It’s only December, and my hunt for winter-ready running/workout gear has not slowed down. Next on the docket, I sampled some of lululemon’s new releases this season. Here’s what I thought.
Speed up tights – tech fleece
This was my first time trying the speed up tights, i.e., the new version of lululemon’s flagship running tights. Although I had no strong opinions on them going into it, I wasn’t particularly impressed with the fit. I purchased my usual lululemon size, but for some reason, the waist just did not feel right on me. First, it was difficult to get on, then once I got them situaiton, the waist/hip area did not feel as secure as I’m used to. It didn’t feel like the incorrect size for me, the fit just felt awkward.
Lululemon’s tech fleece has been getting progressively thinner, but I keep holding out hope they’ll go back to being thick enough. Unfortunately, this year wasn’t a winner for me either. Compared with my toasty tech tights from 2015, these tights are noticeably thinner. Although these are warmer than your standard luxtreme running tights from lulu, don’t expect hardcore warmth. The two pairs of Athleta leggings I reviewed in this post are much better for real thermal weight, in my opinion.
On the plus side, the design looks quite sleek, black cherry is lovely, and the fabric passed the bend test with flying colors. The side pockets are also plenty large and fit my iPhone 7. But, that wasn’t enough to redeem them for the awkward fit and the underwhelming warmth.
As you probably could’ve guessed, these went back.
Toasty tech 1/2 zip
One of the selling points of this top is the embroidered details across the shoulders. Although it’s quite pretty and unique, unfortunately the embroidery makes the shoulders a bit stiff. It’s hard to capture in photos since it’s most obvious during movement, but you can sort of get a idea of it. I have narrow shoulders and I just did not fill out the upper half of this top well.
The embroidery also means that the collar sits a bit awkwardly. It’s not as flexible as most of my other lulu 1/2 zips and thus doesn’t fold down as neatly and easily.
Aside from the shoulder bulk, the fabric itself on the top was not particularly remarkable either. Although tech fleece is ostensibly lulu’s most serious thermal material, it feels more like a medium weight top, not a full thermal weight. Besides the embroidered detail, this top doesn’t have much else to make it special.
Another surprising observation about this top is how short it is. I’m only 5’3″, but this top still hit at the high hip on me. If you’re quite tall, beware.
Although this top definitely had potential, it missed the mark on several fronts for me, especially considering its hefty price tag (though it’s recently been put on markdown!). Another one for the return pile.
Down for a run jacket ii
This year’s down for a run jacket is an updated version of the one that first came out two years ago. (For comparison, you can see my try-on pics of the first generation DFAR here.) The sizing is about the same; in my opinion, it fits true to size. My normal size has a tailored fit, but leaves enough room for some layers underneath (e.g., tank and thermal long sleeve). The back scoops low over your bum to offer additional warmth. The jacket also features stretch rulu side panels for flexibility, a deep hood, zip pockets, and zip underarm vents.
In general, the fit on this jacket is very flattering and looks quite sharp.. I also prefer the fit of this jacket over the extra mile jacket that I tried and reviewed earlier this season. Black cherry is a gorgeous shade that’s not quite burgundy and not quite purple. I’ll admit the color was a big reason I bought this. Had it only been available in black and white, it wouldn’t have been so compelling. The inkwell is also very beautiful, though unfortunately both black cherry and inkwell are currently unavailable online. (If you want either color, you can probably still find one in a store and have them ship to you.)
One key change with the second generation DFAR is the addition of rulu cuffs. I was irritated that the original DFAR did not have the usual foldover cuffs that go past the glyde material, which is a feature I use constantly with my existing lulu puffer. In fact, the return of the cuffs is a big reason I decided to order this jacket to try–if there were no cuffs, I wouldn’t have bothered.
That said, the material on the cuffs (and the side stretch panels) is quite thin and a bit flimsy. The exact material used is not listed on the tag and it’s thinner than rulu. It’s nothing to write home about, but it does get the job done. Likewise, don’t expect the body of the jacket to be a sturdy puffer either. It’s not as thick as some of lulu’s puffers from previous years. In other words, this is a light-to-medium insulating jacket for running, hiking, or anything else where you’ll be active. It’s not suitable against serious winter temps for casual wear.
Another difference between the two DFARs is the quilting. The older version had criss-cross quilting across the back compared to this year’s simple horizontal lines. The sleeves and front also look slightly different, but it’s fairly subtle. This year’s fabric also has a bit of a sheen to it. It’s not excessively shiny, but is noticeably not matte.
