I Tested the Best Shorts Similar to Lululemon – Here’s What I Found
When it comes to workout gear, finding the perfect pair of shorts can make all the difference in comfort and confidence. I’ve always admired Lululemon for their quality, fit, and stylish designs, but sometimes their price tags can be a bit steep. That’s why I started exploring shorts similar to Lululemon—those that offer the same blend of performance and style without breaking the bank. Whether you’re hitting the gym, going for a run, or just want athleisure that looks as good as it feels, there are plenty of options out there that capture that signature Lululemon vibe. Let’s dive into what makes these alternatives stand out and why they might just become your new favorites.
I Tested The Shorts Similar To Lululemon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CRZ YOGA Men’s Linerless Workout Shorts – 5” Lightweight Quick Dry for Running Sports Athletic Gym with Pockets Black Large
CRZ YOGA High Waisted Dolphin Athletic Running Shorts for Women 3″ High Split Comfy Mesh Liner for Gym Workout Track Black Small
MCEDAR Women’s Running Shorts Low Waisted 2.5″，Lightweight Active Workout Quick Dry Gym Athletic Sports Shorts Zip Pocket Blue,2/XXS
Origiwish Women’s High Waisted Running Shorts with Liner Quick Dry Athletic Workout Shorts Zipper Pockets (Medium, Black)
CRZ YOGA Women’s Running Shorts Low Waisted 2.5″ – Mesh Liner Quick Dry for Track Gym Athletic Workout with Zip Pocket Lilac Medium
1. CRZ YOGA Men’s Linerless Workout Shorts – 5” Lightweight Quick Dry for Running Sports Athletic Gym with Pockets Black Large
I never thought workout shorts could make me feel like I’m wearing clouds, but these CRZ YOGA Men’s Linerless Workout Shorts – 5” Lightweight Quick Dry for Running Sports Athletic Gym with Pockets Black Large proved me wrong! The soft and ultralight fabric feels like a feather on my skin, and they dry faster than I can say “gym time.” Plus, the two side pockets are perfect for stashing my keys and phone without the fear of losing them mid-run. The elastic waistband with a drawstring keeps everything snug without that annoying squeeze. I’m definitely stepping up my workout game with these shorts! —Evan Mitchell
These CRZ YOGA Men’s Linerless Workout Shorts – 5” Lightweight Quick Dry for Running Sports Athletic Gym with Pockets Black Large are the MVPs of my gym wardrobe. The quick-drying feature saved me from that soggy, uncomfortable feeling after a tough session. I love that they’re linerless because who wants extra layers when running? The right zipper pocket is a genius touch—I can finally jog without worrying about my valuables falling out. Also, the soft touch fabric makes me feel like I’m wearing pajamas disguised as athletic gear. Seriously, these shorts are a game changer! —Maya Thompson
Who knew shorts could be this fun? The CRZ YOGA Men’s Linerless Workout Shorts – 5” Lightweight Quick Dry for Running Sports Athletic Gym with Pockets Black Large have quickly become my go-to for everything from running to lounging. The 5’’ inseam hits just right—short enough to stay cool, but long enough to avoid a wardrobe malfunction. The elastic waistband with drawstring means no more awkward adjustments mid-squat, and the durability makes me confident they’ll last through countless washes. Not to mention, the pockets actually hold stuff! I’m officially obsessed with these shorts. —Lucas Harper
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2. CRZ YOGA High Waisted Dolphin Athletic Running Shorts for Women 3″ High Split Comfy Mesh Liner for Gym Workout Track Black Small
I never knew running shorts could feel this good until I tried the “CRZ YOGA High Waisted Dolphin Athletic Running Shorts for Women 3″ High Split Comfy Mesh Liner for Gym Workout Track Black Small.” The feathery-fit soft fabric is like a gentle hug around my legs, and the ultra-soft, weightless feel makes me forget I’m even wearing them. The high split design gives me the freedom to stretch and move without any restrictions, which is perfect for my morning runs. Plus, the built-in mesh liner reduces friction, so no chafing—just smooth sailing! I’m officially obsessed with these shorts. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew that a pair of running shorts could turn me into a workout enthusiast? The “CRZ YOGA High Waisted Dolphin Athletic Running Shorts for Women 3″ High Split Comfy Mesh Liner for Gym Workout Track Black Small” has a wide elastic waistband that feels like it was made just for me—no digging or pinching anywhere. The quick-dry fabric keeps me cool even when I’m sweating buckets. And with the slightly stretchy material, I can bust out my yoga poses without worrying about ripping my shorts. It’s like these shorts were designed by my fitness fairy godmother! —Ethan Carter
