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10 Best Yoga Pants for Women in 2022 (Yoga Instructor-Reviewed)

Are you trying out yoga for the first time or a lifetime yogi? No matter your level or ability, you’ll want the best and most comfortable pants to get the most out of your sessions. Yoga is a spiritual, mental, and physical practice, and if you’re not comfortable with your yoga pants, you’ll lose focus and won’t fully gain the benefits of a yoga session.

It’s important to wear comfortable pants that are breathable and allow free range of movement. We've rounded up a list of 10 great yoga pants to help you choose. Our favorite is Athleta's Salutation Slash II Yoga Pants, as they're fit for a variety of yoga styles and feature soft, breathable fabric. Read on for our other recommendations, as well as a buying guide reviewed by a professional yoga instructor. 
Last updated 09/26/2023
Karin Chen Loo
Expert
Certified Yoga Instructor/Fashion Blogger
Karin Chen Loo

Karin is a certified yoga instructor and HR director in addition to running a successful Instagram account about fashion, lifestyle, and more. She describes herself as "a Boho Girl living in a Yogi World".

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Table of Contents

How to Choose Yoga Pants for Women – Buying Guide

With our busy and hectic lifestyles, we often don’t get enough time to relax and destress. That’s why when we do, we need to be wearing comfortable pants. Below, we’ll help you figure out which yoga pants are right for you.

1

Pick the Fit That Works for Your Yoga Style

Yoga isn’t exactly a "one size fits all" activity. There are a lot of different styles of yoga, so it goes without saying that there are different styles of yoga pants to complement them.

Get Form-Fitting Pants or Shorts for Yoga Styles With Strenuous Movement

Get Form-Fitting Pants or Shorts for Yoga Styles With Strenuous Movement
If you’re doing Ashtanga or other rigorous yoga styles with dynamic movements, you'll want a pair of yoga pants that fits snugly to your body but won't impede your movement. If your pants are too tight, they can create discomfort and even affect your skin's health and blood supply. However, if they're too loose, they may get in the way of more difficult poses. Look for a happy medium that fits your body comfortably. 

It's also important to invest in a pair of yoga pants that are breathable and moisture-wicking. Fabric that doesn't wick your sweat well can lead to discomfort and even health issues like fungal infections. Spandex-, nylon-, and polyester-blends are good options for avoiding these issues. 


If you want to maximize flexibility with some stretchy fabric, look for pants with four-way stretch. This means the fabric will stretch horizontally and vertically, giving you a full range of movement.

Try Soft, Loose-Fitting Pants for Gentle Movement

Try Soft, Loose-Fitting Pants for Gentle Movement
If you’re doing Hatha, Yin, or other gentle forms of yoga, where poses are held for several minutes at a time and a lot of body heat and sweat isn’t generated, you may want a looser style of yoga pants to accommodate your desire to relax.

Look for loose cuts such as harem pants or bootleg pants. It's best to wear a breathable and soft material, so organic cotton or cotton blends will probably suit you best in this case. Just be aware that cotton blends retain moisture, so they aren't the best material for sweat-producing yoga styles. 


Still, these types of fabric breathe very well, so your body will stay at a comfortable temperature as you move through your poses. Look for pants that have draw strings or gentle elastic waist bands, so that even if your pant legs are looser, you'll still have the security of a good, adjustable fit at your hips. 

Maternity Yoga Pants Provide Special Pockets For Comfort

Maternity Yoga Pants Provide Special Pockets For Comfort

If you're pregnant and have reached your second or third trimester, you'll probably want to switch from loose-fitting yoga pants to maternity yoga pants. While loose-fitting pants will keep you comfortable early on in your pregnancy, maternity yoga pants are actually tailored to provide your changing body with the best comfort and fit. 


With maternity leggings, there's a roomy, pouch-like "pocket" designed beneath the waistband. This way, you won't feel constricted even if you want the rest of your lower half to be supported by a tighter type of legging. Many maternity brands also offer special designs like bands that can be adjusted above or below your belly and yoga pants that don't interfere with C-section recovery. 

2

Pick the Cut That You're Most Comfortable In

Pick the Cut That You're Most Comfortable In
If you get a full-length cut, make sure there’s not too much extra fabric at the bottom. Otherwise, you’ll be stepping on it nonstop throughout your session. Full-length yoga pants are available in both fitted and bootcut styles, but remember that the wider bootcut pant legs may get in the way if you're doing intensive, fast-moving flows. 


