The Best Yoga Pants for Your Workout
Yoga is a great technique to move your body while also focusing on breathing. If you are looking for the perfect pants to accompany your practice, we can help you choose the best yoga pants. We will help you select the best leggings based on versatility, stretch fabric, fit, and comfort.
Yoga is a workout that is more than just stretches. It can be a great workout for recovering, being flexible, and coordinating. Many studies have shown that it can help people transform their health and fitness levels. If you are a regular yoga practitioner, you know that your clothes make a difference in your practice. And if you are not, we have put together this guide to help you.
Top Picks: The Best Yoga Pants for Your Workout
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Best Overall Yoga Leggings for Women
1. Girlfriend Collective
The Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-rise 28.5 in Legging are the perfect yoga pants for many yogis. They come in fun, bright colors, and the material is flexible and thin but provides 100% coverage. Furthermore, because they are manufactured from recycled water bottles, you can feel good about purchasing them.
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2. PATAGONIA
Patagonia’s Lightweight Pack Out Crops tights are perfect for intense yoga classes. The buttery soft, stretchy, and moisture-wicking fabric with HeiQ® Fresh durable odor controls hugs your body in all the right places. The wide waistband is flattering and helps the tights stay put while doing dynamic yoga poses. Customers have noted that these are great tights for this purpose.
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3. PRANA
Looking for a versatile pair of yoga pants? The PrAna Electa Legging can do it all. These leggings are ideal for running, working out, or lounging around the house. The UPF 50+ protects your skin from the sun, the wide waistband keeps them in place, and the triangle Coolmax® gusset makes them extra comfortable. The silky, durable fabric makes them feel great on your skin.
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4. ALO YOGA
Suppose you are a woman looking for compression tights to help your yoga recovery. In that case, the Alo Yoga High-Waist Airbrush Legging is a great choice. The stretchable material will move with you from Downward Dog to the Pigeon pose. The tighter fit will help increase circulation, ideal for recovery or long travel days.
No seams mean you won’t have to worry about any strain or dampness during alternate flows. And antimicrobial technology keeps you fresh for all of your Hot Yoga sessions.
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5. VUORI
Vuori’s Daily Legging is a great choice for people who want a stylish look. The drawstring tie and high waist leggings make it look good, and the cuffed ankles and ⅞ length are also nice features. The secure-fit waistband is perfect for people who do dynamic types of yoga, like Vinyasa or Hatha.
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Best Overall Yoga Pants for Men
1. PATAGONIA – Terrebonne Joggers
The Terrebonne Joggers from Patagonia are a popular jogger choice for many because of their mobility. The articulated knees make it easy to move from one pose to another. These pants are Fair Trade Certified, which means that the people who made them were treated fairly. We think they are simply great.
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2. VUORI – Ripstop Climber Pants
The Vuori yoga pants have a gusset that allows for a wider range of motion, perfect for deep stretching. The cotton ripstop fabric is durable and lasts.
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3. ADIDAS – Response Own the Run Long Tights
These three stripes pants will keep you comfortable whether you’re in the studio, on the track, or at home. The Aeroready fabric absorbs moisture quickly, so you don’t get too sweaty. And there’s a sweat guard pocket to keep your valuables safe.
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Buying Guide
You need the right yoga clothing to do yoga. What seems simple at first – yoga clothing – can have hidden dangers. Clothes can have a positive or negative impact on your performance. The type of yoga pants you choose depends on the kind of yoga you like to practice.
Different yoga styles require different types of clothing. For example, Ashtanga yoga requires tight-fitting pants to support the body during intense sweating and movement. Yin yoga practitioners might prefer looser-fitting pants for more relaxed postures.
1. Stretch Fabrics
Flexible materials that don’t smell are the best for yoga. The material should be thin and lightweight so you can move easily through poses. Many of the best yoga pants in Canada are made from spandex and nylon, which stretch better. Some eco-friendly materials are also made from bamboo or recycled plastics.
2. Breathability
If you usually sweat a lot when you work out, look for materials that will help keep you dry. Synthetic fabrics like spandex dry quickly and allow your skin to breathe better. Try to avoid fabrics that absorb moisture, such as cotton.
3. Comfort
It’s best to avoid pants with straps, clips, and bows. They can look great, but they might not be very comfortable. You want pants that will move easily with you while doing poses like Warrior II and Upward Dog. Many women also prefer high waist yoga pants because they fit more securely.
4. Fit
There are different types of yoga pants, and the fit of the pants depends on the type of yoga. Tight-fitting long pants are good for dynamic yoga, such as Vinyasa or Ashtanga. More loose-fitting pants can be better for slower practices like Yin or Hatha yoga.
