Category: Favorite Finds

I took up Ashtanga yoga in 2013 in Madrid, Spain. The year before, I had run a half marathon in a stupidly beautiful wine region of Portugal, but I’d trained poorly, without proper form or shoes or nutrition, and—one by one—all my toenails fell off. This time, I decided I would take up something gentler on my body.
I started by going to yoga classes at a studio that felt like church (not the kind I grew up in). It had high ceilings, white walls, tall french doors, several plants, and a cat that roamed where it wanted. Whenever I entered, the lights were dim and incense burned. The instructor, who walked around monitoring people’s form, spoke only in whispers. Sometimes they hosted vegetarian potlucks.
After I could no longer afford the classes on my income as an English teacher, I took Ashtanga home with me to the apartment that I shared with three Spanish men. They were all nice to me, but I still felt like an outsider borrowing their space, so I was most comfortable practicing alone in my small room.
About four days a week, I went through the same movements again and again, breathing loudly (Ashtanga is all about the breath) while James Blake’s Overgrown album played on YouTube. (The whole point, probably, was that I was supposed to be doing the practice in meditative silence, concentrating only on the flow of the sequence, but I became bored easily.)
In the end, I screwed up my knees. Maybe because I was hyperextending, maybe because I still ran, or maybe because of the extra weight I carried on my frame after many cervezas and the previous year’s half-marathon training, during which I stress-gained a surprising amount. I left Ashtanga behind.
Half a decade later, I missed the flow that once bored me. I recently started powerlifting, and I wanted to find a way to maintain my flexibility as I gain strength. Since I’ve stopped running, and my knees no longer pop when I kneel down, yoga seemed like a good option for me.

There’s something, too, about the repetitiveness and the mobility of Ashtanga that calls me back—the way it lulls me into a different state of mind, and the fact that, once memorized, I can do it pretty much anywhere, whether I’m at home, on a trip, or at any wonderfully scented studio in the world. (Though I’m now landlocked in the American Midwest, I recently began a full-time job that will allow me to go on more weekend getaways than my freelance-writer budget and NYC rent allowed.)
But, to practice anywhere and at any time, you need a yoga mat suited to travel. Below I’ll compare three popular options that I personally tested for weeks, paying special attention to 1) ease of transport, 2) comfort, and 3) functionality. Multipurpose mats got bonus points. (I’ll explain later.)

My Process for Testing Travel Yoga Mats

To compare these popular travel yoga mats, I tried to keep conditions as similar as possible during testing. With each yoga mat, I completed the same Ashtanga fundamentals session on a hardwood floor, wearing the same clothes and stopping midway to sample each mat as a topper over my at-home yoga mat.
Though I’m a very sweaty person generally, I didn’t sweat much (if at all) during these sessions, as I practiced in air-conditioned rooms and at a slower speed. (This, of course, had everything to do with the type of yoga I chose. Hot yoga would’ve changed everything.)
Since all the mats made claims about their grippiness, I emulated sweaty palms by running my hands under water about halfway through my flows so that they would be damp for the remainder of the practice, which included positions you might easily slip during if on a bad mat: Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana), Four-Limbed Staff Pose (Chaturanga Dandasana), and Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I).
Whether I actually traveled with a mat was a game of survival of the smallest. Mats that fit inside my 21.7” × 14.8” × 10.2” carry-on took trips, while the others (or, in this case, other—only one was too big) were left behind.

Travel Yoga Mats Tested

[sol title=”CleverYoga’s YogiOnTheGo Travel Mat” subheader=”Mat Dimensions: 71” L × 24” W × 1 mm | Weight ~2 lbs”]

Pros

This floppy, super-soft mat reminded me of a fancy cowhide rug. In reality, it’s probably the furthest you could get from a home accessory made of animal flesh. The CleverYoga YogiOnTheGo Travel Mat, according to the box it comes in, is eco-friendly, created “from all-natural tree rubber” “with a soft fabric surface” that is certainly not the dried-out skin of a mammal.
This in no way discouraged me from making myself at home on my cross-country flight to Los Angeles by using the mat as a blanket. My four-hour trip from St. Louis Lambert International Airport to LAX was not terribly long, but it was a struggle. After a full night’s rest of two hours, I boarded at 5:15 a.m. and immediately wanted to lie down. Luckily, it wasn’t a full flight, so I could. Unluckily, it was cold, and blankets weren’t provided.

So I got creative. I balled up my jean jacket to use as a pillow and pulled out the Clever mat, which I’d fit easily into the small carrying pouch of my weekender bag, which is roughly the size of a folded sweatshirt. I faced the soft side of the mat, letting the rubber exterior shield me from the blasting AC, and I was surprisingly warm and comfy, likely because of the mat’s flexibility and weight.
The packaging claims it’s no heavier than about two pounds, with weight varying up to 0.3 pounds due to “the uniqueness of the natural rubber.” For the record, mine measured in on my kitchen scale as 2.48 pounds. All that said, I didn’t sleep like a baby, but I did sleep—like an adult woman, which is just okay.
In additions to its luxe look, ease of transport, and multifunctionality, the cost of this mat is just under $45, which is an investment but won’t break the bank.

Cons

The only yoga I did in L.A. was a sun salutation or two the last morning of my trip, on the hard kitchen tile of the Airbnb. My notes: “not the most cushiony, doesn’t provide the best grip (but, according to the makers, it becomes grippier the more you sweat)—unrelated: realized how inflexible I’ve become, perhaps bc powerlifting?”
During the more controlled Ashtanga test, I confirmed that the mat itself stays put on the floor, but its soft-side grip isn’t great, though, as promised, it does create more friction the sweatier (or waterier) your hands become, which is a neat twist. Even more curious was this instruction: “Lightly sprinkle mat with water where hands and feet normally land for superior grip.” So I did, like a priest blessing someone with holy water, and it helped. Still, not ideal.
Neither is cushioning. Do you enjoy the sensation of sitting cross-legged, skin bare, on a hardwood floor? If so, you will probably find this mat comfortable. I, however, bruise like a peach, and I and my pale skin did not love it. At 1 mm thick, this material is not very forgiving. (When paired with another yoga mat as a topper, that discomfort goes away. So, if you’re a YogiOnTheGo who is more likely to attend a class with mats provided, it shouldn’t be an issue.)

Considerations

Another fun and unexpected feature of the CleverYoga travel mat is that it can be laundered like a towel or any other piece of clothing. The extent of my yoga mat cleaning ritual has only ever been to occasionally—OCCASIONALLY—wipe it down with one of those antibacterial hand wipes. But I am a messy person. (“With you, the messiness is part of the art,” an editor once told me, for whatever that’s worth.) So the idea of being able to throw my yoga mat in the washer (and dryer!) after a particularly foul romp through an airplane, or wherever, seems both foreign and luxurious.
After testing this out—normal wash on cold, dry on medium heat—I can say that it comes out looking basically as good as new. (For those of you wondering, there is an upper limit to the “wetter is better” feature. I tried to Downward Dog in the apartment building’s concrete laundry room floors on a soaking-wet, just-washed Clever mat, and it was kind of slick, as you might imagine.)
[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2O6Sq3V”]Get it from Amazon here[/link-button]
[sol title=”lululemon Reversible (Un) Mat Lightweight Travel” subheader=”Dimensions: 71” L × 26” W × 1.5 mm | Weight ~2 lbs”]

Pros

I see what they did here with branding. The first thing I thought of when I read “(Un) Mat” was (un)chicken—so, veganism. Veganism evokes eco-friendliness, and a certain cultural elitism, which, hey, doesn’t miss the mark. Still, I took the (Un) Mat with me from St. Louis to Little Rock—via a decidedly (un) vegan flight, as a few of the passengers ate fried chicken, making my pretzels seem very sad.
During my Ashtanga testing session with the (Un) Mat, I learned that the grip on this yoga mat is for real, with and without wet hands. A clear plus.

Cleaning was straightforward, though I didn’t follow the rules. The instructions say to “clean this mat after practice with warm, soapy water,” and “after a heavy sweat session, fully submerge it in water and hang it to dry.”
I’ve learned enough about myself as a person to know that I won’t be hand-washing items, unless those items are expensive lingerie or all of my dishes for the past seven years, because that’s how long I lived without a dishwasher. Instead, I used a Wet Ones hand wipe for sensitive skin to do a quick once-over. They were not kidding around about how the top layer “absorbs moisture.” The mat seemed to instantly evaporate any wetness (where? how?), and it even showed imprints from the oil on my nose, like some kind of massive blotting paper.

Cons

As it turns out, 1.5 mm thickness is still not thick enough to feel like you aren’t pressing your ankle bones directly into the cold, hard floor. (Though I feel the need to mention that the discomfort did disappear when the mat was turned into a topper.)
Another bummer: This mat only barely fit in my carry-on bag. At 2.32 pounds, it’s lighter than the Clever mat, but it was inflexible enough that it had to be ungracefully fruit roll-upped and crammed between clothes, which left it looking crumpled.
Visiting family for a long weekend, I got the chance to do some yoga with my mom, who used the Clever mat while I used the (Un) Mat. The practice was for “complete beginners” and we did it in our carpeted living room, so the mats’ thickness and grippiness didn’t come into consideration.
Mainly we were in tune with the sensory experience. (“I wish this was a class where they came and massaged you!” my mom said before starting. She is not a huge fan of yoga, per se.) Both of us were distracted by the strong, almost fishy smell of the (Un) Mat. The Clever mat did have a slightly unpleasant tire-y odor, which has lessened with time and a wash, but the stench was much more invasive when it came to the (Un) Mat.
To be fair, the packaging advises rolling it out to air before practicing with it, which I didn’t read until later. Perhaps the odor is from the natural rubber base, the polyurethane top layer that “absorbs moisture to help you get a grip during sweaty practices,” or the antimicrobial additive that apparently prevents the growth of mold and mildew—all great features! But something stinks until the mat has been aired out for a couple days.

