These leggings are great if you are trying to curb you lulu shopping. I own several styles of lulus and I'd compare the fabric as a mix between the Aligns and Wonder Unders. The are very soft but not as buttery soft as the Aligns and great compression. Maybe they will soften a little more after washing? They look almost identical to aligns, which I love the V shape of the waistband. From what I can see the in the mirror, they look to be squat proof and I will test them in a few hours at the gym.
I got a size large, I usually where an 8 or 10 in lulu leggings. The one down side is the waist is a bit tight on me, but my legs and booty feel perfect. I have a straighter waistline with a mom gut, short torso and longer legs for my height (5'3"). The 25" is just right, they run a little long and really more a 26-27" inseam. In lulu I usually have to get 28" length because the 25" are like a weird in between being cropped or full length.
The tornado is a nice color, its more of a purplish gray. Very similar to the Dusky Lavender Lulu hoodie in the picture. I was wanting a medium gray that was more neutral or bluer though, so probably won't wear this color as often. I am planning to buy more colors and try some of the other fabrics and styles from CRZ YOGA, might try the XL next time. I have ordered a t-shirt and hoodie already, just wanting for them to arrive.
Overall I would definitely recommend, especially at 1/3 -1/4 of the price of Lulus.