You don’t want yoga pants that are so tight they’re uncomfortable. Because you’ll have to adjust them constantly, you don’t want them to be too loose. For faster flows, it’s best to wear form-fitting yoga pants.
5. Versatility
Most yoga pants are versatile, so you’ll get more use.
10 Best Yoga Pants, According to Instructors
1. Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II Tights
“I love that these are high-rise, incredibly soft, and don’t have a ton of seams. Which helps me feel free to move in any direction,” explains Sara Clark, a yoga and mindfulness teacher based in New York. She loves that they have side pockets, perfect for stashing essentials during classes or runs.
2. Outdoor Voices Core 3/4 Leggings
Take a lot of hot yoga classes? Look no further than yoga instructor Ally Denton’s pick. “They stay in place through every pose and don’t weigh you down during super-sweaty hot-yoga classes. I love the high-waist fit, and the length hits perfectly—just above the ankle—for taller yogis like me.” And they last too. “After dozens of washes, they’ve maintained their stretch and shape—overall, great quality and durability for the price.”
3. Lululemon Align High-Rise Pants 28.”
These pants are “the total package,” according to Jen Carlin, a teaching manager at Humming Puppy in New York City. “I wear them everywhere because I love the fabric; it feels super soft against your skin while still being lightweight and breathable for any activity.” Just ensure you don’t wash them too often or put them in the dryer, she warns, since that could wear out this pair’s four-way stretch elastane.
4. Superfit Hero Super hold Pocket Capris
“I love my Superfit Hero Super hold tights for outdoor practice—they are sturdy and compressive without being too tight. Their pockets are deep and useful,” raves Orange County, California–based yoga and meditation instructor Jessica Rihal. “They hold up to being snagged in a more rugged environment, and I can go from hiking and climbing to practicing in the same tights.” Plus, they’re available in an extensive range of sizes, from large to 7XL.
5. Live the Process Tuxedo Leggings
Sky Ting yoga teacher Selena Maisonpierre adores Live the Process tights, especially the brand’s best-selling Tuxedo pair. “Its leggings fit so well, and the fabric is flexible for all kinds of movement—from teaching a yoga class to my practice to Pilates to dance,” she says. “Its designs and shapes are chic enough to throw on a pair of flats for running around town without feeling like I’m in activewear. I wouldn’t say I like patterns, pockets, mesh, or any unnecessary decorations regarding yoga pants. The Tuxedo legging has a tasteful seam up the back—a little nod to detail, but still modern and très chic.”
6. Lululemon Align High-Rise Pants 25.”
Yoga instructor and personal trainer Jillian McAfee is “obsessed” with these iconic Lululemon leggings. “Though they are specifically made for yoga, I find myself wearing them almost daily,” she says. “You can barely feel them suctioned to your body.” They’re also great if you’re on the shorter side: “The 25-inch inseam works perfectly for me, being the short human I am.”
7. Athleta Elation 7/8 Tights
There’s a long list of reasons to love these high-waist yoga pants, according to Rihal: “The fabric is smooth to the touch and very moisture-wicking. It moves with me and barely shifts; plus, the pockets are big enough to keep my phone out of the way.” And the fact that they’re available in petite, regular, tall, and sizes means that pretty much anyone can enjoy them.
8. Carbon38 High-Rise Full-Length Leggings
Jessie Levine, a dancer, choreographer, and yoga instructor, worries about the same thing we all do: see-through pants. But she says this lustrous, squat-proof pair from Carbon38 is opaque—and doesn’t slink down, either. “I like them because they are both sexy and functional,” she says. “They are supportive and sleek, making me feel powerful and graceful in my yoga practice.”
9. Beyond Yoga Spacedye Out of Pocket Leggings
Suppose you’re looking for comfort that doesn’t compromise on function. In that case, you’ll love these comfy leggings recommended by Sabrina Washington, a CorePower Yoga instructor. “They have pockets that fit my phone—so useful for when I walk my dog,” she says. “And they are incredibly soft, to the point where it feels like I’m not wearing anything. The pattern is also great for hiding sweat in certain places.”
10. Alo 7/8 High-Waist Checkpoint Leggings
Florida-based yoga teacher and photographer Naya Rappaport says she gravitates to these drawstring-waist leggings. From perennial favorite Alo Yoga because of how “versatile, stylish, and soft” they are. “The drawcords accentuate my curves, and the deep side pockets are a dream come true,” she raves. Who needs sweatpants or joggers when you have these?
