Hot Yoga Clothes

Hot Yoga is a type of physical movement that is practiced in a very specific environment.  It matters what you wear to class.  It’s not because you need to be stylish or look a certain way-  the wrong clothes will make you miserable.  Some would say there is already misery enough to go around in the hot room, but i say, clothes can make the class. There is a misconception about clothes and yoga.  People think  “yoga is nice and relaxing” so they should wear loose flowing clothes to a yoga class This is a huge mistake.

Dear people, please don’t wear baggy clothes to hot yoga.  You are going to sweat profusely. Once you start moving your loose clothes are going to get wet and heavy and start sticking to you.  ICK!  So think about wicking fabrics and cool, close silhouettes.

If you are a woman wear a tank top and/or a sports bra. Wear spandex Capri length pants or shorts that hug the thigh. The asanas (postures) sometimes put your legs in awkward positions so please wear underwear (or thong) for coverage and confidence.

Men: as delicately as I can ask…make sure your “business” will be “fully contained” in your shorts. The easy answer is wearing underwear with your non-spandex shorts. Many men’s swimsuits or shorts have built-in briefs, these are okay, but compression shorts under any other shorts is best.

Dark colors are best for hot yoga.  Please do not wear white shorts or tops. White becomes quite transparent when wet; it’s a distraction you don’t want.  Wicking fabrics help the sweat become manageable.

Scented lotion, perfume, body spray, powder and essential oil a no-no for yoga.  Your sweat-your breath-your body odors that are natural are perfect for yoga. Cosmetics will melt and run into your eyes so at a minimum; wash off your perfume and your make-up with a dampened hand towel in the washroom.

Do not wear dangling or bulky jewelry.

It is customary remove your shoes before coming into the yoga room.  It is a beautiful, ancient eastern tradition with lots of symbolism.  Some say that leaving your shoes at the door is symbolic of leaving the cares, worry and negative energy of the world outside. What a beautiful custom.

It’s a good idea to bring a change of clothes for after yoga class.  You will be sweat soaked (as if you were swimming) and you will be more comfortable in dry clothes on your drive home.

Lastly, if you are not able to wash your yoga clothes immediately when you get home, rinse the sweat out in the shower. Your nice yoga clothes will last much longer if you do.

Enjoy your class! Namaste!