Considerations

At $48.00–$58.00 on the lululemon website, this is slightly more expensive than the CleverYoga option.
[link-button href=”https://fave.co/2I1uVq7″]Get it from lululemon here[/link-button]
[sol title=”Liforme Travel Mat” subheader=”Dimensions: 70.8” L × 25.6” W × 2 mm | Weight 3.5 lbs”]

Pros

This mat delivers in some important ways, as evidenced by being the top performer in my Ashtanga-on-hardwood-floor-with-wet-hands test.
First, it looks cool. The design is neat enough on its own, but it’s also functional. The mat’s creator, James Armitage, said the Liforme Travel Mat came into being after a five-year process of research and development, including seven trips to the “Far East.”
The markings on the yoga mat make up the AlignForMe system, which is supposed to help yogis and their teachers track positioning of the hands and feet, or any other strategically placed body parts. (James experienced a turning point in his yoga practice when he started regularly attending a guided Ashtanga primary series class, so perhaps the system was made specifically with those poses in mind.)
Second, the mat felt like the grippiest of all three I tried, with what the makers refer to as a “Warrior-like Grip.” A little booklet that comes attached to the travel bag says: “We believe our revolutionary ‘GripForMe’ material is the grippiest Yoga mat material currently available on earth. And it stays grippy even when ‘sweaty wet.’” Can’t argue with that.

Third, Liforme seems to have hit the sweet spot of travel-mat thickness at 2 mm. When used alone, the other two mats, at 1 mm and 1.5 mm, respectively, felt almost like having nothing between my body and the floor, while this one felt like enough of a barrier to not hurt my joints during my practice.
Another notable feature, according to the attached booklet, is the mat’s “planet friendly, body kind” makeup: “sustainable natural rubber, topped with a specifically engineered eco-friendly material” that is “responsibly manufactured and biodegradable.”
I appreciate that the mat came with its own zip-up travel bag, which includes an over-the-shoulder strap. The sturdy case will likely keep this yoga mat from getting beaten up over extended use. The Liforme website also provides detailed instructions on how to keep your mat in good condition and clean. (Again, I just wiped it down with a Wet One. But being a responsible adult, and considering that this mat is the most expensive of all—$125—perhaps you will feel more inclined to follow the recommended protocol.)

Cons

Even given all its wins, Liforme was the only mat that didn’t make it on an excursion. At nearly 26 inches rolled up, there was no way it was fitting in my carry-on. Though it came with its own travel case, I was worried that it would count as my personal item and the airline would charge me for my purse. Aside from this, adding any extra over-the-shoulder item is cumbersome when traveling, especially when said item is relatively heavy (about 3.5 pounds) and oddly shaped.
Did I mention that this mat is over one hundred dollars? Because it is. For most of us (myself included), that’s a lot!

Considerations

Like lululemon’s (Un) Mat, this one has an unsavory fishy smell, so you’ll probably want to air out this mat for a few days before your first practice.
[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2O9dJ5h”]Get it from Amazon here[/link-button]

Overall Winner

This may come as a surprise, but my top pick for a travel yoga mat is CleverYoga’s YogiOnTheGo Travel Mat, because it shines in the two areas that a yoga mat of its kind should: being multifunctional and easy to transport.
The runner-up would be the Liforme Travel Mat, for those who prioritize having a mat that’s supportive and super grippy during practice over having space in your luggage or fewer things to carry. It misses first place, in my book, because it doesn’t seem different enough in size or ease of transport from a regular yoga mat.
When I was 21 years old, I went backpacking through Europe for nearly a month, bringing with me only what could fit in a relatively small backpack (think “back to school,” not Wild). If I were to take up precious packing real estate for a yoga mat, it would have to be smashable and it couldn’t be just a yoga mat.
One of those nights I spent in a cold, closed train station in Nice where there were only homeless people and travelers like me with budgets too small to splurge on a hostel. It was among one of my most miserable travel memories and involved me curling up near a New Zealander couple I’d just met, using a pair of my damp, dirty jeans as a blanket. Here a yoga mat that served as a cushion would’ve been greatly appreciated, but realistically I probably wouldn’t have taken the extra space required by a more traditional, roll-up mat.
On the other hand, a yoga mat that doubled as a blanket and took up much less room in my bag would’ve been worth it, since it would’ve been something I used again and again. (I was frequently cold on transportation and could’ve used it as a stand-in beach towel, picnic blanket, or hostel comforter, then washed it when it got too gnarly.)
On top of all that, it’s the least expensive of the bunch. And what traveler can’t use more money?
[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2O6Sq3V”]Get it from Amazon here[/link-button]

Looking for a new yoga mat (or maybe even your very first mat) can be an overwhelming experience. There are so many to choose from! I remember when I first started my yoga practice I wanted a mat of my own that I could easily carry with me but that wasn’t too pricey since I wasn’t sure if yoga was something I was going to fall in love with right away.
Whether you’re not quite ready to commit to a higher-priced option or you need to leave wiggle room in your budget for something else, I’m here to help you pick a mat you can afford and enjoy.

The Criteria I Considered When Testing Budget Yoga Mats and Sets

When you’re first starting out your practice it’s completely understandable to not want to break the bank with the purchase of an expensive yoga mat. I do, however, think that it’s a good idea to purchase a mat you can call your own—and maybe one that you’re excited to roll out will help keep you committed to your practice.
My top suggestion for anyone looking to purchase their first yoga mat or seeking a budget-friendly mat or set is to look at thickness, stickiness, and weight. Try to find a mat that provides enough support for your joints and is comfortable in seated poses, has enough grip to help you feel stable during Downward Dog and other inversions, and is easy for you to carry to and from the studio (or wherever your practice may take you).

As I mentioned during my review of best yoga mats for everyday use, keep in mind that this is just a summary of my experience with these mats, so the process of finding your ideal yoga mat could be different depending on your preferences and needs. I am simply sharing my honest thoughts in the hopes of helping you find a mat that fits your flow.
[sul title=”Clever Yoga BetterGrip Mat” subheader=”Mat Dimensions: 72” L × 25¼” W × 6 mm | 2 lb”]
I tested this yoga mat at a studio class and in my home. Upon initial inspection, this reversible mat felt to be the most durable out of the three I considered. The material is eco-friendly and made from 100 percent recycled materials. It’s also free from latex, PVC, and the potentially toxic materials that are found in many budget-friendly mats.

Pros

The 6 mm thickness of the Clever Yoga BetterGrip Mat provided great support and protection for my joints. I found the extra cushioning to be beneficial when I was doing anything seated or on my back. When you’re practicing in a studio, the wood or cement floors can be tough, especially when you’re doing anything on your hands and/or knees. Luckily this mat provided enough cushion that I could go through my flow without having to prop up on a blanket during class.

Out of the three mats I reviewed, this one is the longest and widest. I am 5′7″ and prefer a mat that’s on the longer side so my head and feet aren’t hanging off the ends. This is a common request from taller yogis who want to be free from distractions during class. I could see it being a bit too long for someone who is shorter but don’t see that being an issue that would cause them to lose focus. For me, the more surface area the better!

Cons

The thing that I found a little challenging while practicing with the Clever Yoga BetterGrip Mat was some of the balancing poses. Mats with any extra thickness make it more difficult to stand on one leg while trying to keep your focus. I have found that the thinner mats work better for these types of poses so this is definitely something to keep in mind.
This mat is truly reversible, just as Clever Yoga claims, and both sides provide a fairly good grip. The biggest downside, however, is that there is a sticky film on both sides of the mat.
Although there was no foul odor, even just touching the mat to roll and unroll left that sticky film on my hands and feet. I’m talking very sticky—and it’s hard to get off, too. I also noticed that my hands and feet left visible stains on the mat. The stains came off after I cleaned the mat but were apparent after each use.

Considerations

This yoga mat was easy to roll up but did take some time to keep its shape on the floor once it was unrolled. I followed the directions on the packaging and wiped it down with a wet cloth. I would not suggest using any kind of cleaner that contains essential oils or vinegar. If you’re sticking to a wet cloth cleaning method you should be safe to clean this mat after every practice.
Overall I would consider this to be a decent option for a first-time purchase or someone newer to yoga. It’s extremely lightweight and rolls up easily. There were no accessories included with the purchase of this mat, so I would recommend buying a strap or yoga bag to carry it in.
[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2LVO0je”] Get it from Amazon here [/link-button]
[sul title=”Gaiam 2-Color Yoga Mat” subheader=”Mat Dimensions: 68” L × 24” W × 3 mm | 2.2 lb”]
The Gaiam 2-Color Mat is a great budget-friendly option for anyone looking to practice at home on a carpeted space or at a studio that has padded floors. It is 3 mm thick and therefore does not provide a lot of cushion or support. I used it at home in my personal yoga space, which is fully carpeted, and had no issues being on my hands and knees.

Pros

This mat is lightweight and easy to carry around. Because of the 3 mm thickness it also stores easily in the car and at home without taking up a lot of space.
I was satisfied with the grip, especially seeing as this mat is priced below $25. I didn’t try any hot classes with this yoga mat, but it stayed in place pretty well through the transitions of my home and studio flows. It’s worth mentioning that I did notice a little sliding on the floor of the studio, which caused me to make some minor adjustments here and there.
[related article_ids=1003916]

Just like the BalanceFrom mat (see below!), I found the Gaiam mat was easy to clean and didn’t require that I followed any specific care instructions. This mat wiped clean easily and dried quickly, making it convenient to pack up and go about my day post-practice.

Cons

Although my carpeted practice was pleasant, it’s when I took this mat to a studio class with hardwood floors that I began to have issues. I couldn’t do any poses that put a lot of weight on my wrists, knees, or ankles without needing a blanket for extra support. My Downward Dogs even got a little uncomfortable toward the end of my practice because of the lack of support related to the thinness of this mat.

Considerations

This was the least durable of the three mats I reviewed. I didn’t notice any flaking during the few classes I took, but the filling of this product is made from PVC—not the most durable if you plan on using it several times per week. I love the grip for the price, but I wouldn’t recommend this mat for long-term use. The quality just isn’t there and you might wind up having to buy another new mat sooner rather than later.
[link-button href=”https://fave.co/2Iv6rcy”] Get it from Target here [/link-button]
[sul title=”BalanceFrom GoYoga Eco-Friendly Mat” subheader=”Mat Dimensions: 68” L × 24” W × 6.35 mm”]
The BalanceFrom Eco-Friendly Mat measures in at ¼ inch thick, which is about 6 mm. I compared the thickness side by side with the Clever Yoga BetterGrip mat and found them to match up almost perfectly. As I was practicing, however, I thought this mat felt much thinner than 6 mm.  

