Vuori vs. lululemon: Which Cool-Weather Leggings Are Softer, More Flattering and Cuddlier?

Nothing’s easier than slipping on a pair of leggings for running outdoors or running errands. But half the year or more, our favorite indoor workout leggings may be too thin to wear outside. So what’s an athleisure devotee to do? When two of our favorite leggings brands, lululemon and Vuori, each debuted a new legging design made for staying cozy even during cold-weather workouts, I had to give them a try. And while snow might not be in the forecast where I live in Los Angeles, I’m pelted with icy wind during my weekly beach workout and feel all the chills during nighttime runs (since sunset’s at 5 p.m. now). Here’s my review of the Vuori Chilled Out Legging ($128) and the lululemon Fast and Free High Rise Fleece Tight with Pockets ($148).

In the past, I’ve collected fleece leggings for hikes and workouts, but been disappointed with their fit and durability—I’ve had knitted waistbands get pilled after repeated washings, had rear end sections get stretched out on long hikes and overall been less than enthused with how bulky the designs looked. But I thought that was what I had to settle for if I was going to basically wear sweaters on my legs. However, neither the Vuori Chilled Out Legging nor the lululemon Fast and Free High Rise Fleece Tight with Pockets look bulky, but both still have a thin layer of fleecy material lining them. They are noticeably warmer than the slick leggings I prefer in warmer weather. Additionally, both are more concerned with light warmth rather than snatched control (that’s what I depend on stomach-flattening lululemon Wunder Unders for) or complete lounging (I’m thinking here of the Vuori Performance Joggers that really put that brand on the map). I appreciate that both these leggings aim for the sweet spot between highly-designed workout wear and cuddly comfort—read on to see if they hit the mark.

Oh, and one more similarity between the two styles. I would recommend getting your regular size rather than sizing up. The buying-one-size-bigger hack is one I sometimes deploy for a more flattering fit, but since neither of these babies has added compression, anything too large is going to bag.

I took each pair of leggings on two jogs, to an outdoor CrossFit session and to a heated yoga class, with washings in between. This allowed me to evaluate how well the leggings performed in chilly weather outdoors, but also how well-suited they are to studio classes. (I’ve had some previous experiences with wearing fleece-lined leggings to indoor workouts before, and I felt a little inappropriately dressed, since older fleece leggings felt too hot indoors and also looked too bulky to me when I caught sight of myself in the mirror.) Equally importantly, I wore the leggings around the house and around my neighborhood on errands—because if I’m going to spend over $100 on a pair of leggings, they had better be ready to do double-duty as pants, too.

Honestly, I loved each of these leggings for durability, looks and warmth. I could dock both of them, however, for only being available in four colorways apiece; over a long winter, I’m sure I’m not the only person who’s going to want to switch up my outdoor style. I’ll be enjoying the Vuori’s more for around-the-house lounging and errands, along with runs, since they’re so super-soft. And the lululemons are my new go-to for hiking, the chilliest workouts in low light and my longer runs (thanks, waistband cinching). Word to the wise—in seasons past, I’ve been guilty of waiting too late in the season to buy fleece leggings, by which time sizing and stock was low, so I advise shelling out now for snuggly workouts and leggings-wear through to springtime.