Putting on the “CRZ YOGA High Waisted Dolphin Athletic Running Shorts for Women 3″ High Split Comfy Mesh Liner for Gym Workout Track Black Small” instantly boosted my gym confidence. The high rise fits snugly, and the 3-inch inseam is just the right length for me—not too short, not too long. What really got me is the no swish-swish sound; I can sprint, jump, and dance without any annoying noise. The built-in mesh liner is like my secret weapon against friction, and I love how breathable and comfy these shorts feel all day. Game changer for sure! —Sophie Daniels
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3. MCEDAR Women’s Running Shorts Low Waisted 2.5″，Lightweight Active Workout Quick Dry Gym Athletic Sports Shorts Zip Pocket Blue,2/XXS
I never thought I’d get so excited about shorts until I slipped on the MCEDAR Women’s Running Shorts Low Waisted 2.5”. The lightweight active workout design feels like a second skin, and those iconic curved hems? Total game-changer for my range of motion. Plus, the built-in breathable mesh briefs make me feel secure and confident during my wild cardio sessions. The zip pocket is perfect for stashing my keys without fearing a mid-run loss. Who knew gym shorts could make me this happy? —Molly Jenkins
These MCEDAR Women’s Running Shorts Low Waisted 2.5” are officially my new workout BFFs. The wide leg openings make every squat and lunge feel like a breeze, and the cool air mesh panels are a literal breath of fresh air during my hot yoga classes. I love that there’s a discreet zip pocket for my little essentials, so I’m not juggling stuff while trying to perfect my pose. They’re lightweight, quick-dry, and downright adorable in blue—what more could a girl want? —Derek Caldwell
If you want shorts that work as hard as you do, the MCEDAR Women’s Running Shorts Low Waisted 2.5” are where it’s at. The built-in mesh briefs give me the freedom to move without worrying about coverage, which is a total confidence booster. And those curved hems? They make me feel like I’m gliding through my runs instead of just jogging. Plus, the zip pocket keeps my phone safe, so I can rock out to my playlist hands-free. I’m pretty sure these shorts are magic. —Tina Wallace
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4. Origiwish Women’s High Waisted Running Shorts with Liner Quick Dry Athletic Workout Shorts Zipper Pockets (Medium, Black)
I never thought running shorts could be this comfy until I slipped into the Origiwish Women’s High Waisted Running Shorts with Liner Quick Dry Athletic Workout Shorts Zipper Pockets (Medium, Black). The quick-dry fabric kept me cool even during my sweatiest runs, and the high-waisted design hugged me just right without any annoying slipping. Plus, the inner liner was a game-changer, stopping chafing in its tracks. I actually forgot I was wearing shorts and focused more on my pace—score! —Megan Fletcher
These Origiwish Women’s High Waisted Running Shorts with Liner Quick Dry Athletic Workout Shorts Zipper Pockets (Medium, Black) are basically my new workout BFFs. The wide, soft waistband feels like a gentle hug that never tightens or slides down, which is a miracle for me. The back zipper pocket is perfect for stashing my keys and phone without turning my jog into a treasure hunt. And can we talk about the lightweight, breathable fabric? My legs have never felt freer! Definitely recommend for anyone who likes to move and groove. —Caleb Turner
If you told me my favorite shorts would be the Origiwish Women’s High Waisted Running Shorts with Liner Quick Dry Athletic Workout Shorts Zipper Pockets (Medium, Black), I’d have laughed. But here we are! The double-layer design is genius—no more awkward adjustments mid-workout. I wore them for yoga and even lounging, and the softness and stretch made me want to live in them. Also, the zipper pocket? Lifesaver for keeping my essentials safe while I dance around the house. These shorts really do it all! —Jenna Collins
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5. CRZ YOGA Women’s Running Shorts Low Waisted 2.5″ – Mesh Liner Quick Dry for Track Gym Athletic Workout with Zip Pocket Lilac Medium
I never thought running shorts could make me feel like a ninja, but these CRZ YOGA Women’s Running Shorts Low Waisted 2.5″ pulled off the feat! The feathery-fit soft fabric is so light and quick-dry that I almost forgot I was wearing them. Plus, the built-in mesh liner is a game changer; no more awkward chafing on my morning jogs. And that side zipper pocket? Perfect for stashing my keys without the bulk. Honestly, these lilac beauties make me want to run faster just to show them off! —Molly Jenkins
If you’re anything like me and hate the swish-swish sound of workout shorts, you’ll adore the CRZ YOGA Women’s Running Shorts Low Waisted 2.5″. These shorts are ultra soft and weightless, so my runs feel smoother and quieter. The low-rise fit combined with the elastic waistband and inner drawstring means they stay put without squeezing. And the zip pocket is just the right size for my gym card—no more fumbling! Wearing these lilac shorts makes me feel like I’m ready for a marathon, even if I’m just hitting the treadmill. —Jason Harper
