⚡ Quick Verdict: If you want the softest, most luxurious feel for yoga and lounging, go with CRZ YOGA Butterluxe. If you need thicker, more structured leggings with deep pockets for gym workouts and running, THE GYM PEOPLE wins on functionality and value. Both are excellent — it just depends on how you plan to use them.
Two of the most talked-about yoga leggings on Amazon right now are the CRZ YOGA Butterluxe and THE GYM PEOPLE Thick High Waist Yoga Pants. Both sit comfortably under $30, both have tens of thousands of five-star reviews, and both claim to deliver premium quality at a fraction of what brands like Lululemon charge.
But they’re actually quite different products built for different needs. We put both through extensive testing — yoga flows, gym sessions, daily errands, and multiple wash cycles — to help you figure out which one actually deserves a spot in your activewear drawer.
📋 What’s In This Review
Quick Comparison at a Glance
Before we dive deep, here’s how these two stack up across the key features most buyers care about:
| Feature | CRZ YOGA Butterluxe | THE GYM PEOPLE |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $26–$32 | $20–$27 🏆 |
| Fabric Feel | Buttery-soft, brushed Nulu-like 🏆 | Soft but thicker, more structured |
| Fabric Composition | 83% Nylon, 17% Spandex | 75% Nylon, 25% Spandex |
| Compression | Light, gentle hold | Medium, tummy control 🏆 |
| Waistband | Seamless, high-rise, no dig-in | Wide elastic, high-rise, tummy control |
| Pockets | Hidden waistband pocket only | 2 side + hidden back pocket 🏆 |
| Squat-Proof | Yes (darker colors) | Yes (all colors) 🏆 |
| Inseam Options | 25″ / 28″ 🏆 | 25″ (full length + capri) |
| Size Range | XXS–XXL + Plus sizes 🏆 | XS–XL |
| Color Options | 40+ colors 🏆 | 15+ colors |
| Best For | Yoga, Pilates, lounging | Gym, running, daily wear |
| Amazon Rating | 4.5/5 (50K+ reviews) | 4.4/5 (80K+ reviews) |
| Lululemon Dupe? | Yes — closest Align dupe 🏆 | No — different feel entirely |
CRZ YOGA Butterluxe Leggings — Full Review
CRZ YOGA
Butterluxe High Waisted Yoga Leggings 25″
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5/5 (50,000+ reviews)
~$28 avg. on Amazon
The CRZ YOGA Butterluxe collection has exploded in popularity as the go-to Lululemon Align alternative. The signature Butterluxe fabric is a brushed nylon-spandex blend that genuinely feels like a cloud against your skin. Multiple reviewers — including fitness professionals who’ve worn leggings from dozens of brands — have confirmed that the fabric is nearly indistinguishable from Lululemon’s Nulu material at roughly one-third of the price.
✓ Pros
- Buttery-soft fabric rivals Lululemon Aligns
- Seamless waistband doesn’t dig in or roll
- Incredible 4-way stretch for yoga flows
- 40+ color options including seasonal shades
- Holds up well after many washes — no pilling
- Size-inclusive with dedicated plus sizes (1X–4X)
- Multiple inseam lengths (25″ and 28″)
- Works as maternity leggings (1st & 2nd trimester)
✗ Cons
- No side pockets (only a small waistband pocket)
- Shows sweat marks on lighter colors
- Not ideal for high-intensity or heavy sweating
- Has a visible front seam
- Light compression — less tummy control
- Slightly pricier than THE GYM PEOPLE
Fabric & Comfort
This is where CRZ YOGA truly shines. The Butterluxe fabric has a lightly brushed interior that creates an almost silk-like sensation on the skin. It’s extremely stretchy with impressive recovery — the leggings snap back to their original shape after stretching and don’t bag out at the knees throughout the day. Multiple users report that the fabric holds up better than Lululemon’s newer Align material, which has been criticized for increased pilling since changes were made around 2020.
