Reviews You Can Rely On

The 7 Best Yoga Pants of 2024

We tested styles from top brands like Lululemon, Beyond Yoga, Alo, Prana, and more to find the best yoga pants on the market.
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Best Yoga Pants of 2024
We want to share the best yoga pants of 2023.
Credit: Kate Pitts
By Kate Pitts ⋅ Review Editor
Monday November 6, 2023

Our team of yogis has tested the best yoga pants since 2015. We selected 15 top models for this update, and several yoga teachers and yogis stretched them to the limit as expert testers. We practiced a rigorous flow in each pair, including forward bends, deep backbends, arm balances, and sun salutations. Our testing period comprised more than 200 hours of field testing and over 100 yoga practices, including over 3,500 chaturangas. We tested award winners on rugged hikes, climbing, dancing, walking the pups, and as daywear. This hard work fed our intention to analyze how each pant performed in comfort and fit, ease of movement, breathability, and durability.

The beauty of yoga is that you don't need a lot of fancy gear to practice; set aside some time to spend on your favorite yoga mat and explore what motivates your practice. Find what supports you so you can focus on what matters most. If you are just starting your yoga practice or want to gain flexibility and stability, you might want to consider our review of the best yoga blocks for helpful props. If you want some variety in your home workouts, see the roundup of our favorite exercise equipment.

Editor's Note: This review was updated on November 6, 2023, to add two new contenders from REI Co-op and Baleaf to our lineup.

Top 15 Product Ratings

Displaying 1 - 5 of 15
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Awards Editors' Choice Award Best Buy Award Top Pick Award Top Pick Award Top Pick Award 
Price $98 List$27 List
$22.49 at Amazon
$89.00 at Amazon
Compare at 3 sellers
$20.41 at Backcountry
Compare at 3 sellers
$70 List
$69.95 at REI
Overall Score Sort Icon
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81
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Pros Nearly nude sensation, weightless, supportive compression, stays put in dynamic practice, moisture-wickingButtery soft, flattering waistband, moves with your body, breathable, flattering v-shape rear seamsLush softness, contoured and supportive fit, moves freely into any posture,
hugs natural waist, UV protection
Subtle pockets
Breathable ribbed material, UV protection, grip for arm balances, hip pockets, stylish fit, versatile for any type of yoga, excellent for outdoor adventuresUltrasoft, hold in place, double as daywear leggings, comfortable for all styles of yoga, deep side pockets
Cons Delicate care is required, high priceModerate shaping, can be loose at anklesDurability of seams could be betterNot the softest fabric, rough texture in some bindsNot enough compression for some yogis, longer drying time
Bottom Line Striking an outstanding balance between compression and four-way stretch, these leggings feel like a second skin and set the gold standard for movement practice performanceYou don't need to spend a fortune to find buttery soft yoga pants that move with your bodyMove like a cloud in one of the softest yoga pants we have tested, plus you can stash your essentials in secure hip pocketsBetween fit, ease of movement, and breathability, we love this stylish yoga pant in our travel sack, ready for outdoor adventuresA cotton-soft yoga pant that hugs you gently through all your moves and offers a fashion-forward fit you can wear for work or play
Rating Categories Lululemon Align Hig... ColorfulKoala High... Beyond Spacedye Out... Prana Becksa 7/8 REI Co-op Active Pu...
Comfort and Fit (30%)
9.0
8.0
9.0
8.0
8.0
Ease of Movement (30%)
10.0
9.0
9.0
8.0
9.0
Breathability (25%)
9.0
9.0
7.0
8.0
7.0
Durability (15%)
8.0
6.0
7.0
9.0
8.0
Specs Lululemon Align Hig... ColorfulKoala High... Beyond Spacedye Out... Prana Becksa 7/8 REI Co-op Active Pu...
Material 81% nylon, 19% Lycra 75% polyester, 25% spandex 87% polyester, 13% spandex 42% recycled polyester, 42% polyester, 16% elastane 79% Tactel nylon, 21% Lycra spandex
Key Pocket? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Other Versions 23", 25", 28", 31", mini flare, wide leg, with pockets, ribbed 25", 28" 7/8 (they call them capri) Shorts Non-ribbed
Available Sizes 0-20 XS-XL XS-XL XS-XL XS-3X
Features Moisture wicking, 4-way stretch, hidden waistband pocket, sweat wicking, h-shaped gusset Flatlock construction, seamless waistband, hidden waistband pocket, v-contour seam on back 5 in. waistband sits at natural waist, 4-way stretch, moisture wicking, hip pockets Flatlock construction, wide waistband, 4-way stretch, UPF 50+, sustainable Two deep side pockets, wide and flat-seemed stitched waistband , gusset, 4-way stretch


