Bottom Line
Many women enjoy hiking and adventuring in compression shorts, so we decided to test the Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise this year and see how it stacked against more hiking-specific styles.
Our gear analyst tested this short on local hikes and maintained trails to get a feel for its comfort, functionality, and fit. Since compression shorts are inherently not a go-to for durability, we focused on testing these shorts in more casual outdoor environments.
With their softer material, the Wunder Trains will be more prone to snags and tears than the more rugged, classic hiking shorts in our lineup. They also lack the water-resistant properties that many of our other hiking shorts recommendations boast.
Overall, the Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise is a flattering, body-hugging and movement-friendly short that comes in a 4” and 6” length option and includes an internal drawstring and key pocket. They are an excellent value for women who prefer compression shorts that they can wear on casual hikes, in town, and at their fitness studio.
The Lululemon EverLux material is renowned for its moderate supportive compression and sweat-wicking properties. The high-rise waistband fits securely and keeps the shorts in place during all types of movement, including squatting, high-stepping, and bending. While our gear analyst was not fond of the lighter blue color pattern she tested the shorts in, she believes that darker colors will better hide any dirt from the outdoors, as well as water spots, potential stains, and underwear lines.
To compare the performance of the Wunder Train shorts to others in our lineup, check out our updated gear guide to the best women’s hiking shorts for more in-depth and detailed reviews.
How We Tested
We tested the Lululemon Wunder Train shorts on casual local hikes, experimenting with a variety of movements including squats and high steps to determine their comfort ranking, functionality, and performance for activities beyond the fitness studio. We also got the shorts wet to see first-hand how they respond to moisture and how long it takes them to dry.
Quick Specs
Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Shorts
Best Compression Shorts
CleverHiker Rating: 4.4/5.0
Price: $64
Weight: 3.4 oz.
Inseam: 4 or 6 in
UPF Rating: n/a
Fabric: Nylon, lycra elastane
Pockets: 1
Pros
- Comfy, soft & stretchy
- Moderate compression
- Drawstring & internal key pocket
- Waistband stays put during movement
- EverLux material provides support and wicks sweat
Cons
- Not as durable
- Longer dry time
- Some colorways stain/watermark easily
- Visible underwear lines
- Depending on thighs, they may slighly roll up
Comfort
The Lululemon Wunder Train shorts are made with their classic EverLux sweat-wicking material that provides moderate compression, as well as movement-friendly stretch. The shorts are soft to the skin, with a barely-there feel. Many women prefer compression shorts for their low-profile design, body-hugging comfort, and versatility for hiking, sports, workouts, and town.
Our gear analyst tested the 4” length of the Wunder Train shorts on her local hikes in Sonoma County, CA, and felt that they provided the perfect amount of coverage. However, depending on how the shorts fit your thighs, you may notice some slight rolling up of the material when you move.
As someone who typically goes for a mid-rise fit, our gear analyst found the high-rise of the Wunder Train Shorts to be extremely comfortable. The waistband fits snugly without being overly tight, preventing the shorts from riding up or down during movement. While Lululemon products have a history of being highly flattering, the Wunder Train isn’t leaving much to the imagination. They will show underwear lines through the material (if you care about this kinda thing).
Breathability can be an issue with compression shorts. For this reason, we generally don’t bring them for backpacking trips because we want airflow and quick-drying materials near our lady bits.
Durability
Compression shorts are not designed for durability in the CleverHiker sense of the word. If you’re on a well-graded trail, they won’t wear or snag unless something gnarly happens in the wash/dryer. But if you’re headed out on more rugged terrain, the material is more susceptible to snagging, tears, and holes. Still, Lululemon is known for its quality and lifespan.
So the Wunder Train shorts are best suited to local casual hikes on maintained pathways and trail-to-town ventures. However, we do love how comfy and versatile these shorts are for the active woman – perfect if you are the type of hiker who enjoys incorporating fitness workouts and stretches during your walks and hikes.
Luckily, the shorts don’t require special washing instructions, though we do suggest using a gentle cycle to preserve the fabric and stitching better. While our gear analyst tested the Wunder Train shorts in a light blue color, she wishes she had instead tried a darker color. The light blue shows stains, water spots, and underwear lines much more than darker hues would.
Features
The Lululemon shorts are simple compression bottoms without many bells and whistles. However, they do include a well-hidden internal drawstring that lies flat and is easy to use. There is also a key pocket in the front waistband, making it easy to stash your car key on an adventure. The pocket opening is on the side, rather than the top, which makes it not as convenient to reach, though we still appreciate the design of having a waistband compartment.
Dry Time
At just under 3.5 oz in the 4” length, the Lululemon shorts are one of the lightest shorts in our lineup. When hiking, they offer a barely-there feel and low-profile design that lacks the bulk of more classic hiking short styles. Similar to the athletic shorts in our lineup, these shorts roll up easily for storage and take up very little space in your closet, daypack or suitcase.
Weight & Packed Size
At just under 3.5 oz in the 4” length, the Lululemon shorts are one of the lightest shorts in our lineup. When hiking, they offer a barely-there feel and low-profile design that lacks the bulk of more classic hiking short styles. Similar to the athletic shorts in our lineup, these shorts roll up easily for storage and take up very little space in your closet, daypack or suitcase.
Should You Buy the Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Shorts?
The Lululemon Wunder Train is a flattering, comfortable and versatile option for women who prefer the low-profile, body-hugging design and support of compression shorts. They excel in casual hiking environments on maintained pathways and trail-to-town adventures, and are great for those who enjoy incorporating fitness and stretching into their daily hiking workouts.
However, if you are looking for a more durable pair of shorts that is quick-drying and abrasion-resistant, we suggest that you consider a more classic hiking bottom rather than compression shorts. If you do decide to try out these Wunder Train shorts, we highly suggest that you select a darker color pattern to better hide water spots, stains, and potential underwear lines.
What Other Hiking Shorts Should You Consider?
If the Lululemon Wunder Train shorts aren’t exactly what you are looking for, take a look at the other suggestions below, as well as our full gear guide to the best women’s hiking shorts.
Mountain Hardwear Dynama Bermuda Shorts Review: These shorts are much longer and with a lower rise than the Lululemon, but are also revered for their comfortable and soft material.
Prana Stretch Zion Cargo Shorts Review: These shorts are also ultra high-waisted, similar to the Lululemon Wunder Train. If you are looking for more durable, classic hiking shorts that are also high-rise, the Prana Zion may be a great fit.
Oiselle Toolbelt Roga Shorts Review: These comfy, flattering shorts with a relaxed fit and wide yoga-style waistband are an excellent option to consider if you are in the market for a more classic, quick-drying athletic short. These also come with five pockets!
