Yoga pants
Introduction
Yoga pants are a type of flexible, form-fitting pants designed for the practice of yoga as well as other physical activities that involve a lot of movement, bending and stretching. They are typically made of cotton, lycra spandex, nylon, polyester, wool, or a similarly light and stretchy synthetic material giving the pants a very smooth, silk-like finish when worn.
History
The concept of yoga pants for women began in the 1960s, with the invention of lycra. Lycra, also known as spandex, was created by chemist Joseph Shivers at the DuPont company. This new, stretchy, synthetic fabric was revolutionary for its ability to stretch and recover, making it an ideal material for athletic wear.
Design and Construction
Yoga pants are designed for comfort, freedom of movement, and synergy with the body's natural movements in yoga practices. They are typically form-fitting, allowing for maximum flexibility and minimizing any distractions from loose or bunching fabric. The waistband is typically a separate band of material, or a fold-over design that can be adjusted for comfort and fit.
Types of Yoga Pants
There are several different types of yoga pants, including:
- Bootcut: These yoga pants flare out slightly at the bottom, similar to bootcut jeans. They are often made of a blend of cotton and spandex.
- Capri: Capri yoga pants are a shorter version, typically ending at the calf. They are popular for hot yoga classes where less coverage is desired.
- Full Length: Full length yoga pants extend all the way down to the ankles. They provide the most coverage and are often used in cooler temperatures.
- Leggings: Yoga leggings are a type of yoga pants that are form-fitting from the waist to the ankles. They are often made of a blend of synthetic materials, such as polyester and spandex.
- Compression: Compression yoga pants are designed to increase blood flow and oxygen to the muscles, which can improve performance and recovery time.
Usage
While originally designed for yoga, yoga pants are now worn for many other physical activities including Pilates, dance, martial arts, and aerobic exercise. They are also worn as casual, comfortable clothing, often paired with a loose shirt and sandals.
Controversies
Despite their popularity, yoga pants have been the subject of some controversy. Some schools and workplaces have banned yoga pants, citing them as inappropriate attire. There have also been discussions about the environmental impact of the synthetic materials used in yoga pants.