Over the past couple of decades, yoga has become a very popular way to get trim and stay fit. And, just as they would do with any trend or popular activity, retailers across the nation have been mass-producing yoga apparel, yoga accessories, yoga bags—anything having to do with yoga. One of those yoga-themed items is the ever-elusive yoga pants. But let's get real—are those yoga pants really necessary? Or are they just some invention that a corporate apparel company invented to make a few bucks?

Many yoga participants stress the importance of wearing comfortable clothing while practicing yoga. Yoga positions are quite intense and require the practitioner to move in ways that he or she may not be used to. If you were wearing a tight pair of jeans while trying downward facing dog, for example, you'd end up with a nice split right up your backside.

Furthermore, if you are wearing a pair of pants that needs to be adjusted after each pose, you'll find your yoga time is seriously compromised. How can you get the full benefits of yoga if you're constantly adjusting your clothing?

Yoga pants manufacturers look at comfort as a top priority when they design yoga pants. They’re generally designed for optimal freedom of movement, and many are made with natural fabrics that breathe well and help to absorb moisture so that you can stay cool while exercising.

So now that you know it actually is important to find a good, comfortable pair of yoga pants, let's talk about what you should look for. Ideally, your yoga pants will be

•Comfortable
•Loose-fitting, so that you can maneuver easily
•Side-tie, so that you can adjust the tightness of the pants
•Made of natural fabrics, such as cotton or hemp
•Short enough that your instructor can easily see your foot and ankle positions

There are many stores that carry yoga pants, including chains such as Old Navy and Gap, as well as discount retailers such as Target. Be sure to try on your yoga pants before purchasing them to ensure maximum comfort. After all, if you're going to buy a pair of pants specifically for yoga, you want to make sure they'll work out perfectly!

Author's Bio: 

Jessica Drew is a freelance writer and editor based in Boston,MA. She writes about a wide variety of topics including sustainable living, health, and ergonomic chairs.