The Best Yoga Gear For Women
Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just starting out on your yoga journey, having all the right gear is crucial. The right type of mat, proper clothing, and yoga blocks all provide the support you need to bring your best self to the mat every day. Read on for all the best yoga gear that will help you deepen and grow your practice.
Lululemon Yoga Pants
If you don’t have a pair of Lululemon yoga pants, what are you waiting for? These ultra-stretchy, soft, supportive pants are made from buttery Nulu fabric that has a unique, barely-there feel with a touch of lycra for extra stretch. The high-waisted fit is flattering on almost every type of body, and the zoned compression helps keep you supported in all the right places, smoothing your hips and tummy while you move. And we love the great color selection and built-in pocket on the waistband.
Pros:
- Designed from eco-friendly fabrics
- Stylish color selection
- Has a built-in, hidden waistband pocket
Cons:
- These definitely don’t come cheap
Lemedy Padded Bra
The support you need
Crafted from a silky-soft spandex-and-nylon blend, this padded bra from Lemedy provides the utmost in breathable comfort and support during workouts. The fabric is both lightweight and moisture-wicking, which is quite handy during particularly sweaty vinyasa classes. We also love that the pads are removable, so you can customize your coverage and lift.
Pros:
- Made from a soft, stretchy blend of nylon and spandex
- Comfy and breathable
- Has removable pads
Cons:
- Tends to run big, so consult the size chart before purchasing
Gayhay Biker Shorts
Get bendy, no problem
These biker shorts from Gayhay are the perfect attire for yoga thanks to their stretchy, high-waisted design and moisture-wicking fabric. You’ll have no trouble nailing all the warrior poses and downward dog stretches in these shorts. They come in a range of interesting colors and are easy to wash — just toss them in the machine after your next sweat session.
Pros:
- High-waisted design has a belly-tucking effect
- Stretchy polyester-and-spandex blend makes for a very comfortable fit
- Fabric is quick-drying and moisture-wicking
Cons:
- We wish the seam didn’t run right up the crotch
Gaiam Essentials Yoga Mat
Your yoga mat can really make or break your practice, and the Gaiam Essentials mat is perhaps the best budget-tier mat you can buy. That is thanks to its great grip, impressive durability, and thick (but not too thick) cushioning. The dual-sided, textured ridges are a particularly nice touch, as they greatly help to reduce slippage and increase your stability while you flow. Plus, this mat even comes with its own carrier strap.
Pros:
- Extra-thick mat provides ample cushioning
- Dual-sided, textured ridges help increase stability and reduce slippage
- Made from non-toxic materials
- Comes with a carrier strap
- Comes in several chic colors
Cons:
- It wears down just a tad too easily
Reehut Yoga Blocks
Tackle every pose
Everyone needs a little help touching the ground or getting into a stretch from time to time, and that’s where these yoga blocks from Reehut come in handy. These classic, solidly designed blocks are made from high-density EVA foam that provides excellent support under any weight. And crucially, the slip-resistant surface and beveled edges provide a safe, comfy grip.
Pros:
- Made of durable, high-density EVA foam
- Provides reliable support even under considerable weight
- Slip-resistant surface and beveled edges result in a reliable grip
Cons:
- These are just a bit too lightweight
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-have yoga accessories for beginners?
If you’re just starting out with yoga, a thick, cushiony mat is essential (and not just any mat will do). You should also wear breathable, stretchy, form-fitting clothing. And while most studios will have all the props you need (blocks, a strap, etc.), it’s a good idea to purchase your own if you plan to do yoga regularly.
How should I choose a yoga mat?
Unless you need a thin, compact mat for travel, choose a mat that is at least 1/8th of an inch thick. From there, just keep in mind that thinner mats are better for increasing stability and thicker mats provide better cushioning and support. (The latter is best for restorative, or yin, yoga).
What should I know before taking my first yoga class?
There are several different types and styles of yoga, and it helps to familiarize yourself with these before selecting which class is best for you. The best thing to do is to call the studio ahead of time and ask them what class they’d recommend for beginner students. And most importantly: don’t stress about being in shape or being able to do the poses. You don’t need to have a certain level of flexibility or fitness before trying yoga for the first time. Anyone can do it, and comparing yourself to those around you is discouraged — it’s not a competition.
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