How to buy yoga clothes

Yoga is all about flow: you inhale and exhale as your body moves through various poses, which is why your clothes need to stretch and flex along with you, going with the flow rather than slowing down your workout. From soft to sweat-wicking and breathable, here's what to look for in bras, tops, shorts, trousers and jackets that support your practice.

Seek yoga wear with these qualities, then try on each item to check for fit. Bend forwards and—if it's part of your practice—do a Headstand to make sure tops and trousers stay put.

• Coverage: from Headstands to Downward-Facing Dogs, yoga poses can expose lots of skin. To cut down on exposure, consider items like knee-length or bike shorts and higher-waisted trousers.
• Stretch: for easy movement, seek clothing made from flexible materials, like polyester, elastane and nylon.
• Snug fit: consider opting for tight-fitting items, like body-hugging tank tops instead of large tees, and leggings versus loose trousers. A tee could hang over your head when you bend over or perform a Headstand, while a form-fitting tank top should remain in place. Similarly, sagging trousers could reveal your rear end when you do a Forward Bend.
• Breathing room: that being said, stay away from clothing that's too constrictive. Since breathing is a core part of yoga, look for trousers and shorts with some give at the waist.
• Sweat-wicking: if you practise Vinyasa or Ashtanga yoga (which are both vigorous) or Bikram yoga (which takes place in a hot room), prioritise sweat-wicking clothing. Steer clear of items made from 100% cotton, as they'll absorb moisture.

Here are the top choices for men and women, from sports bras and tops to shorts, trousers and jackets. All feature Nike Dri-FIT technology, which helps move sweat away from your skin to keep you dry.

Words by Dina Cheney