The plus-size yoga pants market looks completely different now. Brands have stepped up their game to serve different body types and priorities, making remarkable progress.
Gone are the days when finding the perfect pair seemed impossible. Companies like Athleta championed size inclusivity well before it became mainstream. Some new brands have taken innovation even further by creating designs from recycled plastic bottles.
My extensive testing revealed what truly works for curvy bodies. I tested countless pairs through gentle stretching and intense hot yoga sessions. Each test focused on significant features – compression levels, sweat-wicking abilities, and how well they stayed put during movement.
These pants faced tough real-life challenges. My goal was to help you find your perfect pair. I paid special attention to comfort, durability, and practical features like functional pockets. The results showed why certain pairs clearly outperformed others for curvy figures.
Table of Contents
What Makes Yoga Pants Comfortable for Plus-Size Bodies?
The search for comfortable yoga pants goes beyond size availability. It’s about design elements that work for plus-size bodies. Yoga therapist Felicia “Fela” Taliaferro puts it best: “The key is balancing support with comfort”. My tests of dozens of pairs in various activities revealed four vital factors that make yoga pants work for curvy bodies.
Waistband Height and Hold
The waistband stands out as the most important feature in plus-size yoga pants. High-rise designs above the navel give better coverage and stay put during movement. Many fitness experts suggest ultra-high waistbands that “reach your boobs” to keep everything secure during poses.
Wide waistbands (around 11cm) with elastic reinforcement work better by spreading pressure evenly across your midsection. This stops that uncomfortable digging you get with narrower bands. The best pants I tested have a subtle V-shape at the back waistband that “highlights the curves of the body” and keeps you covered during forward bends.
This design succeeds because wide waistbands distribute pressure over a larger area. Your skin won’t get that painful digging common with thinner waistbands. The design smooths your midsection gently without limiting your movement.
Fabric Type: Softness vs. Support
Fabric choice makes a huge difference in comfort. Plus-size influencer Kimmy Garris likes “fabrics like bamboo, cotton, tencel because they’re smooth and breathe really well and are softer”. Other experts point to synthetic blends’ moisture-wicking benefits.
Your activity level should guide your fabric choice:
- Hot yoga or intense workouts need lightweight, “fast-drying” materials, usually polyester-spandex blends
- Gentle practices or lounging work best with natural fibers like bamboo for their “silky-soft texture” and natural antimicrobial properties
- All-day wear demands four-way stretch fabrics with nylon or spandex that “move with you, not against you”
Double-lined fabrics give better coverage, as Garris notes: “If they’re double lined instead of a single layer I find it to have better coverage”. But this extra layer might reduce breathability, so weigh your priorities.
Compression Levels and Stretch
Plus-size bodies need different compression levels. Store-bought compression garments usually offer mild compression (8-15 mmHg), which is “effective in relieving muscle soreness and supporting your body throughout normal workouts”. Medium compression (15-20 mmHg) might work better if you sit or stand for long periods.
Good compression should feel like “a warm embrace”—it supports without limiting movement or breathing. Four-way stretch matters just as much, letting the fabric move naturally with your body.
Taliaferro suggests thinking about when you’ll wear the leggings: “For high-activity leggings, I recommend compression that supports but isn’t restrictive. This helps with movement and stability without feeling too tight or too loose”. Pants with targeted compression in key areas like waist and thighs, plus flexible fabric elsewhere, strike the best balance.
Seam Placement and Chafing Prevention
Seam placement can make or break your comfort in plus-size yoga pants. Bad seams cause irritation where thighs meet or around the waist.
My favorite pants use flatlock seams that lie smooth against skin instead of raised ones that dig in. Reviews often mention these “flat seams feel soft against your skin so that you can focus on your practice without annoying distractions”.
Smart designs skip front seams to “prevent camel toe”, a common issue with regular leggings. They also add reinforced stitching where plus-size bodies need extra durability.
Gusseted crotches add a diamond-shaped fabric insert that allows for “specifically designed fit and comfort”. These keep seams away from high-friction spots. Such small design touches make these pants much more comfortable for all-day wear.
Real-World Testing: How I Evaluated Each Pair
My four-week testing journey with multiple pairs of plus size yoga pants helped me learn about which ones actually live up to their promises. I skipped lab tests and focused on ground performance—how these pants work in everyday life.