Pros

I took a heated and non-heated class and noticed that this mat wicked moisture pretty well during both practices. I was pleasantly surprised by how much grip this reversible yoga mat actually had on both sides.
In a non-heated class, I was able to stay in Downward Dog without any slipping or sliding. I also had zero trouble with the mat sliding on the studio floor. I did notice in the hot class I slid a bit more when I was really sweaty. Therefore, I’d recommend a yoga mat towel if you’re planning to do any intense, sweat-heavy classes with this mat.
Although the carrying strap provided wasn’t high quality, the weight of this mat made it easy to transport to and from class.

I’m also happy to share that the cleaning process was a breeze, as both sides of the mat wiped clean very easily. There are no special care instructions provided for this yoga mat, so I used a water, vinegar, and essential oil blend cleaner and it worked perfectly. As an added bonus, this yoga mat dries fast, so I was able to quickly roll it up and head out.

Cons

Despite the thickness of this mat, I still felt the need to use a mat towel while I was in any pose that put weight on my knees.

Considerations

The one thing I noticed when I first opened this mat is that the card that came with the product says it’s “eco-friendly.” However, the card does not state what this budget-friendly mat is made of. I turned to their website to find more information, and to my surprise, I couldn’t find anything on their site that mentioned the words eco-friendly, nor could I see what the mat was actually made of.
When I reached out to BalanceFrom in regards to the eco-friendly claim their response was, “The mat is made of NBR. All our mats are eco-friendly, they all pass eco test.”
Since NBR, or nitrile rubber, is a synthetic product, this may not be the mat for yogis set on getting a mat made of truly eco-friendly, sustainable materials.
[related article_ids=26396]
This product does come with a mat carrying strap and a two-year warranty. The strap is fairly short, so it handles more like a carrier than an actual yoga strap, and it isn’t high quality (but it did come off and go on with no real issues).
All that being said, out of the three mats in this category, I would pick this one as my go-to. The grip and support it offered my hands and knees were definitely superior to the other budget mats I tested.
[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2O7aWtf”] Get it from Amazon here [/link-button]

Budget Yoga Sets Tested

Budget sets are a great investment if you’re wanting to start a home practice. It can be challenging to find time to get to a studio several times a week, and it can also be quite expensive to pay for classes regularly. If you’re on a budget but want to stay committed to your practice, finding a space in your home to bring your yoga practice to life is the perfect option. What you’ll want to invest in first, especially if you are a beginner, is a yoga set equipped with a mat and props.
A typical yoga set includes a mat, two blocks, a strap, and a long towel to place over your mat. Sometimes a smaller hand towel will be included as well. For your home practice what you really want to focus on is finding a yoga set with a quality mat, two blocks, and a strap. Here are two sets that include all the essentials:
[sul title=”Sivan Yoga Set” subheader=”Mat Dimensions: 71” L × 24” W × ½” thick”]
Set Includes: Mat | Two Yoga Blocks | One 6’5” Yoga Strap | One 68” × 24” Yoga Mat Towel | One 30” × 20” Yoga Hand Towel
The Sivan Yoga Set includes everything a beginner yogi needs to get started: a mat, two blocks, a strap, and two towels (one hand towel and one yoga mat towel). The only thing not included was a bag. The items came boxed up and individually wrapped. If you’re wanting to travel with these items, I’d suggest getting a yoga bag big enough to fit everything included in this budget set.

Pros

Although the carrying strap wasn’t the best quality, it was fairly easy for me to get the Sivan mat in and out the strap. The mat also rolled up easily but took some time to lay flat on the floor.

The other items in this set were of decent quality. I prefer a thicker block, whereas these particular ones are smaller and thinner than those in the CelverYoga set I tested (see below!). I found the towels and strap to hold up well and definitely believe the items add value to this set.

Cons

The strap included in this set was designed to carry your mat more like a holder and is not long enough to actually fit over your shoulder for carrying, meaning I had to adjust it quite a bit during transport as I found the mat sliding around. This is something to consider if think or know you prefer to use a strap to carry your yoga mat.
One big thing to note about this set is the nature of the mat itself. It is extremely thick for a yoga mat. A mat of this thickness is great for fitness classes where you’re on your back and knees quite a bit. For a yoga class, though, it’s not ideal.
I did two home practices on this mat, one in my carpeted yoga space and the other in my office, which has hardwood flooring. I found it to be extremely difficult to practice with this mat on the carpet because of its thickness. Even on the hard floor, my hands would sink into the mat during Downward-Facing Dog. During my standing poses, I noticed my feet sinking, which made Vinyasa transitions and balance poses more challenging. Overall the extra thickness caused more of a distraction than anything.

Considerations

This would be a great mat and set for more fitness-based classes. I noticed the woman on the box was even wearing tennis shoes and was in more of a “workout” style position. I can’t speak to workout classes, but I would not recommend the mat included for a yoga practice unless you know you’ll do more restorative flows that involve mostly seated postures and stretching, in which case this budget set may be the perfect fit for you.
[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2LPkXP5″] Get it from Amazon here [/link-button]
[sul title=”Clever Yoga Set” subheader=”Mat Dimensions: 72” L × 25¼” W × 6 mm”]
Set Includes: Mat | Two Yoga Blocks | One 8’ Cotton Yoga Strap | One Yoga Mat Towel | One Yoga Hand Towel | One Carrying Bag
I was blown away by everything that was included in this set for the price tag. I also found the overall quality of the items included to be pretty impressive considering the affordable nature of this set, which truly has everything you need to get started. There’s even a quick video on their website that walks you through what you need to know about each piece of equipment.

Pros

The carrying bag was a great addition to this set. The other six items fit perfectly inside, which means they can be packed away and transported nicely. The bag features two little straps that hold the yoga blocks in place and a compartment on the outside that would be ideal for storing keys or other small items if you decide to travel with it.

The blocks are thick and sturdy. The strap is durable and long enough for me to use in every pose. The two towels were moisture wicking and stayed in place with minimal sliding when I used the longer towel to lay over the mat during one of my home practices.

Cons

The yoga mat included in this set is the same as the Clever Yoga BetterGrip Mat that was reviewed in the budget-friendly mat section. As mentioned previously, this mat still had that sticky film but did not leave the same staining effect that I noticed on my hands and feet with the first Clever Yoga mat I tested. I did, however, notice a little more slip while in Downward-Facing Dog with the mat included in this set. That being said, I thought the quality of the remaining items was on point.

Considerations

Out of the two budget sets, I would pick the Clever Yoga set to be the winner in this category. The big difference I saw during my testing process was the quality in all of the products included. The Clever Yoga mat had better grip and was more suitable for an active yoga practice. The blocks were also thicker, and this budget set included a carrier that allowed me to travel easily to and from the studio and conveniently store my set at home.
I would absolutely agree that this set is worth the price tag. It has everything that a yogi wanting to practice from home will need!
[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2O5y9fj”] Get it from Amazon here [/link-button]

My love affair with hot yoga began earlier this year, and I haven’t looked back since—dedicating at least two hours each week to my practice at my favorite local yoga studio. Although hot yoga in a studio setting is my preference, I also roll out the mat at home each week to refocus my energy and tune in to my body.
While I would still consider myself a beginner student, I have tested a variety of yoga mats on my journey thus far—trying everything from a paper-thin clearance mat from a local sporting goods store to the most expensive mat I could find at lululemon. Along the way, I’ve had many classes filled with slippery Downward Dogs and frustrating moments, but I’ve also learned (admittedly the hard way and through online research) which features I desire most in a reliable hot yoga mat.

To save others from this slippery struggle, I spent the last month sweat testing three of the most popular and highly recommended hot yoga mats. To keep the playing field as level as possible and avoid any bad feelings from awkward first impressions, I used each mat during two separate 60-minute hot yoga classes at my favorite local yoga studio.
This specific class is a heated Vinyasa flow in a studio that offers high humidity and temperatures ranging from 100 to 103 degrees. I also want to note that the floors at my studio are textured, antimicrobial mats (not wood) so please keep this in mind if you practice at a studio that has a different flooring material.
In addition to my hot yoga classes, I used each mat during one at-home flow guided by the wisdom of Yoga With Adriene. I also washed and air dried all three mats and documented as much as possible throughout my various tests. Although it was a tough decision, one hot yoga mat did outperform the others—and you’ll soon know why.

Criteria I Considered While Testing the Hot Yoga Mats

Before I can tell you which yoga mat was my favorite for heated flows, let me first explain how I judged each mat. During my testing process, there was some important criteria that I homed in on and made sure to note.
First and foremost, I focused on each mat’s comfort and durability. Since I practice hot yoga weekly, durability is critical. I need a mat that is supportive and able to cushion my joints while withstanding weekly use without flaking into pieces or losing its integrity. Sustaining a yoga practice can be expensive enough as is, so it’s important to most of us that we choose a comfortable, quality product that is worth the $60 to $100 investment you’ll be making in a hot yoga mat.
Another key factor that I tested throughout this process was the slip and grip of each mat, as we all know there’s nothing worse than straining to prevent your hands and feet from slipping out of position or trying to focus on your breath as your yoga mat slowly slides across the studio floor. To help you avoid these annoyances, I documented how each mat gripped the studio floor and if it stayed in place throughout the entire 60-minute heated flow or required readjustments.
Since floor grippage is just half the battle when it comes to hot yoga, these mats also had to withstand the slip test during my 100-degree Vinyasa flows to win a place in my heart. If I didn’t feel secure and grounded in my poses, you’re definitely going to hear about it in my reviews.