Best Overall Yoga Pants


Lululemon Align High Rise


92
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort and Fit 9.0
  • Ease of Movement 10.0
  • Breathability 9.0
  • Durability 8.0
Material: 87% polyester, 13% spandex | Available Sizes: 0-14
REASONS TO BUY
Pure freedom to move
Svelte silhouette
Comfortable
Thin elastic waistband stays in place without squeezing
Breathable
REASONS TO AVOID
Delicate fabric
Expensive

The Lululemon Align High Rise legging takes the top spot, offering a four-way stretch that moves with the body. Stretchy pants allow graceful flow, and our testers felt free to move in any direction. The thin fabric is surprisingly supportive, and we love how the compression gently tummy tucks when we bend into pretzels. The Align is versatile, the gold standard for technical movement practices, making it a quick grab for anything from running to a flattering fit for a casual day at work (or work from home). They also make dressing up for an evening out incredibly comfortable.

We particularly love the high waist, with a simple, v-shaped elastic band that made our backside look extra good. We never felt squeezed or impeded in our yoga practice. Some pants feel like a tourniquet around the waist, but the Align gives excellent shaping, a perfect balance between support and freedom. Since yoga is breath-centered, we appreciate how the waistband did not interfere with our deep ujjayi (victorious breathing). The Align is also breathable for heated flows or sun-baked days outside. While we love most everything about these leggings, keep in mind that they are expensive and require some babying when washing and drying to ensure they last. But if you're looking for a new pair of high-waisted leggings, these will support your technical performance and take you through the rest of your day feeling delicious and looking svelte.

Read more: Lululemon Align High Rise review

The Lululemon Align wicks moisture and won't trap heat on your legs, all while feeling great and looking sharp.
Credit: Dorothy Lee

Best for Bang for the Buck


ColorfulKoala High Waisted Brushed


83
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort and Fit 8.0
  • Ease of Movement 9.0
  • Breathability 9.0
  • Durability 6.0
Material: 75% polyester, 35% spandex | Available Sizes: XS-XL
REASONS TO BUY
Excellent mobility
Very soft
Lightweight and breathable
Seamless waistband that stays put
REASONS TO AVOID
May fit loose at ankles
Thin for cooler weather
Moderate shaping

We loved the ColorfulKoala High Waisted Brushed for its next-to-nothing feel and lightweight softness that was one of the most breathable we tested. We trust these pants more than almost any pair to move into the full extension of any pose. They perform with the best and will make your wallet happy at a third of the price of designer pairs. The seamless waistband feels like a soft hug for the hips; it held us in, never rolled, stayed put, and was buttery soft to fold into any pose.

Our testers enjoy these pants when they want to try their most challenging moves because of the second-skin fit, but there are better-shaping pants for casual wear and compression. The High Waisted Brushed are also lighter and not cozy for cooler weather, though they're great to have around for hot yoga, especially because — at this price — you can really stock up and wait to do laundry. If you want pants with a buttery fabric and unrestricted movement on a budget, these won't disappoint.

Read more: ColorfulKoala High Waisted Brushed review

While price often means better quality, there are notable exceptions like the ColorfulKoala. It will allow you to get into all manner of poses at a fraction of the cost of designer brands.
Credit: Dorothy Lee

Best for Comfort and Style


Beyond Yoga Spacedye Out Of Pocket High Waisted Midi


82
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort and Fit 9.0
  • Ease of Movement 9.0
  • Breathability 7.0
  • Durability 7.0
Material: 87% polyester, 13% spandex | Available Sizes: XXS-4X
REASONS TO BUY
Dreamy comfort
Flattering fit that dresses up or down
Secure and tasteful hip pockets
UV protection
Wider range of sizes
REASONS TO AVOID
Delicate for outdoor adventures
Seams are not super durable

The Beyond Yoga Spacedye Midi is so comfortable you'll want to wear them all day. One of the softest pants in this lineup, they are a go-to for travel, lounging, or challenging poses. This pant has clean lines that flatter the figure without squelching at the waist. We particularly love how the fabric hugs the curves. The high waist accentuates the natural shape of the hips, giving the ideal amount of tummy tuck. Other manufacturers incorporate an elastic band to prevent sagging, which can pinch the waist into an uncomfortable muffin top. The Spacedye Out of Pocket waistband didn't need to be constantly adjusted, allowing us to relax into our breathing and movement. They move with the body fluidly into any pose, and we found that the two hip pockets keep valuables secure even when we flip upside down, run, or climb.

The Spacedye Out of Pocket scores above average in comfort, fit, and ease of movement, but we were disappointed in the overall durability of these pants. The seams and fabric require delicate care. We noticed threading after a few wash cycles, and the material snagged more than others when hiking. However, we did appreciate that the Spacedye Out of Pocket offers UV protection. Being an excellent balance between comfort and style, they are a favorite for travel, a coffee date with friends, or yoga in the park; just plan to treat them a little bit more delicately.