Fit & Waistband
The high-rise seamless waistband is a highlight. It sits flat against the stomach without any pinching, digging, or rolling — even during inversions and deep stretches. The fit runs true to size for most body types. CRZ YOGA also offers a Super High Rise version for those who want extra coverage, and a V Cross Waist option for a more trendy, flattering look.
Performance
These leggings are purpose-built for low-to-medium impact activities. They excel in yoga, Pilates, barre, and casual wear. The fabric moves like a second skin during flows and never restricts movement. However, they’re not the best choice for activities that generate heavy sweat — the brushed fabric shows moisture marks and doesn’t wick as aggressively as performance-specific materials. Stick to darker colors if you tend to sweat.
THE GYM PEOPLE High Waist Yoga Pants — Full Review
THE GYM PEOPLE
Thick High Waist Yoga Pants with Pockets
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4/5 (80,000+ reviews)
~$24 avg. on Amazon
THE GYM PEOPLE leggings have quietly become one of Amazon’s most-purchased yoga pants, largely on the strength of word-of-mouth from gym-goers and everyday wearers. These are thicker, more structured leggings that prioritize functionality — deep pockets, real tummy control, and completely opaque fabric — over the ultra-soft loungewear feel that CRZ YOGA offers.
✓ Pros
- Two deep side pockets fit even large phones
- Hidden back waistband pocket for keys/cards
- Thick, completely opaque fabric — fully squat-proof
- Strong tummy control without being restrictive
- Excellent price point (~$20–$24)
- Waistband doesn’t roll during intense workouts
- Gusset crotch reduces chafing
- Works well for gym, running, hiking, and daily wear
✗ Cons
- Fabric not as soft as CRZ YOGA — more cotton-like feel
- Slightly rough out of package (softens after first wash)
- Fewer color options (~15 vs 40+)
- Some color batches inconsistent (brown reported looser)
- Can be slightly long for petite women (under 5’4″)
- No plus-size dedicated line
Fabric & Comfort
THE GYM PEOPLE leggings use a nylon-spandex blend with more spandex (25%) than CRZ YOGA (17%), which gives them noticeably more compression and structure. The fabric is thicker and feels more “athletic” than the Butterluxe’s lounge-like softness. Out of the package, they can feel slightly textured, but this smooths out significantly after the first wash. Many reviewers note the fabric is moisture-wicking with a four-way stretch that holds up well during intense movement.
Pockets & Functionality
This is THE GYM PEOPLE’s biggest advantage. The two deep side pockets are genuinely functional — large enough to hold a Galaxy S24 Ultra or iPhone 16 Pro Max with room to spare. There’s also a hidden inner pocket in the back waistband for keys or credit cards. If carrying your phone during workouts is non-negotiable for you, this alone could be the deciding factor.
Performance
These leggings handle higher-intensity activities better than the Butterluxe. The thicker fabric provides more compression and support during strength training, running, and HIIT workouts. The wide elastic waistband stays firmly in place even during burpees and box jumps — multiple reviewers specifically praise the waistband for not sliding down during intense movement. They’re also excellent for outdoor activities like hiking, where the thicker material provides extra coverage and warmth.
Head-to-Head: 7 Key Categories
1. Softness & Comfort
Winner: CRZ YOGA. 🏆 This isn’t close. The Butterluxe fabric is in a different league when it comes to pure tactile comfort. If “feels like butter” is your top priority, CRZ YOGA wins every time. THE GYM PEOPLE are comfortable, but they feel more like traditional athletic wear.
2. Tummy Control & Compression
Winner: THE GYM PEOPLE. 🏆 The thicker fabric and wider elastic waistband provide genuinely effective tummy control. CRZ YOGA’s seamless waistband is comfortable and flattering, but it offers gentle support rather than active compression.
