Best Clothes for Hot Yoga?

Choosing the right clothing material is crucial for a comfortable and safe hot yoga practice. The single most important characteristic to look for is moisture-wicking capability. These fabrics are engineered to pull sweat away from your skin and move it to the outer surface of the fabric, where it can evaporate quickly. This process keeps you feeling drier, prevents chafing, and helps your body's natural cooling system to function effectively. The best moisture-wicking fabrics are synthetic blends. Look for clothing made from polyester, nylon, and spandex (also known as Lycra). These materials are lightweight, durable, and excel at sweat management. Many athletic brands have their own proprietary names for these fabrics (e.g., Dri-FIT, Luon), but the underlying technology is the same. More recently, high-performance natural fibers like bamboo and merino wool have also become popular for their soft feel and natural antimicrobial properties, in addition to being effective at wicking moisture. The one material you must avoid at all costs is cotton. Cotton is highly absorbent, meaning it acts like a sponge for your sweat. It will become completely waterlogged, heavy, and stretched out within the first 15 minutes of a hot yoga class. This not only feels incredibly uncomfortable but can also restrict your movement and cause your body to overheat.