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August 31, 2021 — 0:05 AM
I’m a fan of yoga leggings as much as anyone—heck, I practically wear them everyday, during workouts and otherwise. However, if I’m moving through a flow during warm weather months or taking a hot yoga class, the staple waist-to-ankle activewear can feel a bit…much. That’s where yoga shorts come in.
In my opinion, the definition of “yoga shorts” is pretty flexible. While some shorts are designed for yoga specifically, I also like wearing bike shorts or looser gym shorts, depending on the setting and type of yoga. As a health & fitness editor, I’ve tested out a lot of workout shorts, and the below are my favorites for yoga.
Beyond Yoga Spacedye High Waisted Biker Short
I’ve raved about Beyond Yoga’s wide variety of leggings for years—particularly those made with their signature “spacedye” material, which is ultra-light and soft to the touch. Now, the brand makes biker shorts with the same fabric, and they’re by-far some of the most comfortable shorts I’ve ever worn. Bonus points: They have pockets!
If you’re looking for a more relaxed fit, these shorts are golden. They’re essentially a shorter version of classic fleece sweatpants, but long enough that they won’t ride up during inversions.
These shorts are technically designed for running, but they’re all-starts for just about any workout. The material is incredibly moisture-wicking, perfect for even the sweatiest yoga flows. Plus, they stay put better than any shorts I’ve tried, thanks to strategic silicone grippers that line the hem.
Another reliable supportive bike short, perfect for ultra-sweaty yoga workouts. Beyond checking so many of my boxes (pockets! moisture-wicking! quick-drying!), it’s worth noting these shorts feature anti-odor technology to keep that post-workout stink at bay.
There are a lot of things I love about these shorts: the wrap waistband, pockets, vegan suede-like material, and the variety of beautiful colors. But what I appreciate most is the fact that they’re certified carbon-neutral, made with 84% post-consumer recycled plastic.
If you love Lululemon’s Align leggings, look no further than these shorts. Designed specifically for yoga, they’re made with the brand’s signature, buttery-soft Nulu fabric—which is designed to wick sweat and breathe with ease. These shorts also come in four different lengths (4″, 6″, 8″, and 10″) so you can choose whichever option you prefer.
I’m a big fan of Free People’s Good Karma collection, including these fitted shorts. The wide, ribbed waistband feels supportive, without constricting—and the stretchy fabric molds to your body like a dream. Plus, there are tiny holes along the sides for a little extra breathability.
Vuori has mastered the art of silky-smooth performance material, and that includes the fabrication of these studio shorts. The lightweight shorts are quick-drying, feature a secure ribbed waistband, plus they come in an array of dreamy neutral colors, like this gorgeous terracotta hue.
By now, you’ve probably gathered I’m all for workout clothes with pockets—but that’s only one of the reasons I recommend these Athleta shorts. I also like the high-performance recycled nylon material, which wicks sweat and keeps you dry from downward dog to savasana.
