Shoppers Discover Costco’s Kirkland Pants as a Budget-Friendly Alternative to Lululemon’s ABC Bottoms Across the U.S.

If you’re a fan of Lululemon’s highly praised ABC pants, you might be curious whether there’s a more affordable option that delivers the same quality.

Good news—Costco’s Kirkland Signature Men’s 5-Pocket Performance Pants offer a similar look and feel for a fraction of the price, saving you a significant amount of money without sacrificing comfort or style.

A Lookalike Pair for a Lot Less

The Lululemon ABC 5-Pocket Pants are a popular choice for those seeking comfort and performance in their everyday pants.

These bottoms come in multiple sizes and colors, and they retail for about $128 per pair.

However, Costco shoppers can snag a pair of the Kirkland Signature pants for only $20, making it an obvious alternative for budget-conscious consumers.

Shoppers Spot Similarities Between the Two

According to New York Times writer Alexander Aciman, the Kirkland pants are impressively similar to the Lululemon ones.

Upon inspection, Aciman noted that both pairs share similar construction elements, such as the zippers and the gusseted crotch, a diamond-shaped patch that enhances comfort and allows for better mobility—especially useful for long flights or standing for extended periods.

He points out that this gusseted feature was added to the latest version of the Kirkland pants, making them even more comparable to the ABC pants.

Comparing the Design and Fabric

Aciman also discovered that the two pants share other design features, like YKK zippers, reinforced buttons, and tightly sewn seams.

Both brands even feature a sewn-down flap inside the leg for added comfort.

While both pairs have a similar aesthetic, there’s a noticeable difference when it comes to the fabric.

Lululemon uses their signature Warpstreme fabric made from 53% elastomultiester and 47% recycled polyester, which gives it a smooth and premium feel.

On the other hand, Kirkland’s fabric is made up of 74% polyester and 26% elastomultiester.

Though this blend sounds somewhat similar, Aciman claims that Lululemon’s fabric truly sets the brand apart with its higher quality, noting that the Kirkland pants “swished like old-school gym shorts.”

Kirkland Pants: A Comfortable Yet Budget-Friendly Option

Despite this difference in fabric, Aciman admits that the Kirkland pants offer great comfort and design, making them an excellent value at just $20.

They come in various colors like blue, black, and grey, and they fit well while offering peak performance throughout the day.

However, he still feels that they don’t quite match the sleek and refined feel of Lululemon’s premium fabric.

Customer Opinions: A Mixed Bag

The debate over which pants are better has sparked a lot of discussion among shoppers, particularly on Reddit.

Some users have admitted to confusing the Kirkland pants with Lululemon’s, praising their value and fit.

However, others have pointed out that the Kirkland pants tend to feel tighter in the crotch area and don’t fit as comfortably as Lululemon’s.

One user noted that while Costco’s option is a great alternative, the “difference is in the details.”

The Final Verdict: Worth It for the Price

So, while the Kirkland pants can’t quite match Lululemon’s signature feel and fabric quality, they do offer a strong alternative for those on a budget.

If you’re looking for a pair of pants that deliver comfort and performance without breaking the bank, the Kirkland Signature Men’s 5-Pocket Performance Pants might be your best bet.

But if you’re willing to spend more for that extra luxury feel, Lululemon’s ABC pants will still have the edge.