What is the Best Thing to Wear to Hot Yoga?

Hot yoga, practiced in rooms heated to 40°C (104°F), demands specialized clothing that balances breathability, moisture control, and flexibility. Choosing the right sportswear directly impacts your performance, comfort, and safety during this intense practice. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make informed choices.

1. Key Features of Hot Yoga Apparel

1.1 Moisture-Wicking and Breathable Fabrics

Hot yoga involves profuse sweating, so prioritize synthetic blends like polyester, nylon, or bamboo fiber, which wick sweat away and dry quickly. Avoid pure cotton, as it retains moisture and becomes heavy. For example:

• Polyester blends (e.g., Lululemon’s Luxtreme) offer 4-way stretch and odor resistance.
• Bamboo fiber is naturally antibacterial and eco-friendly.

1.2 Seamless and Minimalist Design

Avoid bulky seams, zippers, or decorative elements that chafe during poses like Downward Dog or inversions. Opt for flatlock stitching and tagless labels to minimize irritation.

1.3 High-Waisted and Snug-Fit Bottoms

High-rise yoga pants (7–9 inch waistbands) stay in place during bends and twists. Look for compressive fabrics that support muscles without restricting movement. Popular styles include:

• Align Pant (Lululemon): Buttery-soft Nulu fabric for unrestricted movement.
• Under Armour HeatGear: Lightweight and sweat-resistant.

2. Top Clothing Choices for Hot Yoga

2.1 Women’s Outfit Recommendations

• Tops: Racerback tanks or cropped shirts with built-in bras (e.g., Lululemon Energy Bra) provide ventilation and support.
• Bottoms: 7/8 leggings or shorts with mesh panels (e.g., Athleta Salutation Stash) enhance airflow.

2.2 Men’s Outfit Recommendations

• Tops: Sleeveless compression shirts (e.g., Nike Dri-FIT) reduce sweat buildup.
• Bottoms: Elastic-waist shorts with liners (e.g., Vuori Kore) prevent chafing.

2.3 Avoid These Styles

• Low-Rise Pants: Risk of slipping during poses.
• Loose-Fit Tops: May obstruct vision in inversions.
• Pure Cotton: Traps moisture and causes discomfort.

3. Top Brands for Hot Yoga sportswear

4. Accessories to Enhance Your Practice

• Yoga Towels: Place a non-slip microfiber towel (e.g., Manduka Yogitoes) over your mat to absorb sweat.
• Hydration Gear: Insulated water bottles (e.g., Hydro Flask) keep water cool for 24+ hours.

5. Post-Practice Care Tips

• Immediate Wash: Rinse sweaty clothes in cold water to prevent odor buildup.
• Avoid Fabric Softeners: They reduce moisture-wicking efficiency.

[External Links Recommendation]

Post-hot yoga skincare and recovery tips

Choosing sweat-resistant fabrics for hot yoga

How to select high-waisted yoga pants