Read more: Beyond Yoga Spacedye Out Of Pocket High Waisted Midi review

Outrageously comfortable and well-tailored, these Beyond Yoga leggings didn't hold us back.
Credit: Kate Pitts

Most Versatile for Adventures


Prana Becksa 7/8


82
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort and Fit 8.0
  • Ease of Movement 8.0
  • Breathability 8.0
  • Durability 9.0
Material: 42% recycled polyester, 42% polyester, 16% elastane | Available Sizes: XS-XL
REASONS TO BUY
Good durability for adventures
Material excellent for arm balances
Resistant to pet hair
Handy pockets
UV protection
Made with recycled materials
REASONS TO AVOID
Not super soft
Too much friction in some binds and folds

The Prana Becksa 7/8 is a solid choice for any activity. One of the most versatile pants we tested, we appreciate that it is also one of the most sustainable, made of recycled materials. The Becksa moves freely in yoga flows, fits fashionably for travel or daywear, and is resilient for outdoor adventures. Because of its comfortable and street-worthy fit, it would be our choice for hiking, hitting the crag, or traveling in multiple environments. We are grateful for how the ribbed fabric breathes on a hot day, especially when pushing uphill on hikes in the tropical sun. The fabric is designed to be UPF 50+ and protects your skin if you want to do yoga on the beach. This is also one of our most pet-friendly pairs. When we exposed it to paws and claws while volunteering at the animal shelter, it held up to puppy love and did not collect pet hair as much as most others. These pants are dependably comfortable and one of the best for various activities indoors and out.

The ribbed fabric is rugged on the rocks but soft on the skin. However, in yoga flows, the textured material sometimes gives too much friction on the arms in deep twists and binds, though not enough to cause chafing. The ribbed fabric is cozy and flexible but not super soft. Another key difference between the Becksa and other award winners is that the waistband is slightly less contouring in deep folds, although it did hold its shape and didn't roll. Although not the softest for slipping into binds, the friction the Becksa provides can give you a performance edge in arm balances, providing that extra grip to stick the pose.

Read more: Prana Becksa 7/8 review

We found the Becksa to be a supremely versatile legging. Rugged enough to go beyond the yoga studio, breathable enough for heat, and expertly tailored for all manner of movement.
Credit: Kate Pitts

Best Flare


Beyond Yoga Spacedye High-Waisted Practice Pants


81
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort and Fit 9.0
  • Ease of Movement 8.0
  • Breathability 7.0
  • Durability 8.0
Material: 87% polyester, 13% Lycra spandex | Available Sizes: XS-XL
REASONS TO BUY
Breathable with sun-protection
Easy to move in
Brushed jersey softness
Flattering and versatile fit for work or play
REASONS TO AVOID
Runs small and short
Durability concerns
No pockets available

If you love the balance of fashion and pure comfort when your body moves, you'll thank us when you try the "feels as good as it looks" Beyond Yoga Spacedye Practice Pants. These pants are an outstanding balance of jersey-soft comfort, functionality, and flattering fit. They felt great on our hips when hula dancing, were pajama cozy in restorative sound baths, and moved comfortably into all our poses. Above all, we loved their fluidity in flow. They vent moisture well and dry quickly, so we felt fresh and stylish going to our favorite coffee bistro after yoga.

When choosing the best flare, consider your intention. If you are using it for serious yoga practice, then choose more of a bootcut width with less fabric to get in the way. The Practice Pant is the tighter-legged flare in our tests and is suitable for the challenging sequences and pretzel-like binds of advanced practice or other activities like rock climbing. The Practice Pant can also run small and short, so consider sizing up. This is a great choice for both serious yoga and those that want to give their ankles some breathing room.

Read more: Beyond Yoga Spacedye High Waisted Practice Pant review

yoga pants - we did more than just yoga in the practice pant and were pleased...
We did more than just yoga in the Practice Pant and were pleased that - despite being flared - they didn't get in our way.
Credit: Kate Pitts

Best for All-Day Wear


REI Co-op Active Pursuits 7/8 Ribbed


81
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort and Fit 8.0
  • Ease of Movement 9.0
  • Breathability 7.0
  • Durability 8.0
Material: 79% Tactel nylon, 21% Lycra spandex| Available Sizes: XS-3X
REASONS TO BUY
Form-fitting and unconfining
Ultra-comfortable wide waistband
Deep hip pockets
No large branding
Easy to dress up
REASONS TO AVOID
Not sculpting enough for some
Slow to dry
Thin for cool weather

You never want to go to class and have your pants waistband roll down in forward folds or the ankles scrunch up when you are finally close to slipping into lotus. We never had to worry about this kind of thing with the REI Co-op Active Pursuits 7/8 Ribbed because the fit is so good. The soft cotton coziness of these pants is one of our absolute favorite textures. They have no external labeling, so they look like dress leggings but feel soft and supportive in yoga practice. When we went on a trip with limited bags, we loved that this pair was a "staple piece" that we could wear for yoga in the morning and then pair with different tops to make a variety of outfits for the rest of the day. We appreciate that the material is Bluesign-approved, a sustainability metric for textiles that emphasizes safety against chemicals, protection of workers, and minimal environmental impact. You can feel good putting these on, and they also held up well hiking outdoors and didn't show a scratch when we took them bushwacking on a mountainous hike.

