There’s something about slipping on a pair of yoga pants that sends your body a message to work out. They also give you a burst of motivation and set the tone for a healthy lifestyle.
They’re most commonly used for yoga classes, but can also be worn for similar routines like Pilates or barre workouts. Yoga pants have flat seams that cut hindrance and prevent chafing during dynamic movements.
Comfort
Yoga pants are incredibly comfortable and can be worn to many different events. They are also incredibly flexible and are suitable for all types of exercise. They can be worn with a sports bra and t-shirt or tank top for an active look or dressed up with a fitted blazer and a chic blouse.
The fabric is super light and has a nice soft feel to it. They hug the calves comfortably and can be rolled down for alignment based practices or up to the knee for more dynamic movements.
The material is made from a mix of cotton and synthetics and feels luxurious against the skin. However, the combination does make them more prone to pilling than 100% cotton fabrics as the cotton fibers migrate to the surface of the fabric and attach to each other to form pills. The best way to avoid this is by washing them inside out and only with other cotton or synthetic fabrics.
Style
Whether you prefer the sleek look of leggings or the flattering silhouette of flare pants, there is a yoga pant style for everyone. Options include both cotton-synthetic blends and eco-friendly bamboo fabrics. There are also a variety of ways to style these comfortable work clothes to create looks that respect office dress codes.
For example, wearing yoga pants with a long tunic blouse and a super-sleek blazer can make a casual outfit seem more professional. You can even add a long cardigan for extra warmth. The right footwear completes this look and contributes to your comfort. Flats or ankle boots are ideal for most workplace settings. Heels can be worn, but they may not be as comfortable for long periods of time.
When shopping for yoga work pants, be sure to check the fabric for pilling. These are the tiny specks that form on the surface of synthetic and some cotton fabrics as they rub against each other. They can also be caused by excessive washing or the use of harsh detergents. Look for a fabric that has a gusset insert, which helps to prevent pilling by dispersing the pressure point in the crotch seams.
Flexibility
Yoga pants are incredibly flexible, allowing them to be worn in a variety of ways. Pairing them with long tunic blouses or sleek blazers creates an office-appropriate look that is both comfortable and fashion-forward. Adding a pair of knee-high boots elevates the look and adds extra warmth in the colder months.
They are also easy to wear casually, especially when paired with a relaxed top and sneakers. Many styles also include pockets or adjustable waistbands to boost comfort.
Yoga pants can be made of a range of fabrics, including cotton, elastane, spandex, nylon, polyester, and bamboo. Most yoga pants are designed for use with exercise, so the fabric needs to be stretchy, breathable, and sweat-wicking. Some are even odor-resistant to prevent unpleasant body odor after exercising. Many yoga pants are available in bold prints and colors to suit the user’s personality, but these should be used sparingly to avoid distracting others during practice. Some yoga pants are also more transparent than others, although this can be overcome by choosing a darker color or using a tighter fit.
Breathability
If your practice involves long sessions of sun salutations, vinyasas and sweating, look for yoga pants that are lightweight and breathable. For this, you want a pair of leggings with lots of stretch and mesh panels that allow the skin to breathe. For some, this can reduce the risk of yeast infections, jock itch and intertrigo.
Breathable fabrics also help to prevent bacteria buildup, which can lead to odors and irritation. They also dry more quickly than cotton, which helps you stay cool and comfortable.
Among the most breathable options in our tests were a pair of Lululemon Align leggings with mesh panels and a pair of K-Deer yoga pants. Both are crafted of a light and breathable fabric that’s comfortable to wear and durable enough for vigorous workouts. The K-Deer pair also supports independent artists and yogis, and is made from eco-friendly fabric that’s printed, cut and sewn in California. It’s recommended that you wash these with a gentle cycle and in cold water.