Even if you’re not into yoga or other physical activities, you have likely noticed the athleisure trend. Yoga pants are a staple of this movement and make a comfortable choice for everyday wear as well.
While tight-fitting clothing is often desirable for working out, it can cause discomfort if it is too restrictive. A few factors to consider when shopping for yoga pants include:
Stretchy Fabric
Stretchy fabrics are critical for yoga pants because they allow the garment to move with your body. They’re usually made from Spandex or a fabric blend with similar qualities.
Cotton spandex blends are soft and let air flow through, so they’re comfortable and breathable. Polyester spandex blends are more rugged and able to soak up sweat, making them perfect for workouts.
Some yoga pants have a wide waistband that sits higher on the waist and offers extra comfort. This is a great feature for women who want to control their tummy and give themselves some extra support.
Other types of yoga pants are tighter and flattering like leggings or skinny jeans. These are popular for people who want to make a fashion statement. They can be made from a variety of fabrics including soft, sometimes brushed materials, and are available in a range of colors. They’re also a good choice for women who have sensitive skin, as they’re less likely to irritate it.
Breathable Fabric
The breathable fabric used in yoga pants allows your skin to move freely, cooling you down and allowing moisture to pass through the material. It also helps prevent sweat build-up, which breeds bacteria and can cause odors, and it promotes faster drying.
Breathable fabrics like polyester, nylon, and spandex are common in yoga pants, and some of the more premium brands may even use cotton blends or organically grown materials such as bamboo for breathability and sustainability. Others may use advanced technologies such as moisture-wicking tech that pulls sweat away from the skin, or anti-odor treatments like silver ions and charcoal to fight bacteria.
Some yoga pants have high waists that roll down to the hip or belly button, and many people choose to keep them rolled down during practice to offer additional support. Other styles are more fitted, and some even feature a foldover waistband that can be worn high or low depending on your preference.
The Right Fit for You
When shopping for yoga pants, look for the right fit. They should hug your leg, from the hip to the ankle, without being too tight. Some yoga pants have waistbands that roll down, allowing you to adjust the height of the band depending on your preference. This feature can be especially helpful for women who are pregnant or who want to wear the yoga pants while running errands.
The fabric you choose is also important. Look for yoga pants made with flat lock seams, which eliminate excess bulk and prevent the formation of areas that may cut into your skin. Some yoga pants also have pockets, which can come in handy whether you’re dashing off to class or just need a place to stash your keys and cell phone.
You can find a wide variety of colors and styles for yoga pants. Some feature mesh insets, bold graphics and fun patterns. Others are made with moisture-wicking materials and are ideal for hot yoga or vinyasa classes.
Absorbent
Yoga is a physical practice that involves a lot of movement and stretching. This means that you may sweat quite a bit during class, which makes it important to choose breathable and moisture-wicking fabric for your yoga pants.
Natural fibers like cotton provide a soft, cozy feel and excellent breathability to keep you cool and dry. They’re a great choice for light yoga sessions or less sweaty workouts.
Polyester is a synthetic material that’s used in lots of activewear, including yoga pants. It has lots of good qualities, such as being quick-drying and having great stretch. It’s also abrasion-resistant and durable, making it perfect for yoga pants.
Many yoga pants are infused with anti-odor technology. This technology uses silver ions or charcoal to fight bacteria, keeping your clothes fresh and smelling clean. This tech is particularly useful for workouts, as it can help to reduce odors that can be caused by sweat.