As much as I love hot yoga, it involves a lot of sweat and can become a wet, smelly experience without the proper equipment. For context, I would consider my perspiration level moderate to high, with the majority of my sweat formation occurring around my hands, feet, chest (aka boob sweat), and hairline. Throughout my mat-filled month, I documented which yoga mats had sweat wicking and antimicrobial properties that were effective at preventing mold and mildew from forming.
With that being said, some hot yoga stench is unavoidable, which is why properly caring for your yoga mat is important both in terms of cleanliness and extending the life of your investment. In each review, I discuss the care process I used to clean each yoga mat—and if it was effective.
The final factor that I kept in mind during this process was versatility. Despite the fact that hot yoga is my favorite way to practice self-care, I do still want the flexibility to pursue a non-heated flow should the opportunity arise. Therefore, I tested each mat in a non-heated setting (aka my home) using Yoga With Adriene as my guide. Since this was ultimately a test to find the best hot yoga mat, I did not let the versatility component alter any of my final rankings, but I did include it in my review so that you can take it into consideration if you too desire a mat that can be used for a variety of different types of yoga.
So which hot yoga mat was my winner? Read on to find out.
[sol title=”Gaiam Sol Studio Select Dry-Grip Yoga Mat” subheader=”Mat Dimensions: 68” L × 24” W × 5 mm | Weight 4.25 lb”]
Upon my initial inspection, the Gaiam Sol Studio mat felt both sturdy and supportive with the right amount of cushioning. The top of this yoga mat has a smooth rubber-like finish despite being made of PVC and features an appealing geometric pattern in the center.
While this mat may not be reversible, it performed well both in and out of the studio setting. One of my favorite things about this yoga mat? It comes with a lifetime guarantee, which can put any budget-conscious buyer (me included) more at ease.

Pros

From my first Downward Dog to Tree Pose to Savasana, this mat outshined my initial expectations. I felt grounded and secure in my postures—my hands and feet felt almost like they were stuck to the mat (but without the unpleasant sticky sensation). Although the instructions on the mat said to wipe it down with a damp towel prior to class to make it stickier, I chose to test the mat without doing so and truthfully didn’t feel that this was necessary (especially once I began to sweat). If your perspiration level is on the lighter side, however, you might consider wiping this mat down with a damp towel prior to your hot yoga class per the instructions.
The Gaiam Sol Studio Select Dry-Grip Yoga Mat also stayed in place on the studio floor from the moment I put it down. I didn’t need to readjust the mat at all during my practice and felt no need to use a mat towel.
As mentioned previously, I also tested this mat in a non-heated setting during my home yoga practice. Despite the change in scenery, this mat maintained its dry-grip promise as my hands, feet, and the mat itself stayed firmly in place throughout my flow. After using this mat on three separate occasions, there was no flaking or noticeable damage to the mat.

In terms of care, I followed the instructions, which advised using cold water and mild detergent to clean the mat before hanging it to dry. I hung the yoga mat over my shower curtain and wiped it down with a clean washcloth, cold water, and my beloved Caldrea detergent, then hung it to dry on a wooden rack in my laundry room overnight. The following morning, the Gaiam Sol Studio Select Dry-Grip Yoga Mat was completely dry and ready for another flow.

Cons

The first thing I noticed about this mat upon opening its package was its strong chemical-like smell, despite the fact that this product is rubber-, latex-, and 6P-free. I let the mat sit out for two days prior to my first use, but this still wasn’t enough time. The odor was so strong that it stung my nostrils during Child’s Pose—so much that I wound up eager to make my way to Warrior I to gain some distance from the mat. It even made my car smell during my 15-minute ride home from class!
This strong scent made it difficult for me to determine if the mat developed any other odors during my first use. Because of this experience, I laid this mat out for four more days and washed it before testing it again. I’m happy to report that my second experience was significantly better in terms of smell. If I could turn back time, I would air this mat out for five to seven days and wash it once prior to using it for the first time.
While not as offensive as the odor, the stickiness of this mat did result in the appearance of lint, dog hair, and other small items from the studio floor and my body during my practice. This wasn’t a huge deterrent by any means, but something I felt was worth noting if you have furry friends who love practicing yoga by your side.
Finally, to be as forthcoming as possible, I also wanted to share one moment in class where my foot awkwardly brushed into the mat as I was moving from a Three-Legged dog into a lunge. I know it’s a totally beginner-yogi move but hey, I’m still learning. This is worth mentioning because when my foot brushed into the mat the sensation was similar to that of a pencil eraser burn because of the material the top of this yoga mat is made of. Although it was more of an odd sensation than a painful one, it is still something worth keeping in mind if your transitions aren’t yet fluid.

Considerations

It’s worth mentioning that this yoga mat’s product description states that it can show more signs of wear and tear if left exposed to the sun for extended periods of time, so this might not be the best choice if you prefer to dry your yoga mat outdoors.
While this wasn’t my winner as the best mat for hot yoga, the Gaiam Sol Studio Select Dry-Grip Yoga Mat was the most budget-friendly of the mats tested and it delivered a slip-free performance across the board. I would gladly welcome another hot yoga class on this mat.
[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2tEi74f”] Get it from Amazon here [/link-button]
[sol title=”Manduka eQua Hot Yoga Mat” subheader=”Mat Dimensions: 68” L × 24” W × 4 mm | Weight 5 lb”]
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly hot yoga mat, the Manduka eQua could be the perfect fit for your practice. According to Manduka, the bottom layer of this hybrid mat is made from “sustainably harvested natural tree rubber,” and no toxic chemicals are used to soften the rubber during construction. The microfiber-towel top layer is soft to the touch and features a limited edition artist design by the talented Brent Broza (@brozaphoto), meaning this yoga mat is easy on the eyes.
For a point of comparison, the Manduka eQua mat is just slightly heavier than the Gaiam mat, but the Manduka is thinner and able to be rolled into a more compact shape during transportation. Similar to the Gaiam mat, the Manduka eQua mat is not reversible.
I also feel the need to disclose that I felt like a total badass during my hot yoga class when I realized that my instructor had the same Manduka eQua mat featuring a different artist’s design. Eco-friendly and aesthetically appealing are definitely positives, but would this mat withstand 100-degree temperatures and Taylor sweat?

Pros

Although this mat is 1 mm thinner than the other two mats that I tested, my wrists and feet still felt supported and I did not notice any other aches and pains during class. This mat did provide a bit less cushion compared to the other two mats tested, but I didn’t mind the firmness and was still comfortable throughout my flow.
I was also extremely impressed by the sweat-activated microfiber top layer, which absorbed my perspiration during class. I was truly mind blown to see that the multitude of sweat spots that has accumulated on the mat during class had dried almost completely during my short 15-minute ride home.
The bottom layer of this hybrid mat features a textured pattern that is designed to grip the floor and keep the mat in place. During my studio experience, this hot yoga mat stayed firmly in place throughout the duration of my practice and did not require any adjusting, nor did the tree rubber flake or break at any point.

I followed the care instructions, which indicated the mat should be cleaned using cold water and a mild detergent (again, I used Caldrea). Compared to the other two mats tested, this mat was the heaviest when wet. I also hung this mat to dry on a wooden rack in my laundry room. When I checked the mat about six hours after washing it, it was only slightly damp. By the following morning, the Manduka eQua mat was fully dry and the design didn’t show any signs of fading after washing.

Cons

Although not quite like the strong chemical scent of the Gaiam mat, the Manduka eQua mat had its own unique scent when I first opened the packaging. If I had to describe the scent it would be a combination of pine trees and rubber. While this odor wasn’t as unpleasant or intense as the Gaiam mat, it did take about three days of lying out and a cleaning session before the scent began to dissipate.
Due to the higher price point of this mat, I was disappointed to see my hands slipping forward on the mat during my first few Downward Dog postures. I didn’t slip to the point of falling out of any poses, but the unwanted movement did make my practice more difficult as my focus was on my sliding hands instead of connecting with my body. I noted that my slipping hands did pull the microfiber top layer slightly, but this was not severe enough to result in any bunching.
Although my hands were slipping in certain poses, I did not feel that using a towel was necessary with this yoga mat after applying some water near the hand and foot areas. Unfortunately, I noticed the same slipping issue when I tested this mat outside of a heated studio setting.
While the Manduka eQua mat design held up to the recommended cleaning process, I was saddened to see that the top edge of the mat had begun to fray slightly after I washed and air dried it once. Though the fraying was relatively minor, I was disappointed to see this happen after one wash due to the higher price point of this yoga mat.

Considerations

I didn’t personally experience this, but some other users of this hot yoga mat have reported their Manduka eQua mat slipping and sliding on certain studio surfaces like wood flooring, which is worth mentioning since not every studio has a mat floor like mine.
Though I completely respect the eco-friendly nature of this product, I would’ve expected a less-slippery hot yoga mat for this price tag.
[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2tCY6Ls”] Get it from Amazon here [/link-button]
[sol title=”lululemon Reversible 5mm Mat + Towel” subheader=”Mat Dimensions: 71” L × 26” W × 5 mm | 5.24 lb”]
Although this mat was the same thickness as the Gaiam mat, the lululemon mat had a few unique features. First and foremost, this mat is reversible—with one firm, sticky side ideal for hot yoga and a softer side for non-heated flows. This mat was slightly larger than the other two mats that I tested but at my height of 5’5”, I did not find this mat to be too much to handle and enjoyed the extra room during Savasana.
Out of curiosity, I arrived at the studio about 10 minutes early the first time I used this mat to determine if the softer side of this reversible mat would be suitable for hot yoga. I quickly realized that the soft side was a bit too slippery to be a good fit for my heated practice, so I only tested the smooth, firm side of this mat during my hot yoga classes.
To test the effectiveness of this lululemon mat and microfiber towel combo, I used the mat for 30 minutes without the towel and then placed the towel on top for the remainder of class.

Pros

I’m not quite sure how lululemon does it, but in my humble opinion, this reversible mat is the perfect combination of cushion and support for hot yoga. This mat was durable and showed no signs of wear and tear throughout my testing process. This yoga mat also features a polyurethane top layer that absorbs moisture in addition to antimicrobial properties to keep mold and mildew at bay, which is what I like to call a win-win.
This mat also exuded the least amount of odor upon initial opening. I only laid this yoga mat out for one day prior to use and while it did have a faint rubber-like smell, it was nothing close to that of the Gaiam or Manduka mats. In a perfect world, I would’ve laid this mat out for two to three days prior to my first hot yoga class.
During my hot yoga classes, this mat stayed in place on the studio floor and did not require a single adjustment. Much like my mat, I felt supported and stable throughout my practice. My hands and feet never slipped on this mat—with or without the towel.
Speaking of the mat towel, this microfiber addition wasn’t necessary due to the impressive performance of the mat. However, it was an added bonus. The towel is very soft and smooth to the touch and fits the mat perfectly, covering every inch. There was no fraying around any of the edges of the towel before or after use. Much like the lululemon reversible mat, the towel stayed in place throughout class and absorbed my sweat without becoming slippery or bunching.