If you feel more comfortable having a bit of skin exposed, Capri-style yoga pants are also available. These are a great choice if you're combining your yoga with more cardio-based exercises such as jogging or pilates, as they allow you to cool down a bit quicker. 

Karin Chen Loo
Certified Yoga Instructor/Fashion Blogger
Karin Chen Loo

There is a variety of yoga pant styles, depending on your yoga practice and what works for your lifestyle. The most classic type of yoga pant is the legging, which is formfitting all the way through the legs to the mid-calf or ankle. 


I prefer an ankle-length legging, but you can also choose a bootcut leg opening or even loose balloon style pants if you're looking for something different.

3

Get Dark Colors to Hide Sweat Stains

Get Dark Colors to Hide Sweat Stains
We know–you need a pair of yoga pants that look good on you, in a design and colors you like, to stay motivated. However, pay attention to what shade your pants are. If you choose a lighter color, like gray, then even the slightest bit of moisture is going to show up.


Yoga is about releasing stress and toxins, and with that, you also release sweat. And whether you’re a yoga instructor or a first-timer, you won’t want everyone’s attention focused on your huge sweat spots. That's why we recommend choosing a darker color for yoga pants, especially if you're doing hot yoga.

Karin Chen Loo
Certified Yoga Instructor/Fashion Blogger
Karin Chen Loo

If you know you like and strive for a sweaty (A.K.A "glowy") yoga practice, consider black, navy, or darker greys, greens, blues and other shades to keep sweat stain appearance at a minimum. 


Keep in mind that the quality of a darker color pant is in the material, so make sure they're durable enough to keep them from becoming transparent or see-through in certain poses.

4

Look for Extra Features Like Gussets and Pockets

Look for Extra Features Like Gussets and Pockets
Gussets are triangular- or diamond-shaped reinforcing fabric inserts that are sewn into the crotch of yoga pants. If there’s no gusset sewn in, you’ll have a very uncomfortable pressure point where the four seams run together.


Most yoga pants have a gusset sewn in, but they vary in design, including one design that offers an extra layer of material for those who prefer to go commando during their yoga workout.


If you want to keep some personal items like your keys close at hand while you practice, invest in a pair of yoga pants that has pockets. This feature also gives you the option of wearing your yoga pants out and about without having to worry about where to put your wallet or phone. 

Karin Chen Loo
Certified Yoga Instructor/Fashion Blogger
Karin Chen Loo

I love this style for the comfort, and the crotch area is less see-through with a gusset-stiched pant.

5

Make Sure Your Pants Aren’t See-Through by Checking Sizing

Make Sure Your Pants Aren’t See-Through by Checking Sizing

None of us want to show more than style and technique when doing a downward dog. That’s why sizing is extra important to make sure that when you bend over or squat, your pants aren’t see-through.


Before purchasing, be sure to check the sizing chart and measurements. Even if you’ve found a pair you really love, if they’re not the right size, you might be showing off your underwear in yoga class. Also, you can check reviews to make sure the pants have passed the “squat test.”

Karin Chen Loo
Certified Yoga Instructor/Fashion Blogger
Karin Chen Loo

It's important for your yoga pant or legging to be form-fitting, but make sure that you choose the correct size and sturdy materials so they aren't see-through


It might be tempting to go cheap and easy, but read the reviews and choose from sellers that have a generous return policy if you aren't trying the pants on in person to check whether the groin area or the seams are semi-transparent when practicing certain poses.

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Yoga Pants for Women

The choices are endless and the hunt might seem intimidating, so here are our favorites to help get you started based on customer reviews! *Please note that these products were chosen after extensive research by mybest writers. The choices are not necessarily affiliated with or recommended by Karin Loo.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Athleta

