The Best Yoga Pants for Working Out (or Hanging Out)

A yoga ritual allows you to release the fatigue and tension of the day. And part of that ritual might be commuting with less fuss. If you want to hop out of your apartment to a yoga class with only a phone, key and credit card, these performance leggings from Third Love will be your new go-to. We love the stretchy, breathable material that’s not too thin to see through. The wide selection of colors makes it easy to go bold and bright or stick with neutrals if that’s more your vibe. The high waistband provides slight compression without being too restrictive.

Keep in mind the pocket is big enough for a few items but not for the entire contents of your purse. Some reviewers shared the crotch area could be expanded to be more comfortable for plus-sized women. Others suggest going slightly smaller than your typical size since the band tends to fall or roll down if it’s too big.

These buttery-soft, stretch-knit leggings from Municipal win our pick for the most comfortable yoga pants ever. We love how size-inclusive they are, with sizes up to 2XL, and the elastic-free waistband that doesn’t dig into your hips. If you’re worried about doing a forward fold and showing your underwear, you can be stress-free with these leggings that feature interlock knit fabric that conceals well.

Though you can wear these leggings year-round, they’re ideal for the colder months since the material is slightly thicker. A concealed key-size pocket on the right side lets you stash small goods.

Reviewers say these yoga pants run true to size, but are a little on the longer side, so keep that in mind.

Trends come and go, but when it comes to athletic pants—from CrossFit to yoga—high-waist is a top request. Not only does this fit offer additional support, it’s a way to feel less self-conscious while working out. We love this form-fitting merino wool and lycra fabric blend from Icebreaker. Known for its dedication to performance athletes and for creating high-quality clothing that lasts for years, Icebreaker tights will help you expand your practice.

In addition to the high-waist design and elasticized waistband, this yoga pant features flatlock seams and body contouring in the back for an improved fit and feel. A pocket on the right side is also big enough for a phone. When ordering, keep in mind reviews share that they run on the smaller side and are a bit warmer than other lightweight leggings. If you have a pet in the house, try to resist a hug ‘goodbye’ before heading to yoga since some reviewers shared that they can collect hair.

If you’re not on Team Tight or Team Flare, you might be on Team Bootleg. With a bit of added width at the heel that provides more versatility and less restriction, this affordable pair of yoga leggings from Backcountry is super-cozy and wearable. Available in sizes XS to XL, reviewers rave about how they pass the ‘squat’ test and don’t attract pet hair. They provide a smooth appearance throughout the leg area, reducing the appearance of cellulite or unwanted lines or bulges. Also, the smaller opening at the leg means you won’t feel the pant fall down when you’re holding a yoga pose.

Consider ordering a size up, since reviewers share they run on the smaller side.

Though you may have worn compression yoga pants before pregnancy, tightness around your stomach could make you feel nauseated as your bump grows. Enter these best-selling pair maternity leggings from Beyond Yoga. We love the soft fabric and the elastic waistband that stretches with each trimester. Wear the waistband above or below your bump; it can be folded to your preference.

They feature a vast collection of colors, so you can coordinate with different tanks, t-shirts, or sweaters. Since pregnancy can cause a hot flash or extra sweat, the moisture-wicking material is especially handy.

Reviewers say they run a little large, so consider ordering a bit smaller than you typically do. The goal is to have them tight enough to offer support as your body changes.

Your ideal Sunday morning begins with an early yoga class, a stop by the farmer’s market, brunch with a friend or a catch-up over coffee. So, when you shop for yoga pants, you want something not just ideal for the studio—but for anywhere your day takes you.

You can’t go wrong with any pick from Lululemon, including their new yoga flare pants. Made with the same buttery-soft, flexible material Lululemon is known for, you can expect to feel comfortable and stylish. They feature a front pocket with an interior card sleeve and a back drop-in pocket for other small necessities.

This yoga line tends to run a bit on the larger size, so consider ordering a size down for extra support. Also, if you’re used to the compression found in Lululemon traditional tights, be prepared for a different fit in these yoga pants. They offer comfortable stretch, but not the tightness you find in other products.

According to Dr. Harte, there are no better yoga pants than Vuori. “From Instagram ads to celebrity clothing lines, it may be overwhelming to nail down which workout pant is best for you,” she says. “But, if you are seeking simplicity, sophistication and supreme comfort, Vuori is hands-down the best yoga pant on the market.”

She raves about the high-quality, comfortable design that delivers on its promises, giving you the time and space to focus on your practice. This pair, explicitly designed for the studio, features supportive material that doesn’t compress but smooths out your legs and torso. Though it runs on the slimmer side, even curvier figures will appreciate the smart details and cozy, durable and moisture-wicking design. You won’t find pockets in this pair of leggings, but that makes sense since hey, they’re meant for a studio practice.

Reviews share that these flare yoga pants tend to run a little larger and longer than average, so size down for the perfect fit.

Athleisure is in a class of its own when it comes to fashion. While most professionals have a separate wardrobe for the studio and for the office, sometimes, you need yoga pants that can function for both. For a lounge look, opt for this best-selling pant from Athleta. With bright hues, smart compression, a very soft material, and an ultra high-rise waistband, you can easily go from the office to the gym to your friend’s couch for Netflix binging, all in one day.

In addition to the soft appeal, Athleta is known for its absorbent, moisture-wicking design. This gives you peace of mind if you work up a sweat during your class. Also, with a size-inclusive range up to 3X, it’s a fit that works for most bodies.

These tend to run larger and may not be the right proportions for those on the shorter side, since the flare is oversized.

When you think about dressing for your yoga class, your first instinct might not be to pull out a skirt. But you can be convinced once you try this highly-rated Alo Yoga skirt. This brand is known for its commitment to quality yoga products that benefit your practice, providing comfort and support. Wearing this skirt — with a fitted inner short — provides a wider range of motion and no restriction that you might experience from classic pants.

If you’re taking an outdoor yoga class in the morning, the fleece lining offers a bit more warmth, while the overall lightweight fabric is moisture-wicking and cooling. Side zip pockets provide security for valuables. Reviewers warn the skirt runs on the larger size, so order down for the best fit.

For achy cramps or a sour mood, a yoga class can do wonders for your mental and physical health while you’re on your period. With these period-proof leggings from Adidas, you can also ease worries of accidental leaks. They feature a specific technology developed by Adidas to provide a no-show additional layer of support against leaks when wearing a cup, tampon or pad. To keep your cramps calmer, low to medium compression is the just-right amount of pressure for comfort. And with a size range from XS to 4X, most people will be able to find an ideal fit. Keep in mind these are on the tighter side for a reason, so they lock in support and catch leaks if they happen. The addition of mesh panels also help you feel cooler faster, right when you need it.