We’ll admit it, that title sounds a bit like a Buzzfeed Quiz, but we promise that by the time you get to the end of this post, you’ll know what to look for in Yoga pants. Why? Because there is is nothing more annoying than constantly having to fiddle with your pants while you are trying to really get into the flow of things in a Yoga class.
Yoga pants might not seem like a big deal, but wearing the wrong kind could spell disaster for you and your Yoga practice. They come in all styles, from form-fitting tights to looser, baggy pants and everything in between.
The main considerations when looking for your perfect pair are comfort and material. Making sure that your Yoga pants are non-restrictive, breathable and absorb moisture will make a massive difference during your next Downward Dog.
Form-fitting leggings, compression tights or shapewear look cute, and are the go-to choice for many new Yogis. The trick is finding the pair that is comfortable and breathable (and cute), so don’t be afraid to try on a few pairs before you decide on your purchase.
When it comes to Yoga, comfort and movement are your new BFFs, so test-drive them before you buy them. Bend your knees, squat, do whatever you can in the limited space of a changing room to get a feel for how you’ll feel in them during your Yoga class. No one can see you anyway so you may as well use the small space in there as best you can.
If you prefer something a little looser, there are options for you too! The same rules apply when looking for a great pair of pants, make sure they’re breathable, comfortable and move with your body. Nothing will ruin your Warrior Pose quite like worrying about what’s showing.
When putting your Yoga pants to the test, ask yourself:
🧘♀️Do the pants slip down (or ride up) constantly?
🧘♀️Will you be spending more time worrying about the bits of skin others will see than you are engaged in your practise?
🧘♀️Are they see-through (only an issue if this wasn’t quite what you were going for)?
🧘♀️Do they bunch up in all kinds of weird places?
🧘♀️Do they limit any movement?
🧘♀️Do you feel amazing in them?
If the answer to the first 5 is yes, ditch ’em. Or try one size bigger than you would normally wear. If the answer to 6 is yes, buy a pair in every colour.
At the end of the day you know your body, you know how hot you get and how much you sweat and what’s most comfortable for you. Don’t jump at a purchase until you’re convinced that they are the right pair for you.
See you on the mat. 🙏
📷Photos by Wesley Tingey and Klara Kulikova on Unsplash