Heated yoga classes — including hot yoga and Bikram — are practiced in rooms heated between 90–105°F (32–40°C). The warmth helps increase flexibility and intensifies the workout, but it also means sweat, heat, and the wrong clothes can quickly become uncomfortable. Choosing the right outfit is essential to stay focused, confident, and safe on the mat.
Here’s a complete guide on what to wear to heated yoga, from tops and bottoms to fabrics and accessories.
👚 1. Tops: Lightweight, Breathable, and Secure
When temperatures rise, your top should allow maximum ventilation and stay in place through every pose.
Best options:
- Sports bras or crop tops: Offer minimal coverage and allow the skin to breathe. Medium to high support works best for heated flows.
- Moisture-wicking fitted tank tops: A good choice if you prefer a bit more coverage while still staying cool. Look for nylon-spandex blends.
Avoid:
- Baggy T-shirts that trap heat and cling to the skin when wet.
- Heavy cotton tops that soak up sweat and become uncomfortable.
👉 Tip: A fitted sports bra + high-waisted shorts or leggings is the go-to outfit for many hot yoga practitioners.
🩳 2. Bottoms: Flexible and Sweat-Resistant
Your bottoms should be lightweight, non-slip, and able to handle lots of sweat without becoming heavy.
Best options:
- Biker shorts or fitted yoga shorts: Ideal for keeping cool and avoiding fabric bunching.
- 7/8 or cropped leggings: Great for those who prefer more coverage but still want breathability.
- Performance leggings: Make sure they’re moisture-wicking and have a high waistband that stays put.
Avoid:
- Loose shorts that ride up during poses.
- Thick or cotton leggings that trap heat.
👉 Tip: Test your leggings at home with deep stretches to ensure they don’t become see-through or slip down.
🧦 3. Accessories: Less Is More
The heated environment calls for minimal accessories to avoid distractions.
- Headbands or sweatbands: Keep sweat away from your eyes.
- Grip towels: Placed on your mat to prevent slipping as sweat builds up.
- Water bottle: Staying hydrated before, during, and after class is essential.
- Hair ties: Keep hair tied back to stay cool.
Avoid jewelry, watches, or anything metal — they can heat up and become uncomfortable.
🌿 4. Fabric Matters: Technical Materials Only
The right fabric will make or break your heated yoga experience. Look for performance fabrics that wick moisture, dry quickly, and stay breathable.
Recommended fabrics:
- Nylon-spandex blends
- Polyester performance fabrics
- Bamboo blends (for a softer feel with good breathability)
Avoid:
- 100% cotton — it absorbs sweat, becomes heavy, and can cause chafing.
- Non-stretchy or thick materials.
👉 Tip: Quick-dry fabrics are key. You’ll sweat — a lot.
⚡ 5. Bonus Tips for Heated Yoga Outfits
- Bring a change of clothes: You’ll be soaked after class.
- Use a yoga towel: Keeps your mat grippy and clean.
- Less is better: Minimal layers allow your body to breathe.
- Prioritize function over fashion: Cute outfits are great, but comfort and performance come first.
🧘 Conclusion
Heated yoga offers incredible benefits for strength, flexibility, and mental focus — but only if you’re wearing the right gear. Choose lightweight, moisture-wicking, and breathable fabrics with a secure fit, and keep accessories minimal. With the right outfit, you can flow confidently and focus on your practice, not your clothes.