Do I Need a Towel for Hot Yoga?

Yes, a dedicated non-slip mat towel is not just a helpful accessory in hot yoga; it is widely considered an essential piece of safety equipment. It is the single most important item, after appropriate clothing, that will improve your hot yoga experience. In a hot yoga class, you will sweat profusely, far more than in any other form of exercise. This sweat will inevitably pool on your yoga mat. A standard yoga mat, no matter how 'sticky' it is in dry conditions, will become incredibly slippery and dangerous when wet. Your hands will slip in Downward-Facing Dog, and your feet will slide in Warrior poses, which is not only frustrating but can easily lead to a fall or injury. A hot yoga towel is specifically engineered to solve this problem. It is made from a highly absorbent microfiber material that soaks up sweat like a sponge. Crucially, the surface of these towels is designed to become grippier when it gets damp. This means that as you sweat more, your traction actually improves. Most hot yoga towels also feature silicone dots or a full silicone backing on the underside, which grips onto your mat and prevents the towel from bunching up or sliding around. For a safe, stable, and hygienic practice, a mat towel is a non-negotiable.