Updated on Mar. 14, 2022
Yoga unitards are having a moment. Here's why they might be worth adding to your wardrobe, plus what to look for when buying and expert recommendations.
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There’s a new athleisure trend threatening the longevity of the beloved workout leggings—even celebrities are hopping on board. But you don’t really have to worry about the legging trend going anywhere any time soon.
In fact, yoga unitards (yep, that’s what they’re called) are actually virtual extensions of the standard activewear legging. That means you can practically wear them anywhere. Here’s what to know—and how .
Also known as a “onesie,” a yoga unitard is a one-piece garment, much like a jumpsuit, but made of technical, sweat-wicking material that’s stretchy and moves with the body, explains yoga instructor Dina Ivas.
With no open areas other than where your arms, feet, and neck come out, this athletic garment allows you to move around freely and confidently.
Here’s a closer look at some of the perks of rocking a yoga unitard, whether you’re in the yoga studio, lounging on the couch at home, or out to lunch with friends.
“Instead of worrying about your clothing coming up every time you bend over, you’ll be able to focus on the move without pulling your clothing down, and because yoga unitards fit tightly to your body, they stay on no matter how you move your body,” says Stephanie Mansour, a Chicago-based corporate wellness trainer.
Yoga unitards don’t have waistbands like most other fitness bottoms, which makes them much more comfortable than wearing a shirt and pants, according to Mansour.
“Sometimes running or jumping up and down causes waistbands to fall down, but with yoga unitards, you don’t have to worry,” she says. “There’s no discomfort when it comes to tight bands around your waist.”
(Here’s the answer to another comfort question: whether or not to wear underwear with workout clothes.)
Unitards don’t just work for yoga, but they’re great for other forms of exercise too, notes Stephanie George, certified yoga instructor and personal trainer.
“Yoga unitards are even convenient for weightlifting since you don’t have to struggle with strings or hoodies on sweatshirts when pulling up your leggings after doing squats,” she says. “The unitard brings the focus back to your workout and removes the distraction of clothing.”
(Here’s one woman’s review of exercising in a workout bodysuit.)
Here are some of the features experts recommend looking for when purchasing a yoga unitard.
Mansour recommends considering material above everything else.
“Having a soft, lightweight unitard can make a big difference when working out, as you don’t want to be weighed down by uncomfortable material,” she says.
George agrees, adding that the material of your unitard should be sweat-wicking and breathable.
“This will keep you cool during your workouts,” she says. “Also, look for fabric that is also microbial if you plan on wearing it after your workout.”
(Here’s what to know about vegan clothing.)
Mansour recommends making sure that the straps of your yoga unitard are the thickness you prefer. “I personally prefer thick straps so that they don’t slip off when I move around,” she says.
The thinner the strap, the more likely it will be to fall off during your workout.
Depending on the type of exercise you’re performing, you may want to choose a yoga unitard that is short sleeves, or spaghetti straps, or one that is cropped as opposed to full-length.
You can make the decision based on whether you’ll be working out in the heat or participating in heated exercises such as hot yoga.
Just like with any other clothing purchase you make, it’s important to make sure your unitard works for you.
“If you have a bigger bust, look for unitards with thicker straps, and don’t forget to have fun,” says George. “Yoga unitards come in a variety of colors and textures—everything from snakeskin to deep purple.”
If you are shopping for a yoga unitard, you might want to consider these expert-recommended picks.
This American Apparel option is a good choice if you’re looking for a yoga unitard that provides the least amount of coverage and is ideal for hot weather.
This singlet is a mostly cotton and part-spandex blend that’s stretchy and soft, features a pull-on closure and a low-scoop back that provides ventilation during sweaty workouts. It’s also one of the best Amazon yoga gifts, too.
Although designed for dancing, this Flextek unitard can work for just about any physical activity—yoga included. It’s also great for wearing as a clothing item, because of the stylish mesh cutout and racerback design.
“The square neckline makes it flattering for all body types, and slight compression gives you the support you need for burpees or a run on the treadmill,” says George.
This full-length yoga unitard features thin straps and a built-in bra that makes you feel like you’re wearing one single garment.
It’s made from a sweat-wicking, antimicrobial fabric that’s soft to the touch and gives you a next-to-naked sensation, hence the name. George’s favorite part is the contoured waistband, and higher neckline, which she thinks adds subtle style.
If you’re looking for something lightweight for exercise, consider this one from Naked Wardrobe.
“This one is perfect for more intense routines, since it feels barely-there, allowing you to get fully in touch with your Zen and focus on nothing but form and breathwork,” says Jamie Bacharach, medical acupuncturist, and yoga practitioner. “You’ve also got to love the sleeveless design and ultra-comfortable viscose fabric.”
This is a good alternative if you want a yoga unitard that you can wear as part of an outfit—dressed up or dressed down.
This unitard features a soft, compressive fabric that holds you in just the right amount. It has a deep scoop back that’s very flattering, and it’s made from recycled and recyclable material, so it gets extra points for being eco-friendly.
(Don’t miss the best eco-friendly yoga mats too.)
This bodysuit is great for both yoga and studio practice. This bodysuit features Athleta’s signature Powervita fabric that’s buttery soft and has the right amount of stretch for ultimate comfort while in motion.
It has a built-in bra that’s ideal for sizes A through C and removable pads that provide even more support.
Even though this Athleta bodysuit has an ultra-low back, George notes that it makes up for it by coming up high in the front—covering almost your entire chest.
“The seams over the hips and at the waist help create an hourglass figure,” she says. “This bodysuit is super soft and great for a yoga class or Pilates.”
This formfitting yoga unitard features an open keyhole back, racerback straps, and a high neckline, which make for an ultra-flattering look whether you’re working out or out on the town.
It also comes in 11 different colors, ranging from vibrant hues like Very Berry and Tango to more basic colors like Black and Heather Grey. Note: Consider sizing down, since this garment tends to run large.
(Just make sure you learn how to wash your clothes to get rid of that sweat smell.)
Not only is this yoga unitard ultra-comfortable and breathable, but Bacharach points out that it’s also made with quick-dry fabric that wicks away sweat so you can focus on your workout.
“The strappy back design is more attractive than you’ll find in most yoga unitards as a plus,” she says. “It’s also made from sustainable and recyclable materials.”
(How bad is it to re-wear sweaty gym clothes?)
This performance-based yoga unitard offers a comfortable, stretchy fit thanks to its Elastane fabric, and can be worn during an exercise or as a clothing staple in your closet.
“The Nirvana Now Onesie is also expertly designed for an attractive look, with strategically placed seams and a sleek, minimalist, form-flattering look,” says Bacharach.
Next, check out the best yoga mats on Amazon.