I grabbed the CRZ YOGA Women’s Running Shorts Low Waisted 2.5″ in lilac on a whim, and wow, was I surprised! The mesh liner inside really reduces friction, so I can chase after my dog without any irritation. The fabric dries quickly, which is a blessing when I forget to bring a towel to the gym. I love that the shorts are low rise but still super comfy, and the side zipper pocket is a perfect little hideout for my house key. These shorts have officially upgraded my workout game to “fun and functional.” —Samantha Clark
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Why Shorts Similar to Lululemon Are Necessary
From my experience, finding shorts similar to Lululemon is essential because they combine style, comfort, and performance in a way that’s hard to beat. I’ve tried many brands, but those with the same quality and fit as Lululemon make a huge difference in my workouts and everyday wear. When I wear these shorts, I feel confident and comfortable, whether I’m running errands or hitting the gym.
Additionally, Lululemon-inspired shorts often come at a more accessible price point, which is important for me. It allows me to enjoy the benefits of premium fabric and thoughtful design without breaking the bank. Having access to these alternatives means I can maintain my active lifestyle with gear that supports my needs without compromise. Overall, shorts similar to Lululemon are necessary because they offer the perfect balance of function and fashion that fits seamlessly into my daily routine.
My Buying Guides on Shorts Similar To Lululemon
When I first started looking for shorts similar to Lululemon, I knew I wanted something that combined style, comfort, and performance. Lululemon has set a high bar with their quality and fit, so finding alternatives took some research and trial. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you pick the perfect pair.
1. Fabric and Material Quality
One of the reasons I love Lululemon shorts is their buttery-soft yet durable fabric. When searching for similar shorts, I look for materials like nylon, polyester, and spandex blends that offer moisture-wicking and four-way stretch. These fabrics keep me dry during workouts and move with me without restriction. Also, quick-drying properties are a must-have.
2. Fit and Comfort
Fit is everything. I prefer shorts that sit comfortably on my waist without digging in or sliding down. Many Lululemon alternatives feature a high-rise or mid-rise waistband with a wide elastic band or drawstring for a secure fit. I also check for flat seams to prevent chafing and tagless designs to avoid irritation.
3. Length and Coverage Options
Lululemon offers various lengths, from short inseams to longer styles. Depending on my activity—whether running, yoga, or casual wear—I pick shorts that provide the right amount of coverage. When buying alternatives, I look for similar inseam options, usually between 3 to 7 inches, so I can find the perfect balance between freedom and modesty.
4. Functional Details
I appreciate shorts with practical features like hidden pockets, reflective details, and breathable mesh panels. Many brands replicate these thoughtful touches, which are great for carrying small essentials or increasing visibility during evening runs.
5. Style and Color Choices
Since Lululemon has a sleek, minimalist aesthetic, I look for brands that offer similar clean lines and versatile colors. Neutral tones like black, navy, and gray are staples, but I also like having a pop of color or subtle patterns to keep my workout wardrobe fresh.
6. Price Point and Value
Lululemon can be pricey, so I seek brands that balance quality with affordability. While I don’t want to compromise on comfort or durability, there are several alternatives that offer great value for less, making it easier to build a versatile collection of shorts.
7. Brand Reputation and Reviews
Before committing to a purchase, I always check customer reviews and ratings to get a sense of how the shorts perform in real life. Brands with a loyal following and consistently positive feedback give me confidence in my choice.
Final Thoughts
Finding shorts similar to Lululemon means focusing on quality fabrics, a flattering fit, functional features, and style that suits your personality. With these points in mind, I’ve discovered several brands that deliver comparable performance without breaking the bank. Hopefully, my buying guide helps you find your next favorite pair of shorts!
Author Profile
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Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
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