Additional Best Yoga Pants for Women
1. Elation from Athleta Sculpting tights
They are made of a buttery-soft fabric and sculpting design. Athleta’s Ultra High Rise Elation Tight provides support, comfort, and style, so we chose it as our top pick. They transition perfectly from the yoga studio to the street. Thanks to the moisture-wicking fabric, you don’t have to worry about discomfort. Crafted with the brand’s signature Powervita material, these leggings are designed for breathability. They also have a high-rise waistband that doesn’t roll down when you move around.
Material: Nylon, elastane | Length: 25, 27, and 30 inches | Rise: High | Sizes: XXS-3XL | Pockets: Yes, on waistband
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2. Best Budget: BALEAF High Waist Yoga Leggings
The BALEAF Women’s High-Waisted Yoga Pants are affordable, comfortable, and flattering. They’re perfect for workouts or running errands around town, featuring a high-waist design that doesn’t slip down.
They have smartphone-sized pockets to hold all your essentials and are crafted with moisture-wicking, breathable fabric to keep you cool all day. The compressive design also makes them sculpting and practical.
Material: Nylon, spandex | Length: 25 and 28 inches | Rise: High | Sizes: S-XL | Pockets: Yes – Two on the sides, one on the waistband.
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3. Best Cropped: Beyond Yoga Spacedye Walk And Talk High Waisted Capri
For ultimate comfort and style on warmer days, grab a pair of the Beyond Yoga Spacedye Walk And Talk High Waisted Capri leggings. The incredibly soft yet sturdy, moisture-wicking fabric with minimal seams gives them enough structure to hold you in.
The five-inch wide waistband keeps these pants in place in downward dog and while you’re out and about. Four-way stretch material is designed to move with you, so you don’t have to worry about adjusting them mid-pose.
Material: Polyester, lycra | Length: 21 inches | Rise: High | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Pockets: No
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4. Best Maternity: Lorna Jane Maternity Ankle Biter Leggings
Whether you’re rocking a new bump, far into pregnancy, or you’re newly postpartum, the Lorna jane Ankle Biter Leggings provide the support and comfort you need. They’re made with the brand’s eight-way stretch Bare Minimum material that provides the compression comfort you want for a growing belly.
The moisture-wicking fabric makes them perfect for workouts or just wearing around town (you know, to keep you dry with that extra pregnancy glow.)
Material: Nylon, elastane | Length: 22.8 to 26 inches | Rise: High | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Pockets: No
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5. Best Sustainable: prAna Becksa 7/8 Legging
PrAna is a pioneer in sustainably made clothing, so it’s no surprise they offer high-quality eco-friendly yoga pants. Made with recycled polyester blend with highly elastic compression, they won’t lose their shape with multiple wears. The double-leg pocket can fit your phone, keys, and more, making these perfect for going from your mat to brunch without carrying a purse.
The narrow ribbed leg design and several color options make this ultra-comfortable legging stand out among the crowded yoga pants market for fit and arrangement.
Material: Recycled polyester blend | Length: Varies | Rise: High | Sizes: XS-XL | Pockets: Yes, on sides
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6. Best Plus Size: Girlfriend Collective FLOAT High-Rise Legging
For a barely-there feel that still offers coverage and support, put on a pair of Girlfriend Collective’s Float High Rise Leggings. These lightweight, quick-drying pants are equally perfect for a workout or lounging. But unlike some light leggings, they’re sheer-proof—meaning the person behind you in class won’t see through them.
The Fern FLOAT seamless leggings include sizes to fit every body type. They’re also crafted with 90 percent recycled plastic bottles making them both comfortable and eco-friendly.
Material: Recycled plastic bottles, spandex | Length: 23.75 and 28.5 inches | Rise: High | Sizes: XS-6XL | Pockets: Yes, on waistband
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7. Best for Hot Yoga: K-DEER Legging
Long inseam with only one length
If you love bold colors and designs, slip into one of the many K-Deer leggings for your next class. They’re made with a single layer of moisture-wicking fabric, making them cool and breathable—a necessity for hot yoga. The high waist and flat front seam make them as flattering as comfortable, meaning you can count on them staying in place while you sweat.
They’re made with a four-way stretch material that moves with you without bunching or rolling down. And when you purchase any of the signature stripe leggings, 5 percent of the sale goes to one of the several charity organizations that K-Deer supports.
Material: Spandex, nylon | Length: 29 inches | Rise: High | Sizes: XS-4XL | Pockets: No
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8. Best for Lounging: Lululemon Align Pant
With fabric so soft and light that it feels like you’re barely wearing pants, the Lululemon Align Pant is perfect for all-day lounging. While comfortable, they’re also great for running to the store or meeting someone out for coffee.
