The Best Yoga Apparel

The best yoga apparel is comfortable and functional. A typical yoga outfit consists of a form fitting tank top and a form fitting pair of yoga pants. Yoga apparel should allow you to move freely without worrying about accidentally exposing yourself due to an ill fitting piece. Also considered the fibers and company policies. By choosing products from fair-trade or organic apparel businesses, you can further immerse yourself in the yogic lifestyle.

Functionality

Yoga apparel needs to be functional and not get in the way of your practice. While an oversized t-shirt may be comfortable, an item that is loose fitting can leave you exposed during an inversion. Most yoga teachers prefer their students to wear form fitting clothing that allows them to see muscles and check alignment. The best yoga pants are ones with a tapered or cropped leg, allowing an easy view of the ankles.

Fair Trade Companies

Choosing apparel made from a fair-trade company aligns with the yogic practice of ahimsa or nonviolence. Fair trade yoga apparel is typically locally made, often from sustainable materials and pricing is negotiated to benefit the local manufacturer. There are many apparel options from companies with existing fair-trade practices.

Organic Fibers

Selecting organic fibers and natural fabrics embodies the spirit of living a yogic lifestyle. Organic fibers can include bamboo, cotton and hemp. These types of fabrics also retain their shape during a yoga workout and wash well, adding to their durability. "It's important to have clothing that fits comfortably, like a second skin but then does breathe. Fabrics such as organic bamboo are wonderful fabrics that wick away moisture and do not leave yoga-goers feeling weighted down, " said Jennifer Smith, owner of Spirit for Living clothing.

Brands

There are options for every budget, body type and personal preference. Major yoga apparel brands include Lucy, Lululemon, Athelta, Champion and Prana. There are also many smaller boutique apparel companies that specialize in sustainable yoga apparel, such as Spirit for Living, a New York based green-fashion and activewear company. Major discount stores such as Walmart and Target have affordable yoga apparel options, as well.