While we love the unconfining feel of these leggings, they do not offer as much compression. The double-layered wide waistband gives support, but to call it sculpting would be a stretch; if you prefer compression in your pants, there is a better pair for you. Another thing to consider is how quickly you like your yoga pants to dry after breaking a sweat. The material of the Active Pursuits, while light and breathable, also holds moisture longer than pants with better moisture-wicking. However, if we were minimalists or just looking for multi-use pants, we would consider these a great "one pant to do it all" and enjoy wearing them as a practical staple in our wardrobe - from yoga to trails to date night.

Read more: REI Co-op Active Pursuits 7/8 Ribbed

We bent over backwards testing the stretch in the Active Pursuits pants and flippin' love how good they feel. 4-way stretch material supports all your moves.
Credit: Kate Pitts

Best for Contouring and Support


Alo Yoga High-Waist Airbrush


73
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort and Fit 8.0
  • Ease of Movement 9.0
  • Breathability 4.0
  • Durability 8.0
Material: 87% polyester, 13% spandex | Available Sizes: XXS-XL
REASONS TO BUY
Excellent ease of movement
Comfortable
No elastic in the waist, but they still stay up
REASONS TO AVOID
Breathability is just okay
Run hot

The Alo Yoga High-Waist Airbrush leggings are stretchy and move well no matter what pose is up next. We particularly love the high waist on this pair; other manufacturers rely on an elastic band to stay up, but having that around your tummy is not always comfortable. The Airbrush stays up all by itself, and we never needed to re-adjust it mid-class. We also appreciate the contouring and support; these leggings are one of the most shaping pants we tested and give a flattering fit.

The Airbrush isn't the most breathable pair in the test group. We found that they felt too hot on the skin for rigorous flows in a heated room, and we would not want to wear them for a walk on a warm day. That said, if you're looking for a new pair of high-waisted leggings with shape-hugging support, this is an excellent choice for cooler weather and slower-paced practices.

Read more: Alo Yoga High-Waist Airbrush review

yoga pants - the alo high-waist airbrush is one of the most supportive, shaping...
The Alo High-Waist Airbrush is one of the most supportive, shaping pants and still moves fluidly with your body.
Credit: Dororthy Lee

Compare Products

select up to 5 products to compare
Score Product Price
92
Lululemon Align High Rise
Best Overall Yoga Pants
$98
Editors' Choice Award
83
ColorfulKoala High Waisted Brushed
Best for Bang for the Buck
$27
Best Buy Award
82
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Out Of Pocket High Waisted Midi
Best for Comfort and Style
$99
Top Pick Award
82
Prana Becksa 7/8
Most Versatile for Adventures
$99
Top Pick Award
81
REI Co-op Active Pursuits 7/8 Ribbed
Best for All-Day Wear
$70
Top Pick Award
81
Beyond Yoga Spacedye High-Waisted Practice Pants
Best Flare
$99
Top Pick Award
73
Alo Yoga High-Waist Airbrush
Best for Contouring and Support
$98
Top Pick Award
73
Athleta Elation Flare
$99
72
Ododos Dual Pocket High Waist
$28
72
Baleaf High Waisted
$34
71
Vuori Clean Elevation
$98
59
90 Degree by Reflex High Waist Powerflex
$30
57
Yogalicious Carbonlux High Waist 7/8
$60
48
The Gym People Thick High Waist
$30
48
Girlfriend Collective Compressive Pocket
$88

yoga pants - a good pair of yoga pants can&#039;t make you stronger or more flexible...
A good pair of yoga pants can't make you stronger or more flexible, but they can give support so you can focus and breathe in your most challenging poses.
Credit: Dorothy Lee

Why You Should Trust Us


With nearly a decade of testing yoga pants under our belts, we test and compare the best performers on the market and then share our findings to empower you to choose a pant that fits your practice. To create each review, our team does extensive market research, considering over 60 models of yoga pants before we select the top contenders. We choose the most promising styles to test side-by-side and devise unique test protocols to compare competitors. Dedicated yoga practitioners and teachers help us assess comfort and fit and analyze ease of movement by running each pair through a crucible of challenging poses. Over months of testing, we monitor the breathability and durability of each pant.

In this update, we tested each pant for two months on yoga mats and in real-life applications. To assess comfort and fit, ease of movement, and breathability, we analyze pant performance through a rigorous, standardized flow in hot temperatures, including a set series of challenging poses. We also explore how top performers transition from yoga to activities like cuddling with the dog, climbing, hiking, dancing, and working from home. We assessed durability over two months of use in various activities and ensured each pair made it through at least five wash cycles.