Yoga Flow: Movement and Flexibility
I started by checking how each pair handled morning yoga sessions. Here’s what I looked at:
- Movement restriction during poses
- Waistband stability during transitions
- Comfort during stretches and twists
- Areas that might cause chafing
Athleta Salutation Stash High Rise leggings stood out from the rest during yoga flows. The waistband stayed put without pinching, even when I did deep forward folds and twists. These pants didn’t roll down like many others do between poses.
I put each pair through some tough poses that need lots of movement. The fabric’s behavior with my body movements was key—I didn’t want anything holding me back. Pants with four-way stretch technology did much better. They let me move smoothly between poses without feeling stuck.
Some brands said their pants had “maximum flexibility” but didn’t deliver in actual yoga sessions. The Beyond Yoga Spacedye leggings were different. They didn’t compress much but moved amazingly well, which makes them perfect for gentle practices like yin yoga where comfort matters more than support.
Lounging and Daily Wear
Good plus size yoga pants should work well beyond yoga class. I checked each pair based on:
- Comfort while running errands and doing house work
- How the waistband behaved during sitting and bending
- Feel against skin during long wear
- Use in different activities
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted PowerChill leggings showed great stability. The waistband stayed in place while I ran errands or sat for hours. Many pairs that worked great during workouts also felt good while lounging, though some compression levels that helped during exercise felt too tight for casual wear.
Pockets made these pants much more useful for daily wear. I tested how well phones, keys, and small items stayed in place while moving. Popflex leggings had bigger pockets that fit a water bottle—perfect for walking dogs or quick trips.
Hot Yoga and Sweat Management
I needed to see how these pants handled tougher conditions. My hot yoga tests looked at:
- Moisture-wicking abilities
- Breathability in high heat
- Where sweat showed up
- How fast they dried
Taliaferro suggests lightweight, moisture-wicking, and quick-drying fabrics for hot yoga. Beyond Yoga Spacedye midi leggings did great at moving moisture away during intense workouts. They kept sweat from building up in problem areas—something that matters a lot for plus size bodies.
Some brands claimed their “sweat-wicking technology” worked, but sweat spots showed up quickly. Athleta leggings really shined here. They’re made from green materials (79% recycled water bottles and 21% spandex), which helps both the environment and keeps you dry.
I also tested these pants outdoors in 90-degree heat. Some pairs that felt fine in air-conditioned studios got too hot outside, while others stayed breathable despite the heat. Thinner, more breathable fabrics usually worked better in hot weather than thicker, more compressive ones, though they sometimes gave up some support.
This detailed testing showed clear differences between what brands promise and how their pants actually perform—helping me figure out which plus size yoga pants work best for specific activities and body types.
Best Plus Size Yoga Pants with Pockets: My Top Picks
My research into plus size yoga pants shows that pockets aren’t just an extra feature—they’re vital to practical use. People who need hands-free convenience during workouts or daily activities know that good pocket design changes everything.
Pocket Placement and Accessibility
Pocket placement can make or break both function and style. My testing revealed three pocket designs that work best for plus size bodies:
Side thigh pockets are the most useful storage option. They work best when placed at mid-thigh instead of lower down to keep items from moving during exercise. The most effective side pockets should be at least 7 inches deep and 5 inches wide with enough stretch to hold a smartphone steady.
Waistband pockets hide smaller items like keys or cards. These pockets usually run 3-5 inches deep. Right-handed users find them most useful when placed at the front-right for easy access during movement.
Hidden interior pockets keep valuables safe without ruining the pants’ shape. These smaller spaces often go unnoticed but work great to secure credit cards or small keys.
The pocket opening angle plays a big role in easy access—25-35 degrees lets hands slip in while keeping items secure. Elastic openings help maintain tension as you move, so nothing falls out during inversions or jumps.
Which Brands Offer Functional Pockets?
My extensive testing shows these brands make plus size yoga pants with great pockets:
Superfithero’s Superhold Pocket ankle leggings have the biggest pockets I’ve seen—big enough for a water bottle. The side pockets hold phones and other items without bulk, perfect for longer workouts.
Old Navy’s Extra High-Waisted PowerSoft Crop Hidden Pocket Leggings blend a super high, stretchy waist with smart pocket placement. These budget-friendly pants give you surprisingly good storage options.
Beyond Yoga’s Palomino Leggings come with side thigh pockets in their signature soft fabric. The comfort level and useful pockets make up for a less flattering fit than some other brands.
IUGA’s plus size leggings feature deep pockets on both sides that fit phones, keys, and more. They look stylish while giving you plenty of storage.
