There might be no such thing as the perfect pair of yoga pants since everyone has unique needs and preferences when it comes to selecting activewear.
Bottoms are a particularly specialized type of garment because there are so many different dimensions, proportions, and preferences that must be considered. Even two women with the same size and shape might have completely unique tastes when it comes to leggings.
For that reason, we’re walking you through the top 10 types of yoga pants in today’s article, aiming to give you a wide array of choices as you build up your activewear collection.
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to yoga pants by any means. It’s all about finding the garments that work best for your body, exercise methods, and overall lifestyle.
If you can’t pick just one from the list, that’s okay!
A great workout wardrobe will have a range of different bottoms that you can rotate throughout the week depending on your schedule of activities, both in and out of the gym. Let’s begin.
Key Criteria for Yoga Pants
Before we get into our top-10 list, it’s worth offering some criteria for what really makes a great pair of yoga pants.
The athleisure market has skyrocketed in recent years, meaning there are lots of great products to choose from – as well as some products with questionable quality.
Like any other aspect of your wardrobe, you don’t want to end up shortchanged by buying a cheap or unreliable pair of bottoms that will be ripped in a few short weeks.
Whether you’re in the market for a minimal pair of black short shorts or high-waisted leggings with leopard print and compression technology, keep these features in mind as you’re reading labels in-store and product descriptions online.
Comfort and Fit
It’s time to snap out of the old framework that pants need to be uncomfortable to be attractive. Comfort is truly the most important aspect of yoga pants, and that’s what makes the athleisure trend so great in general – finally, it’s fashionable to be comfy!
Fabric is certainly a key element of comfort, so look for soft, stretchy fabrics made from materials like nylon, spandex, organic cotton, and recycled polyester.
Of course, fit is also a factor. You don’t want those yoga pants to be so tight that you can barely catch your breath during class. On the other hand, pants that are too loose and flowing can end up being inconvenient as well, getting in your way when performing technical poses.
Breathability and Moisture Control
Whether you’re grinding it out on the treadmill or twisting your way through an intense yoga class, exercise can heat up fast. You want your yoga pants to be fully breathable so that you maintain a cool body temperature and stay focused in any situation.
Many activewear fabrics are breathable compared to, say, denim jeans, but only a few also feature moisture-wicking capabilities that actively keep your skin dry.
Some pants will be marketed with terms like “sweat-proof,” while others will simply say “water-resistant.” Find garments that are truly moisture-wicking and test them out if possible.
Performance and Support
It’s important to consider performance when buying yoga pants, especially if you plan to take your workouts to the next level with weights and long-range endurance training.
Some yoga pants are far better suited for hardcore workouts, while others are simply meant for casual wear and athleisure fashion. Learn the difference between performance gear and everyday garments. Construction, compression tech, and price will usually be the main indicators.
The Top 10 Pants Revealed
At last, here’s our top 10 yoga pants picks for 2021.
1. Yoga Tights
Not to be confused with the sheer layer worn under dresses and skirts, yoga tights are the thinnest and least supportive option out there. You may not want to wear these to the gym since they can be rather revealing.
However, if you just want a chill at-home yoga session with nobody watching, you can get away with a pair of yoga tights and enjoy the second-skin feel of these comfy fabrics.
2. Standard Leggings
The most common offering on the market today, standard yoga leggings are the garments you see all over the activewear industry right now.
The materials are soft and breathable, the waistband sits around the hips (or sometimes higher), and there is an infinite range of colors, patterns, and prints.
Standard leggings are the perfect length for doing yoga in a studio, at home, or even in the great outdoors. Make sure you’ve got at least a few pairs in the rotation, and treat them well.
3. Performance Workout Pants
Tougher and more durable than standard leggings, performance workout pants are the best pick for weightlifters, endurance athletes, and those serious about their sport.
From a visual perspective, these pants won’t be readily distinguishable from standard leggings, but there is more compression and possibly some padding in the thighs and butt area.
These pants tend to be pricey, so only pick them up if you’re really focused on athletic performance.
4. Capri-Style Leggings
Not feeling the full-length vibe from standard yoga leggings? Capri-length pants are a great way to get proper coverage on the leg while letting those calves breathe a bit.
These pants are getting more popular thanks to their comfort and versatility, and they also look great with a range of trendy athleisure looks. Very chic!
5. Loose-Fit Pants
Loose-fit yoga pants are trending right now as the weather warms up and more yogis are doing their thing outside in the park or at the beach.
With a bit of flowing fabric and plenty of wiggle room, these are great beginner yoga pants and offer supreme comfort around the house or running errands.
6. Thick Waistband Leggings
We like a thick waistband now and then for some extra support around the middle and a bit of flair to the normal legging look.
Most yoga pants have thin waistbands that might slide up or down during class, but you can be sure that a thicker waistband will stay put and keep you on track.
This is a fast-growing 2021 trend, so get on board!
7. Biker Shorts
When it comes to celebrity athleisure style, biker shorts have never left the spotlight. From yoga class to a post-workout cafe, these yoga shorts will keep you looking fresh and feeling comfortable.
Think of biker shorts as the Capri version of shorts, extending to just above the knee and offering a bit more coverage. It’s a perfect compromise for spring or cooler summer days.
8. Minimal Shorts
The sun is shining, the mat is rolled out, and you want to soak up every drop of sun you can get! Short-shorts are a summer yoga classic and a great way to show off those strong legs you’ve worked so hard for.
Just be careful when performing technical poses like Sirsasana (the headstand) because you might be sweaty and slip. Be smart when you work out no matter what, and don’t forget to bring a towel to wipe away moisture.
9. Utility Leggings
Ever noticed how most yoga leggings lack pockets? That’s not a big deal in most cases, but if you want some extra storage space for a phone, keys, or credit cards, a pair of utility leggings might be just what you’re looking for.
Some pants have deep pockets; others have more shallow pockets with zippers to lock in your belongings. It’s not a bad idea to invest in a pair of these utility pants if you like to be out and about.
10. Maternity Leggings
For all the soon-to-be moms out there, yoga is a great way to stay healthy and happy during pregnancy. Specially designed maternity leggings are built with the bump in mind, so you can enjoy the experience comfortably and get the most out of each class.
Most popular brands offer maternity leggings with quality materials and some extra compression effects to keep that blood flow strong.
Assemble the Best Yoga Pants Wardrobe
We’ve given you ten amazing options for yoga pants in 2021, each one with a unique set of advantages that will help you enjoy achieving your goals.
With this list in hand, you can hit the shops and start trying on various fits and brands. You can also browse the web and find some great deals online.
Alternatively, if you want to streamline the process and have a stylist select the best yoga pants for you, sign up for a yoga clothing subscription box, and put the whole thing on autopilot.
A subscription service will save you time, hassle, and yes, even some money on top brands!
In Conclusion
Yoga pants are here to stay, so start building up your collection and enjoy the fitness journey.
Sources:
Capri Pants - Fashion trend of 2020 | High Heels Society
The Maternity Clothing Debate: To Buy or Not to Buy | Parents