We test yoga pants across four rating metrics:
  • Comfort and Fit (30% of overall score weighting)
  • Ease of Movement (30% weighting)
  • Breathability (25% weighting)
  • Durability (15% weighting)

Our yoga pants testers have decades of committed practice and have spent thousands of hours on the mat. Lead reviewer Kate Pitts has been a yogi for over fifteen years, a teacher for four, and is currently studying yoga therapy. Her outdoor career spans a decade with the National Park Service as an educator and backcountry ranger. She gave the first ranger-led yoga programs to Phantom Ranch backcountry travelers at Grand Canyon. Kate fondly remembers going to help a patient seriously injured on the trail and realizing that her body had automatically slipped into a centering yogic breath. She feels that yoga helps her to meet change with robust tranquility in challenging conditions. The healing self-study helps her awaken daily to the vibrancy of life and her wealth of experience brings a special touch to this comprehensive review.

We&#039;ve tried more poses in these pants than we can count.
We've tried more poses in these pants than we can count.
With no movement restrictions in the Lululemon Align High Rise, we...
With no movement restrictions in the Lululemon Align High Rise, we felt free to move deeper with our breath.
From stretching to running to hiking, we&#039;ve put all these yoga pants...
From stretching to running to hiking, we've put all these yoga pants through their paces.

Analysis and Test Results


Finding the right pair of yoga pants for your needs, the style you practice, and your body type can be a challenge. As testers, we have much to consider about choosing a good fit — we want to find what is comfortable, doesn't impede movement, wicks away our sweat, makes our booties look good, and is not see-through.

On top of that, a regular yoga practitioner probably needs several pairs in their closet, so we consider affordable and durable products. That's a tall order to fulfill. You might never find that perfect pair that's best for everything, as the ideal option for a heated yoga class differs from that for a gentle Yin. However, some considerations make selecting the right pair easier, from what activities you prioritize to the best fit for your body. Keep reading below to see how the different models we tested performed in our side-by-comparison tests. We aim to share practical pro tips and suggestions so you can have several options that suit your practice.


Value


Have you ever wondered if there is a difference between cheap and expensive pairs or if we're paying for the logo? The answer is yes, and also probably yes. What makes a pant worth it is rarely a straight answer, but our investigations unearthed some trends for you to consider.

We tested cheap "no-name" brands, designer labels, and products that fall in between. We assess value by looking at the overall performance score in relationship to cost. You would hope that expensive, designer pairs would perform better than the inexpensive pairs off Amazon, but not always. For example, the ColorfulKoala Brushed finished neck and neck with the gold standard Lululemon Align High Rise, but costs a third of the price. Of course, we want to put budget buys with high scores on your radar, and the High Waisted Brushed is a stellar performer for its low price tag. The Ododos Dual Pocket High Waist also has solid scores all the way around and has four hip pockets, including totally secure pockets with zippers on each side. Lastly, we love the performance and versatility of the REI Active Pursuits Ribbed at a slightly more budget-minded price point.

yoga pants - the rei active pursuits are comfortable and high-quality, all for a...
The REI Active Pursuits are comfortable and high-quality, all for a very fair mid-range price.
Credit: Kate Pitts

Comfort and Fit


This metric accounts for 30% of the overall score for each contender because, let's face it, some of us practically live in our yoga pants. You want something that feels great on your body and moves effortlessly through the activities you love. Yoga pants get worn for much more than yoga: the gym, hiking, maybe with a long sweater to work, and running errands on the weekend. So we ask: can you leave them on all day and feel comfortable through the long haul? Although yoga helps you to be resilient, no one wants a suffer fest from yoga pants that pinch, poke, itch, or chafe. Our tests rewarded for pants that perform well on the mat, but we also looked for how they transition into daily life and adventures.


A soft fabric hand and the feel of quality material on your skin can make or break a pant. We love how the buttery softness of the Lululemon Align High Rise, ColorfulKoala High Waisted Brushed, REI Active Pursuits, and Beyond Yoga Spacedye Practice Pants have a cotton softness, and we enjoy wearing them all day, thanks to how soft and cozy they feel.

yoga pants - we didn&#039;t want to take off the beyond yoga spacedye high-waisted...
We didn't want to take off the Beyond Yoga Spacedye High-Waisted Practice Pants which feel like luxurious brushed cotton.
Credit: Kate Pitts

One key feature to look at in regard to comfort is the design of the waistband. While the ideal waist has a compressive material that sucks everything in and offers some lift, we aim for pure freedom of movement over anything. Some designs can create a tourniquet on the waste by squeezing too much and creating an unattractive muffin top. Overcompression can also restrict breathing — a deal breaker since yoga is a breathing practice.

yoga pants - the vuori clean elevation has a wide, non-elastic waistband that...
The Vuori Clean Elevation has a wide, non-elastic waistband that offers perfect tummy soothing and does not roll or need to be adjusted. It is perfectly comfortable except for the pocket zipper which can poke in some poses.
Credit: Kate Pitts