Danskin’s leggings include side thigh pockets with slimming seam details. Their pockets work well for smaller items like cards or cash.
Cadmus High Waist Leggings come with pockets and a special waistband design. Their wide elastic band stays stitched in place, so it won’t roll down even with full pockets.
Do Pockets Affect Fit or Comfort?
Without doubt, adding pockets changes overall fit and comfort—sometimes for better, sometimes worse. My testing highlighted several important points:
Pocket position affects how weight spreads out. Low thigh pockets pull pants down when full. Mid-thigh placement works better during movement.
Pocket depth determines security. Phones fell out of shallow pockets (under 5 inches) during intense movement. Deeper pockets (7+ inches) kept everything safe, even in upside-down poses.
Fabric thickness around pockets matters. Phones in thin-fabric pockets showed visible pulling. Reinforced pocket construction looked better and lasted longer.
Size-specific changes make a real difference. The best designs adjust pocket placement for different body shapes instead of just scaling up standard measurements. This smart approach ensures easy access for various hip structures.
Plus size yoga pants with pockets blend body-positive sizing with practical convenience, making workouts easier when time is tight. The best designs add storage while keeping the supportive fit and comfort that makes great yoga pants worth buying.
Fit and Feel: How Different Styles Work for Different Shapes
Your body shape plays a significant role in finding yoga pants that boost comfort and confidence. My extensive testing shows how the same pair fits differently on various body types. Let’s look at the most flattering options for two common plus-size body shapes.
High-Rise vs. Mid-Rise for Apple Shapes
Apple-shaped bodies have a fuller midsection with slimmer legs. The right waistband selection makes a huge difference. High-rise yoga pants work better than mid-rise options. They provide significant midsection support and create a smoother silhouette.
High-waisted styles with compression features smooth the midsection while making legs look longer and leaner. They also prevent uncomfortable gapping that happens when pants fit either the waist or hips.
The best waistband for apple shapes should:
- Extend at least to the natural waist (typically the smallest part)
- Include gentle compression that smooths without restricting
- Feature a wide band (3-4 inches) that won’t roll down during movement
Mid-rise pants might feel less restrictive at first. They often create an unflattering “muffin top” effect on apple shapes. The pants tend to slide down during activity because they don’t anchor at the torso’s narrowest point.
Athleta’s Salutation stash leggings work great for apple shapes. Their ultra-high waistband offers excellent coverage without digging in and creates a sleek look from every angle.
Tapered vs. Flared Legs for Pear Shapes
Pear-shaped bodies have narrower shoulders and wider hips/thighs. The main goal is to create balance between the upper and lower body while keeping curves comfortable.
Flared or bootcut yoga pants look better on pear shapes. They add volume below the knee and balance wider hips for a more proportionate look. This silhouette naturally draws the eye downward and creates visual harmony throughout the lower body.
Bootcut or flared styles make legs look longer. They’re especially flattering for shorter pear shapes wanting to appear taller. The subtle flare adds graceful movement without bulk.
Taller pear shapes might prefer tapered or straight-leg styles for a sleeker look. These styles need:
- Sufficient stretch through hips and thighs
- Minimal seaming at the widest points
- Slightly looser fit through the knees
Many brands now design styles specifically for pear shapes. Old Navy’s flared yoga pants come with a high rise that shows off the waist’s smallest part while gently flaring from the knee.
Fabric choice matters even more for pear shapes. Light, fluid fabrics that skim rather than cling create the most flattering silhouette, whatever leg style you choose. These materials move with your body instead of highlighting problem areas.
Beyond Yoga’s high-waisted bootcut pants are perfect for pear shapes. Their four-way stretch fabric fits curves beautifully. The subtle flare balances proportions without looking dated or too trendy.
Durability and Wash Test: How They Hold Up Over Time
Good yoga pants become great ones based on how long they last, especially when you have plus-size bodies where thigh friction and regular stretching put extra stress on fabrics. My wash tests of multiple brands revealed which materials are worth your money in the long run.
Fabric Pilling and Stretch Retention
Plus size yoga pants face unique durability challenges. The area between the thighs takes the most wear and tear. Lululemon Align pants, though popular, “don’t hold up well to thigh rub, and pill after a few wears.” This makes their $80 price tag hard to justify.
Nylon-based materials resist pilling better because they’re stronger and handle friction well. These nylon blends are “designed to withstand the wear and tear of intense exercise” and “prevent pilling and fabric degradation”. The fabric stays smooth even after you wash it many times.