Made with the brand’s signature buttery-soft Nulu fabric, they’re light and sweat-wicking, not restrictive, and hold their shape incredibly well. So well that many women wear these pants throughout their pregnancy, and then the condition returns postpartum.
Material: Nylon, polyester, lycra elastane | Length: 25, 28, and 31 inches | Rise: High | Sizes: 0 to 20 | Pockets: Yes, on waistband
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9. Best with Pockets: Athleta Salutation Stash II Tight
The Athleta Salutation Stash II Tight provides the perfect mix of soft, lightweight fabric with sculpting features that ensure they’re both comfortable and flattering. The quick-drying, breathable material makes them great for sweating, but you can also wear them around town. They also feature smartphone-sized pockets that lay flat against your skin.
Unlike many other yoga pants, they are machine washable and dryer-friendly. They can be laundered with the rest of your clothes.
Material: Nylon, lycra | Length: 25, 27, and 30 inches | Rise: High | Sizes: XXS-3XL | Pockets: Yes, on sides
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10. Best Flare Pants: Alo Airbrush High Waist Flutter Legging
If the slim-leg design isn’t your thing, slip on a pair of the Alo Airbrush High Waist Flutter Leggings for a flattering and more relaxed fit. They feature a forward flare with a slit in the front, so you don’t end up with that substantial bell-bottom look while still benefiting from a flared leg. The signature Airbrush fabric sculpts and smoothes while remaining extremely comfortable.
They run long, so shorter women may need to get them hemmed, but they also pair well with a platform sneaker for a fashion-forward look.
Material: Sculpting signature Airbrush | Length: 32.25 and 32.75 inches | Rise: Mid to high | Sizes: XXS-L | Pockets: No
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What to Look for When Buying Yoga Pants
Material
There are several things to consider regarding material, including wicking capabilities, breathability, opacity, and type of stretch. Breathable pants that wick sweat not only limits sweat lines (especially on lighter colored pants) but also reduce the chance of bacteria buildup.
“Four-way stretch is key. Mandy Enright, MS, RDN, RYT, a certified yoga coach and founder of The Food+Movement Dietitian coaching service, says, “You want your yoga pants to stay in place and move and stretch. With you during class.”Suppose you’re constantly focused on adjusting your pants. In that case, you can lose out on some of the benefits of decompressing during yoga.
Fit and Rise
Most yoga pants are high-rise, so you don’t have to worry about adjusting them as you move through your practice. “There’s nothing worse than being self-conscious about your pants shifting around during class,” says Enright. However, you’ll want to find a rise and waistband that is comfortable for you.
Amount of Compression
While you may love that sucked-in smoothed-out look, too much compression can restrict movement in a yoga class, where your body wants to be able to move freely. Also, waistbands that reduce too much may dig into your waist and make you uncomfortable in certain poses. That said, a little compression does often help pants stay in place, so look for the right balance.
Length
“Length is a personal preference,” says Enright. While you don’t want pants that are too long and getting in your way, “some people prefer capris or ankle length, while others may like something slightly longer,” adds Enright.
Bottom Style
While bottom style is up to personal preference, there are some expert recommendations to keep in mind. “I don’t recommend loose bottoms when practicing yoga. Loose bottoms can become a hazard to trip or have your opposite leg caught up in the loose fabric. Plus, I find it uncomfortable if my pants constantly slide around, especially if I’m doing inversions or raising my legs into the air,” says Enright.
Learn more: How to choose the best yoga pants: Benefits, risks, and more
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Yoga Pants
Leggings and yoga pants are distinguished because yoga pants are constructed of tough sports fabric. In contrast, leggings are made of soft material meant for everyday use. Yoga pants also come in many cuts and styles like Capri length yoga pants, whereas leggings always have a skintight shape. Yoga pants also tend to be more expensive than leggings.
Pants made from cotton, Lycra spandex, nylon, polyester, wool, or similar light and stretchy synthetic material provide flexibility and comfort by wicking moisture away from the body. They help keep the wearer cool and comfortable. The pants may have a soft, smooth finish.
The brand’s fastest-drying Everlux fabric is used in these sweat-wicking and supportive leggings. The fabric is made with four-way stretch, which feels cool and sleek on your skin. There are 18 different colors to choose from, and the leggings come in sizes up to 20. They are available in lengths from 25 to 31 inches long.
The pants are made of a special fabric found in most of Lululemon’s performance wear products. The fabric, called luon, is 86 percent nylon and 14 percent Lycra. This fabric is important to Lululemon and is part of what makes their products so special.
High-waisted yoga pants make your legs look longer and skinnier. People like this trend because it is flattering and functional. Fitness blogger Melissa Eckman likes these pants because they are comfortable and help her do well in yoga class.