The care instructions for this mat said to wash it with warm soapy water, which is very vague, in my opinion. I pondered whether I should use dish soap or body soap, and since I was feeling uncertain, I asked a friend who is a former lululemon educator how to clean this reversible mat. She suggested a warm water and baking soda mixture and wiping the mat down before hanging it to dry, which is exactly what I did. I was amazed by how fast this mat dried, as it was almost completely dry in under six hours.
Note: I did not fully submerge this yoga mat in water. I thoroughly wiped it down with the mixture until both the front and back were damp.

Cons

Although this mat was my favorite hot yoga mat during practice, it did have one noticeable flaw.
The moment I placed my forehead on the mat for my first child’s pose, I raised my head to discover a dark circular mark on the mat. As I continued through class, I noticed more dark marks on the mat concentrated in areas where I sweat the most, like my feet and hairline. These darker spots did not fade during class and I was relieved when 30 minutes had passed and I could cover them with the mat towel. I’m still uncertain whether this was an odd reaction between the material and the oils on my skin or if this mat creates these dark markings when it comes in contact with sweat.
Hoping the marks would fade once I had removed the mat form the humid classroom, I laid the mat to dry at home and checked it two hours later. I was bummed to see that the dark spots were still on the mat.
After washing the mat twice with a baking soda and water mixture (don’t forget to use a little elbow grease), I was pleased to see that the dark spots had finally faded and were hardly detectable. While this isn’t the most visually appealing outcome, it did not detract from my practice—other than shifting my mental state for a few brief seconds—nor did it make the mat slippery in any way.

Considerations

This lululemon mat is indeed reversible, but I would not recommend using the softer, grooved side of this mat for hot yoga because it does become pretty slippery in a heated setting.
By now it’s probably obvious, but the lululemon reversible 5mm mat is my winner for the best hot yoga mat due to its durability and comfortable, no-slip performance through my 100-degree tests and unheated flow.
[link-button href=”https://fave.co/2IzTuKw”] Get it from lululemon here [/link-button]

For three months, I sported 15 pairs of leggings around the city. Some tagged along to my favorite yoga studios for power vinyasa and heated hatha flows. Others were sidekicks for a bit more heavy weightlifting, running and hiking through my favorite local parks, traveling across the country, yoga teacher training, and nibbles at my favorite local eateries. Suffice it to say, I used the past several months to find out just how compatible each pair was with my wildly unpredictable lifestyle.

The Ultimate Legging Test

As a retired lululemon educator, avid fitness enthusiast, yoga teacher, and certified personal trainer, I’ve been in the legging game for a while. Leggings are the one constant in my ever-changing wardrobe, and finding dependable, quality options that accommodate my many endeavors has become a bit of a specialty. Through this project, I get to share this niche with you—my fellow women pursuing the perfect pair of black stretchy pants to support you as you conquer your next sweat sesh, athleisure adventure, and whatever else your day has in store.

Criteria to Consider When Shopping for the Best Workout Leggings

Material

You may have noticed the exceedingly wide range of activities listed above. Well, for each one, there’s an ideal legging material. Unfortunately, the best leggings for a slow yoga flow won’t typically be conducive to your weekend WODs at your favorite CrossFit box. While some materials tend to feel like a traditional legging, boasting that familiar cottony-soft feel, others have a notably sleeker finish. With this, we tend to see a shift from matte, brushed fabric to a silky, cool weave.
These differences reflect a number of factors that are important to consider. Moisture-wicking properties, for example, are highly variable and tend to be most effective in workout leggings that have a silkier finish. This technology will help the leggings remain dry during circumstances that are sure to create quite a bit of sweat. Bikram, anyone?
Four-way stretch is another characteristic that I took into consideration while evaluating each of the leggings I tested. This is present when a legging can easily stretch in both directions: crosswise and lengthwise. Many leggings with spandex blends offer this feature, and let me tell you, it’s a must!
The wash and care instructions are yet another detail worth considering. Some workout leggings require a bit more love and patience than others. While this may not be a deal breaker, it’s nonetheless worth considering prior to making a purchase.
Clinginess is a major factor as well! Have you ever had a pair of leggings that always looked as if it had picked up every fleck of lint or dog hair within in a 10-foot radius? Certain materials tend to latch onto particles more than others, and more often than not, these are the same cottony soft fabrics we love lounging around the house in. Others, though, are seemingly repellent and can make a great pick for travel days and pup walking.
Last but certainly not least, the sheerness of material can often be the deciding factor when it comes to purchasing a new pair of workout leggings. Whether you’re hanging out in downward dog, whipping through a few snatches, or chasing your precious toddler around the kitchen, the material of a legging determines whether or not you’ll be bending over without hesitation. Some fabrics, quite embarrassingly, fall short.

Rise

Where should the waistband of your leggings fit? Well, truth be told, it’s up to you and your personal preference! Of course, many women love their low-rise pairs, but it seems the majority of companies are gravitating toward designing workout leggings that boast high-rise waistlines.
Is this high-waist fit better? Not necessarily, but they certainly leave you feeling far more hugged and supported. There’s also the undeniable fact that high-rise waistbands create the illusion of an hourglass figure for even those with square torsos—myself included.

Length

Leggings offer just as many options for length as they do for rise! There are pairs that sit around the ankles, others that fit snug around the lower calf, and still more that land either right above or just below the knee. I’ll be referring to these as full-length, ⅞ length, and capri throughout my reviews. Preferences for each of these will depend largely on an individual’s height. As a petite woman, my personal collection features many of my go-to ⅞ length leggings.

Paneling

Ah, the perks of mesh detailing. Aside from the aesthetic advantages we’ve all seen and loved, mesh paneling also offers a degree of technicality to a pair of leggings. In many cases, companies include this feature to improve the breathability of the pant. Of course, some workout leggings offer far more assistance in this department than others.

Pockets

Side pockets, waistband pockets, zippered pockets—all the pockets. Given our countless gadgets, many brands are creating leggings that offer several different ways to carry our necessities. Side pockets are particularly effective for stashing phones during workouts or errand runs, while waistband pockets are better suited for cash, IDs, cards, and loose keys.

Everyday Wear

With each of these characteristics carefully considered, there’s still one more important feature to add to the list. Despite the hundreds of leggings gracing the market, not all conform well to daily wear. Details like the fabric quality, waistband rise, length, paneling, and pockets can all affect how well a legging fits into your wardrobe, weekly routines, and travels.
If you’re a woman who’s constantly on the go, this is an important criterion to keep in mind. On days you find yourself rushing from the yoga studio to lunch with your girlfriends, a dependable pair of leggings that goes just as well with your favorite sporty crop as it does a cozy button-down is simply non-negotiable. If this scenario sounds all too familiar, it’s easy to see why the level of comfort and the overall look of the pant are also worth considering!

Best Leggings for Yoga

Requiring greater flexibility than any other style of workout tight, the right pair of yoga leggings must blend comfortable fabric with a reliable, solid finish. In my frequently changing world, they also need to support me in each of my yogi pursuits: from the slowest yin flows to the most upbeat power vinyasas (and everything in between)!

Winner: Athleta Meshblock Pocket Salutation Tight

These leggings offer a goddess warrior squat-proof, naked-feeling fit and super-cute aesthetics. Merging heavenly soft material with side pockets and mesh cutouts for both functionality and style, these leggings are the ultimate game changer.

Runner-Up: lululemon Align Pant

If you’re looking for a legging that boasts the same level of comfort, tummy-hugging waistband, and naked-feeling fabric without the mesh paneling, then the lululemon Align Pant is the perfect option. Made with a nearly identical material, the cut-outs are the only detail that distinguishes the winning Athleta Meshblock from this deserving runner-up.

Best Leggings for Running

Unlike yoga leggings, running tights have yet another crucial dimension to consider: compression. The right pairs will often be designed with material that contributes to a sturdier sensation and boasts a sleek finish to minimize the possibility of pilling during the high-friction activity. Wearing various pairs from the city streets to hidden dirt trails and back for my gym’s newest Skillmill allowed me to test just how much these running leggings could withstand.

Winner: Athleta Up for Anything ⅞ Tight

Athleta struck gold when they perfected the balance between well-built compression and uncompromising comfort in this running legging. With the sought-after bells and whistles, including everything from a secure zippered pocket to reflective properties, these leggings seem to have it all. Of course, I put them through a battery of tests to see if these lived up to their hype—wearing them during a variety of sessions ranging from all-out sprints up the grassiest hills to low-intensity steady state walks after an hour of heavy training. This legging finished leaps and bounds ahead of the others.

Runner-Up: Core 10 Run High Waist ⅞ Crop Legging

For a budget-friendly option, the Core 10 Run High Waist Crop is a wonderful alternative. The silky material is similarly resistant to pilling and clinging while also providing the moisture-wicking properties we all rely on during our running endeavors.

Best Gym Leggings

What makes a legging perfect for the gym? Simple: material that’s thick enough to provide reliable compression without tiptoeing into suffocation territory, squat-proof four-way stretch, and ample moisture-wicking properties. With my tendency to spontaneously throw CrossFit WODs, Olympic Weightlifting, and HIIT conditioning circuits into my usual bodybuilding training, the right gym legging has to move from one task to another without a single hitch to earn a space in my closet.

Winner: lululemon Speed Up Tight

lululemon triumphed over my sweaty battery of tests with the Speed Up Tight. By the end of these legging-filled months, this was the one pair of leggings I habitually reached for before booking it across town to my favorite CrossFit box. Their consistent responsiveness during wildly unnatural movements (hang snatches, anyone?) and high-quality construction pushed them far ahead of the rest of the pack.

Runner-Up: Athleta Up for Anything ⅞ Tight

Seeing as we aren’t strangers to the many perks of the Athleta Up for Anything ⅞ Tight, I’ll keep this short and sweet. This pair of leggings is nearly identical to the lululemon Speed Up Tight, if not for one important detail. Although it does offer enough compression to power you through a rough training session, it isn’t nearly as tight as the category winner.