Because yoga is a movement practice where it is helpful to have fabric that fits like a second skin, seams are more critical in yoga pants than in other types of clothing. The Prana Becksa 7/8 and Lululemon Align have clean and attractive lines because of flat lock seaming, which sews the raw edges of fabric together without overlap. Flatlock seams also reduce bulk and the potential for areas that can cut into the skin.

yoga pants - the inner hip seams on the lululemon align high rise lie flat. we...
The inner hip seams on the Lululemon Align High Rise lie flat. We love the clean fit and its smooth feel on our skin.
Credit: Kate Pitts

Another pant with excellent design features is the Alo High-Waist Airbrush. This pant has more shaping compression than most in our test. The design of the wide flat waistband, flattering cut, and well-designed hip seams gave it one of the best fits of our tested models. The Airbrush also has an excellent crotch gusset, a feature between the legs that prevents camel toe and allows the pants to shape to the inner groin during movement.

yoga pants - the alo high-waist airbrush has a wide waistband and well-designed...
The Alo High-Waist Airbrush has a wide waistband and well-designed hip seams that move lithely through dynamic moves. We never felt limited by these pants.
Credit: Dororthy Lee

The REI Active Pursuits are a comfortable fit if you prefer a light to mid-range compression that feels supportive but unconfined. The material is deliciously cotton-soft. They have no logo and are one of the most flattering fits for your activities after class.

yoga pants - super-soft, the active pursuits are a good fit from top to bottom...
Super-soft, the Active Pursuits are a good fit from top to bottom. Two deep pockets blend in nicely on each side.
Credit: Kate Pitts

The Beyond Yoga Spacedye Out of Pocket Midi features a wide waistband that fits the hips during movement and doesn't need adjustment after dynamic movement. We also love the pockets on these pants, which fit inconspicuously on the hips, keeping clean lines on the side, whereas other models can bulk up on the hips. These pockets kept our belongings secure; our phone didn't jiggle when out running, and it even stayed securely in place when we went upside down in a headstand.

yoga pants - we loved the fit of the spacedye out of pocket, especially how the...
We loved the fit of the Spacedye Out Of Pocket, especially how the pockets blended into our lengthening silhouette.
Credit: Kate Pitts

If you want a completely secure pocket, consider the Ododos Dual Pocket High Waist, which has four hip pockets, two on each hip, including zippable pockets. This is a great option if you want a flattering fit and extra storage capacity. However, the pocket zippers can poke in yoga practice when you go for a bind or lay on your side.

yoga pants - the ododos dual pocket high waist was two pockets on each side, one...
The Ododos Dual Pocket High Waist was two pockets on each side, one wide pocket for a phone and a reflective zippered pocket that is completely secure.
Credit: Kate Pitts

Ease of Movement


Along with comfort and fit, ease of movement is one of the top considerations for how enjoyable your yoga pant will be on the mat. A flexible and contouring pant is essential for yoga because, at some point, you will likely contort yourself into all manner of pretzel-like configurations. You never want to expand toward your full extension only to be limited by your clothing. We considered how well we could move and stretch in each pair for this category and whether specific design features impeded our movement. In many cases, an ill-fitting construction, an extra design feature, or a constrictive waistband hinders movement.


The Lululemon Align High Rise is one of our favorite pants to move in and stretch to the limits. We tested our award winners through various challenge poses, including deep hip openers, backbends, and hanumansana (the splits). Sometimes the best pairs are the ones you don't notice. The Align High Rise also has a unique h-shaped gusset that allows the pants to mold to your body throughout any motion, feeling like a second skin with this pant's buttery feel. In contrast to some pants that chafed or bit into our hips, this model never had us cursing our pants mid-class.

yoga pants - lululemon align high rise flows with us every time. we love a pant...
Lululemon Align High Rise flows with us every time. We love a pant that we can trust to hold us in the middle of a challenge.
Credit: Dorothy Lee

We loved how the ribbed fabric and wide waistband of the Prana Becksa 7/8 moved comfortably in our full range of motion and was breathable enough to opt outside for yoga on the beach. We also appreciate how the ColorfulKoala High Waisted leggings moved with us. They earned top marks in ease of movement, and we enjoyed how the soft support of the wide waistband felt during our most challenging poses.

yoga pants - ease of movement was tested in deep hip openers, extreme hip...
Ease of movement was tested in deep hip openers, extreme hip extension and flexion, and backends.
Credit: Dorothy Lee

The REI Active Pursuits 7/8 Ribbed uses 4-way stretch fabric and flat lock seams, creating one of our favorite high-waisted waistbands. With a broad and seamless band, it never rolls, and it moves with your hips — not against them like in other designs with pinching elastics. We love that the waistband doesn't constrict our breath, making it easy to move with every inhale or exhale.