Since it’s not a seriously puffy puffer, that means that it compresses well and is quite lightweight. For that reason, I took this jacket out for its maiden voyage on an 18-mile day hike last week where the temperature ranged from about 20 F up to the 50s. I layered a tank top and a thermal long sleeve with medium weight tights plus gloves and a hat. I was comfortably warm for the entire hike, although we were moving at a quick pace that kept my blood flowing. When the temperatures climbed, I was easily able to roll the jacket up into a chunky burrito and strap it to the outside of my day pack. Its packability is a distinct advantage this jacket has over my first mile jacket, which is quite a lot heavier and doesn’t compress, and thus only works if I don’t plan on taking it off.
I heard many complaints that the DFAR ii did not live up to its first generation sibling, but my own preferences mean I actually like the new version much better. At $200, it’s not exactly a bargain for what you’re getting, but considering my other options are quite a lot worse, I’m totally happy with my purchase.
What about those tights you’re wearing? They’re the variegated brushed luxtreme speed up tights right? I have them and they’re great I think. Also the fast as fleece are quite nice in comparison to the tech fleece speed up tights. And agreed on all your points for the DFAR. I love the black cherry. If it wasnt for the color I wouldn’t have purchased it. By the way, whatever material they used for the side panels and cuffs I don’t believe it’s Rulu. It’s so thin and not as soft. Probably another way to cut corners yet charge you an arm and a leg.
D’oh, you’re right about the rulu thing. I double-checked the tag and the site and you’re right, there’s nothing about rulu. I had just assumed that it was because it has been in years past, and rulu has changed so much over the years (i.e., gotten flimsier) that I just assumed that’s what they were still calling it regardless. Anyway, I’ll update my post accordingly.
The reviews seem to agree that the fast as fleece are a bit better. Tempting to try those instead–they weren’t out yet when I ordered the speed ups in this post.
Re: the other tights, yes they’re variegated lux, but they’re last year’s speed tights, not speed ups. They’ve treated me well as a medium weight tight.
I wanted the DFAR so badly i made a 2 hour drive just to go see it. I was SO disappointed. I never saw the original but lusted over it for the past 2 years. I settled on a stained glass
Oops-
Stained glass fluff off jacket and I’m so glad i did. It’s dense, warm, the rulu is thick, the material is matte. It’s gorgeous. I took pics of everything i wanted and the DFAR jacket or pullover didn’t make the cut. If I’m spending that much on a jacket it shouldn’t feel that unsubstantial despite how stinking cute it is. Way underwhelmed.
Yes! I have a fluff off that’s now 4(!!) years old and it’s great–definitely noticeably thicker. That said, unfortunately the fluff offs didn’t come in my size, so it’s a bit large on me. I love it anyway, but the DFAR indisputably fits better. Can’t have it all I suppose. :(
I have the lulu fresh tracks tights and they are just barely thicker then regular tights not warm enough. Also the fluff off jacket I’ve had for years and it is an absolute favorite, wish they would make it again.
Yes, I tried the fresh tracks last year and wasn’t super thrilled with them either. I have a 4-year-old fluff off that’s great. In fact, I recently bought the fluff off vest on Poshmark and love it too. I’d like to see them bring back the fluff off as well, but only if it’s as good as my old one, not if they cheap out and make it a lesser version.
Ok i have been greatly appreciating your reviews… but what is the differences with the DFAR jackets and the First Mile Jacket. They appear really similar. DFAR is down, other ?
I did get the athleta high traverse… liking them! Snugger fit then lulu.
As i said earlier i have the Fluff off jacket and love it. After looking through your reviews of the other jackets it seems i am debating between the First mile Jacket and the DFAR ii Jacket. The first mile appeals to me more from the pics only because its not so shiny. I also love the thumb holes in the rulu on my Fluff off maybe reason to get the DFAR ii. It seems these would be a lighter weight jacket addition to my Fluff off, maybe like the Arcteryx Atom LT i have. Not to bring in another brand, but i love that jacket too.
The DFAR and the first mile are definitely very different jackets. The first mile is dense and heavy, made with non-down insulation (the tag does not say what). It’s a bit warmer imo. The first mile does have foldover cuffs and a place where thumbholes *should* be, so I’ve been thinking of having a seamstress add in thumbholes–it seems like it would be easy to do. I think if you already have the fluff off, the DFAR is going to be similar, but a lighter weight version. The first mile is not similar to either the fluff off or DFAR. It might be more similar to your Arcteryx jacket based on the descriptions I’m seeing. I hope that makes a bit of sense! Good luck deciding on which is best for what you’re looking for. :)
I’ve been on the fence about the DFARII jacket in the Black cherry color, but could not justify the price tag. I do like the fit and overall look, but would probably never get enough use out of it….
I agree with you on fit of Lulu’s current tights. I bought a pair of the NLA Run on Tight and the fit is weird compared to my vintage 2014 tights. I won’t waste my time with their current tech fleece based on your review.
