What’s the difference between yoga pants and leggings?

It may seem like yoga pants and leggings are two names for the same thing—and it’s true that, often, you can knock out downward dogs and pigeon poses just fine in either article of clothing. However, there are some subtle differences between the two. Yoga pants are typically made of thicker fabric than leggings so that they don’t tear or become transparent as you stretch. Leggings, on the other hand, are made with thinner material usually intended for wear underneath a long top, dress, or even pants. Yoga pants often also come with moisture-wicking properties to better handle sweat.

How do I style yoga pants?

These days, there’s no shame in wearing your yoga pants outside the gym. A full athleisure outfit, complete with yoga pants on bottom and a spandex tank on top has become a fashion statement in itself. Crop tops, cotton tees, and longer boho-style tunics also work well in combination with yoga pants.

What is the best underwear for yoga pants?

No one wants to be pulling and tugging at bunched-up undies during the serenity of a yin pose. If you’re comfortable with thong underwear, it can eliminate these common woes. Seamless briefs are another good choice for no-show coverage. You can even try moisture-wicking underwear made specifically for exercise Ultimately, though, the best skivvies beneath your yoga pants are whichever ones will make you comfortable (and will stay put while you work your way through your asanas).

What are the benefits of yoga pants?

You could certainly try yoga in jeans or slacks, but you probably won’t enjoy it nearly as much as when you are outfitted in the right pants. Not only do yoga pants allow your body to move freely, their tighter fit won’t ride up, and many have quick-drying fabric that wicks away sweat.

What are the best materials for yoga pants?

Assuming your primary purpose for purchasing yoga pants is to do yoga, you’ll want to choose a material that stretches with you. Polyester, Lycra, nylon, spandex, rayon, or a blend all have plenty of give. Or, if sustainability is a top consideration, invest in yoga pants made of bamboo or merino wool. Cotton yoga pants, though breathable, can retain moisture, making you feel extra sweaty.

How do I wash yoga pants?

It’s possible to wash most yoga pants with other clothing, but their synthetic fabrics do best when washed only with other synthetics. Turn the pants inside out and place them in the washer on a cold setting with minimal detergent. Then set your washer to a gentle cycle. Air drying is usually recommended—and, since many fabrics are naturally quick-drying, shouldn’t take very long.

The 10 Best Yoga Pants Alternatives to Lululemon of 2021

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Even some of the most dedicated fans of yoga apparel giant Lululemon have multiple reasons to want to diversify their workout wardrobes. While the company was at the forefront of establishing the "athleisure" style that is so common today, you may want to branch out and find other companies that suit your style, yoga practice, and budget better.

The marketplace has exploded with options for great-looking, functional yoga clothes. Take a look at a few brands that are widely available in the U.S. Also, check out local yoga studio boutiques for more unique options. Or if you're just over the whole thing, try your asanas with no pants at all. Whatever gets you on the mat.

Here are the 10 best yoga pants from retailers other than Lululemon.

Athleta

Athleta, which has been owned by The Gap since 2008, specializes in clothing for active women. If you're looking for a basic legging or bootcut pant, there are plenty to choose from here. The range of sizes is kind of amazing, too. Some styles come in regular, tall, petite, and plus-size up to 3X. With stand-alone stores in more than 43 U.S. states, you can try before you buy, though the size selection in-store is more limited.

Lolë

MILE END ANKLE HIGH WAIST LEGGING — Courtesy of Lolë
https://www.lolelife.com/products/mile-end-ankle-high-waist-lsw3279?variant=29951247581281

Canadian women's active-wear company Lolë has an eco-conscious line. Many of the items in the eco-conscious line have an Oeko-Tex certification, meaning the item is guaranteed to be made with materials that are safe for your skin and the environment. The designs are cute and colorful and easily double as street clothing.

Sweaty Betty

Super Sculpt Soft High Waisted 7/8 Yoga Leggings — Courtesy of Sweaty Beaty
https://www.sweatybetty.com/us/shop/bottoms/leggings/super-sculpt-soft-high-waisted-7-8-yoga-leggings-SB5187_RustCamo.html

Sweaty Betty is a very popular brand across the pond in the U.K. that is making greater gains in the U.S. marketplace. There are some great designs for yoga that take things beyond the ubiquitous legging, though those are on offer as well. Some pants come in two lengths to accommodate yoginis of various heights.

Prana

Prana has been making clothing for yoga since 1992 and is still turning out well-cut pants and hippy-trippy tops as well as a full range of jackets, pants, skirts, and more. You could get your whole wardrobe here if you wanted to.

Old Navy

Old Navy is a great place to find your yoga pants on a budget. Cute, functional basics are the name of the game here. Through the online plus store, you can also buy workout wear up to a size 4X or in petite sizes.