Best High-Waisted Leggings

If someone would have told us years ago that high-rise leggings would be the most desired staple in any woman’s wardrobe, we would have laughed off the outrageous claim. Now? Well, I can guarantee that most of us have a few different pairs tucked away in our dresser drawers.
Hugging just above the waistline, these leggings have the potential to be comfortable beyond belief, but of course it’s necessary to nail all the details for this to be the case. With the right criteria mastered, you’ll find me happily sporting a high-rise pair with a longline sports bra any day. The figure-flattering combo is nothing short of magical.

Winner: lululemon Align Pant

The lululemon Align Pant boasts a level of comfort that just can’t be replicated, making women (and definitely a few men) crave the feeling of their buttery soft fabric on the regular. These leggings effortlessly took me from inverted vinyasa sequences in my neighborhood yoga studio to small plates at the nearby plant-based cafe and out for an evening of mocktails with my closest friends. I even sported this matte black legging during a weekend getaway to Colorado for a round of graduate school interviews. When my world was inching into chaos, my outfit was one less thing to stress over thanks to these high-rise leggings.

Runner-Up: ZELLA Live In High Waist Leggings

With thicker fabric, full length, and a lower price tag, the ZELLA Live In High Waist Leggings are an easy runner-up to the lululemon Align Pant. When it comes to the beauty of high-rise waistbands, ZELLA has created a staple pant. Similar to the Align, the waistline hits above the belly button, but this is where the two pairs diverge. The fabric of the Live In High Waist Leggings is much thicker, giving it a far more supportive and structured sensation. Somehow, with a bit of legging luck and magic, the pant achieves this level of support while simultaneously maintaining the utmost comfort.

Best Leggings Under $30

As amazing as the previously mentioned workout leggings are, I would be lying if I said I could drop $100 on leggings regularly. I’m a young woman working three jobs, planning a move across the country, and taking care of my furbaby, all while prioritizing nourishing my body by investing in the best food and movement protocols. If we’re talking budget, I’m the first to admit that wallet-friendly workout legging options are absolutely necessary. Whether you’re stranded in an unfamiliar city in dire need of a sweat sesh or are prioritizing daycare costs, home ownership, or an aggressive savings plan, the right $30 leggings can easily win a place in our hearts and wardrobes. All women, regardless of financial constraints, should be able to enjoy high-quality fashion and activewear, am I right?

Winner: 7Goals High Waisted Cyber X Mesh Panel Legging

These leggings offer fabric quality and a chic aesthetic that puts them on par with brands like Athleta and lululemon—all while costing under $30. The surprising combination of comfort, style, and adaptability of the 7Goals High Waisted Cyber X Mesh Panel Legging had me packing them in my yoga bag without a second thought. To sum it up: They flaunt many perks that I had once believed were only available with luxury brands.

Runner-Up: Old Navy High-Rise Compression Leggings

For an option that doesn’t require mail delivery (7Goals styles are available online only), the Old Navy High-Rise Compression Leggings do a decent job, providing adequate quality within a tight budget. The fabric of this pant gives a similarly brushed sensation—like the 7Goals—but it’s noticeably thinner than the victor. Price considered, this Old Navy Legging gives you exactly what you need to get the job done. It’s bare necessities, but bare necessities done well.

Best Everyday Leggings

Leggings or jeans, jeans or leggings? The answer is fairly simple for me. As far as I’m concerned, leggings are the ultimate pant for almost any situation. In a world that’s finally beginning to understand that we as women have the power to and pleasure of expressing ourselves in own bodies, why not choose to dress them in what feels best? Plus, leggings give us the opportunity to drop into a post-five-hour-flight downward dog at a moment’s notice. Yes, please.

Winner: ZELLA Live In High Waist Leggings

The name totally gives away my favorite feature of these leggings. ZELLA was right when they implied you could live in these Live In High Waist Leggings. And can we talk affordability? This pair may not be $30, but I’m sure you’ll be just as surprised as I was when you try these on for yourself. For how cozy, functional, and supportive these leggings are, a price tag of $54 is nothing short of wonderful.

Runner-Up: lululemon Align Pant

Ah, the return of the buttery soft staple! The lululemon Align Pant is your next go-to for everyday wear. With a lengthy list of benefits, it’s hard not to love what this legging has to offer. If the ZELLA Live In High Waist Leggings is a bit too thick for your taste, this is the alternative I would recommend.

While today’s top athleisure brands debut beautiful new legging styles on the regular, the bottom line is that many of us can’t justify spending the equivalent of a week’s worth of groceries on a pair of stretchy black pants.
When on the hunt for wallet-friendly leggings, the question quickly becomes, “Where can I find a style that doesn’t make a dent in my finances, yet still stands tall in terms of quality?” Finding a pair priced under $30 is magical—as long as your savings aren’t accompanied by regret-worthy compromises in factors like multidimensional stretch, non-sheer fabric, material and shape integrity, and simple aesthetics.

Best Leggings Under $30

Searching for the perfect pair of budget-friendly leggings is definitely a balancing act. You want to feel supported in the gym and out on the town now (not after months of saving!), but don’t want to make a poor purchasing decision that results in you tossing your recently purchased leggings in the trash and spending additional money on another pair.
I rounded up five affordable workout leggings and put them through the ringer. I carefully considered each pants’ fit, material, breathability, and style as I sported them in and outside of the gym and yoga studio, and even on long travel days. Although the prices of these budget leggings were fairly similar, there was one victor that won by a landslide. Continue reading for a thorough guide that will help you navigate the industry of reasonably-priced leggings.
Please note that at the time of this writing, the following leggings were all priced under $30.
[sol title=”C9 Embrace High Waist Leggings” subheader=”Size XS”]
Unfortunately, the two pairs of C9 leggings that I tested underperformed in a variety of categories. While I’ve owned a C9 legging or two in the past, these two in particular have a quality that reflects the price tag—meaning you get what you pay for and aren’t going to be surprised by any luxury or special touches.
Although I attempted to rock these for a full day of wear, I ended up taking them off after a few hours. While C9 touts these leggings’ ultra compression, moisture-wicking technology, and hugging fit, the legging fell short in each of these areas.

Pros

Priced under $30 and outrageously accessible for anyone within close proximity to a Target, this legging will be your go-to for last-minute binds. I’ve been the woman stranded on a weekend getaway without a pair of leggings and desperate for a quick sweat sesh. When that’s the case, the C9 Embrace High Waist Legging will get the job done.

Cons

As mentioned, this pair lacks some of the key attributes I was looking forward to after reading their official description. Instead of offering genuine compression, any tightness in the legging seemed to be the result of a lack of stretch and the cottony material felt stiff throughout my time wearing these leggings.
Although C9 claims that this legging will hug you in all the right places, I noticed significantly less shape after only half a day of wear. Readjusting the waistband became a regular occurrence as the hours wore on.
The thin material is also prone to pilling, clinging, and attracting dog hair. Despite the thin fabric, there was still a complete absence of sweat-wicking properties. Instead, I felt clammy as the sweat from my short circuit lingered in crevices I’d rather not be thinking about while trying to work out.
[link-button href=”https://fave.co/2rXEXD0″] Get them from Target [/link-button]
[sol title=”C9 Freedom High Waist Leggings” subheader=”Size XS”]
The Freedom High Waist C9 leggings weren’t well distinguished from the Embrace leggings. In fact, I confused the two pairs on multiple occasions. That being said, my review of the Freedom High Waisted Legging is nearly identical.

Pros

As we’ve covered, this pair will work well if you’re in a pinch. The one quality that sets the Freedom apart from the Embrace is its waistband. Hugging my torso along my belly button, I was pleased with the increased comfort of the higher rise (but only when considering it in light of the mid-rise of its sister pair).

Cons

I hoped—I truly did—for the four-way stretch technology conducive to weightlifting and yoga; yet I didn’t find it here. Because of this lack of flexibility, the material was see-through at the bottom of my squats. With the inclusion of the cons listed for the Embrace leggings—all of which also apply to the Freedom—this sheerness was the determining factor for me: the C9 Freedom definitely isn’t a budget staple.
[link-button href=”https://fave.co/2keIclt”] Get them from Target [/link-button]
[sol title=”90 Degree by Reflex Capri” subheader=”Size XS”]
The 90 Degree by Reflex Capri’s material was nearly identical to that of the C9 leggings, but this pair was far more sheer. It took nothing more than a glance in the mirror to notice that any bending would result in a clear view of my undergarments.
With the lacking integrity and underwhelming technology of the fabric, these wouldn’t be suitable for exercise; but I did find them moderately comfortable for lounging around the house, which is a plus, right?

Pros

The capri length was tailored well to the calf, and the pocket in the waistband could potentially be used for a small wad of cash or a few loose keys. The thin fabric would be ideal for a quiet summer night spent tucked away on a deck with a good book.

Cons

Because of the poor quality, this legging doesn’t offer any real versatility. If any moving or bending is required, this is certainly not the pair to throw on. The material has a soft, brushed finish which also makes it prone to pilling and clinging. Similar to the previous C9 pairs discussed, I foresee this legging losing its fit and color after a few laundry cycles. In my experience, early signs of wear seem to be inevitable.
Because the legging lost shape throughout the day, I found myself hiking up the waistband far too often. While this certainly wouldn’t be an issue if the day involved nothing more than peaceful lounging, I wouldn’t recommend wearing these leggings for a full day of activities.
[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2rZfCIR”] Get them from Amazon [/link-button]
[sol title=”7Goals Cyber X Mesh Legging” subheader=”Size XS”]
Alas, we have a pair of budget-friendly leggings that offers celebration-worthy quality, far exceeding the expectations of the price tag! I was pleasantly surprised by the comfort, cute aesthetic, and versatility of this legging. The Cyber X Mesh Legging by 7Goals offers many perks that I once believed were only offered by higher priced brands.

Pros

The mesh detailing along the legs creates a fun look perfect for a warm yoga flow or weekend date at the park. The x-band along the waistline was something I had never seen before. Although I was admittedly uncertain when first trying the pair on, it took me nothing more than a few seconds to fall in love. The wrapping along the torso accentuated my waistline and seemed to add a bit more of an hourglass shape to my unabashed squareness.
In addition to the aesthetic features, the fabric itself was also of higher quality. It wasn’t see-through in the slightest. Although cotton leggings often take on a shine when they’re stretched along the glutes and thighs, this pair didn’t exhibit that issue! Cue a major sigh of relief.
7Goals has perfected the balance of stretch, compression, and comfort. I gladly sported these for the entire day (and let’s be honest, maybe a few consecutive days). If nobody you know saw you wear them, did you really?
The meshing was also comfortable, and surprisingly the flexibility of the fabric around those areas didn’t take a hit. The addition actually added to the breathability of the pant. $30 for all of these perks?! Unbelievable.