The Active Pursuits are flexible and form-fitting, moving fluidly with your body in and out of asanas (yoga poses).
Credit: Wayne Hartlerode

Some pants provided ease of movement for certain types of yoga classes. For example, when choosing a flare, it is good to know that the excess fabric can get caught in binds or trip you up in arm balances.

The Spacedye Out Of Pocket feels comfortable in any pose or...
The Spacedye Out Of Pocket feels comfortable in any pose or movement...one of our favorites for on-the-go or enjoying a peaceful rest.
The Beyond Yoga Spacedye High-Waisted Practice Pant feels like a...
The Beyond Yoga Spacedye High-Waisted Practice Pant feels like a soft hug. They are one of our favorite pants for deep relaxation, travel, or a comfortable yoga session.

Flares are a great style for many types of yoga, but the excess fabric can get in the way when doing your most challenging movements. Tighter poses like padmasana (lotus) were easier to get into with a tight fit.

The thinner, bootcut flare of Beyond Yoga Spacedye Practice Pants is one of our favorites for any yoga style. Off the mat, we loved them for travel, working at the coffee shop, and climbing.

We loved how the Practice Pants were comfy in all the movements of...
We loved how the Practice Pants were comfy in all the movements of the day, from morning sun salutations to "wall asanas" on a friend's climbing wall.
Too much flare can get you tangled, but the Practice Pants stick the...
Too much flare can get you tangled, but the Practice Pants stick the balance between comfort and functionality.

The Athleta Elation Flare is a stunning fit, but the pant legs fell down our legs in arm balances and caught during binds. They became our favorite for softening into a yin pose or relaxing at a crystal sound bath, so consider what activities you will be doing when choosing your pants.

yoga pants - the athleta elation flare flows down your legs in a fluid and...
The Athleta Elation Flare flows down your legs in a fluid and soothing fit. They were one of our favorites for restorative, yin, and yoga nidra classes.
Credit: Kate Pitts

Breathability


Breathability determines how much heat a pant holds around your skin and its ability to manage sweat. We assessed breathability by the weight of the material, the fabric's ability to vent or wick moisture, and the drying time after exertion. Breathability is essential when you stoke the internal fire in a rigorous flow, hike on a warm day, or climb up a sun-baked crag. Our testers worked up a sweat with the inner-heating ujjayi breath, a relentless flow, and arm balances. We tested each pair multiple times through an hour-and-a-half sequence. We completed the field test for each pant in the same yoga studio, ensuring that the temperature in the room was consistently 90-98°F. We got a great sense of how the various pairs fared in this category by doing the same vigorous practice. We noted how hot our legs and core felt at the end of our yoga practice, how much sweat remained in the pants, and any areas of significant sweat pooling or color changes in the fabric.


The Lululemon High Rise Align earned top marks in this category. Unsurprisingly, they were also some of the lightest weight pairs in this review. They ventilated so well that we were barely wet by the end of class and hardly felt moisture accumulation because the fabric remained soft and mobile.

yoga pants - the align vents excess heat from movement and deep, warming breaths.
The Align vents excess heat from movement and deep, warming breaths.
Credit: Kate Pitts

We tested for moisture management by pouring water droplets on the leggings and observing how they dried in the sun. Generally, thinner weight pants prevented us from getting too hot in the first place and also allowed our moisture to evaporate away. However, some light fabrics still didn't excel — a fabric that does not have functional moisture-wicking properties traps wet sweat against your skin, even if thin. The Yogalicious Carbonlux High Waist 7/8 is panty-line thin, but the material trapped moisture on our skin during the flow and left us feeling clammy and sticky for the last hour of our yoga practice.

yoga pants - as you can see in our water drop test, moisture did not absorb...
As you can see in our water drop test, moisture did not absorb easily into the Yogalicious Carbonlux High Waist 7/8 fabric. Its poor moisture-wicking performance is why the fabric kept our skin wetter during yoga practice.
Credit: Kate Pitts

Be wary when purchasing pants in any color but black. If you haven't worn them before, you may not know how the material's color changes until after you sweat. While some colors, patterns, and materials don't show much moisture, we learned the hard way that others do.

The ColorfulKoala is also very thin, but the fabric vents and wicks moisture quickly during yoga and when off the mat. We were grateful for their ventilation and quick-dry material on a hot ridge hike in a tropical environment. The Ododos Dual Pocket also impressed us, the soft fabric moving well against the skin even when the body was sweaty. Sweat stains were also not overly visible.

The ColorfulKoala High Waisted Brushed feels cool and light, perfect...
The ColorfulKoala High Waisted Brushed feels cool and light, perfect for hiking in warm environments that don't require bushwhacking.
Flowing in the Ododos Dual Pocket, which breathe very well.
Flowing in the Ododos Dual Pocket, which breathe very well.