Navy

Athleta  1

$98.00

High Mid

Best for Both Indoor and Outdoor Yoga

2

Lululemon

28" pant

Lululemon  1

$98.00

High Mid

Best Lightweight Pants for Any Yoga Style

3

Girlfriend Collective

Beachwood

Girlfriend Collective  1

$78.00

Mid

Best Sustainable Compression Leggings for Plus Sizes

4

Kindred Bravely

Black with pockets

Kindred Bravely  1

$89.99

High Mid

Best Maternity Yoga Pants for Gentle, Low-Impact Poses

5

Sweaty Betty

Black

Sweaty Betty  1

$100.00

High Mid

Best High-Impact Pants With Zippered Pockets

6

Lululemon

Black

Lululemon  1

$98.00

High Mid

Best Wide-Leg, Low-Impact Pants for Tall People

7

Nike

Purple

Nike  1

$90.00

High Mid

Best Lightweight Mid-Rise Yoga Pants

8

Athleta

Navy

Athleta  1

$44.99

Low Mid

Best Flare Pants for Petite People

9

Dragon Fit

Black

Dragon Fit  1

$20.98

Low

Best Budget Pick With Plenty of Pocket Space

10

Zella

Black

Zella  1

$65.00

Mid

Best Athleisure Yoga Pants With Ankle Cuffs

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

AthletaNavy

 1
Source:athleta.gap.com
Reference price
$98.00
High Mid
Reference price
$98.00
High Mid

Best for Both Indoor and Outdoor Yoga

Pros:

  • Has a UPF rating of 50+, making it a good pick for practicing out of doors
  • Can be machine washed and dried
  • Two side pockets for storing your valuables
  • Double-brushed fabric makes for a softer, more comfortable fit
  • Size-inclusive 
  • V-seamed in the back
  • Machine wash and dry

Cons:

  • No gusset

The Salutation II Yoga Pants are Athleta's lightest offering yet. Made of a soft yet durable nylon/spandex mix, these pants are excellent at wicking away sweat and stretching with your body. These pants are minimally seamed for comfort and have a smoothing waistline. Although these are compression leggings, they're popular as loungewear, too. 


Some who bought the Salutation II Yoga Pants complained that the waistband rolled too much for their liking, while others warned that the fabric pilled easily. However, these yoga pants are still very popular for their roomy pockets, satin-soft feel, and stretchiness

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No.2

Lululemon28" pant

Reference price
$98.00
High Mid
Reference price
$98.00
High Mid

Best Lightweight Pants for Any Yoga Style

Pros:

  • Size-inclusive, with lengths of 25 to 31 inches in-seam available and sizes available up to a 20
  • Hidden waist-band pocket provides a secure space for your valuables
  • Created with lightweight, soft Nulu™ fabric with four-way stretch
  • High-rise waistline
  • Machine wash, tumble dry

Cons:

  • Fabric is known to pill easily if not handled with care

Lululemon's Align Yoga Pants are lightweight and designed to move with the flow of your body as you practice. The fabric is soft and wicks sweat well. Holding true to Lulu's brand, Align Yoga Pants are designed to be durable and long-lasting. While the pants don't have a gusset, the doubled nature of Nulu™ fabric promises good coverage.


There are quite a few reports that the Align Yoga Pants pill easily, so you should take care when you wash them. Still, Align is one of Lululemon's most popular styles due to its glove-like fit and soft, buttery feel. Many describe these pants as feeling like a second skin while they practice their yoga, adding that the fabric quality is so high they can wear the pants out and about as well. 

No.3

Girlfriend CollectiveBeachwood

Reference price
$78.00
Mid

Best Sustainable Compression Leggings for Plus Sizes

Pros:

  • Eco-friendly fabric utilizes old plastics for a better environment
  • Includes a cotton gusset for extra coverage and security
  • Uses only fair trade materials and protects laborers' rights
  • Size-inclusive up to 6XL
  • Four-way stretch
  • UPF of 50+
  • Machine wash

Cons:

  • The material is shiny and the pants run a bit small

Not only does Girlfriend Collective back fair trade and ethical labor laws, but they've ensured that their High-Rise Leggings have excellent stretch, sweat-wicking properties, and an in-seam pocket. Sizes are all-inclusive, and the pants' material is so sturdy that you can do yoga or a quick jog in them!


Some reviewers have noted that while the material of these yoga pants is better for the planet, it isn's as soft or well-fitted as other popular yoga brands. Still, plenty of reviewers are thrilled with how supportive and sturdy the fabric feels when they exercise. They added that they were able to use their leggings for other sports like biking or hiking. 

No.4

Kindred BravelyBlack with pockets

 1
Source:amazon.com
 2
Source:amazon.com
 3
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$89.99
High Mid
Reference price
$89.99
High Mid

Best Maternity Yoga Pants for Gentle, Low-Impact Poses

Pros:

  • Adjustable waist band so you can decide whether you want your belly covered or not
  • Gentle compression around the legs and stomach area supports pregnant bodies, but also stretches and grows with them
  • Can be bought with or without pockets
  • Machine-wash, air dry

Cons:

  • No gusset

Kindred Bravely's leggings have a stretchy waist band that fits comfortably against your body without being too restrictive. It's also adjustable, and can be pulled up as high as your ribcage to provide the level of coverage you desire. The fabric is a soft polyester/spandex mix, which feels comfortable against your skin but still stretches into any gentle yoga poses you want to try. 


