Yoga requires supple, stretchy moves and the clothes to support them
Teachers at Yoga Mountain Studio, Fairfax, CA / Photo by Robin Jolin, robinjolin.com
“Yoga clothing is really a matter of comfort, a little bit of style, and being form-fitting so the fabric does not bunch or gather, which can restrict movement and even range of motion in a posture,” says Sienna Smith, owner, Yoga Mountain Studio, Fairfax, CA.
When it comes to what to wear when you practice yoga, Smith knows what she likes: “I love soft, stretchy fabric that keeps its shape. I often wear tank tops that have built-in bras as they often are more giving and do not restrict my breathing in any way.” Here are a few of our fall favorites.
Yoga Clothing Product Index
GROUNDING FLATS
The perfect pair of flats to slip on before and after yoga, the Juil Hawa flat, like all Juil shoes, is created around the concept of “earthing” or “grounding.” Copper “dots” in the shoe connect your body with the earth’s energy. Leather is responsibly sourced and vegetable dyed. $115; juil.com
ORGANIC LEGGINGS
Made with 92 percent organic cotton from Turkey (and eight percent spandex), these Yoga Hyde breathable wren leggings keep you comfy—on and off the mat. Ten percent of proceeds go to Farm Sanctuary, a national nonprofit that promotes protecting farm animals from cruelty. $75; yogahyde.com
STRETCHY MODAL TEE
The relaxed be present Striped Modal Jersey Long Sleeve Tee, made from 100 percent micro modal—a lightweight fabric made from sustainably farmed beech wood—is hand-dyed, so that each pretty piece is unique. $45; bepresent.com
COZY RECYCLED HOODY
Slip into this stylish Nau Randygoat Hoody before or after your practice. Merino wool with recycled poly fleece will keep you cozy on a brisk autumn day. We love the details: asymmetrical hem, thumb loops and snap closure over the neck. $150; nau.com
LIGHT WOOL
This body-skimming Icebreaker Spirit Tank with built-in bra is made from New Zealand merino wool. Each item comes with a tag that shows you how the sheep were raised and provides information about the growers who raised them. $89.99; icebreaker.com
SPORTY SUPPORT
The sexy, strappy racer-back Women’s Virgo Bra by Yogiiza is made with organic cotton from Peru and manages to be soft and supportive at the same time. $42; yogiiza.com
TRADITIONAL MATS
These extraordinarily beautiful, sturdy Yogasana mats from India are made with low-impact dyes and cotton and wool; washed with biodegradable soap; dried in the sun and are woven by hand. They provide a superb grip and come with a 15-year guarantee. Yogasana is a founding member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council, a non-profit committed to promoting sustainable manufacturing processes. $95; yogasanamats.com