Essential Yoga Equipment and Gear Every Yogi Needs

Yoga is so much more than just a physical exercise – it’s a holistic practice that benefits the mind, body, and soul. That’s why it’s so important to make the most out of your sessions by having the right yoga gear and equipment!

Whether you’re just starting in the world of yoga, or you’re a certified yoga teacher (or want to become one!), you’ll find all the information you need on the importance of quality yoga equipment, the benefits it offers, and the essential items that every yogi should consider. After all, having the proper gear can enhance your practice and create a more enjoyable and effective yoga experience!  

The Importance of Quality Yoga Equipment

Investing in quality yoga equipment goes beyond just having the right tools – it's about making a long-term investment in your practice. Durability and reliability are crucial factors to consider when selecting yoga gear, especially for more advanced poses. 
Investing in high-quality gear ensures that it will withstand regular use and provide you with a consistent and reliable foundation for your practice. 

The Benefits of High-Quality Gear 

Having high quality gear enhances safety and comfort during practice. There are countless benefits, including:

• Enhanced safety
• Increased comfort
• Confidence boosts

By investing in the right equipment, you can create a safe and supportive environment for yoga, whether you’re practicing at home or at a yoga studio. 
 

Essential Yoga Equipment (for Beginners and Pros)  

Now, let's dive into the essential yoga equipment that every yogi should consider. Knowing what to look for in your gear is pivotal if you want to get the most out of your practice. We’ve broken down what to look for in each item: 

Picking a Mat

A good-quality yoga mat is the foundation of your practice. Look for a mat that offers the following qualities: 

• Sufficient thickness: You’ll need some thick cushioning to protect your joints. The difference between a well-cushioned mat and a thin, cheap one is about the same as the difference between sitting on a pillow vs. sitting on the floor.
• Excellent grip: You need to stay stabilized during those balance-heavy poses (looking at you, tree pose). Make sure your mat doesn’t have you slipping and sliding all over the place.
• Eco-friendly materials: Opting for an eco-friendly mat reduces your environmental impact and aligns with the principles of yoga. After all, it’s a holistic practice!  
  
  

Choosing Your Props

Props not only help with more difficult poses, but also help keep you in proper alignment so you can continue your practice while slowly transitioning into harder poses. Here is a good foundational list of props you’ll need:

• Cork Yoga Blocks: These helpful blocks are the best friend of any yogis out there who aren’t quite as flexible as they’d like to be. They provide stability and support, assisting with proper alignment and making poses more accessible. 
• Straps: These are amazing for getting a little more out of your stretch. Yoga straps help increase flexibility and extend reach, pushing your muscles and tendons a bit farther. 
• Bolsters: A useful tool that offers comfort and relaxation in restorative poses. High quality bolsters allow you to adapt your practice to your individual needs and abilities. 
  
  

Finding Apparel 

Finding apparel will be more of an individualized experience. Experts agree that opting for moisture-wicking fabrics help keep you cool and dry during your practice, while loosely-fitted apparel provides total freedom of movement and enhances your overall comfort so you can focus on your yoga flow.

• Stretchy yoga pants or shorts: You need to be able to stretch your limbs in all kinds of places, so wear something that gives you total freedom of movement (no jeans, thick fabric, or corduroy). 
• A sports bra: For those that need it, comfortable sports bras are a lifesaver for wicking up sweat and ensuring comfort.  
• Yoga socks: Another great way to prevent slipping and sliding while you stretch! Get yoga socks to make sure you stay stable and balanced.  
• Comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing: We recommend picking your clothes based on your preferences while ensuring that your comfort comes first. For those looking to stay cool, try loose-fitting linens. To ensure there’s no excess fabric getting in the way of your pose, try opting for a tighter-but-comfortable shirt.

“I generally recommend high-waisted, lightweight, and body-hugging yoga clothes for most classes!”

- Jen Aloisi Ham, Yoga Practitioner and IIN Graduate 

Accessories

Can't forget the little things! Accessories can be just as important to your yoga practice. Yoga is a form of exercise, so certain accessories may be needed:

• Water bottle: Staying hydrated with a reusable water bottle is important for maintaining energy and focus.
• Yoga bag: It’s hard to carry your keys, phone, water bottle, props, AND mat without a bag. We only have two hands! Keep it all in one place with a bag designed to hold it all.
• Towels: A non-slip yoga towel provides extra grip and absorbs sweat, keeping your practice hygienic and slip-free.

“I personally love yoga blocks because they’re versatile and beneficial for nearly any body type. You can use them to support you under your hips in half pigeon, or even to enhance an exercise and activate deeper muscle engagement.”

- Janelle Laurito, Yoga Practitioner and IIN Graduate

When selecting yoga equipment, it’s crucial to consider your individual needs, preferences, and abilities. Even the level or type of yoga you’re partaking in should be taken into account! 

Different Factors to Consider

Think about material quality, size, weight, and type when choosing your equipment. For example, if you practice hot yoga, you might want to opt for a mat with better moisture absorption. For advanced yoga, you may be required to bring more props or equipment (depending on the class).  
Consider your body type, skill level, and specific requirements to ensure that the equipment you choose aligns perfectly with your practice! 

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options 

As the demand for eco-conscious products continues to rise, sustainable yoga equipment made from natural, recyclable, or biodegradable materials is becoming more accessible. Embrace the opportunity to make environmentally friendly choices and support brands that prioritize sustainability. By choosing eco-friendly yoga gear, you align your practice with the principles of mindfulness and compassion for the planet.  

When searching for eco-friendly yoga gear, you’ll want to make sure that it’s listed as sustainable, non-toxic, natural, or made of recycled materials. Here’s a great guide to help you get started.  
 

Continuing Your Yoga Journey 

Investing in quality yoga equipment and gear will empower you to elevate your yoga experience. For those that wish to take their interest in yoga even further, IIN offers several prominent yoga courses and learning opportunities, such as the newest Chopra Yoga Certification. With this class, you’ll not only learn about yoga as a holistic practice, but you’ll become certified to teach your very own class! It’s perfect for beginners and pros alike, so don’t be afraid to check it out.