Different brands stretch differently over time. The longest-lasting plus size yoga pants mix polyester with elastane or spandex because “they tend to keep their shape longer than cotton leggings”. Girlfriend Collective makes sustainable leggings, but they “don’t last as long as some higher-priced brands”.
The best pants in my tests used high-quality fabric with “4-way stretch and shape retention for long lasting comfort”. Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye material stood out—their polyester-elastane blend “feels soft like cotton” yet keeps its shape through countless washes.
Color Fading and Stitch Integrity
Colors last differently between brands. Some manufacturers offer specifically “fade-resistant materials”. Cheaper pants lose their color after 5-10 washes, mostly in darker shades. Better quality options like Lands’ End are “fade, wrinkle and shrink resistant”.
Strong stitching helps pants last longer, especially around waistbands and inner thighs. Durable pairs have “high-quality stitching” that handles regular use and washing. Flatlock seams not only prevent chafing but last longer than regular stitches.
You can make your plus size yoga pants last longer with proper washing. Expert tips suggest:
- Wash in cold water on gentle cycle
- Turn inside-out before washing to reduce friction
- Skip fabric softeners as they damage elastane
- Air dry whenever possible to keep the stretch
Look for double-stitched waistbands and reinforced seams at stress points. The toughest leggings I tested kept their “shape and elasticity over time, even after multiple washes”.
The relationship between price and durability varies a lot. Old Navy surprisingly makes budget-friendly options that handle regular washing well. Other cheap brands quickly pill or lose their stretch. Polyester-spandex blends last longer than pure cotton or bamboo options consistently. These blends give you the best mix of comfort and durability for plus size bodies.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Yoga Pants for Your Needs
The right plus size yoga pants depend on your main activities and needs. I tested many styles in different scenarios and found the best options for specific activities.
Best for Studio Yoga
Athleta Salutation Stash High Rise leggings stand out among competitors for dedicated yoga practice. The buttery-soft fabric gives light compression without limiting your movement during poses. These leggings don’t slide around during flows, so you won’t get distracted by constant adjustments. Yoga teacher Reyna Cohan loves them and says they’re her “all-time, number-one favorite, leaving everyone in the dust”. The high rise stays put even during inversions, which makes them perfect for studio sessions.
Best for Lounging
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted PowerLite Lycra Adaptiv leggings are the top choice for relaxation and daily wear. These leggings have minimal compression and ultra-high waistbands that “basically reach your boobs,” which gives you amazing comfort without compromising style. PowerChill fabric technology keeps you cool and cozy. They don’t roll down during Easy Seat position or gentle stretching. You can wear them for both yin yoga and everyday activities.
Best for Outdoor Activities
Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye Out Of Pocket High-Waisted Midi Leggings work great for outdoor activities with their functional pockets and moisture-wicking features. Over 700 positive reviews highlight their durability and sweat management. The pocket placement sits mid-thigh instead of lower, which keeps items secure during movement – a vital feature for hiking or walking. The four-way stretch fabric handles rugged terrain while keeping its shape.
Best Budget-Friendly Option
Old Navy delivers affordable yet high-quality plus size yoga pants. Their Extra High-Waisted PowerSoft Crop Hidden Pocket Leggings give you premium features at a great value. They might not last as long as pricier options, but they keep their structure through multiple washes. The hidden pocket fits keys or cards easily and maintains a clean silhouette. These budget-friendly pants work well in both yoga sessions and casual settings.
Conclusion
I’ve tested countless plus size yoga pants in different activities and conditions, and I’ve found that the perfect pair really depends on your needs and body type. High-rise options like Athleta’s Salutation Stash are great for studio practice, while brands like Old Navy make excellent budget-friendly options for everyday wear.
The waistband design makes the biggest difference in comfort and performance. Ultra-high waistbands with gentle compression give the best support without limiting movement. Quality materials are crucial too. Nylon blends last longer and resist pilling and stretching, especially where there’s lots of friction.
Plus size yogis have more options now, as brands add useful features like well-placed pockets and stronger seams. Price tags don’t tell the whole story though. Some cheaper options actually perform better than expensive ones in real-life testing, especially when it comes to keeping their stretch and surviving multiple washes.
Your comfort should be the priority. You might like the gentle support of Beyond Yoga’s Spacedye fabric for lounging, or need extra compression for hot yoga sessions. Today’s market has options that work well for curvy bodies. The right pair moves naturally with you and lets you focus on your practice instead of adjusting your clothes.
