Hot yoga, a practice performed in a heated room, is designed to encourage flexibility, detoxification, and relaxation. However, the heat can also lead to excessive sweating, which makes choosing the right attire crucial for comfort and performance. Wearing the wrong outfit can distract you from your practice, make you uncomfortable, and even increase the risk of injury. In this guide, we’ll explore what to wear to hot yoga for women, from tops to bottoms, and everything in between, to ensure you get the most out of your hot yoga sessions.
Why Choosing the Right Outfit Matters in Hot Yoga
In hot yoga, the room is typically heated to temperatures between 90°F (32°C) and 105°F (40°C) with high humidity. This can make the environment challenging to endure, especially if you’re not wearing the right clothing. Clothing that doesn’t absorb sweat or allow your skin to breathe can trap heat and moisture, making you overheat and uncomfortable. The right attire will:
Help manage sweat. The body releases sweat to cool itself down, and if your clothing absorbs or wicks moisture, you’ll feel more comfortable.
Increase your range of motion. Flexible, form-fitting clothes are essential to allow full movement in the poses without restriction.
Prevent slipping. Loose clothing can slip off or move around during poses, while the wrong fabric may cause you to slip on your yoga mat, increasing injury risk.
Boost confidence. Feeling good about your appearance can enhance your mental focus and self-esteem during your practice.
Let’s break down the best attire for hot yoga, starting with tops and moving through the entire outfit.
Tops for Hot Yoga
1. Sports Bras
A high-quality sports bra is essential for hot yoga, as it offers support and comfort while allowing your body to breathe. Since you’ll be sweating a lot, it’s important to choose a bra made from moisture-wicking material like polyester or nylon blends. Avoid cotton, as it tends to trap moisture, which can leave you feeling soggy and uncomfortable.
Look for sports bras with the following features:
Breathability: Ventilation panels or mesh inserts can help release heat.
Support: Depending on your body type, choose a bra with enough support to keep you comfortable during poses.
Adjustable straps: These can help you customize the fit for maximum comfort and security.
Types of Sports Bras to Consider
Low-Impact Bras: If you have a smaller chest, a low-impact bra may suffice for hot yoga.
Medium to High-Impact Bras: These are ideal for women with larger chests who need more support, especially during flowing sequences like Vinyasa.
2. Fitted Tank Tops
A fitted tank top is another excellent option for hot yoga. Loose tops can bunch up, become uncomfortable, or even obstruct your view in certain poses, like downward dog. A snug, breathable tank allows for a full range of motion without any distractions.
Here are some considerations for choosing a tank top:
Moisture-Wicking Fabric: Again, avoid cotton and opt for synthetic fabrics like nylon or spandex blends.
Breathability: Look for mesh panels or cutouts to help keep you cool.
Stretchability: Ensure the tank is stretchy enough to move with your body in all poses without riding up.
3. Crop Tops
For women who are comfortable showing a little more skin, a crop top can be a great option for hot yoga. It allows maximum breathability while keeping you covered. Crop tops come in many styles, including loose-fitting and fitted versions, so choose one that you feel confident and comfortable in.
Bottoms for Hot Yoga
1. Yoga Shorts
Yoga shorts are a popular choice for hot yoga because they keep your legs cool and provide a wide range of motion. The right pair of shorts will stay in place and not roll up during poses. Many hot yoga practitioners prefer high-waisted shorts because they provide extra coverage and don’t shift during inversions or stretches.
When selecting yoga shorts, look for:
High-Waisted Fit: This helps keep the shorts in place and offers extra support for the core.
Moisture-Wicking Fabric: To manage sweat, opt for materials like nylon or polyester with spandex for flexibility.
Snug Fit: Avoid loose shorts, as they may shift or bunch up during your practice.
2. 7/8 or Full-Length Leggings
For women who prefer more coverage or who practice in slightly cooler studios, 7/8 or full-length leggings can also work for hot yoga. The key is to choose leggings that are designed specifically for sweaty workouts. Full-length leggings that are lightweight and breathable can still keep you cool while providing extra protection against mat burns during floor poses.