Cons

The fabric required to create the x-band around the Cyber X Mesh Legging’s extra-high waist did result in a bit of bunching. While this isn’t an issue when pairing the leggings with a sports bra or crop top, there could potentially be an issue when paired with “standard” shirts for a comfy, athleisure look.
[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2rWKQAj”] Get them from Amazon [/link-button]
[sol title=”Old Navy High Rise Compression Leggings” subheader=”Size XS”]
This pair slid in as a clear runner-up, although it does land considerably behind the 7Goals Cyber X Mesh Legging. The Old Navy High Rise Compression Leggings represent a significant step up from the quality of the first three pairs of leggings discussed.
That being said, the overall lack of comfort would keep me from adding another pair of the Old Navy High Rise Compression Leggings to my wardrobe. When all I want is a pair of stretchy black bottoms, these leggings felt like nothing more than two-way stretch.

Pros

For the price, this pair does provide you with the necessities. These workout leggings don’t flaunt any overtly athletic features, meaning they could easily be worn with everyday attire.
The waistband fit snugly across my abdomen, hitting just above my belly button. It stayed in place throughout my morning of easy stretching and dog walking. No wiggling or readjusting required.

Cons

The legging had pretty minimal compression, although it did feel better than both the C9 and 90 Degree by Reflex pairs. Unfortunately, this still wasn’t enough to maintain the integrity of the leggings’ shape throughout a long day of wear. The thin material also had a sheen that accompanied the cottony, brushed fabric.
The fabric is also prone to signs of wear, clinging, and pilling—all of which seems to be standard for budget-friendly leggings, but are still worth noting.
[link-button href=”https://fave.co/2KHXaLS”] Get them from Old Navy [/link-button]
[related article_ids=26396]

Whether you’re planning to spend an easy breezy morning basking in the sun at your favorite park followed by a quick trip to the local farmers market and an evening of cooking (and dancing) in a music-filled kitchen, or you want to turn up the heat in a spin class, at the gym, or on the mat at your fave yoga studio, we all know high-waisted leggings can take us from morning to night in comfort and style. Why dread the inevitable undoing of the top button by the time the clock strikes 7 p.m. when you could be comfortable (and limitless!) in your most aesthetic tights around the clock?
It’s a no-brainer; the only tricky part is finding the right pair. Of course, not just any style will do. You need high-waisted leggings that move from one weekend shenanigan to another without chafing along the seams, suffocating your waistline, showing your undergarments, or clashing with your boho summer booties. Girl, I’ve got you covered.

Best High-Waisted Workout Leggings

I put five pairs of leggings to the test to see which brands and styles rose to the occasion, boasting perfected tummy-hugging, high-rise waistbands and to see which options quickly fell by the wayside. Read on for my notes and suggestions, so you can decide which pair deserves the beloved top-shelf spot in your wardrobe.
[sol title=”C9 Embrace High Waist Leggings” subheader=”Size XS”]
While these C9 leggings are indeed high waisted, there are a few unfortunate factors that kept me from falling head over heels for these budget-friendly leggings. The C9 Embrace High Waist legging has a waistband that fits snug around the abdomen, settling just beneath my belly button, which was great. The thin material, however, lacked the 4-way stretch capabilities that most of us expect to find with high-rise leggings, which made them a bit uncomfortable. The traditional cottony material didn’t move with my body and required frequent re-adjusting, which is not ideal for yoga flows or cardio workouts.
Does the price tag make up for the limitations? In my opinion, no.

Pros

C9 makes finding a last-minute legging in a pinch quite easy. Stop by a Target on your way to any final destination, and voila! You have a wallet-friendly find that will allow you to jump into any legging-dependent activity without breaking the bank.

Cons

I’m less than enthused with this workout legging in general, especially the waistband. When I look for a pair of high-waisted leggings, I want to be able to lounge and snack in them after a hard workout without feeling as though the waistband of my pants is digging into my sore abs or food baby.
I’m personally not a fan of thick seams on my workout leggings, which also contributed to a bit of discomfort. Last but certainly not least, these leggings exhibited a bit of sheerness around the rump and noticeably lost shape after a full day of wear.
[link-button href=”http://fave.co/2D8M6ay”] Get them from Target [/link-button]
[sol title=”Old Navy High Rise Compression Leggings” subheader=”Size XS”]
I remember the days when Old Navy was the center of my family’s necessary pre-Fourth of July clothing haul. Now, the store is revamping its brand with items that are truly non-negotiables in this day and age (because leggings are pants). Old Navy’s High Rise Compression Leggings hug the torso just above the belly button, and although some waistband rolling seemed to be unavoidable when I wore these, it certainly wasn’t excessive.

Pros

The High Rise Compression Leggings truly did exhibit a fair amount of compression, though the material did have a softer, cotton finish. While this may not be your go-to pair for sweaty pursuits, it could certainly be a contender for everyday wear. Despite the occasional folding, the waistband stayed in place. No shimmying—what a victory!

Cons

The fabric is prone to clinging and pilling, so prepare yourself for a waistband (or rather, an entire legging) that requires a few rounds of lint rolling before leaving the house. The quality of the material did reflect the price tag, but that said, the pant was undoubtedly higher quality than the C9 Embrace. Despite being the correct size, the seams of the legging definitely exhibited signs of straining as I pulled them above my hips. Suffice it to say, these pants are compression forward, and there isn’t much “give.”
[link-button href=”https://fave.co/2KHXaLS”] Get them from Old Navy [/link-button]
[sol title=”lululemon Align Pant” subheader=”Size 2—Available in 19”, 21”, 25”, and 28” Lengths”]
If I was deserted on an island with only one item of clothing, the lululemon Align would be it. As much as I would love to rant and rave about a pair that’s considerably less pricey, none could compare to the buttery soft, luxurious fit of this high-waisted workout legging.
This pant is perfectly high rise, hugging my abdomen snugly above the belly button. This legging also has one of the highest waistbands, which is perfectly complemented by the sweat-wicking, form-fitting Nulu material. Drool.

Pros

The waistline of the Align Pant stays in place during any and all activities, from morning errand running to an evening yoga flow. The thin, smooth material lies completely flat against the skin, making it ideal for wear with bodycon tops. Need to pair your lululemon Power Y tank with a cute but simplistic bottom? This is it.
This legging has mastered the high-rise waistband, leaving me held in without any unnecessary digging or chafing. Squeezing and cinching? Also absent. Eating, breathing, and uninhibited living can be done in peace. Can I get a, “YAS!”? Also wonderful: The Align pant isn’t prone to clinging and lasts quite a while before showing any signs of wear. This is something that can’t be said for any of the previous pairs!

Cons

lululemon has yet to make these in every color, and far too often, my local store is sold out of Military Green. Sigh. Also, if you choose to purchase these workout leggings, keep in mind that the delicate material requires more care when washing and drying (P.S. Lay this pair flat, and allow it to air dry!) to extend the life of the legging.
[link-button href=”https://fave.co/2B2iszg”] Get them from lululemon [/link-button]
[sol title=”7Goals Cyber X Mesh Legging” subheader=”Size XS”]
I wish I could time travel back to the moment I first tried on these 7Goals Cyber X Mesh Leggings and capture my facial expression. Pleasantly surprised would be the understatement of the century.
The 7Goals leggings are not only more comfortable than the C9 and Old Navy styles, but they’re also far more stylish. Sure, we’ll get to the high-rise details, but first, can we take a moment to appreciate the chic mesh and X-band? Cuter than your typical legging, these could be paired with a low-line sports bra or airy crop top for a winning everyday outfit.

Pros

The waistband featured on this high rise is unlike any other I’ve ever worn or seen. The fabric creates an X across the abdomen, which will actually accentuate your waistline. While the band itself lies fairly flat, the added material needed for the X does make it a little, well, lumpy, meaning confidently rocking a crop top is in order, especially if you’re looking to nail an athleisure outfit!
The waistband sits above the belly button and is easily the highest legging of the high waisted pairs that I tested. It stays in place well, making it through a long day of pup-walking and vinyasa malasana. The material has noticeably more stretch than a traditional cotton legging. It’s unbelievably comfortable and moved with my body every which way. The pant was also tailored well throughout the leg, hitting at the ankles without any excess fabric.
The only sheer thing about this pair was the actual meshing. What a relief! While the pant isn’t thin, it isn’t what I would describe as thick, either. All in all, it sits comfortably in the middle of this spectrum.

Cons

The brushed material of the Cyber X Mesh Legging is prone to pilling and clinging. While this isn’t a drag in my book, it’s something to consider prior to purchasing and definitely necessitates proper care if you want your new favorite high-waisted legging to last.
[link-button href=”https://amzn.to/2us3m4R”] Get them from Amazon [/link-button]
[sol title=”ZELLA Live In High Waist Leggings” subheader=”Size XS”]
Another legging that boasts qualities true to its name, ZELLA has created a legging that I could truly live in. These high-waisted leggings are noticeably different from the rest of the pairs in this cohort, and in all the best ways!
If the material used for the lululemon Align Pant is thin, and the 7Goals Cyber X Mesh Legging lands somewhere in the middle, the ZELLA Live In High Waist Leggings are what I consider thick. Although they may not be as airy as the other pairs, these leggings offer a compression that’s evenly dispersed throughout the entire pant including the waistband.
The band sat at the top of my belly button, leaving nothing but the upper rim of the navel visible. To my surprise, the waistband stayed in place throughout 12-hour work days that involved training clients, teaching yoga, and partaking in my own metabolic conditioning session. There wasn’t a single instance that required wiggling or readjusting the pant.

Pros

The ZELLA Live in Leggings’ material is by far the most supportive of the group. It lies flat across the tummy, making it another perfect option for semi-fitted shirts. The flexible 4-way stretch also means no digging along the seams or cutting into the obliques.
The simple design and brushed finish make this legging a wonderful pairing for everyday outfits and even casual work attire. The subtle notes of glute-accentuating piping along the back of the waistband are also a welcomed addition! Commando-friendly, squat-proof beyond an ounce of doubt, and notably cheaper than the lululemon Align Pant, this legging makes an ideal high-waisted contender.

