It’s true; you can do yoga in pretty much anything (or nothing if you’re that way inclined). However, when you’re sweating through a rigorous Ashtanga class or deep stretching in relaxing yin, the correct yoga pants will help you deep dive in your practise without distraction.
Yoga pants, or yoga leggings, are an essential companion for your time on the mat. Comfortable, breathable, and stretchy, you’ll be able to worry less about what you’re wearing and be more present in your practise, so you can focus on your balances. When buying yoga pants, you’ll want to think about these key components:
Stretch
Numero uno for any self-respecting yoga pants, stretch properties are a must for your asana practise. Whether you’re into slow, deep stretches, or moving through quick, hot sun salutations, having stretch will help you move comfortably into poses and not be a hindrance when you want to push yourself. Look for 4-way stretch fabrics that give you the greatest freedom-of-movement and won’t go see-through as you move, so you can wide leg forward fold with ease.
Comfort
We know, we know, your yoga pants aren’t just for yoga. Doubling up as your WFH outfit, running errands gear and sofa monging attire is totally acceptable. Afterall, when you get the right yoga pants that feel that good – you’ll never want to take them off!
Finding a fit that works for your body is paramount when you’re stretching and contorting to all kinds of shapes. You’ll want something that is tight without compressing your legs or torso too heavily. Plus, as you tune into your body, you’ll want to forget about anything that isn’t your breath, so itchy labels and seams, and ill-fitting waist bands are a straight up no. Seamless constructions, soft fabrics and of course, stretch, are all important factors to consider here.
Breathability
Whether you’re sweating a little or a lot will depend on the type of yoga you’re doing. Most yoga pants will include an element of sweat wicking to ensure that they breathe with you, however hard you’re working. Some pants also feature mesh panels for additional airflow to critical areas such as behind your knees. Using breathable fabrics will increase your comfort through any class, no matter the discipline.
Fit
Making sure you have a tight but comfortable fit will minimise rubbing and allow you to focus on your body position without worrying about your yoga pants slipping down. Having a wide waistband that comes up high on your hips and sits comfortably against your skin will ensure they stay put as you move. We recommend using sizing guides, reading reviews and trying a few sizes/brands to find the fit that’s right for you.
Itchy labels? Ill-fitting waistbands? Forget em! Here’s our top 5 yoga pants for 2021:
Onzie Sweetheart Midi Womens Active Leggings
Onzie’s activewear range is constructed with performance based Free-Flow Fabric technology for serious sweat situations (hello, hot yoga). Their Sweetheart Midi Legging will be your new go-to legging with a flattering high waistband and ribbed texture for ongoing comfort through activity. They are also designed with a wider panel waistband and slight compression to support you in all the right places!
Roxy Myself In The Sea Technical Womens Active Leggings
With a fantastic fit and cool, ¾ leg design, Roxy is an ongoing favourite of ours. Constructed with high-performance VITA Xtra Life™ Lycra®, these leggings are ultra-soft, recycled stretch fabric with UV, chlorine and sun-cream resistant properties, and made for activity in various environments. Using ROXY DryFlight® Technology, they’re perfect for sweat wicking on land, and quick drying out of the water.
Moonchild Yoga Wear Printed Womens Active Leggings
Moonchild is an eco-friendly yoga brand designed to empower, inspire and connect women. Dedicated to uplifting and supporting women across the globe, they also work closely with Women’s International. Their yoga leggings use OEKO-TEX Certified Italian fabrics and balanced center seams to create total freedom and comfort through every stretch and movement. Plus thin, second-skin fabric is exceptionally breathable and quick-drying for meditative practices and intensive hot yoga.
Girlfriend Collective Compressive High Rise 7/8 Womens Active Leggings
The legging that started it all. An extra high-rise with four-way stretch and compressive fabric made from recycled water bottles — basically everything you need to get through your favourite yoga class. Plus Girlfriend Collective believes good things come to those who don’t waste, and in taking care of the only planet we’ve got, as well as it’s people. All Girlfriend Collective pieces are cut and sewn in factories that guarantee fair and livable wages, a safe and healthy workplace, and no forced or child labour.
Planet Warrior Palm Recycled Plastic Womens Active Leggings
Planet Warrior strives to protect our planet and beaches by using 50 plastic bottles in every product. The luxury British brand ensures every element of the business is super sustainable, right down to the packaging and offsetting their carbon footprint. These flattering high-waist leggings are constructed with lightweight, flexible material. Super luxurious soft fabric is blended with spandex for maximum comfort through all kinds of movement.