Here’s what to look for in yoga leggings:
High Waistband: To avoid distractions, opt for leggings that stay in place, especially during dynamic movements.
Breathability and Moisture-Wicking: Look for materials that allow airflow and wick away sweat.
Stretchable Fabric: Ensure the leggings are made from a fabric that stretches with your movements without becoming see-through.
3. Capri-Length Pants
Capri-length pants are a great compromise between shorts and full-length leggings. They offer coverage to the knees but are shorter than full leggings, which helps keep you cool. This style is especially useful for women who prefer a bit more coverage but still want to stay cool in the heated environment.
What to Wear Underneath
1. Moisture-Wicking Underwear
Wearing the right underwear is just as important as your outer layers. Standard cotton underwear can become uncomfortable during hot yoga because it absorbs sweat and stays damp. Instead, opt for moisture-wicking underwear made from synthetic materials designed for athletic activities.
2. No-Show Seamless Underwear
Seamless underwear can prevent the awkward and uncomfortable bunching that regular underwear can cause. Look for no-show, seamless options to avoid visible lines, which can distract from the overall sleek look of your yoga attire.
Accessories for Hot Yoga
1. Non-Slip Yoga Mat
Your yoga mat is just as important as your clothing in hot yoga. Because you’ll be sweating profusely, a non-slip yoga mat is essential to keep you grounded and stable during your practice. Consider using a mat specifically designed for hot yoga or investing in a yoga towel that can be placed on top of your mat to absorb moisture and provide extra grip.
2. Yoga Towel
A yoga towel can be placed on top of your mat to prevent slipping and absorb sweat. Choose a towel that is the same size as your yoga mat and made from quick-drying, absorbent fabric. A yoga towel is a must for hot yoga, as it helps you maintain grip, especially during poses where your hands or feet may sweat.
3. Headbands or Hair Ties
If you have long hair, it’s important to keep it out of your face during hot yoga. Use moisture-wicking headbands or hair ties to keep your hair secure. Avoid bulky hair accessories, which can become uncomfortable when lying down on your back.
Footwear: Barefoot is Best
In hot yoga, you won’t need shoes or socks, as most classes are done barefoot. Being barefoot helps you connect better with the ground, improving balance and stability during poses. Some people may prefer to wear grip socks designed for yoga, but generally, it’s best to go barefoot to allow your feet to breathe and grip the mat naturally.
See also: What is Hot Yoga? A Complete Guide for You
Additional Tips for Dressing for Hot Yoga
1. Avoid Cotton Fabrics
Cotton is not ideal for hot yoga because it absorbs moisture and stays damp, which can make you feel cold once the heat starts to dissipate. Stick with fabrics that are designed to handle sweat, such as polyester, nylon, or spandex blends.
2. Choose Form-Fitting Clothing
Loose clothing can get in the way and become a distraction during your yoga practice. Form-fitting clothes will move with you, making transitions between poses easier and reducing the risk of slipping on your own clothing.
3. Test Your Outfit Before Class
It’s always a good idea to test your outfit at home before heading to class. Try moving through a few yoga poses to make sure your clothing stays in place, doesn’t ride up, and is comfortable in all positions.
4. Pack a Change of Clothes
After hot yoga, you’ll be drenched in sweat, so it’s a good idea to pack a change of clothes. This will help you feel more comfortable after class and prevent you from getting chilly once the heat is gone.
Conclusion
Choosing the right outfit for hot yoga is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable practice. From sports bras and tank tops to shorts and leggings, each piece of clothing should be chosen with breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and flexibility in mind. Accessories like yoga towels and non-slip mats further enhance your experience, helping you stay grounded and focused.
Ultimately, the goal is to feel comfortable and confident in your attire so that you can focus on your practice without distractions. By investing in the right hot yoga gear, you can enhance your performance, avoid discomfort, and enjoy the many benefits that hot yoga has to offer.
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