Lulu brings comfort and confidence

Shopping has always been one of my favorite activities. As someone who’s built like the cinnamon stick from the Apple Jacks commercial – tall and lanky – options are often limited, sizes vary wildly, and too often the experience feels like an afterthought. But when it comes to activewear, though, I’ve noticed a difference.  

Brands are finally paying attention to the tall men who want clothes that look good, perform well, and last. Two names that always come up are Lululemon and Fabletics. After trying both, I’m firmly in the Lululemon camp.  

On the surface, Fabletics sounds like a great deal. They promote affordability and accessibility, especially through their membership program. Sign up, and you can get big discounts on joggers, shorts and shirts.  

The problem is the catch. If you don’t log in every month to “skip,” you’re automatically charged. I found myself stressed about remembering deadlines just to avoid an unwanted bill.  

For me, shopping should be straightforward, not another task to manage.  

Lululemon takes a different approach. I’ll admit, the price tag initially gave me pause. But once I invested in a pair of their joggers, I understood the hype. The quality is undeniable.  

The fabric is breathable, durable and designed to handle both a workout and a night out. I’ve had Lululemon pieces for years that still look and feel brand new. 

That kind of longevity makes the higher cost worth it, especially for someone like me who is often compared to Clifford the Big Red Dog.  

Fit is another area where Lululemon shines. Fabletics tends to lean into trendier styles, which sometimes sacrifice comfort for aesthetics. 

 Lululemon, by contrast, balances performance with wearability. Their cuts are flattering without being restrictive, and they suit a wide range of body types. When I wear Lululemon, I don’t just feel comfortable — I feel confident. That matters.  

The shopping experience itself also makes a difference. Walking into a Lululemon store feels intentional. The layout is clean, the staff is knowledgeable, and the atmosphere promotes wellness and community.  

Fabletics, with its heavy reliance on subscriptions, feels more transactional. As a guy who doesn’t shop often, I appreciate how simple and stress-free Lululemon makes the process.  

Yes, the cost is higher. But when I think about how long my Lululemon pieces last compared to cheaper alternatives, I actually end up saving time and money in the long run. 

I’d rather own one pair of joggers that last years than three pairs that fade or stretch out after a season.  

At the end of the day, shopping as a tall and lanky man doesn’t need to be complicated. I’ve tried both Fabletics and Lululemon, and the choice is clear. Fabletics may win on price at first glance, but Lululemon wins on quality, fitness and overall experience.  

For me, Lululemon isn’t just activewear — it’s an investment in clothing that makes me look good, perform better and overall, shop less. That’s worth every penny.