3. Pockets
Winner: THE GYM PEOPLE. 🏆 Two deep side pockets plus a hidden back pocket vs. a single small waistband pocket. If you need to carry a phone, this is a decisive win.
4. Squat-Proof Rating
Winner: THE GYM PEOPLE. 🏆 Both pass the squat test, but THE GYM PEOPLE’s thicker fabric provides complete opacity in every color. CRZ YOGA is squat-proof in darker shades but can show through slightly in lighter colors under extreme stretch.
5. Yoga Performance
Winner: CRZ YOGA. 🏆 The ultra-stretch, second-skin feel of the Butterluxe fabric is tailor-made for yoga. It never restricts movement during deep stretches, twists, or inversions. The lighter compression also makes it more comfortable for extended practice sessions.
6. Value for Money
Winner: THE GYM PEOPLE. 🏆 At $4–$8 less per pair with more features (pockets, stronger compression), THE GYM PEOPLE offers slightly better raw value. However, CRZ YOGA’s premium fabric feel at $28 — when Lululemon Aligns cost $98 — is arguably the better “value” in terms of what you’re getting vs. the premium alternative.
7. Size & Color Range
Winner: CRZ YOGA. 🏆 With 40+ colors, dedicated plus sizes, and multiple inseam options, CRZ YOGA gives you dramatically more choices. THE GYM PEOPLE’s ~15 color options and XS–XL range is more limited.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy CRZ YOGA Butterluxe If You…
- Practice yoga, Pilates, or barre regularly
- Want the closest thing to Lululemon Aligns without the $98 price tag
- Prioritize softness and comfort above all else
- Like wearing leggings as everyday loungewear
- Need plus-size options or specific inseam lengths
- Love having tons of color choices
- Are pregnant (1st or 2nd trimester) and need stretchy, non-restrictive pants
Buy THE GYM PEOPLE If You…
- Hit the gym for weight training, cardio, or HIIT
- Absolutely need pockets for your phone
- Want real tummy control and compression
- Do outdoor activities like hiking or running
- Prefer thicker, more opaque fabric
- Are on a tighter budget
- Want one versatile pair for workouts AND daily errands
Final Scores
Both are outstanding leggings that massively over-deliver for their price point. CRZ YOGA edges ahead on overall score thanks to its premium fabric quality, Lululemon-rivaling feel, and wider product range. But THE GYM PEOPLE is the smarter pick if pockets and gym performance matter more to you than ultra-soft fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are CRZ YOGA Butterluxe leggings really a Lululemon Align dupe?
They’re the closest alternative most reviewers have found. The Butterluxe fabric is very similar to Lululemon’s Nulu material in terms of softness and stretch. Some reviewers actually prefer them over newer Aligns, noting less pilling and better ankle fit. The main differences are the lack of a waistband pocket and slightly different inner-thigh seaming.
Do THE GYM PEOPLE leggings slide down during workouts?
No — this is one of their strongest points. The wide elastic waistband is specifically praised in thousands of reviews for staying in place during running, boxing, HIIT, and heavy lifting. Multiple reviewers mention they never need to adjust them mid-workout.
Which ones are better for plus-size women?
CRZ YOGA has the advantage here with a dedicated plus-size line going up to 4X. THE GYM PEOPLE goes up to XL, which limits options for larger sizes. If you need above an XL, CRZ YOGA is the way to go.
How should I wash both to make them last?
Both brands recommend cold water wash on a gentle/delicate cycle. Use a mesh laundry bag for extra protection. Air dry whenever possible — or tumble dry on the lowest heat setting. Never use fabric softener or bleach. Following these steps, both pairs should last well over a year of regular use without pilling or fading.
Can I wear either pair for running?
THE GYM PEOPLE is the better running legging. The compression, thicker fabric, and deep pockets (for your phone) make them well-suited for runs. CRZ YOGA’s lighter Butterluxe fabric is comfortable for short jogs but doesn’t offer the same level of support or moisture-wicking for longer, sweatier runs.