Many yoga pants that are highly compressive are also hot on the legs. We were impressed with how the Baleaf High Waisted felt ultralight and breathable and sucked everything in. These were some of our best quick dry pants, and water evaporated quickly from the material after class.

yoga pants - with one of the best sweat-wicking fabrics, the baleaf high waisted...
With one of the best sweat-wicking fabrics, the Baleaf High Waisted offers a hard-to-find balance between compression and coolness.
Credit: Kate Pitts

We did a second round of testing with our top performers on a five to ten-mile hike in temperatures over 70°F with over 1,000 feet of elevation gain. The ribbed fabric of the Prana Becksa 7/8 did exceptionally well venting heat off the legs and wicking moisture when hiking uphill in the sun. Plus, it is almost impossible to see sweat stains on the darkly colored fabric. The Vuori Clean Elevation is similarly impressive, ventilating well and remaining soft, never sticky.

yoga pants - the prana becksa 7/8 breathed and kept us dry while hiking out of...
The Prana Becksa 7/8 breathed and kept us dry while hiking out of the crater in full sun at Haleakala National Park in Hawaii.
Credit: Kate Pitts

Durability


You work hard, and your yoga pants do too. Hours of yoga, dance, hiking, or lounging with your pet put wear and tear on the fabric. Quality yoga pants can last you for several years, save you money, and reduce the environmental impact of replacement. Our durability metric assesses the quality of the material to be resilient to sustained use, various movements, and wash cycles. In our tests, we put each pant through hard use in the field for two months while monitoring the condition of each pant for pilling, fraying or holes, or fading of color. We also observed how each pant held its shape over sustained use and laundering.


Pilling and threading are the main culprits in the visible wear on your clothes, as pills ruin the look of a garment and are most likely the first sign of wear, appearing before seam tears or worn material. Pilling is a common problem with yoga pants; the friction caused by our legs rubbing against themselves, the mat, or whatever other surfaces you may scrape causes the formation of tiny balls or pills. These pills hang on to synthetic fabrics more than natural ones, as the fibers are more robust and less likely to break. Threading occurs when the seams unravel or break.

Some people purchase an inexpensive pill shaver to keep appearances in mint condition. Most manufacturers recommend a cold wash and line drying to extend the life of your leggings.

We noticed minimal pilling on the Lululemon Align, Athleta Elation Flare, and Prana Becksa. While the Beyond Yoga High Waisted Midi is one of our favorite pairs to practice in, the seams began to pill and thread along the sides more than other pants tested. We loved how the soft, ribbed material of the REI Active Pursuits camouflaged pilling, and they looked great after bushwacking in the mountains and over a week of heavy-wear traveling.

yoga pants - we loved the active pursuits on the mat and everywhere else - from...
We loved the Active Pursuits on the mat and everywhere else - from mountaintops to art galleries, we love a good fit.
Credit: Kate Pitts


The resilience of the fabric also influences overall longevity. Some materials are less likely to get tiny holes in the knees or the butt, where you most frequently encounter rough surfaces. Tough pants are essential if you participate in friction-dependent activities like climbing, where your knees may scrape against rough rocks.

yoga pants - tough on rocks, soft on the skin. the breathable prana becksa 7/8 is...
Tough on Rocks, soft on the skin. The breathable Prana Becksa 7/8 is our choice for opting outside.
Credit: Kate Pitts

We also considered the opacity of each legging by running them through a squat test, where we wore bright red underwear and did a deep squat to determine if our undergarments would be a baboon butt embarrassment when going into our next goddess squat at the studio. We do this test because it indicates if the fabric is fragile and will wear out quickly.

We tested each pant to see if our red panties showed through the...
We tested each pant to see if our red panties showed through the fabric to save you the embarrassment of a too revealing goddess squat.
The Colorfuloala High Waisted Brushed is squat-proof (our underwear...
The Colorfuloala High Waisted Brushed is squat-proof (our underwear is red), though the thin material will show panty lines.

However, just because a material is thin does not mean it is transparent. The Lululemon Align and ColorfulKoala were some of the lightest pants but were still opaque, trustworthy selections. The Gym People Thick High Waist and Vuori Clean Elevation were more sheer than we had hoped. The Girlfriend Collective Compressive Pocket was slightly see-through. The sheerness was not too much of an issue in the darker color, but it could be an issue if you ordered a lighter color.

For most yoga pants, letting them air dry will preserve the integrity of the material and seams.

yoga pants - your pants support you, so forget about the material world. pause...
Your pants support you, so forget about the material world. Pause. Soften. Connect. Where do you feel at home in your body and your mind?
Credit: Kate Pitts

Conclusion


The right yoga pants give us a lot of support. They are comfortable enough to wear day or night, flexible and supportive during movement practice, durable enough for our adventures, breathe so our legs don't feel stuck in a sauna, and hug our skin in all the right places. Choosing trustworthy pants can make all the difference, and we hope our review helps you make a mindful decision that supports your practice.

Kate Pitts