by Gemma Delaney

Embarking on your yoga journey needs more than just the willingness to master poses—it also requires the right gear to optimize comfort and performance. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect yoga pants or require props to perfect your poses, we’ve carefully curated a guide to choosing the top yoga essentials that align with your Vinyasa, Hatha, or Yin yoga practices.

The Basics: What Should I Wear to Yoga?

Yoga demands freedom of movement, so any attire that allows you to twist and stretch freely suffices. However, if you’re considering investing in specialized yoga gear, there’s an extensive array of attire in both attractive styles and performance-enhancing fabrics. Here are core components to consider when upgrading your yoga closet.

Choosing the Right Yoga Bra

In yoga, the softer and stretchier, the better! While extra support isn’t a necessity, those with larger busts should consider investing in a snug, full coverage crop top—especially beneficial during inverted poses. Alternatively, a soft stretchy bra top works just as well for smaller bust sizes.

Selecting a Yoga Top

Long, form-fitting tops are ideal to keep in place during inversions and allow for better pose visibility. For those who prefer a looser fit, layering a lightweight tee over a snug one or opting for a baggy t-shirt with a tight band around the hips is a great choice. Keep an extra layer handy for the beginning and end of your session to keep cosy.

Finding the Perfect Bottoms

Stretchy, form-fitting leggings or capri pants are optimal—allowing unrestricted movement and facilitating self-checks on leg alignment. Avoid overly loose pants that can get trapped during twists, thick waistlines, and heavy waist drawstrings which could cause discomfort during forward folds or poses lying on the stomach.

The Essential Props and Equipment for Yoga

Props can be instrumental for beginners to acclimate to yoga poses before achieving full strength or flexibility. They function as an extension of the body, offering immediate benefits. Here are the must-have props and equipment to consider.

*** Note: DIY alternatives provided for each prop if not looking to purchase.

Brick

Bricks are typically deeper and wider than blocks and are more suited for weight-bearing poses. Use them for poses like Pyramid or to support your knees in poses such as the Reclining Butterfly.
DIY: Use a thick, short book.

Bolster

Bolsters add comfort to your practice and are essential for restorative yoga. They come in cylindrical or rectangular shapes—the latter is ideal for resting your back on due to its broader surface.
DIY: Use a couple of firm pillows or long cushions.

Blanket

A firm blanket can protect your neck in a shoulder stand and help open your chest when lying on your back. It’s also perfect for insulation during the final relaxation pose. Opt for a fleece or cotton material.
DIY: Use a blanket from your bed or a large throw.

Yoga Strap

Straps help you attain correct alignment, irrespective of your flexibility. They work well to extend your arms in poses such as Head to Knee or help you balance in Boat Pose.
DIY: Use a tie or belt.

Block

A foam block is helpful as an extension of your arms in poses like Standing Forward Fold and for supporting your shoulder in the Reclining Twist. They’re commonly used to sit on if your spine rounds, such as in a Staff Pose.
DIY: Use two books of the same thickness.

Yoga Mat

A yoga mat cushions your joints from hard floors and prevents slipping. Its thickness selection depends on individual needs and preferences.
DIY: Use a thick cotton rug.

Recommended Yoga Apparel of 2023

With a clear understanding of what to look for in yoga gear, explore our top picks for yoga clothes in 2023.

*** Included: Best sports bras for yoga, the finest yoga tops for women, and top yoga leggings.
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