The packability of the DFAR was definitely a big deciding factor. From that perspective, I knew there would be situations (like last week) where my fluff off jacket was just a bit too bulky. So from that perspective, I think I’ll get good use out of it, which made it easier to justify. And sadly, my fluff off is getting old, and unfortunately there just aren’t many other viable options. :( Alas that I didn’t start running (and thus accumulating great gear) in the heyday of high quality cold weather run gear…
I did not like the fast as fleece at all. I usually wear a 6 in lulu tights but couldn’t fit comfortably in an 8 . It seems to have very little stretch to it and I struggled to get these on. I want my running tights to be flexible and I didn’t feel these would move with me. There is no side pockets either. I tried on the toasty tech tops as well and agree with your review. It is a very awkward fitting shirt. The embroidery caused the top to pucker at the neck and shoulder and was not comfortable and it felt like I would constantly need to readjust it . Thanks for your reviews. If only Althleta would come to Canada, I could try their winter gear. Jenn
Thanks for your input on the fast and fleece! I didn’t end up ordering a pair, so perhaps I’m not missing out on much after all.
Hi, I have the toasty tech tights and wear them most days in the winter in Montana but I am looking for something a little warmer. I want to try the fast as fleece. Hope they are warmer. I also have the fast tracks tight but they are thinnner then the toasty tech.
If you’re looking for maximum warmth, I haven’t found much from lululemon lately that’s thick enough. If you’re willing to branch out, the warmest tights I’ve found are Athleta’s Polartec tights, for example, this pair: https://athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=929772082&cid=97456&pcid=1025878 Primaloft is also a good option like these: https://athleta.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=353816012&rrec=true&mlink=5050,12413545,atproduct1_rr_1&clink=12413545
Thanks for the fit review AA. I agree about LLL tech fleece being much thinner and for that reason I haven’t bought any tech fleece from LLL this year and the shorter length in tops doesn’t help either. The DFAR jacket looks great on you and I love black cherry but I have a deepest magenta jacket so I opted for Inkwell. I am not happy that they cheaped out on the fabric for the side panels and cuffins, a far cry from the thick rulu used on the original and the Fluff Off line. I was really on the fence about buying this jacket due to the thin fabric but when it came out in Inkwell I went for it because I do like the style and fit. LLL really needs to smarten up and go back to using better quality fabrics. I actually think the original version is a higher quality jacket and the only negative for me was that it had no cuffins. Then they go and put cuffins on the new version but use awfully thin fabric for a winter jacket! Not only do they need to use thicker fabric on side panels and cuffins but I think they should put it inside pockets as well!!!
I could kick myself for not buying the Fluff Off Jacket in Stained Glass, loved the colours in that print. I recently bought the Fluff Off pullover in zinfandel and am happy with it especially with it being -30 here in Alberta, Canada. I felt the same as you AA about down pullovers but I love zinfandel and I only wear it when I know it won’t be coming off until I get home!
Last year I sold a pair of toasty tech tights that I bought a couple years ago–UGH, such a mistake!!! :( I wish I had them back now. It’s hard to find anything as good these days. At least we have ebay…
I would actually be ok with paying somewhat higher prices if lulu made cold weather gear similar in quality to years gone by, but I doubt it will ever happen.
Well this is a very late response to your reply but I wanted to say I am in total agreement. I would be willing to pay more if they brought back quality in design and fabric. I would have paid more to get the lovely thick rulu from years past on the side panels and cuffins of the new DFAR jacket. It is frustrating that the quality is going downhill as the prices go up.
Happy New Year AA!
I had mixed feelings about the new Speed up tights…I initially hated that lulu changed the design as I really liked the speed tights and the first time I tried them I could not for the life of me get the waistband past my hips in my normal size without ripping through the seams.since then though I’ve sized up on these and find at least for my body shape they fit and function quite well. Even though they are meant to me full length there is way less ankle bunch as a petite woman with these, which I find more comfortable though anyone taller will probably disagree!!
I was utterly disappointed with the toasty tech 1/2 zip as well and as someone’s else’s mentioned the fast as fleece tights. I think the mistake was to make them high rise:( should have just kept them medium rise like all their run tights!!
Living in London I’ve never needed anything warmer than the speed or speed up tights ??Very grateful for that!
Thanks for these reviews as always!
Thanks for the input! I had a hard time getting the speed ups on as well–I didn’t really like the idea of fighting with them every time I wanted to pull them on. I haven’t tried a size up, so thanks for the note about that!
I went up a size in the speed ups. I usually wear a 6 in tights but couldn’t comfortably get a 6 on. The 8 seemed to fit a lot better. I wonder if they are trying to stop any slipping. A great crop that I’ve just tried for staying in place is by the company RYU. They are based in Canada and I bought them at the Can fit pro show in Toronto in the summer.
Thanks for the rec! I haven’t checked out RYU before but I like the look of their tough tight, I might have to give them a try.