Hardtail

HIGH RISE ANKLE LEGGING — Courtesy of Hard Tail Forever
http://www.hardtailforever.com/store/high-rise-ankle-legging-18.html

Take it back to the original booty hugging pants with Hardtail. You can buy online or find the brand at Nordstrom stores and in many yoga studio boutiques. Hardtail is known for vibrant colors, tie-dye patterns, and fold-over waistbands.

Lucy

WOMEN'S EVERYDAY HIGH-RISE PANTS — Courtesy of The North Face
https://www.thenorthface.com/shop/womens-everyday-high-rise-pants-nf0a3lmu

Among the many offerings at Lucy is a true gem: high-waisted yoga pants. Look for the Perfect Core line that can help you look and feel confident in class.

KiraGrace

Slashed 7/8 Yoga Legging (Brandy) — Courtesy of Kira Grace
https://www.kiragrace.com/slashed-7-8-yoga-legging-brandy/

KiraGrace is doing some creative, fun things with basic leggings, like adding cut-outs, ruching, mesh, and bright colors. The brand also offers a bunch of strappy tanks.

Zobha

Molly Pocket Legging — Courtesy of Zobha

Zobha began as a yoga-focused line emphasizing quality and premium design. You can find it at Neiman Marcus as well as yoga studios and online.

Beyond Yoga

Spacedye Take Me Higher Long Legging — Courtesy of Beyond Yoga
https://www.beyondyoga.com/salt-and-pepper-take-me-higher-legging.html

Beyond Yoga has a body-positive philosophy and a reputation for great-fitting, high-quality pants. They also offer maternity styles online.

What to Look for When Buying Yoga Pants

Length

Yoga pants come in multiple lengths, from above the knee to at the ankle. Your perfect length will depend on a variety of factors: the type of athletic activity you plan to use them for, the temperature you’ll be exercising in (colder temps call for more coverage) and which length you feel is most flattering for your body type.

Durability

If you get on your mat on a regular basis, you’ll want a pair of yoga pants that can hold up to frequent use. Fabrics like nylon, polyester, and cotton are known for their durability, while bamboo, rayon, and spandex don’t tend to hold up as well to repeat wearing and washing.

Waist Support

A high-waisted yoga pant can create a streamlined look, but some people find that too much waist support can be restrictive or uncomfortable while practicing yoga. If you’re able to try on pants in person before purchasing, use the dressing room as a mini yoga studio by stretching as much as space allows. This should give you a sense of your target waist support level.

Design

Planning on wearing your yoga pants outside of an at-home exercise session? Best to choose something you’ll feel good in on the go—and can easily wear with a variety of tops. Pants with loud patterns may be hard to style, while classic colors will go with just about anything. That said, if eye-catching patterns are your signature look, a zany pair or two of yoga pants might be a fun addition to your wardrobe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between yoga pants and leggings?

It may seem like yoga pants and leggings are two names for the same thing—and it’s true that, often, you can knock out downward dogs and pigeon poses just fine in either article of clothing. However, there are some subtle differences between the two. Yoga pants are typically made of thicker fabric than leggings so that they don’t tear or become transparent as you stretch. Leggings, on the other hand, are made with thinner material usually intended for wear underneath a long top, dress, or even pants. Yoga pants often also come with moisture-wicking properties to better handle sweat.
How do I style yoga pants?

These days, there’s no shame in wearing your yoga pants outside the gym. A full athleisure outfit, complete with yoga pants on bottom and a spandex tank on top has become a fashion statement in itself. Crop tops, cotton tees, and longer boho-style tunics also work well in combination with yoga pants.
What is the best underwear for yoga pants?

No one wants to be pulling and tugging at bunched-up undies during the serenity of a yin pose. If you’re comfortable with thong underwear, it can eliminate these common woes. Seamless briefs are another good choice for no-show coverage. You can even try moisture-wicking underwear made specifically for exercise
Ultimately, though, the best skivvies beneath your yoga pants are whichever ones will make you comfortable (and will stay put while you work your way through your asanas).
What are the benefits of yoga pants?

You could certainly try yoga in jeans or slacks, but you probably won’t enjoy it nearly as much as when you are outfitted in the right pants. Not only do yoga pants allow your body to move freely, their tighter fit won’t ride up, and many have quick-drying fabric that wicks away sweat.
What are the best materials for yoga pants?

Assuming your primary purpose for purchasing yoga pants is to do yoga, you’ll want to choose a material that stretches with you. Polyester, Lycra, nylon, spandex, rayon, or a blend all have plenty of give. Or, if sustainability is a top consideration, invest in yoga pants made of bamboo or merino wool. Cotton yoga pants, though breathable, can retain moisture, making you feel extra sweaty.
How do I wash yoga pants?

It’s possible to wash most yoga pants with other clothing, but their synthetic fabrics do best when washed only with other synthetics. Turn the pants inside out and place them in the washer on a cold setting with minimal detergent. Then set your washer to a gentle cycle. Air drying is usually recommended—and, since many fabrics are naturally quick-drying, shouldn’t take very long.