Pilates is having a major moment, but yoga remains a timeless favourite for many. Wherever you are in your fitness journey, yoga and Pilates can help boost your mobility, flexibility and overall health.
These routines tend to be more accessible than high-impact cardio like running or HIIT and can be adapted to most fitness levels. The key to success is having the best yoga leggings to give you the support and flexibility you need to get the most out of your yoga or Pilates class.
At Llama Leisure, our size-inclusive yoga leggings will take you from your morning Pilates class to your post-workout coffee stop. We’re sharing everything you need to know about how to choose the best Pilates leggings to suit your style and fitness needs.
Understanding Yoga vs. Pilates
While yoga and Pilates may seem similar, there are crucial differences and the right activewear is just as important for each exercise. Both practices focus on promoting physical and mental health, but Pilates is also a form of resistance training. Pilates involves controlled movements, often at a quicker pace than yoga depending on the class level, incorporating breathing practices and using equipment like resistance bands and reformer machines.
In contrast, yoga focuses more on flexibility and mindfulness, often involving slower movements and longer-held poses. While some styles like Vinyasa can be dynamic and flow continuously at a similar pace to Pilates, yoga is also a popular form of stress relief due to its emphasis on connecting the body, mind and spirit. Whereas Pilates is more of a traditional workout, yoga is a mindful exercise you can do at any time of the day, even before bed.
Why Fit and Comfort Matter in Yoga and Pilates Leggings
It’s important to have the right yoga or Pilates leggings as you need a full range of movements for either practice. Your yoga leggings should be comfortable, allowing you to relax into each movement while giving you the support to go from one dynamic movement to the next.
You don’t want to be spending time fixing your leggings or getting distracted by them. The best yoga leggings will feel like a second skin, as if you’re wearing nothing at all.
What Makes the Best Yoga Leggings?
We wouldn’t recommend walking into an activewear store and choosing any leggings off the rack. Every type of activewear leggings is usually made with a specific sport or exercise in mind and high-performance yoga leggings are no exception.
While flexibility is important, you’ll also want to ensure the fabric is suited for sweating as you go through your class. The best Pilates leggings will be made with a breathable fabric with moisture-wicking properties, keeping you cool and focused on each movement.
Pilates and yoga will put your body into positions you’re not familiar with, so comfort is key. You need activewear leggings that make you look and feel like your best self, giving you the confidence to try new movements and positions. Yoga leggings should feel slightly compressive without being uncomfortable or restricting the flow of your movements.
What to Look for in Pilates Leggings
Just like yoga, Pilates requires supportive activewear while also offering increased durability. While yoga is usually performed with just a mat, Pilates can involve equipment like reformer machines and resistance bands. You need durable leggings suitable for floor exercises and reformer machines.
Your Pilates leggings should be soft and supportive, keeping you comfortable as you focus on making controlled movements. A high waistband adds stability, especially when using a reformer machine. If your leggings aren’t compressive, they may become loose during downward movements and distract you.
How to Match Yoga and Pilates Leggings to Your Personal Style
Many people discover both yoga and Pilates as complementary practices and often enjoy combining them. High-quality yoga leggings will work for Pilates as well. While it’s important to consider the practical needs of yoga leggings, you also want to have fun with your activewear.
Whether you prefer bold prints or subtle colours, patterned yoga leggings will provide the performance you need and add a fun way to express your personality. Wearing bright clothes can instantly boost your mood and help keep you motivated during your fitness journey.
Finding the Right Size Leggings for You
Not all yoga leggings are true to size. While you might be able to take your regular size, it’s always a good idea to check your waist, hips and inseam measurements for the perfect fit. The best yoga leggings will fit comfortably at the waist and be long enough on your legs without being too loose at the ankle.
Always check the sizing guides for extra advice on how to choose the right size. Comfort is always a priority, so focus on choosing the size that best aligns with your measurements, while also accounting for extra stretch in the fabric.
The Best Fabrics for Yoga and Pilates Leggings
Fabric is what will make or break your choice of yoga leggings. Yoga and Pilates are exercises which focus on mindfulness, so softer fabrics will enhance your experience by helping you connect more with your movements. A comfortable fabric should be soft against your skin and not cause irritation, allowing you to focus fully on your exercise.
Polyester and spandex are among the top choices for Pilates leggings as they provide a comfortable and close fit, while giving your body the flexibility it needs. Shop for yoga leggings (just like ours) with a blend of these two fabrics and a high-waisted silhouette for the perfect mix of comfort, flexibility and style.
Embrace Comfort and Performance with Llama Leisure Yoga Leggings
Yoga and Pilates leggings should offer style and functionality, giving you the confidence and support you need to get the most out of every workout. At Llama Leisure, we’ve curated our high-quality activewear leggings to perfectly suit your workout needs, whether you’re a newbie to the world of yoga and Pilates or have been practicing for many years. Shop our best-selling leggings and check out our guide on what to wear to your next yoga class.
