Athleta (Gap Inc.) and Lululemon are the two US giants of women's activewear. Athleta leads on explicit petite/tall/regular grading and up to 3XL in core lines. Lululemon leads on fabric cult status. For sizing specifically — not marketing — here's what reviewers and product data show.
Athleta sizing strengths
Salutation Stash: Powervita 75% nylon / 25% Lycra — 'gentle hug' per Athleta copy.
Inseams: Petite 25", Regular/Plus 27", Tall 30" — reduces ankle bunching without tailoring.
Shape magazine testing: true-to-size across categories; Salutation waist runs structured — size carefully if between sizes.
Lululemon sizing
Women's 0–20 on most leggings; Align inseam variants (7/8, full) but historically less petite/tall granularity than Athleta.
Nulu fits snug at hip; waist gap reported — see Alo Yoga vs Lululemon.
We Made Too Much sales improve access but don't change block geometry.
Practical guidance
Long-waisted: Athleta tall or Lululemon high-rise — check front rise inches.
Between sizes at waist: Athleta Salutation may feel tight at band; try Elation line or size up.
Non-standard proportions: neither brand customizes waist curve — Made-to-Measure Yoga Pants Cost vs Returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Athleta run bigger than Lululemon?
Similar alpha grading; Athleta offers more length splits. Fit varies by line more than brand.
Salutation vs Align?
Salutation 75/25 nylon–Lycra, medium compression. Align 81/19, lighter feel. Different sensations — try both if possible.
Best for petite shoppers?
Athleta's named petite inseams are more explicit than most Lululemon listings.
Related Reading
Why Clothing Sizes Don't Exist
A calm explainer on inconsistency and why fit feels random.
How to Measure Your Body (Most Guides Are Wrong)
Practical, non-fussy steps to get repeatable measurements at home.
Made-to-Measure vs Bespoke vs Custom
Clear differences, when each makes sense, and why cost varies.