As someone who works directly with activewear OEM factories and personally owns multiple Lululemon leggings, bras, and tops, I’ve tested how each fabric and fit behaves. One of the most common questions I hear from shoppers and brand clients is:
“Does Lululemon run small?”
Here is a clear, beginner-friendly explanation based on real product experience and production knowledge.
Lululemon is mostly true to size, but some pieces feel tighter because of compression fabrics like Luxtreme or Everlux.
Soft fabrics like Nulu (Align) feel more forgiving and stretchy.
If you're between sizes, many people size up in:
External references:
Based on my own fit tests and my experience supporting activewear brands:
Lululemon’s patterns are not inaccurate — the performance fit creates the impression of running small.
Luxtreme and Everlux are engineered to feel tight for support.
These intentionally hug the body more than casual leggings.
Running and training pieces use closer-fitting patterns.
Sports bras often fit snug across the chest and back.
OEM Insight:
Fit differences come from fiber blend, gauge density, and stretch recovery, not bad sizing.
| Fabric | Feel | Fit Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nulu (Align) | Soft, stretchy | True to size |
| Nulux | Sleek, cool | Slightly snug |
| Luxtreme | Dense, compressive | Some size up |
| Everlux | Very supportive | Often feels small |
| Lululemon Size | US Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | XXS | Very fitted |
| 4 | XS | Best for Align |
| 6 | S | True for most |
| 8 | M | Bras may feel snug |
| 10 | L | Comfort fit |
| 12 | XL | Consistent |
| 14 | XXL | Available in select styles |
Choose your usual size in:
Stay true to size for:
Size up in:
Choose “Relaxed” or size up one.
Want Lululemon-level fabric and fit for your own clothing line?
👉 https://fukigymwear.com
| Brand | Fit Tendency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lululemon | True to size; compressive styles snug | Fabric engineering affects fit |
| Athleta | More forgiving | Inclusive sizing |
| Gymshark | Runs small | Trend-focused fit |
| Alo Yoga | Slim fit | Less technical compression |
| Nike | True to size | More sport-focused |
Q1: Do Lululemon leggings stretch out?
Nulu (Align) stretches slightly with wear; Luxtreme and Everlux do not.
Q2: Should I size up in Lululemon sports bras?
If you prefer comfort — yes. For firm support — stay true to size.
Q3: Are Lululemon sizes consistent across all items?
Mostly yes, but compression fabrics always feel tighter.