Cons

As far as the waistband is concerned, ZELLA has no faults. The level of comfort doesn’t compare to that of the lululemon Align, yet it’s certainly a pair that I would want in my own wardrobe—especially for cool days and laid-back activities.
[link-button href=”http://shopstyle.it/l/KgWN”] Get them from Nordstrom [/link-button]
[related article_ids=24053,24123,24021,24000,26396]

Looking for the best running shoes you can find?
First, of all, we’ve got some bad news: There’s no such thing as the “best” running shoes for every type of runner. That’s partly because there are so many runners. In the United States alone, about 64 million people went for a jog or run in 2016.
It’s also because every runner has different habits. If you run 200 miles on trails every month, you’ll need very different shoes from those of your friend who runs 50 miles per month on roads.
In general, if you’re ready to buy a new pair of running shoes, you’ve resigned yourself to making a major purchase: The best running shoes can cost upwards of $150. But if you get hundreds of miles of injury-free exercise, it’s money well spent.
We spoke with physicians and running shoe designers to determine what makes a great running shoe—and what “features” are essentially marketing mumbo-jumbo. Here’s what you need to know.

What Science Says About Choosing the Best Running Shoes

This might sound somewhat counterintuitive, but before you choose running shoes, you need to go running.
“Probably one of the most important things for beginners is to go to a good shoe store and have them take a look at you,” says Clifford L. Jeng, MD, medical director of the Institute for Foot and Ankle Reconstruction at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore.

“Running stores have people who are professional, high-level runners. They’ll have a treadmill equipped with a video camera, and they’ll be able to watch to see whether you’re a pronator or a supinator or whether you have a high or low arch. They’ll look at your body habits, see if you’re heavy or light… Not only will they match you with the right shoe, they’ll probably also give you some tips on how to start your training.”

We realize that some of this language won’t be familiar to everyone—and while we’re really trying to avoid turning this into a vocabulary lesson, these are crucial terms to understand when you’re shopping. Pronation refers to the foot’s tendency to roll inward during natural movement. As your foot contacts the ground, that inward roll helps to distribute the impact from the strike across your foot.
If you pronate too much—if you’re landing on the outside of your foot and rolling excessively—your form might eventually lead to an injury. On the other hand, if you underpronate (or supinate), you might need additional cushioning.
If you’re just getting into running, just be aware that pronation is fairly important, and it’s best to have a professional evaluate your form before plunking down $150 for a random pair of running shoes. Jeng tells HealthyWay that athletic injuries can occur fairly frequently when runners don’t get enough support, and he recommends taking pronation into consideration when shopping.
For heavier runners, he also warns against “bare” or “minimalist” shoes: “A lot of people now like the neutral shoes, or the minimalist shoes, and those have very little cushioning in them, but they look nice and sleek and slim,” Jeng says. “If you’re a heavier person or an overpronator and you continue to plow through those shoes even though they’re hurting [you], you’ll probably injure yourself. So the other key about shopping is not to pick shoes because they’re pretty—pick the shoes that feel the best.”
The science, by the way, tends to back that up; there’s not currently enough evidence to show that minimalist running shoes offer any substantial benefits over traditional running shoes.
Before you start shopping, you’ll also need to consider where you run. Trail shoes typically have mesh uppers and extra treads to give you a better experience on rough terrain. Road shoes, on the other hand, are better for addressing the challenges of asphalt and pavement. Track shoes and “performance” shoes are fairly light, so they’re great for races, but they’re not built for heavy distance.

Understanding the Anatomy of Women’s Running Shoes

Before we look at some of the best running shoes for 2018, it’s important to understand how the different parts of a shoe affect how you run.

The Upper

This is (shockingly) the upper part of the shoe, which covers the top and sides of your foot. For high-quality athletic shoes, the upper’s job is to stay out of the way and let your foot breathe.
Look for mesh materials that don’t squeeze too hard when you’re all laced up. By the way, make sure you’re lacing correctly; there are a number of different ways to lace your shoe, and if you’re having trouble getting the right fit, it might be as simple as switching up your lacing style.

The Outsole

The outsole is the bottom of the shoe. Runners often decide to buy new shoes when their outsoles start to show their age, as the rubber “nubs” on the bottom can break off or wear down over time.

The Midsole

For a runner, this is arguably the most important part of the shoe. The midsole is the cushioning between the upper and the outsole. The midsole protects your foot from shocks and can influence your stability, so it’s where running shoe companies spend most of their research dollars.

The Insole

This is the removable cushion on the inside of the shoe. You can buy third-party insole replacements and if you want a really comfortable shoe, you probably should.
“Most major shoe companies spend millions of dollars on research on their midsole and their outer sole,” says Jeng. “But you look at most people’s insoles—the little liner that you can pull up out of the shoe—they’re worthless. They’re horrible.”

“Often, it’s a good idea to get higher quality insoles. An example of that is Superfeet, which I think are very good. They conform to the foot better [than manufacturer insoles] and have a little bit of an arch support in there.”

Recommended Women’s Running Shoes for 2018

To reiterate, the best way to choose a running shoe is to go to a store and speak with someone who knows their stuff. Try to find someone who runs frequently, and be wary if they only recommend shoes from a single brand.

Try on a variety of shoes to find a comfortable fit. Visit the store later in the day, when your foot is at its widest (yes, your foot expands slightly throughout the day). Don’t assume that you know your shoe size; get measured.
“When you get the shoe on, you should have about a thumbs breadth between the tip of the shoe and your big toe,” Jeng says. “That will allow you to kind of move around a little bit when you’re running, so you’re not stubbing your toe into the front of the shoe.”
As we mentioned earlier, there’s not one best running shoe out there, but we do have a few recommendations to help you get started.

Best Women’s Trail Running Shoe: Brooks Caldera 2

The Caldera 2 features a synthetic Ariaprene mesh upper, a midsole with stacked layers made from a proprietary EVA material, and colorful styling. If you’re looking for a protective trail-running shoe that isn’t excessively heavy, the Caldera 2 is a great place to start.
“One thing we recommend with all trail shoes is that they provide protection no matter what terrain you’re running on—including rocks, roots, and water,” a representative of Brooks tells HealthyWay. “Our Caldera 2 trail shoe uses moisture-wicking meshes to dry more quickly and allow the runner to get back on the trails. Runners should also look for a rubber outsole with high-surface-area lugs to optimize uphill and downhill traction on wet surfaces and tricky terrain.”

Shop More Styles:

Best Women’s Running Shoe for Average Runners: Mizuno Wave Sky ($150)

The Mizuno Wave Sky provides plenty of cushioning and firm arch support, which makes it an ideal shoe for mild overpronators (if you land toward the outside of your sole, but not all the way, this is where you’d want to start). While it’s relatively heavy at 9 ounces, it’s comfortable where it counts. A segmented bottom allows the shoe to conform to your running style, since each “pod” of the padding can react to shocks independently.
The major downside is the narrow toe, which might constrict some runners. It’s also an expensive shoe, but if you’re looking for decent stability shoes to help you avoid arch and knee injuries, the Mizuno Wave Sky offers a good starting point.

Shop More Styles:

Best Women’s Stability Running Shoe: New Balance 860 v8 ($125)

New Balance shoes tend to have great cushioning, and the 860 series includes some great road shoes for severe overpronators—if you land on the outside of your foot and roll in, the shoe provides stability that fights back against that effect. The New Balance 860 v8 is designed as a stability shoe, and it’s fairly bulky at 9.8 ounces. Added cushioning in the heel complements a sturdy midsole to keep your foot firmly locked in during longer runs.

Be prepared to break this shoe in; you’ll need to take it for a few runs or short walks before tackling serious distance.

Shop More Styles:

Best Women’s Light Running Shoe: ASICS Gel Quantum 360

The ASICS Gel series is remarkably popular, and the Quantum 360 is one of the line’s better shoes for neutral or underpronators (in other words, if your foot doesn’t roll too much when you run and if you tend to land on the inside of your sole, this is the place to start). A midsole platform works to correct against supination, while extensive padding throughout the midsole makes it a comfortable shoe for daily runs.
The big disadvantage is the weight. The Gel Quantum 360 comes in at a hefty 9.9 ounces. Still, it’s a well-designed shoe that offers plenty of stability for road runners.

Shop More Styles:

When should you replace your running shoes?

Hopefully, you’re now ready to hit your local running store and evaluate a few pairs of shoes. With some luck, you’ll walk out with a great pair.
Depending on your exercise habits, you’ll get months of service from your purchase. But nothing lasts forever.
“Most running shoes last about 400–500 miles before the foam [in the] midsole starts to collapse and doesn’t give you as much protection,” Jeng says. “You should track how many miles you’re doing in order to decide when you should replace your shoes.”

We reached out to several running shoe manufacturers who provided similar suggestions.
“We recommend runners replace their running shoes every 300–400 miles,” a Brooks Running representative tells HealthyWay.

Jim Monahan, president of running shoe company 361˚ USA, says that there’s no perfect mileage.
“This topic is very subjective because the answer lies with the runner themselves,” Monahan says. “If a shoe feels ‘dead’ or no longer comfortable, then it is time for a new pair of shoes. Some like to assign a length of time or a certain number of miles, but so much depends on each runner’s program: number of miles per week, body mass, surfaces run on, etc.”
If you’re not great about tracking your mileage, you can always examine your shoes.
“A good rule of thumb: If you look at the side of your running shoe and you see wrinkles in the midsole foam, you’re probably getting close to a change,” Jeng says.

Likewise, you should consider switching shoes if you feel like they’re pinching your feet or if you’re experiencing any recurring pain.

“Unusual aches and pains which can’t be attributed to a change in your training are a sign you may need to look for a new shoe,” a Brooks Running rep explains. “The key aches and pains to look out for are knee pain as well as shin splints. However, the goal is always to replace your shoes before you start feeling aches and pains.”

A final word of advice: Never assume that you know your running shoe size; it changes regularly.
“Our feet sag a little bit as we get older,” Jeng says. “I was about a 9½ all of my life, but when I turned about 40, I became a size 10. You should always have your foot sized on that little machine to decide what size you’re going to wear.”