Some who bought Kindred Bravely's leggings complained that they began to show wear and pilling after too many washes. On the other hand, many were thrilled with how soft, comfortable, and versatile the leggings were throughout their pregnancies. They added that the material seemed was fairly sheer-proof and served well in the studio or at home.  

No.5

Sweaty BettyBlack

 1
Source:amazon.com
 2
Source:amazon.com
 3
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$100.00
High Mid
Reference price
$100.00
High Mid

Best High-Impact Pants With Zippered Pockets

Pros:

  • Made of sturdy, high-compression fabric with excellent sweat-wicking properties
  • Four-way stretch and butt-sculpting
  • Zippered pocket make it impossible for your valuables to fall out or get in the way
  • Side pocket is big enough for an iPhone
  • Adjustable drawstring
  • Machine wash

Cons:

  • Waist is shorter than other brands 

Sweaty Betty's Power Peggings are great for hot yoga or other more intense forms of exercise. The fabric make offers excellent sweat-wicking performance, and while the yoga pants are fairly high-compression, they also stretch four ways. Wearers have access to a side pocket and a back waistband pocket, which is zippered to keep your valuables safe. 


Some found that the waistband of these pants pinched them uncomfortably, saying it wasn't as high as they would have liked. For the most part, these yoga pants are popular for how versatile they are. Many reviewers admit they've used the pants for yoga and high-impact cardio, adding that the pants provide the perfect amount of support but maintain a soft feel against the skin. 

No.6

LululemonBlack

Reference price
$98.00
High Mid
Reference price
$98.00
High Mid

Best Wide-Leg, Low-Impact Pants for Tall People

Pros:

  • Wide pant legs for mobility and comfort
  • High-rise waist for support
  • Four-way stretch
  • Nulu fabric is soft and breathable
  • Waistband pocket for storing small valuables
  • Machine wash, tumble dry

Cons:

  • Not currently available in petit or short sizes
  • Runs long

Lululemon's Groove Yoga Pants are an excellent choice if you're tall and want a soft fabric with less compression for your restorative or low-impact yoga sessions. The pants feature a wide flare and ample amounts of stretch, but they also have a very high waistline to give you some tummy support. 


Some who tried Groove Yoga Pants complained that the recently updated fabric style felt too thin and didn't offer enough compression. Still, many who enjoy doing gentle yoga sessions at home have raved about how soft and comforting these pants feel. They add that the stylish flare of the pants makes them a good option for running errands as well. 

No.7

NikePurple

 1
Source:nike.com
 2
Source:nike.com
 3
Source:nike.com
 4
Source:nike.com
Reference price
$90.00
High Mid
Reference price
$90.00
High Mid

Best Lightweight Mid-Rise Yoga Pants

Pros:

  • 50 percent of polyester material is recycled plastic bottles
  • Lightweight, seamless fabric designed to move with your body
  • Three hidden pockets around the waistline
  • Mid-rise waistline is ideal for shorter people or for those who don't like the pinch of a high-rise
  • Machine wash

Cons:

  • Pant legs run a bit long

Nike's One Luxe Yoga Pants offer a comfy mid-rise waistline and a soft, lightweight fabric. One Luxe has three hidden pockets around its mesh-inlaid waistband, and the largest in the back is big enough for a phone. If you want a lower waistline with less compression that still hugs you in the right places, we recommend this pair of yoga pants. 


A few people who tried these yoga pants warned that they're a bit tight at first and may need to be broken in. Still, many others were happy with the soft feel and gentle compression of the One Luxe Yoga Pants. Some added that the pants are sheer-proof, and that they went through some pretty deep poses without exposing underwear lines. 

No.8

AthletaNavy

Reference price
$44.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$44.99
Low Mid

Best Flare Pants for Petite People

Pros:

  • High waistline with mesh on the inside for breathability
  • Ribbed detail for a flattering fit
  • Gusseted with cooling material to prevent unpleasant sweating
  • Drop-back pocket for easy storage of valuables
  • Provides some compression
  • Machine wash and dry

Cons:

  • Currently only available in small sizes

Athleta's Studio Flare Pants provide just enough compression to fit glove-like against your body. They're gusseted and made of Athleta's signature nylon/spandex mix, making them perfect for slow, deep yoga styles. The pant legs have a flashy flare to them as well. 


