its materials and construction are made to withstand abrasion from barbells, floors, and intense, repeated use. While Vuori makes high-quality apparel, Ten Thousand is the more rugged option.

Do Vuori shorts run small?

No, Vuori shorts and apparel generally run true to size. Many of their popular styles feature a slightly relaxed fit for comfort, so you can typically order your normal size with confidence.

What are Ten Thousand shorts best for?

Ten Thousand shorts excel in high-intensity environments. They are ideal for CrossFit, weightlifting, functional fitness, and any demanding training regimen where durability and a secure fit are essential.

What are Vuori shorts best for?

Vuori shorts are best for a wide range of activities including running, yoga, hiking, and general gym training. Their versatility and comfort also make them an excellent choice for everyday wear, travel, and lounging.

Which brand is better for everyday wear?

Vuori is far better for everyday wear. Their focus on supreme comfort, soft fabrics, and a relaxed, stylish aesthetic makes their clothing a natural fit for life outside the gym. Ten Thousand's gear is purely functional and may look out of place in casual settings.

What are their return policies?

Both brands offer standard return policies. Typically, they allow returns on unworn items with tags attached within a specific window (usually 30-60 days) for a full refund. Always check their respective websites for the most current policy details.

Where can I buy Ten Thousand and Vuori?

Ten Thousand is sold primarily through its official website, tenthousand.cc. Vuori has a broader retail presence and can be found on its website, as well as at major retailers like Nordstrom and REI.