Most complaints aired about these pants is that they're currently only available in the smallest size. Those who can wear these yoga pants love how buttery soft yet flexible they are. They say that the flare style makes the pants look fancy enough to wear on a day in the office as well.

No.9

Dragon FitBlack

 1
Source:amazon.com
 2
Source:amazon.com
 3
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$20.98
Low
Reference price
$20.98
Low

Best Budget Pick With Plenty of Pocket Space

Pros:

  • Has two to four pockets, depending on the color and style you select
  • Four-way stretch 
  • Breathable fabric with moisture-wicking abilities
  • Machine wash

Cons:

  • Not as size-inclusive as other brands
  • Slightly see-through during squat tests

Dragon Fit's yoga pants provide some compression and plenty of subtle pocket space hidden in their high-rise waistline.  They offer a soft, stretchy nylon/spandex fabric that fits most studio yoga styles. This makes them a perfect budget pick for beginners who don't know if they're ready to splurge on pants yet. 


Some customers who bought larger sizes warned that the pants didn't have enough compression to make them feel secure as they practiced. However, plenty of users were thrilled with how comfortably Dragon Fit's pants hugged their legs and waists, adding that the material felt sturdy but not smotheringly thick

No.10

ZellaBlack

 1
Source:nordstrom.com
 2
Source:nordstrom.com
 3
Source:nordstrom.com
Reference price
$65.00
Mid
Reference price
$65.00
Mid

Best Athleisure Yoga Pants With Ankle Cuffs

Pros:

  • Eco-friendly fabric that's lightweight and soft
  • Supportive high-rise waistband and ankle cuffs
  • Side pockets
  • Machine wash, tumble dry

Cons:

  • Not compression leggings

Zella's Restore Leggings are also a catch if you want some pants for a less intensive style of yoga.  Better yet, they have lined ankle cuffs to ensure the pant legs don't ride up while you're getting into your poses. Made of recycled polyester and stretchy spandex, these leggings offer a soft, comforting touch. 


Some reviewers wanted a little compression to their Zella leggings and said that the pants didn't hug them in the right spots. Still, Zella's Restore Leggings are widely loved for their softness and flattering fit. Wearers add that the sporty, comfortable ankle cuffs make the pants a great choice for walks or other low-impact exercises as well. 

No.11

BanjamathElephant Pink

 1
Source:amazon.com
 2
Source:amazon.com
 3
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$14.99
Low
Reference price
$14.99
Low

Best Non-Compression Yoga Pants for Gentle Poses and Relaxation

Pros:

  • Billowy and soft for comfort and flexibility
  • Has a drawstring for easy adjustment
  • Side pockets are deep enough for a phone

Cons:

  • Handwash only

These stylish, loose-fitting yoga pants are super comfortable and not at all restricting. They’re ideal for Yin or restorative yoga, or other slow-paced yoga forms. The fabric is lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying, so you won’t be too hot and sweaty during your yoga session.


A few who wore these pants warned that the seams were pretty fragile and came undone when they washed or handled the pants too roughly. However, plenty of reviewers love these comfy boho yoga pants for their light-as-air fabric and stunning designs.

More Expert Tips for Choosing the Best Yoga Pants

More Expert Tips for Choosing the Best Yoga Pants

Karin says, "A higher cut waistband that doesn't roll down is key! This ensures that your pants will not bother you or get in the way while you practice. A lower-cut waistband might dig into the wrong spot on your hips and make it less enjoyable to wear. Also consider the length, and measure your inseam before purchasing.


Remember that the best yoga clothing, including yoga pants, are the ones you can't feel or notice while you are practicing. So always purchase something that makes you feel comfortable and attractive and works with the movements you're going through!"

Get Even More Great Supplies for Your Yoga Practice

You've got your yoga pants sorted out, but do you have other yoga essentials? Here are just a few of the many yoga-related supply articles we have on mybest!

Top 5 Yoga Pants for Women

No. 1: AthletaNavy

No. 2: Lululemon28" pant

No. 3: Girlfriend CollectiveBeachwood

No. 4: Kindred BravelyBlack with pockets

No. 5: Sweaty BettyBlack

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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